I really love the profession of dentistry and periodontics. I find it very rewarding when I can help someone smile with confidence or be able to eat comfortably again. And there is nothing like helping someone beat periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss. But what I really love most about this profession is the people I get to meet, the stories they tell and the opportunity to work with so many great people. I am originally from Southern California. I completed my undergraduate work at Brigham Young University graduating magna cum laude. I received my Doctor of Dental Surgery from the UCLA School of Dentistry. I then completed a residency in periodontics and received a masters degree at the University of Oklahoma. I am a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a part-time clinical instructor in the dental hygiene program at Pima Community College. I attend many continuing education courses and stay current with the ever-advancing field of dentistry.
My wife Loni and I have four children: three girls, Faye, June, Liv; and one boy, Wade. I spend most of my free time with my wife and kids, but I am also an avid basketball fan, and I love the outdoors. I can be found playing basketball, hiking, swimming or jogging in Sabino Canyon.
I liked my family dentist and really liked my orthodontist. They had busy practices and were fun to be around. I thought dentistry would be a rewarding career.I had to give a speech in 8th grade about what I wanted to do when I grew up. As part of my research I remember interviewing our family dentist at his home. He told me, Dentistry is a wonderful profession and I encourage you to pursue it. Take all the math and science you can get and focus on getting good grades. If I had a role model, it was him.
When I got to college, science didnt capture my interest, but literature did. I majored in literature, minored in French and took all the required pre-med courses. I did go on to dental school, but the first year was difficult. A third of my class had masters degrees in some biological science, and there I was, the only guy with a degree in literature. It was tough keeping up with the scientists, but after a year of extra hard work, I had evened the playing field.
Following dental school, I enlisted in the Air Force as a general dentist serving in North Dakota and Guam. Next up was a residency in periodontics at Boston University. I loved Boston with all its intellectual stimulation, but I found myself longing for a warmer climate where I would have more opportunities to play golf and tennis.
So, with little more than a map in hand, I drove to Tucson. In 1983, after working with a group of specialists for 7 years, I opened this practice. Ive been right here ever since, being the best periodontist I can possibly be, loving the hard work, enjoying my staff andmost importantlycaring for my patients as if they were family.
In a recent conversation with a colleague, I explained that what I really want at the end of the day is to look in the rear-view mirror as I drive away from my office and be able to say, Boy I did a great job today!
At Tucson Dental Implants and Periodontics, we have a team of professionals dedicated to your care and to your patient experience. Just as our periodontists have received extensive training, our team members are cross-trained in every job at our office and can help with your treatment and your insurance. We also have team members who speak Spanish to meet the needs of our community. You can meet our team in person and receive personalized implant and periodontal care in Tucson, Arizona, by calling 520-327-0263.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 156 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAnne L Silvers
a year ago
Every one of the staff is competent, friendly and helpful and explains each step that will be taken from the beginning so I'm at ease with the process, no matter how complicated or difficult. I feel totally assured that whatever my periodontal problem, Dr Makelprang will handle it skillfully and competently. I've had bad dental care in the past but can't imagine getting anything but the best care in this office.
Stephen Whipp
a year ago
none or very little pain, very professional and friendly. Recommend them strongly for any of your dental needs.
Jaba Daba
a year ago
Gentle dentistry and the staff is courteous.
Annie Maud
2 years ago
What a joy to have my teeth cleaned with no pain!
Gordon Krueger
2 years ago
All went great ! Fast and helpful.
Pam Patterson
2 years ago
Professional and caring.
Ken Nakagawa
2 years ago
Staff were kind, professional, and clear in their communication.
Bob Gottlieb
2 years ago
it was real smooth at the cleaning and all went well except frances wasn't there for me to pick on oh alas and alack i'll have to find a way -
Mary Appel
2 years ago
The staff is very organized and friendly. My visit was a consultation and I feel comfortable proceeding with the recommended procedure.
Alice Goddard
2 years ago
I have always had excellent care.
Bonnie Schroeder
2 years ago
I would highly recommend this dental office. Everyone there is friendly and informative. They want to make sure you understand your treatment and what you may expect. If there's such a thing as making a dental visit comfortable, they've achieved it.
juan barba
2 years ago
Love the interest the entire staff shows me. Concern about my welfare is obvious.
Charlie
2 years ago
My appointment was on time, the staff was great, the facility was stellar in appearance and cleanliness and they take Covid seriously to protect the patients and staff. My doctor was very factual and walked me through the procedures and possible outcomes. I was very comfortable with being at this practice. Kudos. My second visit was for Pre-Op signing of consent forms and I received my post-op instructions. The woman that helped me through that appointment was very professonal, very easy to talk to and very knowledgeable. I appreciate the way everything has been handled to date. Next up, implants. Thanks
Mimi Nichter
2 years ago
very thorough and informative. All staff are very welcoming and efficient.
Kari Elkins
2 years ago
I was able to get in very quickly as they understood the issue need to be addressed quickly. They accommodated me with a 7:00 am appointment. Very friendly, professional, nice folks!!
Jay See
2 years ago
I was referred to this dental practice by my general dentist and I was glad to be sent there. Everyone in the office was extremely professional and courteous. The Periodontist I saw made sure to educate me on the procedure to be done, if I chose to go ahead with it. I did not feel any pressure to get the procedure done. They just completed the evaluation, informed me on the surgery, and told me that the decision was mine if I chose to go ahead with it.
Ted Weinert
2 years ago
Super! Light hearted staff. Dr. Mac has a good touch around the mouth. Clear and all good. Not that I am looking forward to the extraction, but it should be a decent experience thanks to staff and sedation.
Stephanie Rigbytomasko
2 years ago
Excellent experience. Wonderful staff.
Robert Armstrong
2 years ago
wonderful as always
Steve Wilson
2 years ago
Great people --
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