Our team thrives on being a positive influence for our patient's oral health coupled with the benefits toward overall health and quality of life. People delay comprehensive dental care for many reasons, however, problems can quietly enlarge and become a bigger dilemma. I find it personally rewarding to help be a positive change that enhances the trajectory of someone's health, well being, and confidence.
With current technology, treatments, and services, we can overcome many obstacles that may have interfered with optimal dental care. I'm passionate about our team's role in the lifelong benefits of great care in conjunction with reducing the risk of future problems.
Both my parents worked in education and I've always valued the importance of learning, growing, and staying curious. I attended theUniversity of Washington School of Dentistry, graduating in 2005 with my Doctorate of Dental Surgery, and began my career at Meridian Dental Clinic later that year. Dentistry offers many challenges requiring different skills such as technical and scientific knowledge, analysis, physical performance, as well as team organization, vision, and leadership. To keep up with the ever-changing world of dentistry, I continue my education through courses and seminars throughout the year. This helps me to stay up-to-date with the latest changes in dentistry, allows for a wider range of services to be offered, and improves the level of care that can be provided for our patients.
It is exciting to wake up each morning and come to Meridian Dental ClinicI love what I do! Empowering people to take control of their oral health is rewarding. I want to build lasting relationships with people as their oral health advocate. You and I will function as a team to help you achieve your oral health goals. This team-based care is facilitated by our fantastic team members at MDC that are devoted to encouraging and coaching you along the way.
I earned my Bachelor's degree from the University of Puget Sound in Business & Leadership while playing basketball for the Loggers, and went on to graduate from the University of Washington School of Dentistry with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery. After dental school I completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital and Dental Clinic in San Antonio, Texas. This training allowed me to enhance my dental knowledge and skills, and I gained a tremendous amount of complex surgical and restorative experience while serving the needs of our nation's veterans. This experience gave me a deep appreciation and great respect for our veterans and I am grateful for their service to our county.
In addition to completing my residency, I have committed to continually furthering my dental education and knowledge. After completing an additional 1,100 hours of training, I was awarded Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry in June of 2021. Less than 2% of all General Dentists in the U.S. and Canada have earned the award and recognized as Masters by the AGD.
I was born and raised in the Puget Sound area and love practicing dentistry in the community I call home. Away from the office I enjoy maintaining an active lifestyle snow skiing, surfing, golfing, running, hiking, and even managing to still play some basketball! I have a wonderful and supportive wife, and two young children. They are such a joy, and keep me quite busy when I'm not in the office!
Feeling a strong sense of pride and commitment to my community, I am passionate about giving back. I teach in the pre-doctoral clinic at the University of Washington School of Dentistry and have volunteered with the Seattle King County Dental Society on the Budget and Finance Committee
My passion for dentistry is rooted in empowering people to improve their health and confidence through their smiles. Dentistry provides me the opportunity to connect with and contribute to the lives of individuals and the community, as a whole. To ensure patients are receiving the most up-to-date treatment and highest standard of care, I continually invests significant time into continuing education and training.
Born and raised in the South Puget Sound region, I attended the University of Washington for undergrad before earning my dental degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. I then completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency in Seattle, allowing me to expand and refine his clinical skills.
I participate in multiple study clubs and serves as an affiliate instructor at the Lake Washington Institute of Technologys dental hygiene program. During my dental education and training, I participated in a variety of outreach programs treating the underserved populations of Los Angeles and Seattle. Since returning to the Seattle area, I have volunteered at the annual Seattle/King County Dental Clinic and worked with Medical Teams International.
I enjoy spending time outside of the office with my wife and two daughters. I am an avid Husky football, Mariners, and Seahawks fan. In my free time, I also enjoy snow skiing, wakeboarding, camping, hiking and teaching myself how to build/repair things around the house.
Our office is passionate about all things dentistry, and it shows in our commitment to current technology, continuing education, and delivery of care. We create a personalized dental wellness plan for each patient, focusing on their specific desires and best possible outcomes for the years ahead. Our passion also shows in each individual who works on our team. The MDC team has years of experience giving patients a high level of care in a comfortable atmosphere.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 576 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestPaul Chikos Jr
a year ago
I have been using the dental services for years and the last report was excellent
William A. Smallis
a year ago
Well, my visit for a routine cleaning went off without a hitch, as was expected. My usual hygienist performed the procedure and then I was on my way. Foot note: unfortunately, the rest of my day didn't go as well.
Stacy Gentry
a year ago
I thank God for Dr. Stephen and his staff that work me in on an emergency visit. I have not been to a dentist in 20 years because I was so scared, but I had no choice this the pain was so excruciating that I had to go. Meridian Dental took me in made me feel so comfortable and so safe they eased my pain, the staff is so friendly and and absolutely amazing, and a special thanks to Steph for talking to me as they performed the procedure. I recommend this fine establishment for anyone with dental problems. Again God bless you all and thanks.
Thomas Bogle
a year ago
I found my experience with Molly especially was wonderful she's very gentle and did a great job on my teeth when I have a cleaning recently. The entire office staff are very friendly and and helpful I've been going to see this dentist 4 37 years now
Ciara
a year ago
I really wish I could recommend this dental clinic. I had a crown put on, in January 2022, which has bothered me every single day since. When Dr.Inaba created the crown he raised the top of the crown all over, instead of using the shape which had been generated by the computer based on my other teeth. I had to go back countless times for him to file down the tooth that was too sensitive to chew on, yet he used a drill with no numbing medication. I had a cavity filled in January 2022 as well and told him I could feel what he was doing, that the numbing medication hadn't started working yet. Instead of stopping to check, he told me that I was imagining the sensation and continued working while I cried throughout the entire procedure. There was an issue with my gums and instead of addressing it, he said "let's wait and see," now I need surgery. I ended up being charged for multiple scans of the crown he placed instead of having it removed, forced to go and see an endodontist which was an additional charge, and now need a root canal on the tooth behind the crown he should've just taken off and redone. I didn't believe the horror stories I'd read about this Clinic prior to going there and now my greatest regret of the year is ever attending an appointment at this clinic. Although I guess I should be glad that unlike other people I know who saw Dr.Inaba, my entire crown didn't come off while I was eating. Perhaps however, that would've been what I needed as now the pain actually wakes me up each night. Not to mention how many times I've had to stand outside for 15 minutes or more with snow on the ground. After calling multiple times because apparently only one person could open the front door and none of the countless staff who walked right past could.
Darlene De Groot
a year ago
I really like Dr. Knutson. He is so friendly and wants to know about you snd what has happened since I last saw him. Like the gentleness on how easy he is on your mouth and teeth. The staff is great too. I just wish that they still gave the Senior citizens a discount like they have known the past. Make s huge difference in he bill.
Mamba Ment
a year ago
very welcoming and professional. Without a proper schedule, they gave me a chance to check out my toothache and I have got relief.
Cynthia Heydn (Cindy Gosnell Heydn)
a year ago
Always goes the extra mile, and great with emergencies. And the whole staff is friendly. Definitely the best dentist I have ever gone too. And very gentle. I recommend them to everyone. Thank you especially to Dr. Knutson. Who will be retiring soon.
Caroline Maxwell
a year ago
Can you become friends with your hygienist? Vivian is the best. I actually look forward to my cleanings with her :)
Darla Schutten
a year ago
I have been going to Meridian Dental Clinic for over 30 years and have found all of the assistants to be really good for my quarterly cleanings.
Gail Wiesner
a year ago
It takes me 45 minutes to get to your office, but I would gladly drive twice that far!
Roberta Worley
a year ago
Very thorough and very detailed.
J Mac (the Contracts Guy)
a year ago
Didn't ask me if I flossed everyday. Probably because it was obvious I don't
Carol Peisley
a year ago
I always have an excellent experience at Meridian dental clinic. Everyone is very professional and kind.
Kimberly Salcedo
a year ago
Best Dental office ever! Super professional and welcoming!!
Alecia Sharp
a year ago
First time visit, everyone was friendly and kind.
Scott Wieder
a year ago
If you want the best, this is where you want to go. 75 years of dental care and Meridian Dental, is by far the best.
Nancy Sowdon
a year ago
I am always welcomed at Kent Meridian Dental. It is obvious they are glad that I have come and we all celebrate when our combined care give a good examination. They are good folks!
Brendan Lawrence
a year ago
The staff is friendly and does great work and the dentists, especially Dr. Densmore, are excellent!
Brett Hanson
a year ago
I have been to Meridian Dental Clinic several times. I've always had a quality experience with both the dental work and friendly, knowledgeable staff.
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