Dating back to 1990 when Dr. Sven Erickson took over the office, transforming it into Modern Dentistry Associates as you know it today, theres always been a sense of community and camaraderie. Our patients are appreciative to have a St. Joseph dentist of such high caliber at their disposal. Dr. Erickson and Dr. Godawa are your St. Joseph dentists with extensive experience and training thats unsurpassed in our industry. With a keen eye and a dedicated team, they can identify whats happening with your oral health and diagnose problems that could cost you more in the long term before they are an issue for you.
You dont only need a dentist, you need a friend someone you can always rely on to give you the best, most sensible advice so that you can enjoy the benefits of a life with optimal oral health. Were your St. Joseph dentist dedicated to friendly, compassionate, affordable dentistry that makes sense for you and your family. Youre not just another patient, we strive to always recognize and connect with you on a level thats truly personal for a customized treatment experience youre going to love. We believe in being helpful, honest, and hardworking for you and your oral health.
We dont take it lightly that you chose Modern Dentistry Associates as your St. Joseph dentist. This is important to us because every patient we collectively care for enters into a family, a lifelong partnership for optimal oral health. Weve equipped our office with some of the industrys most advanced dental technology and a highly talented team of very skilled dental professionals. Every smile service we provide is backed by true compassion and a one-of-a-kind attention to detail to give you the best solution possible to address your concerns and exceed your smile dreams.
Dr. Erickson is a native of Coloma, Michigan where he eventually went on to attend Kalamazoo College. While studying dentistry, he had the opportunity to intern at the National Institute of Dental Research, a part of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Hes a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. While there, Dr. Erickson was selected to represent the School of Dentistry at the Nippon Dental University in Niigata and Tokyo, Japan as part of a student exchange program. Upon graduation from dental school, he purchased the practice of Dr. Edward Atwood in St. Joseph, Michigan and practiced for many years on Niles Road.
When hes not helping patients as their trusted St. Joseph dentist, Dr. Erickson enjoys reading non-fiction, Buddhist, and environmental literature. He chooses to approach life consciously and mindfully, encouraging all those around him to do the same. Dr. Erickson believes that all knowledge and education is always good, even if it can be uncomfortable at times. Much of his energy outside the office is devoted to advocating for a greater understanding and compassion in the world around us. If he wasnt a dentist, Dr. Erickson would be restoring vintage trailers and travel extensively with his husband.
Dr. Andrea Godawa was born and raised in Coloma, Michigan. Shes a graduate of Coloma High School. Following graduation, she went on to attend Valparaiso University. While there, Dr. Godawa competed on the womens Division I volleyball team. During one of her summer breaks from school, Dr. Godawa was given the opportunity to work alongside Dr. Erickson This time spent with him and his patients only solidified her love and passion for dental care in St. Joseph. She went on to receive her Bachelor of Science from Valparaiso and then she later earned her dental credentials from the University of Michigan School of dentistry in 2015.
Outside of the office, Dr. Godawa enjoys spending time with her family: husband Stephen, son, Brooks, and daughter, Avery. Her husband is a CPA and a partner at Tri-County Bookkeepers where he does tax work for a multitude of local clients in the area. The family loves going to Jean Klock Park (beach), the Compass Fountain, riding horses, and kayaking the Paw Paw River. Dr. Godawa loves to exercise, mostly at home, but has been a member of the Fort Miami Crossfit and remains friends with several members. One of the favorite local dining spots the family favors is the Mason Jar Cafe. Dr. Godawa says they have the best breakfast and all around food in the area. She tries to get there at least once a week.
Upon graduation from Michigan, she aspired to return home with an interest to aid those in underserved communities. With that in mind, Dr. Godawa began her career at the Van Buren and Cass District Health Department.
Always with a desire to learn and develop her skills, she has returned to work with Dr. Erickson at Modern Dentistry and is committed to advancing her studies at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) where she has completed nearly 100 continuing education hours. Shes also earned additional hours of education and training with Spear Education.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 286 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestMichael Nick Davis Holevas
a year ago
I've been a patient of Dr Erickson since 2010. I've lived all over the country in the most cosmopolitan cities: NYC, Chicago, Washington DC, Dallas. and I've yet to find a more competent, talented and friendly team than Modern Dentistry Associates. After being in Dallas for the last 6 years, it was great to come back home to the MDA team. It was like I never left.
Robin Dothsuk
a year ago
I was a new patient to the office. I felt very relaxed. Cara the hygenist that cleaned my teeth was very gentle. She was very caring. The other staff was very friendly too. I highly recommend them.
Julie Poufcas
a year ago
By far the best dental experience I've had! Everyone in the office is so kind and caring! Marissa did a phenomenal job cleaning my teeth! I was very pleased.
Kristine Stubelt
a year ago
The hygienist was very thorough and gentle and the dentist listened and addressed any concerns that I had. They were very respectful of my time as well. Everyone was very friendly.
Tom Fello
a year ago
Good job, friendly, and professional
Kim Fritz
a year ago
Love Modern Dentistery Associates. Kara, the hygienist, is very thorough and tender. Great service from Joy at the front desk. Office is very clean. Best dentist care all around!
Steve Julius
a year ago
Excellent dental work, state of the art technology, great staff.
mike sarola
a year ago
Quality and service second to none, from Sven and Chad. True professionals!
Billie Akauola
a year ago
Had my first visit and was blown away with how gentle and personable the folks at Modern Dentistry are! Shout out to Chad, Shannon, Angel and Dr. Godawa!! So excited about this team and I know I am in good hands!
Mo McKinley
a year ago
Outstanding
Dan Pastwa
a year ago
Dr. Erickson, Magan, Shannon and Ashley are GREAT! A most positive and professional atmosphere of people. Highly recommended!
Izzy DiMaggio
a year ago
A visit to Modern Dentistry is a very comforting and assuring experience. You wait in your car until summoned, then you are greeted outside the front door by a very pleasant and professional assistant named Megan that asks the pertinent questions, and takes your temperature. Once inside, they make sure the lobby is empty to avoid possible contact with others, and your escorted right to the exam room. The entire facility is spotless, and all safety protocols are above health department standards. I felt very safe and comfortable. Dr Erickson is all business, extremely thorough, explains what procedures need to be competed and most important, why. He has a reputation at perhaps the best in SW Michigan. I can easily recommend Modern Dentistry.
Margy Trumbull
2 years ago
Very clean and smart looking office, restroom and waiting room. Personnel is not only sharp and efficient but kind and considerate As a new patient they did a very comprehensive check out of my teeth and health history. Offering to prescribe antibiotic in future as I have joint replacements and require them prior to cleaning or any surgery. So glad I was able to switch my dental care here.
Mary Andersson
2 years ago
Very fast, efficient, friendly and professional! Very pleased!
Susan McConnell
2 years ago
Modern Dentistry is the only place to go! Before I went to them I had terrible TMJ and neck pain. Sven did beautiful work and totally fixed my pain with beautiful porcelain veneers! I have been a patient for over 20 years! They are the best! I have had so many compliments and no issues! Magical! Thank you so so much!
Mike Bryan's
2 years ago
Not a fan of the hygienist. Been going to a dentist for decades, 4 countries, several states, third dentist in this area due to insurance changes, LOVED them ALL u til now. Id rather return to any of the other dentists and pay out of pocket then return for that kind of pain. A simple cleaning shouldn't hurt. Not the dentists fault but won't be going back. My wife had the same problem with her hygienist same office, so it's not a matter of switching who cleans your teeth there. Too bad location was top notch and no wait time.
Joan Armon
2 years ago
I've been to many dentists in my lifetime and this one is by far the best. Very caring staff who are concerned about your well being. Wonderful experience!
Rosemary Muza
2 years ago
Exceptional service from an exceptional hygienist. Best dental care around
George Tabbert
2 years ago
I have been searching for a friendly dentist office that was close to home, well staffed and able to do work in a timely manner for years! This place hits all the marks. Very happy with the entire team at Modern Dentistry Associates.
Ken Mantei
2 years ago
Love the staff at Modern Dentistry. In and out. Fast efficient friendly.
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