REQUEST APPOINTMENT
(515) 233-2898

Ames General Dentist

Everyday care for long-lasting smiles

REQUEST APPOINTMENT
(515) 233-2898

Your home for preventive care

Tooth sensitivity. Bleeding gums. Jaw tension. A nagging ache that comes and goes. Or maybe you just want to stay ahead of problems before they get expensive and painful. Whatever brought you here, you deserve calm and supportive care.

As your Ames general dentist, we focus on prevention and practical solutions that protect your smile long-term. We’ll take a close look, use modern imaging, and explain what we see. Then we’ll talk through your options, so you can feel confident about what to do next.

The calmest part of your week

Comfort-First Technology

Digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, and scanners help us catch small issues early. When needed, 3D imaging gives us a deeper view for more accurate planning.

Time to Relax

Enjoy our beverage bar in a homey reception area, then settle in with neck pillows, cozy blankets, sunglasses, and noise-canceling headphones.

Cleanings & Exams

Life gets busy, and dental visits are often the first thing to slide. A cleaning and exam is your reset button. We’ll check for cavities and gum health, then give you a clear plan (or reassurance that you’re doing great).
See Cleanings

Signs it’s time for a cleaning and exam:

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→ It’s been more than six months

→ You’ve noticed new sensitivity

→ You’re getting more buildup/tartar

→ Your breath feels harder to manage

→ You want peace of mind

Signs it’s time to ask about sleep apnea treatment:

——————————————————————-
→ Loud snoring

→ Waking up tired

→ Morning headaches

→ Dry mouth in the morning

→ Daytime sleepiness

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Waking up tired isn’t something you should have to “just live with.” If you snore, feel drained during the day, or suspect sleep apnea, we can help.
See Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Waking up tired isn’t something you should have to “just live with.” If you snore, feel drained during the day, or suspect sleep apnea, we can help.
See Sleep Apnea

Signs it’s time to ask about sleep apnea treatment:

——————————————————————-
→ Loud snoring

→ Waking up tired

→ Morning headaches

→ Dry mouth in the morning

→ Daytime sleepiness

Root Canals

Hearing “root canal” can sound scary, but the goal is relief. If you’re dealing with tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, or a deep infection, a root canal can save the tooth and get you comfortable again.
See Root Canals

Signs it’s time to ask about a root canal:

——————————————————————-
→ Throbbing or lingering tooth pain

→ Pain when biting down

→ Sensitivity that doesn’t fade

→ Swelling near a tooth

→ A gum “pimple” that comes and goes

Signs it’s time to schedule family dentistry care:

——————————————————————-
→ Your child’s first dental visit

→ Someone is overdue

→ A child is nervous about the dentist

→ You want one office for everyone

→ You’re working on better routines

Family Dentistry

Dental visits are easier when you have a place that feels familiar. We care for kids, parents, and everyone in between with a gentle, patient approach that helps all ages feel at ease.

Family Dentistry

Dental visits are easier when you have a place that feels familiar. We care for kids, parents, and everyone in between with a gentle, patient approach that helps all ages feel at ease.

Signs it’s time to schedule family dentistry care:

——————————————————————-
→ Your child’s first dental visit

→ Someone is overdue

→ A child is nervous about the dentist

→ You want one office for everyone

→ You’re working on better routines

Gum Disease Care

If your gums bleed, feel tender, or look puffy, that’s your body asking for help. We’ll measure gum health, remove buildup gently, and give you a plan you can actually follow at home.

Signs it’s time to get gum disease care:

——————————————————————-
→ Bleeding when brushing/flossing

→ Swollen or tender gums

→ Persistent bad breath

→ Gum recession

→ Teeth that feel a little loose

Free Second Opinions

If you’ve been told you need treatment and want another perspective, we’re here for you. Get honest guidance without any pressure.

REQUEST APPOINTMENT(515) 233-2898

Simple ways to pay

Payment worries should be the last thing on your mind. At Ames Family Dental, we offer options for everyone to access premium care without stress.

  • Our office works with most insurance plans and handles the filing for you
  • We are in network with Delta Dental Premier and are proud to be a Delta Dental Premier Provider
  • In-house membership plan for uninsured patients
  • Flexible financing options to fit your budget
  • Upfront estimates so you always know what to expect
  • We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards
  • Convenient and secure online payments through the Archy Payment Portal
PAY HERE

In their own words

Six stars if I could!

“This place is amazing! Ames Family Dental is a six-star! Dr. Patten is incredibly kind, thoughtful, and holistic, and I can tell he genuinely cares about his patients. As someone who values empathy and understanding, I appreciated his attentive and compassionate approach. I can’t wait to come back!”

— Lee M.

Feels like a small-town dentist

“Excellent patient care. They listened to my concerns and were very accommodating. Dr. Patten was super personable, and I would recommend this place to anyone wanting a small-town dentist feeling and environment!”

— William T.

Friendly and gentle

“I’ve been going to Ames Family Dental for a little over two years now, and it’s been nothing but fantastic. They’re so personable, and I always look forward to my next appointment. The hygienists are very good at their job, and they clean your teeth in a way that doesn’t leave your gums or teeth hurting.”

— Nathan S.

250+ 5-star reviews on Google

FAQ

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How often should I get a cleaning and exam?
Most people do well visiting our Ames general dentist every six months, but it depends on your gums, buildup, and history. Some patients need more frequent care to keep their gums healthy and prevent inflammation. We’ll recommend a schedule based on what we see.
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What’s the difference between gum disease care and a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gumline. Gum disease care goes deeper when there’s inflammation, bleeding, or pocketing around the teeth. It’s meant to control infection, protect bone and tissue, and help your gums heal so your mouth stays healthier long-term.
K
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Can you help with snoring or feeling tired even after sleep?
Yes. If you snore or wake up exhausted, sleep apnea could be part of the picture. Some patients do well with a custom oral appliance that supports better airflow at night. We’ll talk through symptoms, review your health history, and help you understand your options.
K
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How do I know if I actually need a root canal?
The biggest clues are lingering pain, sensitivity that won’t fade, pain when biting, swelling, or a repeating “gum bump.” But sometimes the only sign is what we see on imaging. We’ll explain what’s happening and why, and we’ll only recommend a root canal when it’s truly the best way to save the tooth.
K
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Do you see kids, and how do you help them feel comfortable?
We do. We keep kid visits simple, positive, and low-pressure. We explain things in friendly language, move at their pace, and focus on small wins. Our goal is to build trust early so dental care feels normal and positive.
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What if I’m not sure which service I need?
That’s completely normal. Start with an exam and a conversation. Tell us what you’re feeling and what you want to improve, and we’ll guide you from there. If you’re searching for an Ames general dentist who guides you with empathy, this is exactly what we’re here for.
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Are these treatments usually covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your plan and the type of care you need. Preventive visits are often covered well, while gum therapy, sleep appliances, or root canals may have different benefits. We’ll help you understand your estimate before treatment and review payment options if you need them.

Let's Connect

Looking for modern care with a down-to-earth feel? We’d love to meet you.

REQUEST APPOINTMENT(515) 233-2898

your
neighborhood
dentist

New faces are always welcome.

   2625 University Blvd
              Ames, IA 50010

            Get Directions

 2625 University Blvd
Ames, IA 50010

Get Directions

  (515) 233-2898

(515) 233-2898

  Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
             Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
             Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Mon–Thu: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed

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(515) 233-2898
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