Patients already familiar with Dr. Olsons care probably know that he takes the time to hear their concerns and treat them comprehensively with a very high level of detail. After working previously at a group practice for five years, were happy that Dr. Olson took the plunge and opened his own dental office. By getting to know more about him, we hope that youll feel inclined to ask him questions in person. After all, building relationships with fellow patients is one of his favorite parts of the job.
As early as high school, Dr. Olson knew he wanted to enter medicine. At that time, he found a large passion for art as well, mainly focusing on painting and drawing. Once he researched dentistry and found that he could not only utilize his artistic skills, but also open his own practice rather than being in a role at a large hospital, he determined it was the right career path for him.
It wasnt until his time spent at a group practice that he would gain a better understanding of what kind of dentistry he wanted to provide to the community. He gained valuable experience during his time there, but by opening his own practice, hes able to provide a more focused and effective diagnostic approach, offering patients a chance to take full advantage of their time during their visit.
Thanks to his artistic skills, Dr. Olson was awarded an art scholarship, as well as an academic scholarship that helped him complete his undergraduate education at Missouri Southern State University. He then went on to attend the University of Florida Dental School to earn his dental degree. After passing his Florida board exams, he transferred back to Missouri so he could be closer to his and his wifes family.
Currently, Dr. Olson plans to continue advancing his education through institutions like the Kois Center, the Dawson Academy, and the Engle Institute. These groups focus on comprehensive treatment which is exactly the kind of care he wants to provide his patients. His ongoing education mainly focuses on planning and placing implants and performing bone grafts. Dr. Olson has acquired a state-of-the-art 3D imaging machine to provide precision guidance in placing implants. He hopes to offer these services entirely in-office, making treatments more convenient for patients.
Dr. Olson is married to his wife Ruth, whom he met in high school. Dr. Olson, Ruth, and their son, Mason, all moved to Florida during his time at dental school, where they became huge Florida Gator Football fans! By the time he earned his degree, his wife was pregnant with their daughter, Erin. Today, his son is working as a civil engineer and his daughter is working at the dental office while shes attending college.
Outside of the practice, he thoroughly enjoys cycling and being a member of his local brewerys athletic team. He also enjoys trail running; competing in various racing events from 5Ks, half marathons to full marathons; and traveling to states like Colorado to hike in the mountains. For his most recent trip, he brought along their dog Barley, whos a mountain cur and just loves to hike alongside Ruth and Dr. Olson.
The next time you have a routine cleaning and exam scheduled, or just when youre in the neighborhood, the team at Olson Family Dental would love to make you feel right at home! Until then, keep smiling and see you soon!
You may remember Allison who previously worked as our patient coordinator before she returned to school to earn her dental hygiene degree. When our beloved hygienist, Lori, retired in 2018, we were excited to welcome Allison back to our team. She really cares about patients and ensures they leave our office with a smile. She earned her associate of applied science degrees in dental assisting and dental hygiene at Ozark Technical College. She also maintains permits in local infiltration and block anesthesia as well as nitrous oxide administrations. She is certified in CPR and the expanded restoration of fixed and removable prosthodontics. A native of the Miami and Hollywood, Florida area, Allison is married to a Springfield native who she met while working for United Airlines in Chicago. The happy couple are the proud parents of two sons who keep them both very busy. She loves spending time with her immediate and extended families, especially taking regular trips to visit her family members in Florida where they enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and boating.
Liz has worked in the field of dentistry since 2014 when she earned her dental assisting certification through the Midwest Technical Institute. In fact, she previously worked with our team before taking some time at home with her kids. Liz enjoys working with Dr. Olson and the rest of the staff to help patients smile, and her enthusiasm and sense of humor help to keep us all smiling. She specifically enjoys seeing people achieve the smiles of their dreams. In addition to her dental assisting certification, Liz is also certified in CPR and nitrous oxide monitoring and administration. Originally from Wichita, Kansas, Liz and her husband are the proud parents of one son and three daughters. She enjoys spending time with family, date nights with her husband, and keeping up with all of her kids extracurricular activities. She is also passionate about helping others and giving back.
Ruth is responsible for the interior design and decoration for the office. She also helps manage and maintain social media outlets. Ruth also works behind the scenes on projects that keep our office running smoothly.
Ruth is a craft aficionado, she loves almost any craft project including floral decorations, scrapbooking, crocheting, and many more. Her most recent love is cake decorating. and is renown for her chocolate cake. She loves to be active, especially with running. She has completed several half marathons and two full marathons. She also occasionally joins Dr. Olson on his biking adventures. Ruth and Dr. Olson have been married for over 20 years and have two children, Mason and Erin.
Terri is from Marionville and studied dental assisting at Midwest Technical Institute. She enjoys helping our patients navigate various insurance-related questions and concerns with a smile. Seeing everyone looking so happy as they leave the practice is always a highlight of her day!