I find dentistry fulfilling because I'm engaged in improving my patients' quality of life by eliminating dental pain, restoring proper function, and by creating healthy smiles. Whether Im conversing with an established patient whos become a friend or someone whos new to our practice, and I enjoy getting to know the people I'm serving.

My compassion for people ultimately led me into the health professions. I had good dental experiences as a child and braces when I was in junior high. While I was in high school, I had a front tooth knocked out during a football practice. My dentist was able to successfully re-implant that tooth in my mouth. I was very grateful to have my smile restored, and I recognized how important teeth are to a person's confidence and enjoyment of life. Because of my personal dental experiences, I've pursued a career as a dentist so that I can help other people as I was helped.

I am a life-long learner. It is only by staying abreast of current technologies, materials, and treatment processes that I am able to deliver my patients the level of care they deserve. Through participation in continuing education, on topics including cosmetic dentistry, oral cancer, gum disease, implant dentistry, and practice management, I am able to provide my patients with durable and attractive restorations in an affordable and efficient manner.

My wife Krista and I both grew up in Morton, where we graduated from Morton High School. We were married in 1983, and we have three children, a son-in-law, two daughters-in-law, seven grandchildren, and three step-grandchildren. Our family has been very active in church over the years, and Krista and I are members of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Groveland.

I'm passionate about providing quality dental care. I listen to my patients concerns and preferences, and I offer treatment options that are reasonable and conservative. I'm a strong advocate for preventive care. Whether Im helping a patient feel better about their smile, removing oral pain, or reconstructing their mouth, I know Im making a positive difference in that persons life. When they smile and thank me, its a great feeling.

Each day I care for interesting people with fascinating experiences to share. I find these interactions stimulating. I enjoy getting to know each of them on a personal level, learning about their families and interests, sharing stories, and building a strong, long-term relationship. Working in a practice that emphasizes family dental care is rewarding, as I am able to spend time with children, teens, adults, and seniors, each of whom brings with them wonderful tales about their lives.

I developed an interest in science and helping people at an early age. I grew up admiring my father, and I saw how his work improved the lives of those in our community. I knew that dentistry was the right decision for me when I was very young, and I decided to follow in my father's footsteps. I completed my dental education and I've been practicing since 2011. It's very satisfying to me to be a part of our family business. It's also important to me to give back to the community, and I found it very rewarding to participate as a volunteer at the Illinois State Dental Society Mission of Mercy.

Since my graduation, I have actively pursued continuing education at every opportunity. By attending meetings, seminars, and lectures, as well as staying abreast of the relevant journals, I am able to continue delivering proven, gentle dental care to my patients. Areas of particular interest for me have been cosmetic dentistry, complex restorative cases, implant dentistry, pediatric dentistry, infection control, andTMJ-TMD treatments.

I've lived in Morton for most of my life and I'm proud of my deep roots in central Illinois. Im a 2003 graduate of Morton High School. My wife Rebecca and I were married in August of 2013. She is an amazing singer, and we are blessed with 3 children; Charles (7 years old), James (5 years old), and Margaret (1 year old). When Im not caring for my patients, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy reading, taking walks, and attending church, studying theology and history, solving the world's problems with friends, and following St. Louis Cardinals baseball.

You'll feel at home in our practice. We don't rush people. We take the time to listen to your preferences and concerns and to thoroughly answer all of your questions. We enjoy our patients, and we enjoy working together. Laughter is common. We are committed to working together to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice. We look forward to working with you and your family.

With her warm and friendly smile, Janet always makes sure our patients feel welcome during their visits. She loves meeting new people and building relationships with them, enjoying their conversations and learning about their families. In addition to seating patients, Janet delivers chairside assistance to our doctors during dental procedures, ensuring they have everything they need. She has worked with Dr. Erik since 1986. Shes also there for the patient, telling them what the doctor is doing, providing encouragement, and making sure they are comfortable.

Janets been married to her husband, Steve, for more than 40 years. They have three adult daughters and eight wonderful grandchildren. Janet loves spending time with her family, and also likes gardening and working at her church.

Greeting patients and their families as they arrive for their visits, Cheryll loves hearing about their day and catching-up on the latest news. Cheryll has worked in the Washington officesince 2000 and has developed strong relationships with many of the people we care for. She looks forward to building such relationships with our new patients, as well. Among her many duties, Cheryll takes care of patient records,scheduling, billing matters, and insurance. Shes always available to answer questions and make sure that each visit goes smoothly.

Marys been with our practice since 1991 and has developed friendships with many of our families. For her, our patients have come to be friends and feel like members of her own family. Mary delivers comfortable dental cleanings and home care instructions, always working with her patients to find the home oral hygiene practices and products that work for their lifestyle. She also educates our patients about healthy eating practices and developing good habits.

Soon to be married, Mary has two adult children who are the loves of her heart, and shes about to be a grandma, too! When shes not working, Mary likes to spend her time in creative pursuits, including artwork, jewelry making, and crafts.

Jessica has gentle hands and a reassuring manner about her, helping patients feel relaxed and secure in her care.She spends time talking with each patient, learning about their hobbies and activities andidentifying potential areas of concern, so that she can decide where patient education will help them to make positive changes. Jessica cleans and polishes teeth, takes X-rays, and performs other hygiene duties as needed. While she is caring for a patient, she speaks with them about their mouth and oral health, helping them understand the connection between oral health and body wellness.