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COLOSPGS Magazine || May-June 2026 || Top Dentists

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CITY: A CLEAR FUTURE FOR ALL

PROFILE: WHERE EVERYBODY WINS PLUS WONDER WOMAN

City USA

Publisher MIKE REGENNITTER

Office Catalyst

KIRSTEN BUSH

Business Development Specialist

TERI HOMICK

Managing Editor

LEE HARPER

Creative Director

GERALDINE VILLANUEVA

Writers

PAM BALES

6 Advancing the Science and Art of Dentistry

From pediatrics to restorative dentistry, specialists explain how the dental profession continues to evolve to better serve Colorado Springs patients.

12 A Clear Future for All

For Joe Aldaz, advocacy doesn’t come without challenges. Sometimes it means speaking against the status quo or challenging norms — or creating your own table when others don’t make space at theirs.

Where Everybody Wins

Believing that community is built slowly and methodically, this local artist took a winding road to find one shared space to create a win-win formula.

Wonder Woman

Personal struggle and loss took Bonnie Sumner to the edge of what could be...and then beyond it. Woodland Park can now claim a Guinness Book record holder with plenty of wisdom to share about possibilities.

Honoring Excellence: Top Dentists of Colorado Springs

These dental professionals were chosen by their peers as top dentists practicing in Colorado Springs.

LINDA DUVAL

ALYSSA SHIKLES

JOSHUA SKAGGS

Photographers

ERNEST BORDON

KRYS FAKIR

DAN KENEMORE

Videographer

DAN LEE

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Opinions, ideas, and suggestions in Colorado Springs Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Colorado Springs Magazine or RegCo Media. Colorado Springs Magazine nor RegCo Media neither accepts nor bears and responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any such opinions, ideas, or suggestions, or the applications thereof. Any representations or warranties (express or implied) with respect thereto are hereby disclaimed by Colorado Springs Magazine or RegCo Media. We take pride in being environmentally responsible by participating in the print relief project. This issue is responsible for planting trees to cover our paper footprint. Copyright © 2026 by RegCo Media. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Printed in the U.S.A.

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Dr. William “Brad” Perrett, Dr. Justin Tullis & Dr. Corban Stettler | PHOTO: Ernest Bordon

PUBLISHER’S LETTER THE COMMUNITY WE BUILD TOGETHER

Every issue of Colorado Springs Magazine has a theme, whether we plan it or not. This one comes down to a simple idea: people who take their work seriously tend to take people seriously too. That shows up across this entire issue.

What stands out to me about this theme is the level of intention behind the work of these dentists. Doctors Stettler, Perrett and Tullis reflect a broader standard across our community. This isn’t just about procedures, it’s about doing things the right way over the long term.

There’s a real focus on preservation, better tools and a more thoughtful patient experience. And for kids, that sets the tone early. When the standard is high from the beginning, it sticks.

You see a similar mindset in Joe Aldaz’s work with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. His focus isn’t just growth for the sake of growth. It’s about access, who has a seat at the table and who doesn’t and how to change that over time. His background in the Air Force and public service shows up clearly in how he leads — steady, practical and focused on outcomes. The result is real traction, more participation, more representation and more people moving into positions where they can contribute.

Clay Ross takes a different path, but the principle is the same. Through The LookUp Gallery, he’s created more than just a place to display art. It’s a space built around connection between artists, the work and the people walking through the door. There’s a level of intention behind it. From how the artwork is presented to how artists are supported; it’s clear this isn’t about transactions. It’s about creating an environment where people can engage, slow

down and actually experience what’s in front of them. That’s not easy to do, but he’s built something that makes it feel natural.

Then there’s Bonnie Sumner. At 81, she set a world record doing something most people wouldn’t attempt at any age. The record itself is impressive, but the more interesting part is how she approaches life. She tries new things, sticks with them and doesn’t spend much time worrying about whether she should be doing them. That mindset is simple, but it’s not common.

Put all of this together and a pattern starts to emerge. Different life strategies, different backgrounds, different goals, but a similar approach. Do the work well. Stay consistent. Focus on people, not just outcomes. Over time, that adds up.

Colorado Springs continues to grow and change, and with that comes pressure on systems, on leadership and on the people trying to keep pace. What’s encouraging is that, across all of these stories, there’s no sense of waiting around for someone else to fix things. People are building where they are, with what they have.

No big speeches. No perfect systems. Just people doing their jobs well and taking responsibility for the part they play. That’s usually how progress actually happens.

Thanks for reading and for being part of it.

ADVANCING THE SCIENCE & ART OF DENTISTRY

photography by Ernest Bordon feature by Joshua Skaggs
Left to Right: Dr. William “Brad” Perrett, Dr. Justin Tullis & Dr. Corban Stettler

From

pediatrics

to

restorative dentistry, specialists explain how the dental profession continues to evolve to better

serve Colorado Springs patients.

Sometimes kids light up when their families drive past Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics and ask if they can stop in. While going to the dentist has long been associated with nerves or hesitation for both kids and adults, that experience is beginning to change. The old stories still exist, but the standard has changed.

Dr. Corban Stettler, founder of Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics, is part of that shift. Today, when parents tell him their kids get upset driving by his office, it is not because they are afraid of going in. It is because they wish they were. The pirate-themed playground may catch their attention, but it is the consistent, thoughtful care that keeps them excited to come back. Many of his patients genuinely enjoy their visits, and that is by design.

“We want to turn the idea of going to the dentist upside down,” he said. “It does not have to be a scary thing.”

Because a child’s worldview is still being formed, Dr. Stettler sees pediatric dental care as particularly suited to this kind of reframing. First impressions matter, and if a good dentist can foster positive experiences early on, these have the chance to steer kids into a lifetime of oral health. Dr. Stettler has experienced this reframing firsthand: as a teenager, he was terrified to get his wisdom teeth removed. A kind and capable dentist helped him overcome his fears and set him on an unexpected career path.

These shifts in perspective matter, but they’re not the full story. The entire field of dentistry is advancing through better applications of science and technology, and specialists across the

city are striving to offer better services for the long-term health of their clients.

“Things are different than they were 10, 15 years ago,” said Dr. William “Brad” Perrett of Pinnacle Dentistry. Running a joint practice with Dr. Thomas Jennings in northern Colorado Springs, Dr. Perrett spoke thoughtfully about the changes he’s seen in over twenty years of dentistry. When Dr. Perrett first started in private practice in 2004, patients in need of dental work often faced a choice between a filling, a crown, or an implant. Today, he can offer them a broader range of more conservative options, and new technologies have enabled him to provide same-day indirect restorations.

Beyond evolving treatments, Dr. Perrett has also adapted his overall philosophy, re-evaluating what good reconstruction means. In previous eras of dentistry, replacing teeth with implants was often discussed as a first option, but recent data show that implants are not perfect alternative to natural teeth. Dr. Perrett has pivoted back toward a primary goal of preserving patients’ natural dentition.

He said, “I’ve had to really change my dentistry quite a bit to allow myself to maintain teeth for a much longer period of time than I used to think I could.” He now explains to patients that he intends to preserve their teeth into their 90s.

Dr. Justin Tullis of Southern Colorado Periodontics operates his practice under a similar philosophy, conducting bone and skin grafts in the mouth to save diseased teeth and orient patients toward long-term health. He uses digital imaging to increase diagnostic accuracy and strategize more targeted treatment plans.

Digital scanning allows dentists to see every detail of a patient’s dentition and to plan treatment that is specific to each individual. “We’re in an era where we can be extremely accurate,” Dr. Perrett said.

Dentistry has never been more technologically advanced, but this evolving industry can never leave behind the human element. At its root, dentistry is still about the relationship between a dental practitioner and a patient.

“I wanted to do something more personal and be proud of my career as a healer.”

“A total digital workflow is a more recent advancement,” he said. “Sticky dental impressions and stone models are being replaced with digital impressions and 3D printing.”

Dr. Tullis has long recognized that oral health is intrinsically connected with the patient’s overall health. When he first stepped away from his engineering career with a multinational corporation and began working as a dentist, people’s wellbeing was his primary motivation: “I wanted to do something more personal and be proud of my career as a healer.”

In addition to his practice, Dr. Tullis volunteers his time to provide dental surgery and care for patients, free of charge. Through Colorado Mission of Mercy (COMOM) and the Dental Lifeline Network, he is able to offer free treatments to those who cannot afford it.

As a periodontist, Dr. Tullis focuses his attention beyond healthy teeth, addressing the gums, tooth alignment and jawbones as well. Gum disease has been linked with heart disease, diabetes, dementia and other ailments, making it more akin to a medical condition than a tooth problem. Treatment requires a perspective that is not focused solely on teeth or cosmetics but rather expands to account for the health of the whole person.

“There is an increasing need for integration between dentistry and medicine,” Dr. Tullis said.

Dentistry has long been considered separate from the rest of the medical system, a separation that is largely due to health insurance designations. Of all the challenges facing the dental profession, high costs continue to be one of the primary barriers to patient care. While expenses have steadily climbed through the years, reimbursement has not increased to match the cost of care. This places an oversized burden on dentists, a burden which is shared by their staff and patients. Many dental offices are unable to accept Medicaid or other forms of insurance, and even patients who are insured face out-of-pocket expenses when their benefits fall short of costs.

For Dr. Stettler, accepting Medicaid and military insurance is non-negotiable. He wants to make his services available to people in a variety of demographics, especially those in the military, whose transitory and high-stress career can compromise consistent oral care. When Dr. Stettler decided to open a second branch of Kids Rock, he considered who would be best served by an additional location. While northern Colorado Springs already had a high density of dental offices, his patients from southern neighborhoods were sometimes driving 45 minutes to visit his office at Woodmen and Powers. He decided to open his second office in Fort Carson, providing an underserved population with easier access to quality dental care.

Dr. Stettler is not alone in his desire to provide quality, equitable care. Dentists throughout the city are dedicated to doing their best work for the Colorado Springs community. Since 2004, continuing education groups have provided opportunities for dentists to meet with like-minded peers and learn from each other on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. Professional speakers bring in specialized expertise, and dentists find a setting in which they can readily share information and learn from each other. While some cities have a reputation for unhealthy competition among dental offices, Colorado Springs is known for its culture of mutual respect, in which dentists are willing to collaborate and share information.

In recent years, medical professionals have faced growing pressure to increase their patient load at the expense of human interaction. Despite this trend, Dr. Perrett sees the dental community as a place where human interaction is still valued. Dentists still have the freedom to connect with patients as people.

“Dentistry has always been a creative profession,” he stated. “It’s always required personalized care … Going forward, I hope that’s still true about our profession.”

A CLEAR FUTURE FOR ALL

The same values that guided Joe Aldaz through each season of his life — from small town New Mexico to military service to leading the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce — continue to determine every step he takes today.

photography by Ernest Bordon feature by Alyssa Shikles

Joe serves as co-chair of the Pikes Peak Community Foundation’s Our Spacious Skies committee, which brings leaders together from across sectors to align around a shared vision for the future.

Integrity first, service before self and excellence

in all we do.

These three principles are the core values of the U.S. Air Force — but they are more than a motto to Joe Aldaz. Integrity, service and excellence are Joe’s compass, guiding every path he has walked throughout his career and life. Now, the road ahead is clearer than ever, as Joe sits at the center of a growing movement: to expand opportunity and inclusive representation across the Pikes Peak region.

President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Education Foundation, Joe has spearheaded Hispanic advocacy efforts in the city since he took on the role in 2018. Over the past several years, Joe has led the Chamber to immense growth, earning multiple statewide and national awards for membership growth, innovation and leadership excellence, including being named the Small Chamber of the Year by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in 2022.

The values guiding Joe’s leadership today were forged long before boardrooms and national recognition — rooted instead in a small New Mexico town, a family of educators and generations defined by grit.

Born and raised in Raton, New Mexico, Joe grew up knowing that hard work was not only expected, but it was in his blood. His family’s story traces back to Slavic-Irish coal miners in northern New Mexico — people who built their lives through resilience and determination. That legacy carried through his grandfather, Epifanio, who worked on the family ranch, Rancho de Torres, repairing fence lines for the Bureau of Land Management on horseback well into his 70s.

“He embodied grit, resilience and a commitment to the job didn’t depend on recognition — just doing the work because it needed to be done,” Joe said. “That example has stayed with me throughout my life and continues to influence how I lead today.”

His parents, both longtime educators, reinforced that foundation — instilling discipline, accountability and a mindset of serving others. When Joe got his first job as a teen — selling pari-mutuel tickets at La Mesa Park, a racetrack that hosted thoroughbred and quarter horse racing from 1946 to 1992 — he finally got a taste of earning his own way in the world.

That early sense of responsibility began to take clearer shape when Joe was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy at 17.

“Attending the Air Force Academy was a pivotal milestone in my life,” Joe said. “It not only brought me to Colorado Springs, but it shaped my leadership philosophy and reinforced the values that still guide me today: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do.”

After graduating and commissioning into the Air Force, Joe built a career in space operations, working in high-stakes environments that demanded precision and strategic thinking.

When he retired from the military in 2004, that same sense of purpose carried into a new season of service. Across roles in education, nonprofit leadership and athletics — from directing a K-12 charter school in Pueblo to serving as the Rocky Mountains regional director for the USO to leading as director of athletics and women’s basketball coach at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School — a clear pattern emerged.

“In the end, it’s not what you build for yourself — it’s what you build for others ...”

“At every stage of my life, the common thread has been service — service to my country, service to my community and service to others,” Joe said. “Each experience, from my upbringing to my military career to education, nonprofit leadership and now chamber leadership, has shaped how I lead today: with humility, purpose and a commitment to creating opportunities for others to succeed.”

All of those experiences now converge in his work today. Under Joe’s leadership, the Colorado Springs Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Education Foundation has expanded from 22 members to more than 320, while launching initiatives designed to address long-standing gaps for Latino entrepreneurs and emerging leaders.

The Avanzar Business Accelerator Program provides training, mentorship and resources for Hispanic, veteran- and womanowned small businesses. The Adelante Leadership Institute, a 10-month fellowship program, is equipping the next generation of Hispanic business leaders. Since launching in 2023, the program has graduated 54 fellows — 50% of whom are now serving on nonprofit boards and commissions across Colorado Springs.

“If more young people believe they belong in spaces of influence — then that’s impact,” Joe said. “If the next generation doesn’t have to fight the same battles for access and recognition, then we’ve done something meaningful.”

Joe views his own role as a bridge-builder, forging relationships across business, government and nonprofit sectors to create opportunities for members and the broader community. He sees the areas in the city where there is a lack of Hispanic presence at the table — spaces that have been historically exclusive — and seeks to empower and create pathways of access for more leaders to be present and have a voice.

“I want to help shape a Colorado Springs where opportunity is truly accessible, where leadership reflects the diversity of the community, and people — regardless of background — can see a path forward,” Joe said. “A city where we’ve moved beyond conversations about inclusion and have built systems that actually create it.”

For Joe, Colorado Springs isn’t just a mission field for advocacy — it’s his home. It’s where he built a life with his wife of 42 years and they raised two children, Alyssa and Steven. And he has a vision for what his home can become: a space of unity and robust community.

“For me, home is where you invest, where you serve and where you fight for something bigger than yourself,” Joe said. “Colorado Springs is home because it’s where my life, my family and my purpose all come together. And quite simply — I’m not done yet.”

The same values that guided Joe through each season of his life — from small town in New Mexico to military service to leading the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce — continue to determine every step he takes today. Only now, the path is wider. What once served as his personal compass has become a map for others, helping a new generation navigate their space in the community. And as long as there are more doors to open, Joe will keep moving forward.

“In the end, it’s not what you build for yourself — it’s what you build for others,” Joe said. “If I can help create a community where more people can succeed, lead and thrive, then that’s the impact that matters most.”

Joe has big dreams for the future of Colorado Springs: “My hope is that Colorado Springs becomes a national model for inclusive growth — where opportunity is accessible, leadership is representative and collaboration drives lasting impact.”

WHERE EVERYBODY WINS

Yobel/The LookUp Gallery provides Clay Ross the space for patrons to come in and find something they love. And, through conversation and shared experience, he hopes they find much more.

photography by Dan Kenemore feature by Pam Bales
Artist and entrepreneur Clay Ross followed a winding road to get to a place that feels authentic and true, in business and in life.

Love the people in front of you.

Asimple philosophy that artist and entrepreneur Clay Ross has embraced daily.

It shows up in small gestures like a bench placed intentionally inside his LookUp Gallery, inviting guests to sit and look. Or a glass of whiskey (from his brother’s Axe & the Oak Distillery) poured for a stranger who wandered into Yobel. It shows up in how he talks about artists as people first, creators second. And finally, it shows up in how he and his wife, Emily, talk about life, their community and business, not as competition, but as a search for win-win situations everywhere.

Clay was born in Alamosa and raised in Colorado Springs, with family roots stretching deep into the San Luis Valley on his father’s side, and Cripple Creek and Colorado Springs on his mother’s side.

The art bug bit Clay early on as a kid; and in junior high and high school, his graffiti roots began.

“Yes, my friend Nate and I would paint in ditches, walls and our neighborhood park basketball court at night,” Clay laughed. We painted that court several times, but the last time was the one I was really proud of. It took me all night and when I went back the next morning to take a photo the city was already sandblasting it off.”

In high school, his art teacher gave him a dedicated corner of the room, built large canvases and allowed him to do his own project. He loved it. Clay, like most kids, dreamed about leaving home after high school and fantasized about a New York City studio where he could live and create, with lots of concrete and spilled paint everywhere.

Those dreams briefly felt within reach when Clay received a significant scholarship to attend art school in Savannah, Georgia. But reality crept in quickly. The scholarship barely covered tuition, leaving housing, supplies and basic living expenses far out of reach. So, Clay adjusted course and accepted another scholarship at Pikes Peak Community College.

That pivot brought its own challenges. Clay took several art classes there. One teacher told him to stop using his imagination. Others told him where to go in town to see “real art” consisting of paintings and photos of Pikes Peak, wolves and Garden of the Gods.

“If that’s art, I don’t want to be an artist,” he remembered.

Those moments didn’t defeat him, but they did redirect him. Clay went to school for massage therapy, then stumbled into his first career at Community Outreach working with adults with disabilities.

Through that work, he witnessed a recurring and troubling gap when individuals turned 21 — the services and support they relied on often disappeared overnight. Clay helped create a transition program to bridge the gap between high school and adult services. This was his new passion.

Art never disappeared.

“Art has always had a way of finding me.”

He had a few commissions here and there requested by people who saw something in his work before he fully saw it himself.

“I didn’t have angst about not fully pursuing art during that time,” Clay explained. “I loved being a dad and enjoyed life and the work I was doing.”

If there is one role Clay claims without hesitation, it’s that of father. “The only thing I ever wanted to be in life was a dad,” he said.

He has three children, Carter (22), Noah (20) and Graycee (17). Clay believes parenting isn’t about having all the answers so much as refusing to disappear when things get uncomfortable. He lights up when he talks about his kids’ victories and is proud that they are good humans.

Clay’s vocational path continued to evolve. He became a youth pastor, helped plant a couple of churches, worked at Urban Peak, the local shelter for unhoused teens and leaned fully into the work of building community, guiding young people and holding space for difficult conversations.

“At every stage,” Clay emphasized, “I was just loving the people in front of me and moving forward.”

Emily, his wife and business partner of more than eight years, is central to everything, including Clay’s art. Clay describes them as cheerleaders and champions for each other and for their community.

Their first date was at Axe and the Oak Distillery, his brother’s place in Ivywild School. Six months later, they were married in the Ivywild School gym, just across the hall from Yobel. In 2019, they proudly purchased Yobel — pronounced yo-BELL — which was located at Ivywild School.

“We want people to come in and fall in love with something ... And then we want to tell them the story of the people who made it.”

“We bought Yobel from our dear friend and co-founder Sarah Ray,” Clay explained. “We were both working other jobs and running Yobel on the side when COVID hit. Ivywild closed for an entire year, so we had to pivot and fast-forward our five-year plan and moved to a larger brick-and-mortar downtown. We added head-to-toe men’s and women’s ethical fashion in addition to the accessories that Yobel previously offered.”

Yobel is a Hebrew word for jubilee, meaning freedom. For Clay and Emily, that rings true. Their store offers ethically made products from more than 60 global artisans and companies who provide dignified work, livable wages and safe working conditions. Fair wages reduce exploitation, interrupt cycles of poverty and promote agency over one’s own life and freedom.

“There are, on average, 70 million garment workers worldwide and only 2% of those workers are paid a living wage,” Clay stated. “We want to contribute to growing that percentage.”

Yobel is built on a simple but challenging premise: everyone can win. They believe that “when people and our planet are priority, we all profit,” which is proudly stated in their logo as “People. Planet. Profit.” Clay is quick to point out how radical that idea can feel in a culture trained to expect discounts, BOGOs and Black Friday pricing.

“We want people to come in and fall in love with something,” Clay pointed out. “And then we want to tell them the story of the people who made it.”

Art, meanwhile, was calling again.

In 2022, Clay and Emily launched The LookUp Gallery inside the new Yobel space. Artwork was mounted intentionally at

an angle above the clothing, inviting visitors to literally look up, while preserving a straight line of sight to the artwork without distortion. What began as a practical solution became a philosophy and quickly gained popularity, booking solo shows out for the upcoming two years.

The excitement of that momentum came to a screeching halt for the business in December 2023, when the restaurant next door to the shop caught fire and everything in their location was a total loss. Once again, the couple had to pivot and, after 16 months of tirelessly searching for a new location, they reopened in their renovated space in the historic Trolly Block.

Today, the new space provides a larger footprint for Yobel, a bar and the gallery representing more than 30 local artists, including seven art studios, one of which is Clay’s personal studio/gallery.

Most recently the couple launched a non-profit called PRIMER, which raises money to subsidize rent for the artists at The LookUp Gallery and has already awarded four subsidies.

Since opening in this dream location, Clay has been able to finally dedicate time and energy to fully pursue his own art. His largescale work explores cityscape, light and abstract textures. He also recently began dabbling in portraits. His studio is creative chaos — palettes everywhere, paint wherever it lands. It’s where he’s happiest, he noted.

If there’s a thread running through Clay Ross’s life, it’s presence. Believing that community is built one conversation, one risk and one shared space at a time creates the formula for win-win. And Colorado Springs has Clay and Emily to thank for it.

Through a series of challenges (including a pandemic and a fire),

Clay and Emily Ross curated Yobel to provide ethically made products for global artisans.

WONDER WOMAN

At 81, Bonnie Sumner hopes her achievement inspires others. But that’s not why she wanted to break a Guinness world record.

photos courtesy of Bonnie Sumner feature by Linda DuVal
W“Attitude is everything. Don’t make it a chore. You’ll think up every excuse in the book not do to it.”

hen you hear the term “dead hang,” it doesn’t necessarily conjure up a positive image. But, in fact, it’s Bonnie Sumner’s claim to fame. Bonnie, 81, of Woodland Park, currently holds the Guinness World Record for a “dead hang” for someone her age.

The feat requires a person to hang from a level bar without feet touching the ground for a period of time. The world record she had to beat was 2 minutes and 1 second. If it doesn’t sound like that long, just try it.

“It hurts!” she admitted.

Her journey from a schoolgirl in New York City to her “dead hang” fame is a long one.

“I did not come from an athletic family,” she said. “But we got a lot of exercise, walking everywhere, carrying groceries up and down stairs, hanging out laundry, that sort of thing.”

High school gym class was “useless,” she recalled. After she graduated from high school, she followed her sister to college in Madison, Wis. Bonnie met her husband, Mark, during a summer home in New York. After they married, he followed her back to Wisconsin, where they both finished college. There, she took “such a hodge-podge of classes,” they gave her a degree in international relations. Later, when her husband went to law school and got a job in Washington D.C., they moved back east again, and there, she got her master’s in education from Columbia University.

“It was a completely useless program. I learned a lot more in the classroom than I ever did in school,” she said. “Many of my students only spoke Spanish, so I had to find ways to engage them. I took them to museums” and other outings. “I loved it, and I think I was very good at it.”

That was the beginning of Bonnie’s life as an educator — learning how to present material to make it engaging and using experts to support her teaching, she said.

Four children later, she and Mark returned to Madison, where they wanted their children to grow up.

There, she and a friend would walk five miles a day, at first pushing strollers, to keep in shape. She did a little dance exercise on the side. Because the children kept her so busy, she did not go back to teaching, but she did get very involved in “unpaid, continuous” volunteer work.

When her oldest son was badly injured in an ATV accident, she learned about lobbying and testifying and how to get things done when you believe in something, like safety measures for ATVs. People she met there asked her to be on a state health and safety board and that’s when she got into the tobacco issue. She developed a program called “Who’s Kidding Who?” about tobacco use.

After Mark retired, they decided to move to Colorado for a little more temperate climate. While exploring, they stopped in Woodland Park for a bathroom break and were immediately smitten by the community.

At 81, Bonnie Sumner earned Guinness World Record recognition for holding a “dead hang” for three minutes and three seconds.
Bonnie Sumner and her late husband, Mark, hike together, where time on the trails was a meaningful part of their life together.
Working out at the gym enables Bonnie Sumner to pursue her love of hiking. She also credits it with being able to still shovel snow when needed.

“Once we moved here, we discovered the problem of fire,” Bonnie said. Because she was active in the HOA, she researched the issue and shared information with school groups and organized wildfire preparedness events. “My feeling is, if you know how to educate and you know how to find people who can help you, you can take on something you never did before,” Bonnie said.

She also joined the Woodland Fitness Center gym to keep in shape for her new love of hiking and being in the outdoors. She and Mark hiked every chance they got — and Colorado has a lot of good options.

“When I was 55, I read an article … and decided to start doing muscular work. I started weight training with a trainer,” Bonnie recalled.

“Nine years ago, I found a new trainer, Eve Lawrence,” she said. “We just bonded. She pushed me, and continues to push me and she’s so knowledgeable. So, about two and a half years ago, my husband died from cancer. It was just three months from diagnosis to death.”

Bonnie was looking for some new challenge to ease her grief and take her mind off her loss.

“There was an article in the New York Times that said to vary your routine, try something completely different. Their suggestion was to try the dead hang. So, I brought it to Eve, and she said: ‘Let’s try it!’

“Well, the first time, it was maybe 15 seconds. It hurt! But we got into this thing of upping it a little bit at a time. I learned it’s really good for your spine and back muscles. It’s not just a parlor trick.”

She describes it like this: “There is a bar that you grasp and your feet are not touching the ground. You’re hanging there, like a monkey. You hold on as long as you can. You just dangle.”

She had no intention of becoming famous for it.

“Behind my back, Eve and the gym owner applied for a world record. What am I going to say, ‘I can’t do this’?”

Although it is difficult, Bonnie said, “this is not a marathon, or climbing Mount Everest. The world record for a female my age was two minutes and one second. I did two minutes and two seconds. Then we got into this thing and kept going until, finally, I did three minutes and three seconds, which crushed the record.”

The application process for the Guinness World Record is complicated and took time and a lot of work, she said. The Times reporter who wrote the story that originally inspired her came to Colorado with a photographer to document it.

The rules were very specific. “The bar has to be measured and level. There has to be a clock that ticks off the seconds. You have to have at least two witnesses — I had about 15. Eve had to verify her certification as a trainer.”

Her feat has received a lot of attention, she said. Not what she necessarily wanted, but it gives her a chance to once again ply her skills at education. She especially wants to inspire older women to never stop exercising.

Bonnie Sumner, a Guinness World Record holder at 81 years old, offers her best advice:

• If you belong to a gym or hiking group, it’s good to have the camaraderie and support.

• Attitude is everything. Don’t make it a chore. You’ll think up every excuse in the book not do to it.

• Vary your routine, so you don’t get bored.

• Try different things. Try something new and keep at it. That’s my goal. And I’m not done yet.

There is no greater honor than recognition from those who understand the work firsthand. For dentists, being selected by their peers reflects a level of clinical excellence, integrity and dedication that extends beyond everyday practice. It represents a lasting impact on both patients and the profession.

For patients, that distinction carries real meaning. Choosing a peer-recognized dentist means placing your care in the hands of someone trusted by other dental professionals, those who know what it takes to deliver exceptional results. It is a mark of confidence in both skill and character.

The List HONORING EXCELLENCE TOP DENTISTS:

ENDODONTISTS

Julie Be

Endodontic Specialists of Colorado

5745 Erindale Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 599-7665 endospec.com

Tyler Boss

SoCo Endo 1275 Lake Plaza Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 301-1119 socoendo.com

Robert Corr

Apex Endodontics

8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 220 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-6600 apexendoco.com

Sarah Crepps

Apex Endodontics

8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 220 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-6600 apexendoco.com

Bryan Horspool

Endodontic Specialists of Colorado

5745 Erindale Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 599-7665 endospec.com

Ryan Jack

Apex Endodontics

8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 220 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-6600 apexendoco.com

Daniel Kersten

Elevation Endodontics

1720 Jet Stream Dr., Ste. 110 Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 488-2188 elevationendodontics.com

Jon Mason

Advanced Endodontics

2620 Tenderfoot Hill St., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 540-5540 endoadvanced.com

Jack Mayhew

Advanced Endodontics

2620 Tenderfoot Hill St., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 540-5540 endoadvanced.com

A. John McKissock

Elevation Endodontics

1720 Jet Stream Dr., Ste. 110 Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 488-2188 elevationendodontics.com

The dentists featured here have been selected by their colleagues for their leadership, expertis, and commitment to advancing oral health. As Colorado Springs’ Top Dentists, they represent the highest standards in dentistry. These are professionals who elevate their field and improve the lives of the patients they serve every day.

Bradley Ross

Endodontic Specialists of Colorado

5745 Erindale Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 599-7665 endospec.com

Michael Transtrum Aspen Endodontics

9140 Wild Mustang Grv. Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 264-1440 aspenendodontics.com

GENERAL/FAMILY DENTISTS

Erick Anderson Anderson Family Dental by Espire 5725 Erindale Dr., Ste. 210 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 628-7587 andersonsmile.com

Shelby Backman

Mountain Vista Dental

2575 Montebello Dr. West, Ste. 203 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 598-8886 mtn-vista-dental.com

Thomas “T.J.” Baumgardner Briargate Dental Center 7750 North Union Blvd., Ste. 101 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 598-1293 briargatedental.com

Nolan Behr

Nolan R. Behr

5770 Flintridge Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 591-2050 drnolanbehr.com

Philip Bird Bird & Wittenberg Dental 7222 Commerce Center Dr., Ste. 247 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 593-0403 bird-wittenbergdental.com

Cody Boals

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

3470 Centennial Blvd., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 881-8688 kissingcamelsfamilydentistry. com

Rhonda Bowen Rhonda K. Bowen, DDS 5426 North Academy Blvd., Ste. 105 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 733-8238 rhondakbowendds.com

Scott Brinton Brinton Family Dentistry 1079 Space Center Dr., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80915 (719) 574-2211 brintonfamilydentistry.com

TOP DENTISTS

Steven Carlson

Mountain Vista Dental 2575 Montebello Dr. West, Ste. 203 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 598-8886 mtn-vista-dental.com

Toan Chung

Apple Grove Dental

9348 Grand Cordera Pkwy. Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80924 (719) 355-2967 applegrovedental.com

Kate Colvin

Colvin Tao Family Dentistry 9240 Explorer Dr., Ste. 110 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 599-0110 www.colvintao.com

Jared Dastrup

Jared Dastrup

5725 Erindale Dr., Ste. 106 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 596-9220 jareddastrupdds.com

Stephen Davis

Cheyenne Mountain Dentistry & Wellness

3605 Star Ranch Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 576-3276 cheyennemountaindental.com

Monica Dobbin

Cheyene Cañon Dental 730 Cheyenne Blvd., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (719) 473-5122 cheyennecanondental.com

Jessica Duru

Springs Dentistry 6665 Delmonico Dr., Ste. C Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 599-5700 springsdentistry.com

Kristen Frazier

Frazier Family Dental 7310 Rangewood Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 266-4848 frazierfamilydental.com

Sheila Hartle

Hartle Family Dentistry 1685 Briargate Blvd., Ste. C Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 528-7016 hartlefamilydentistry.com

Thomas Jennings

Pinnacle Dentistry

2430 Research Pkwy., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 590-7100 pinnacledentistryco.com

Colleen Jenson

Grace Dental

1665 Briargate Blvd., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 532-1007 gracedental.co

Mehron Ron Kazemi

Family Dentistry of Colorado Springs

5010 El Camino Dr., Ste. A Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 308-2898 familydentistrycs.com

John Kramer

Bright Dentistry

9290 Highland Ridge Hts., Ste. 120 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 266-9000 brightdentistry.com

Michael Lovato

HollowBrook Dental

2160 Hollow Brook Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 633-0049 hollowbrookfamilydentistry.com

John Lydiatt

Springs Dentistry

6665 Delmonico Dr., Ste. C Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 599-5700 springsdentistry.com

Constance Madjar

Cascade Signature Dental

721 North Cascade Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (719) 633-3366 cascadesignaturedental.com

Peter McIntyre

Briargate Advanced

Family Dental

595 Chapel Hills Dr., Ste. 105 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 475-2511 briargateadvancedfamilydental.com

Mark Mollner

Pikes Peak Dentistry

685 Citadel Dr. East, Ste. 313 Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (719) 574-1741 pikespeakdentistry.com

Colorado Springs Magazine commissioned independent research firm Perini & Associates to reach out to Colorado Springs dentists.

Q: Who conducted the survey?

Colorado Springs Magazine hired an independent research and public relations marketing firm, Perini & Associates, to conduct the survey.

Q: Who was surveyed?

All active, licensed dentists in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas.

Q: What instructions were they given to complete the survey?

Voting was conducted online. Dentists could nominate up to four names in general family dentistry and one name in each specialty category. They were asked to vote for dentists they would recommend to friends or family.

Q: Did specialists vote solely on their own specialty and vice versa for general dentists?

No. All dentists could vote across all categories.

Q: Could a dentist vote for her- or himself?

Yes. However, most dentists only recommended their colleagues.

Q: Are the dentists listed in any particular order?

The dentists are listed in alphabetical order in each of their respective categories.

Q: How is this an objective listing?

Dentistry is a branch of medicine that relies heavily on dentists referring to one another. Their insight is a very effective method of determining who is wellrespected in their field.

Q: Was any additional research done on those nomiated?

Yes. After voting, an independent research and publications firm, Perini & Associates verified each nominee’s survey result.

Q: Can dentists pay to be on the list?

No. Dentists cannot pay to be included, nor are they compensated for participating.

Cameron Perigo

Esthetic Family Dentistry

8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 105

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 528-5577 outstandingsmile.com

William “Brad” Perrett

Pinnacle Dentistry

2430 Research Pkwy., Ste. 200

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 590-7100 pinnacledentistryco.com

Jo Schope

Schope Dental

3464 Briargate Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 839-3650 schopedental.com

Tim Stacey

Stacey Dental

1975 Research Pkwy., Ste. 302

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 599-0949 drtimstacey.com

Mike Terveen

Springs Family Dental

1935 North Union Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (719) 634-4805 springsfamilydental.com

Bill Thompson

Pine Creek Dental

9080 Wild Mustang Grove Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 749-7891 pinecreekdental.com

Devonshire Whyte

Springs Dentistry

6665 Delmonico Dr., Ste. C Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 599-5700 springsdentistry.com

Kirsten Ziuchkovski

Flintridge Dental Center

5770 Flintridge Dr., Ste. 210 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 593-8701 flintridgedentalcare.com

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEONS

Blake Chaney

CoMax Colorado Maxillofacial & Oral Surgeons

4105 Briargate Pkwy., Ste. 240

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 434-1584 coloradomax.com

Matthew D’Addario AMOS

1755 Telstar Dr., Ste. 210 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 639-7342 amoscolorado.com

Rebecca Facy

CoMax Colorado Maxillofacial & Oral Surgeons

4105 Briargate Pkwy., Ste. 240 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 434-1584 coloradomax.com

Donald Hull

AMOS

1755 Telstar Dr., Ste. 210 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 639-7346 amoscolorado.com

Cree Kofford

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialists

8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 240 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 590-1500 jaws-1.com

Michael Kunkel

Pikes Peak Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center

3475 Briargate Blvd., Ste. 102 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 264-6070 pikespeakoralsurgery.com

Trent Listello

Pikes Peak Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center

3475 Briargate Blvd., Ste. 102 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 264-6070 pikespeakoralsurgery.com

Karl “Kipp” Pennau

Oral Surgery Associates of Colorado Springs

5745 Erindale Dr., Ste. 100

Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 473-2650 oralsurgerycolorado.com

Eric Ringer

Colorado Springs Oral & Facial Surgery 1644 Medical Center Pt., Ste. 101 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 497-9162 csoafs.com

Ron Thoman

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialists

8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 240 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 590-1500 jaws-1.com

Michael Zachar

Colorado Oral Surgery Group 6110 Barnes Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80922 (719) 345-1364 coloradooralsurgerygroup. com

ORTHODONTISTS

John Bailey Bailey Orthodontics 817 Village Center Dr., Ste. 110 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 598-2800 bailey-smiles.com

Kim Batterson

Kim Batterson Orthodontics 15 Widefield Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80911 (719) 390-7926 kb-ortho.com

Sally Claassen Rangewood Orthodontics

7560 Rangewood Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 596-3113 rangewoodorthodontics.com

Lauren Busch

Dino Dental

8890 North Union Blvd., Ste. 209 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 260-1600 dinodent.com

Russ Ford

Russ Ford Orthodontics

7505 Mulberry Wood Dr., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (719) 225-7700 russfordortho.com

Mark George

George Orthodontics

7770 North Union Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 594-9797 drgeorgeortho.com

David Hamula

Hamula Orthodontics

1860 Woodmoor Dr., Ste. 200 Monument, CO 80132 (719) 488-3737 hamulaorthodontics.com

Warren Johnson

Johnson Orthodontics

5850 Tutt Center Pt. Colorado Springs, CO 80922 (719) 596-3081 coloradospringsorthodontics. com

Chris Schultz

Chapel Hills Orthodontics

9240 Explorer Dr., Ste. 115 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 528-7022 chapelhillsorthodontics.com

Sheila Soroushian

Inner Smiles Orthodontics

2575 Montebello Dr. West, Ste. 101 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 268-7138 inner-smiles.com

Lou Taloumis

Colorado Springs Family Orthodontics

3715 Bloomington St., Ste. 160 Colorado Springs, CO 80922 (719) 888-3574 cospringsorthodontics.com

Jacob Zitterkopf

Life Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

4262 Royal Pine Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 596-2477 lifeopd.com

James Ziuchkovski Dr. Z Orthodontics

6010 Erin Park Dr., Ste. 2 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 593-7942 drzorthodontics.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTS

James Busch

Dino Dental

8890 North Union Blvd., Ste. 209 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 260-1600 dinodent.com

Lucas Carubia

Smile Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

9334 Grand Cordera Pkwy. Colorado Springs, CO 80924 (719) 282-6666 mysmilehq.com

Bryce Church

Springs Pediatric Dental Care

13335 Voyager Pkwy., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 265-9600 springspediatricdentist.com

Andrea D’Addario

Rocky Mountain Pediatric Dentistry

12225 Voyager Pkwy., Ste. 6 Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 638-7673 rockymountainpediatric dentistry.com

Josh Erickson

Smile Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

9334 Grand Cordera Pkwy. Colorado Springs, CO 80924 (719) 282-6666 mysmilehq.com

Martin Gossenauer

Colorado Springs Pediatric Dentistry

660 Southpointe Ct., Ste 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 522-0123 cspediatricdentistry.com

Michelle Haman

Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry

6725 Rangewood Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 350-6105 discoverykidsdental.com

Dan Hoang

Campfire Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

6915 Tutt Blvd., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80923 (719) 212-9787 campfiresmilespediatric dentistry.com

Derek Kirkham

Colorado Springs Pediatric Dentistry

660 Southpointe Ct., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 522-0123 cspediatricdentistry.com

Derek Miller

Cool Mountain Kids Pediatric Dentistry

6160 Tutt Blvd., Ste. 140 Colorado Springs, CO 80923 (719) 550-1010 coolmountainkids.com

Corban Stettler

Kids Rock Pediatric Dentistry

5430 E. Woodmen Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 424-4668 kidsrockdentistry.com

Janelle Tonn

Rocky Mountain Pediatric Dentistry

12225 Voyager Pkwy., Ste. 6 Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 638-7673 rockymountainpediatric dentistry.com

Sean Vostatek

Simply Kids Dental

1910 Vindicator Dr., Ste. 103 Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (719) 598-5437 simplykidsdental.com

PERIODONTISTS

Kearny Chang

Mountain Top Periodontics & Implants

3920 North Union Blvd., Ste. 380 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (719) 715-0941 mtperio.com

Geoff Haradon

Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists

595 Chapel Hills Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 574-4867 rmperiohealth.com

Tyler Haradon

Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists

595 Chapel Hills Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 574-4867 rmperiohealth.com

Karl Lackler

Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists

595 Chapel Hills Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 574-4867 rmperiohealth.com

Ursula Price

Pikes Peak Periodontics

5426 North Academy Blvd., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 548-1711 pikespeakperio.com

Justin Tullis

Southern Colorado Periodontics & Implants

9475 Briar Village Pt., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 475-9023 socoperio.com

PROSTHODONTISTS

Emily Batson Dr. Emily Batson Dentistry & Prosthodontics

1580 East Cheyenne Mtn. Blvd., Ste. 140 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 576-4247 batsondentistry.com

Marina Funtik

Oasis Prosthodontics

5725 Erindale Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (719) 574-2417 oasisprosthodontics.com

Todd Pickle

Pickle Prosthodontics

9480 Briar Village Pt., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 599-0670 pickledental.com

Tyler J. Boss, DDS

Dr. Boss is extremely grateful and honored to be voted by his peers as a top endodontist year after year. He takes great pride in what the team at SoCo Endo has built — a culture centered on the belief that results matter and that excellent outcomes should guide every clinical decision.

The SoCo Endo team focuses on efficiency through exceptional results, fluid patient care, and transparent communication with both patients and referring offices. As they often say, “Results matter,” and “The proof is in the hard cases.” Their success comes from working with outstanding referring offices and genuinely appreciative patients.

Dr. Boss is also proud of the remarkable team around him, including his partner endodontists, Dr. Nielsen and Dr. Smith, with whom he shares both a strong professional collaboration and close friendship. Together, the team at SoCo Endo is dedicated to the art and science of saving teeth. They take great fulfillment in helping patients preserve their natural, healthy dentition in a comfortable, cutting-edge, state-ofthe-art environment. For patients who are unable to undergo treatment awake, IV sedation is available.

A lifelong learner, Dr. Boss is board-certified as a fellow of the American Board of Endodontics and is a fellow of the prestigious International Academy of Endodontics and completes at least a hundred hours of continuing education each year. His curiosity and problemsolving mindset extend well beyond dentistry. He has recently taught

himself welding, lock picking, and hand-loading ammunition, and he enjoys any project that gives him an excuse to buy another tool — much to his wife’s chagrin. Recently, he has taken up long-range precision rifle competitions and enjoys helping local ranchers with predator control. Above all, however, Dr. Boss is most proud of his family. He and his wife Tiff have been married for 18 years and are raising five wonderful children, and he structures his life to spend as much time with them as possible.

SOCOEndo.com (719) 301-1119

1275 Lake Plaza Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Left to Right: Dr. Chad R. Smith, Dr. Tyler J. Boss & Dr. Greg J. Nielsen.
Special Advertising Section

Trent W. Listello Michael S. Kunkel, DDS

PikesPeakOralSurgery.com (719) 264-6070

3475 Briargate Blvd., Ste. 102 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Dr. Michael Kunkel, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, founded Pikes Peak Oral Surgery in 2013. Dr. Trent Listello retired from the Air Force after 20 years and joined the practice in 2020. Both Dr. Kunkel and Dr. Listello have been honored as Colorado Springs’ Top Dentists, a distinction awarded by their peers.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive comprehensive training in surgical procedures and general anesthesia. This training allows us to safely and comfortably perform removal of wisdom teeth, placement of dental implants, treatment of facial trauma, and management of oral and facial pathology.

using this technology, and we are proud to be one of the leading robotic innovators in the country.

As a dental implant center, we often perform complex implant and bone-grafting procedures, which are made more comfortable with our in-office anesthesia. Many nervous patients, who would otherwise avoid receiving necessary care because of fear and anxiety, are able to achieve better health with the aid of these anesthesia options.

Our practice always strives to incorporate the newest and best technologies available in our field. For this reason, we became the first practice in Colorado to use robotic technology to perform more accurate and safer dental implant procedures. Yomi Robotics allows us to place an implant with superior accuracy, while avoiding adjacent, high-risk anatomical structures. We have performed hundreds of procedures

When a patient comes into my office, my goal is to understand the experience from his or her perspective and to make that process as easy and comfortable as possible. Let’s face it; no one enjoys having a surgical procedure. At Pikes Peak Oral Surgery, our goal is to make sure that every patient’s experience is completed in a safe and comfortable environment by a team that truly cares about its patients. One of the best compliments we get routinely from our patients is, “I am so relieved. That was much easier than I had expected.”

It is an honor to have been selected as one of Colorado Springs’ Top Dentists by my peers in such an outstanding community of professionals.

Left to Right: Dr. Trent W. Listello & Dr. Michael S. Kunkel.

Justin Tullis, DDS, MS

SoCoPerio.com (719) 475-9023 9475 Briar Village Pt., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Dr. Tullis is a board-certified periodontist and dental implant surgeon. A periodontist is a dental specialist that takes care of the bone and soft tissues that support the teeth. The periodontist is also uniquely qualified to replace missing teeth with dental implants. Periodontal disease (gum disease) is the leading reason that adults lose teeth. Gum disease also exacerbates many chronic diseases that afflict the rest of the body, including: cardiovascular disease, dementia, diabetes, COPD, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and many other conditions involving chronic inflammation. A healthy mouth is an integral part of living your best life. After college and dental school, a periodontist completes at least 3 years of residency training to become an expert in the biology of the mouth. The periodontist has specialized training in both corrective and regenerative oral medicine, and is often called upon to rebuild atrophic parts of the jaws via bone grafting and gum grafting. The periodontist works closely with your general dentist and other specialists to help you achieve the best possible results.

Dr. Tullis participates in several study clubs in Colorado Springs, where dentists from every specialty assemble to teach each other ways to elevate patient care. He completed dental school in Texas and residency training in Missouri. During dental school he published research on 3D jaw imaging and during residency he completed a human clinical trial on bone grafting techniques. Dr. Tullis enjoys hiking with his family, working out, and singing in church. He has done mission trips to Brazil, Peru, and volunteers at the Colorado Mission of Mercy every year. Southern Colorado Periodontics is a family-owned dental practice established in 2020.

A. John McKissock, DMD Daniel D. Kersten, DDS

ElevationEndodontics.com

(719) 488-2188

1720 Jet Stream Dr., Ste. 110

Colorado Springs, CO 80921

Drs. A. John McKissock and Daniel D. Kersten are former educators who have dedicated their careers to advancing endodontics through teaching, scholarship, and service. They are honored to be recognized by their colleagues within the Colorado Springs dental community and are grateful for the trust placed in them by patients and referring doctors. At Elevation Endodontics, they have built a specialty practice grounded in conservative philosophy, diagnostic rigor, and technical precision — delivered with warmth and approachability.

Their mission is straightforward: preserve natural teeth whenever possible through precise, evidence-based, minimally invasive care. They provide the full scope of contemporary endodontic treatment, including primary root canal therapy, retreatment, and microsurgical procedures. Advanced technologies such as laser disinfection, cone-beam computed tomography, and high-magnification operating microscopes support exact diagnosis and targeted treatment while preserving natural tooth structure. Modern instrumentation and biocompatible materials further enhance healing and long-term success.

As Board-Certified Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics, both doctors bring distinguished academic and military backgrounds to their work. Dr. McKissock is a former endodontic instructor, published author, and US Army helicopter pilot. Dr. Kersten, a former endodontic program director, published researcher, and Consultant in Endodontics to the Office of the Surgeon General. Together, they combine academic depth with real-world clinical mastery. Just as important, they understand that many patients arrive anxious — often expecting discomfort. The team at Elevation Endodontics meets patients with calm reassurance, clear explanations, and a good-natured perspective that helps put even the most nervous individuals at ease. Oral conscious sedation, nitrous oxide, and collaboration with dental anesthesiologists for IV sedation ensure comfort when needed. The result is a practice where clinical excellence and genuine compassion go hand in hand.

Left to Right: Dr. A. John McKissock & Dr. Daniel Kersten.

Sean Vostatek, DDS

SimplyKidsDental.com (719) 598-5437 1910 Vindicator Dr., Ste. 103 Colorado Springs, CO 80919

At Simply Kids Dental, excellent customer service and superior pediatric dental care aren’t goals — they’re the standard. This commitment guides everything Dr. Sean Vostatek and his team do each day. Known to his patients simply as Dr. Sean, he is honored to have received this year’s “Top Dentist” award, along with “Best of the Springs” Gold for Dentistry for Kids and “Best Workplace” for small businesses in Colorado Springs. He credits his dedicated team for making these achievements possible.

Although the recognition is meaningful, Dr. Sean measures success by the relationships he builds with his patients and the positive impact he has on young lives. He has had the privilege of serving children locally and internationally, including in Vietnam and Africa, and feels grateful to care for families in Colorado Springs.

Before launching Simply Kids Dental, Dr. Sean earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas. After four years serving uninsured children through the National Health Service Corps, he pursued specialized training in pediatric dentistry. He completed a two-year residency at the University of Iowa, receiving advanced training in nitrous oxide, sedation dentistry, hospital-based pediatric care, and treating children with special needs — an area especially meaningful to him as a parent of a child with special needs. He is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

Family remains central to Dr. Sean’s life. He and his wife have eight children and enjoy backpacking, mountain biking, obstacle course racing, and climbing Colorado’s 14ers together.

Simply Kids Dental welcomes new patients to its marine- and junglethemed office designed to make visits engaging, fun, and memorable. From a parachuting gorilla to a skydiving elephant, every detail is created with kids in mind.

Visit www.simplykidsdental.com to join the adventure and experience dental care that’s exceptional and caring in every way.

Derek A. Miller, DDS

“Dr. Derek,” as his patients refer to him, was born in Minnesota but was raised in Colorado Springs and graduated from Colorado Springs Christian School. He attended one year at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs prior to moving to Austin, Texas, where he graduated Cum Laude (“With Honors”) from the University of Texas. Dr. Derek was accepted into dental school at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, where he received numerous accolades, including acceptance into the honorary dental society “Omicron Kappa Upsilon.”

This distinction is held for only the top 10% of graduating dental students. After graduating Summa Cum Laude (“With Highest Honors”) he was immediately accepted into the pediatric dental residency in San Antonio, where he extensively studied topics such as child pharmacology, behavior management, and how to appropriately care for special needs patients. His resident research on preventive dental medicaments was presented at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s annual meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii and was awarded “First Place” among all residents in 2007. Upon completing residency, he and his wife moved back to Colorado Springs where he spent several years focused on treating children under general anesthesia in a hospital and outpatient surgery center.

Dr. Derek opened Cool Mountain Kids Pediatric Dentistry in April 2015. He is thrilled to be able to provide high-quality dental care to all

children along Colorado’s Front Range in an environment that is fun and engaging.

Dr. Derek married his childhood sweetheart and the two recently celebrated 25 years of marriage! They have four amazing children ages twelve to two who keep them very busy! In what little spare time he has, he enjoys attending his kids’ events such as travel baseball and competitive ninja and gymnastics. He also loves sports — go Longhorns, Rockies, Avalanche, and Broncos! When he’s not in the office or attending live sports or music, he loves to fish, hunt, and collect guitars.

550-1010

Tutt Blvd., Ste. 140

Toan Chung, DDS

9348 Grand Cordera Pkwy., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80924

Dr. Toan Chung and the Apple Grove Dental team are dedicated to delivering exceptional care to our wonderful community. From adorable babies to proud great-great-grandparents, Apple Grove Dental provides comprehensive dental care for the entire family!

Dr. Chung is committed to providing compassionate care that helps every patient achieve excellent oral health and their dream smile. Our entire team is devoted to making your visits welcoming, comfortable, and positive. When you walk through our doors, you become part of the Apple Grove Dental family, and we care for you just as we would our own loved ones.

Our office features modern technology designed to maximize comfort and precision, including 3D imaging and digital scanners. We offer a wide range of services such as tooth-colored restorations, dental implants, dentures, extractions, night guards, and more.

Dr. Toan Chung grew up in Fort Smith, Arkansas, as the 10th of 11 siblings. He graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, and earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Chung previously served as President of the Colorado Springs Dental Society and is honored to be voted a Top Dentist for the ninth consecutive year.

Apple Grove Dental is proud to support our Colorado Springs community through involvement in local schools and clinics. We also support global initiatives through the humanitarian organization World Vision, focusing on clean water and economic empowerment projects in Rwanda and Honduras. Dr. Chung’s family experienced the life-changing impact of World Vision firsthand when they were rescued while fleeing Vietnam as refugees. They are deeply grateful for the opportunity to give back to families and communities around the world.

The Apple Grove Dental team is proud to serve our community and is dedicated to providing exceptional care to you and your family.

Bryan Horspool, DDS Julie Be, DDS Bradley Ross, DMD, MS

Root canal therapy is an effective treatment option that can save your natural tooth and prevent the time and cost of tooth replacement. An endodontist is a dentist who obtains 2-3 years of additional education and training, beyond dental school, focused on the differential diagnosis of orofacial pain, advanced anesthetic techniques to manage dental pain, and both surgical and non-surgical root canal therapies. With this additional training and our advanced technology, we get better results and more predictable success for our patients. This is why many general dentists refer to us for these particular procedures.

Established in 1981, Endodontic Specialists is a local, veteran-owned private practice dedicated to helping patients successfully save their natural teeth. Our doctors are Brad Ross, Julie Be, Matt Thompson, Bryan Horspool, and Molly Kopacz. When you are referred to our practice, our goal is to improve your quality of life by treating tooth pain and infection in a timely and caring manner. We work to efficiently diagnose the cause of your dental pain and create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate it. Our doctors are active members of the American Association of Endodontists, American Board of Endodontics, Colorado Springs Dental Society, Colorado Dental association, and American Dental

Association. We volunteer our time and talents providing pro-bono endodontic care to our community through the Colorado Mission of Mercy (Dr. Ross currently serves on the board of directors), The Seattle Study Club (Dr. Be serves as the president of the local chapter) and US Olympic and Paralympic Volunteer Dental Program. We offer two convenient locations in Southern Colorado with offices in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

599-7665

5745 Erindale Dr., Ste. 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 2099 W. US Highway, Ste. 150A, Pueblo, CO 81008

Left to Right: Dr. Matthew Thompson, Dr. Bryan Horspool, Dr. Molly Kopacz, Dr. Julie Be & Dr. Bradley Ross
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Michael C. Transtrum, DDS, MS

“It’s a true honor to be chosen as one of the top endodontists in Colorado Springs by my colleagues. It’s been a privilege and joy to work with so many excellent dental practices in this community over the past 21 years.”

Dr. Michael Transtrum has practiced dentistry for the past 29 years. He received his DDS degree from VCU/MCV School of Dentistry in 1997 where he graduated Magna Cum Laude and received multiple awards and recognitions for his accomplishments there, including the Dean’s list and nomination by his faculty to the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society. He practiced as a general dentist for 6 years following graduation which gave him the opportunity to further his knowledge and experience in all aspects of general dentistry. He then completed a 2-year endodontic residency and received a Master of Dental Science degree from UDM School of Dentistry in 2005. Dr. Transtrum is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, the American Dental Association, the Colorado Dental Association and the Colorado Springs Dental Society. Dr. Transtrum has practiced endodontics in Colorado Springs for the past 21 years and established Aspen Endodontics in September of 2011.

Dr. Jarom Ray joined Aspen Endodontics in 2022 and brought with him a unique skillset of years of clinical expertise in the United States Air force, authoring multiple scientific journal publications, speaking

at various endodontic meetings throughout the world and serving as program director of the Air Force Postgraduate Endodontic Residency.

“At Aspen Endodontics we strive to provide the highest quality of endodontic care in a friendly, caring and compassionate manner. We want to make sure every patient we see is relaxed and understands what endodontic therapy is and how it can benefit them. To help us accomplish this, we are equipped with the finest technology available to help us properly diagnose and treat our patients, including digital x-rays, 3-dimensional imaging, clinical microscopes, laser technology and various sedation options. We continually implement the latest science and technology into our office to help us provide our patients with the best care possible.”

Left to Right: Dr. Michael Transtrum & Dr. Jarom Ray.
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Mark Mollner, DDS

Iam pleased again to be chosen by my peers as a top Dentist in my field of expertise. I’m also proud to be working with my two sons. The future of dentistry in the next decade is likely to be characterized by significant technological advancements and increased patient-centered care. Innovations such as teledentistry will become more prevalent, allowing patients to consult with dental professionals remotely, thereby improving access to care, especially for those in rural or underserved areas. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in diagnostic tools will enhance accuracy in identifying dental issues and personalizing treatment plans. This shift towards technology will streamline processes, reduce waiting times, and provide dentists with more comprehensive insights into patient health.

Another key aspect of the future of dentistry will emphasize preventive care and holistic approaches to oral health. There is a growing awareness of the connection between oral health and overall wellbeing, leading to a more integrated approach that includes nutrition, mental health, and lifestyle factors. Furthermore, advancements in materials science will likely lead to the development of more effective and biocompatible dental materials. With a focus on sustainability, eco-friendly practices may also gain traction, offering patients more environmentally responsible choices in their dental care. Overall, the combination of technology and a holistic perspective is expected to redefine the patient experience and outcomes in dentistry. The future will be bright, and I will embrace it with open arms.

Left to Right: Dr. Ben Mollner, Dr. Mark Mollner & Dr. Nate Mollner.

Stephen Davis, DDS

At Cheyenne Mountain Dentistry & Wellness, the mission is simple but profound: care for people first. This practice wasn’t built just to treat teeth; it was founded on the belief that dentistry should support whole-person health, restore self-esteem, and create a space where every patient feels truly seen, heard, and cared for. In an era of rushed appointments, we choose a different path — one rooted in relationship and genuine connection.

Dr. Stephen Davis brings this philosophy to life every day through a blend of clinical excellence and heartfelt compassion. He earned his dental degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, where he was honored with the school’s highest award for ethics and community outreach.

Early in his career, Dr. Davis discovered that meaningful dentistry extends far beyond technical skill. It involves listening carefully to a patient’s story, meeting them exactly where they are, and helping them regain both their health and their dignity. This patient-centered perspective continues to shape the warm, welcoming culture you’ll find at Cheyenne Mountain Dentistry & Wellness today.

To provide the most thorough care possible, Dr. Davis has dedicated himself to hundreds of hours of advanced continuing education. This commitment allows our practice to serve a diverse range of needs, ensuring you don’t have to be referred out for specialized care. His expertise includes:

• Cosmetic & Wellness Optimization: Enhancing smiles while focusing on long-term systemic health.

• Sleep Medicine & TMJ Management: Providing relief from chronic jaw discomfort and sleep-related health issues.

• Dental Implants: Restoring function and confidence through permanent tooth replacement.

• Laser Dentistry: Utilizing advanced technology to promote healing, relieve pain, optimize airways, and improve facial esthetics.

• Sedation Dentistry: Helping those with dental anxiety feel completely at ease.

A key pillar of our practice is patient education. Dr. Davis believes that informed patients make the most confident decisions for their futures. He takes the time to explain every diagnosis, discuss all available treatment options, and ensure you understand not only what is recommended, but why it matters for your long-term well-being. By combining modern dental techniques with open, honest communication, our team strives to build a foundation of trust that lasts for years.

Community service remains a guiding value for Dr. Davis. He has participated in dental outreach across the United States and Central America, providing essential care to underserved populations. These experiences continue to inspire our mission: to serve the Colorado Springs community with generosity and a commitment to improving lives.

Outside the office, Dr. Davis is deeply engaged in local life. A lifelong golfer, he serves on the Board of Trustees for the Colorado PGA REACH Foundation, supporting programs for youth, military veterans, and individuals with diverse abilities.

Faith and family are the heartbeat of Dr. Davis’s life. He and his wife are the proud parents of four sons and love spending their time outdoors, exploring the natural beauty of Colorado together. This love for family and community is what defines the welcoming atmosphere at Cheyenne Mountain Dentistry & Wellness.

Looking ahead, our vision is clear: to continue growing as a place where advanced dentistry meets genuine kindness — helping our neighbors achieve healthier smiles, stronger confidence, and a better quality of life.

Kimberly D. Batterson, DDS, MS

KB-Ortho.com

(719) 390-7926

15 Widefield Blvd., Colorado Springs 80911

(719) 275-1571 111 N. 10th, Canon City 81212

Dr. Kimberly Batterson has been practicing orthodontics in Colorado Springs for over 20 years. She is board certified with the American Board of Orthodontics.

Dr. Batterson has the latest in technology and advancements in orthodontics, including having 3-D printers, intraoral scanners, diode lasers and 3-D imaging. She is passionate about treating the bite, the face, the joint and the patient’s airway. She believes it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis before rushing to a treatment plan.

Dr. Batterson’s true passion is learning and teaching. She is involved in several study clubs around Colorado Springs, including Spear and ITI Study Clubs. In addition, she is actively involved in a prestigious study club called the Angle Society of Orthodontists. She regularly meets with orthodontists from all over the country but more specifically the southwest part of the United States. She presented her research and wrote a white paper on growth modifications for the Class III patient. Due to her research, she was recently awarded the Lucy Hobbs Innovator of the Year Award for her new approach to treating patients that should be considered for jaw surgery. Instead, now they can be given the option of a less invasive approach to treating their skeletal discrepancy. In the past year, she has started a new research study and has IRB approval to look at

whether orthodontics and skeletal expansion can improve someone with “moderate obstructive sleep apnea.”

She is a member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, Colorado Springs Dental Society, the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Board of Orthodontists.

Dr. Batterson feels very fortunate that she has found a career that is as rewarding to her as it is to her patients. “I feel immense joy knowing that my work creates a positive and lasting impact on my patients’ lives,” Dr. Batterson says.

Sheila Hartle, DDS

HartleFamilyDentistry.com

(719) 528-7016 1685 Briargate Blvd., Ste. C Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Dr. Sheila Hartle is honored to be chosen by her peers as one of Colorado Springs’ Top Dentists 2026. She has provided dentalcare to the Colorado Springs area since 2011. This year, she and her amazing team are celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Hartle Family Dentistry, founded in 2016.

Originally from the Midwest, Dr. Hartle earned her biology degree from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, where she captained the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer team. She then received her DDS from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, a top-ranked program, in 2001.

Dr. Hartle’s mission in her private practice is to provide conservative, compassionate care with excellent results. Alongside her wonderful team at Hartle Family Dentistry, she ensures personal attention for each patient. Recognizing that dental visits can be stressful, they strive to make each appointment relaxed and unhurried. As a family dentist, Dr. Hartle enjoys caring for all generations, from pediatrics to seniors.

In her 25 years of practice, Dr. Hartle stays at the forefront of dentistry by attending both national and local continuing education. These meetings provide accountability, foster integrity, and keep her closely connected to the dental specialists who also care for her patients. Dr. Hartle is a member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, Colorado Springs Dental Society, Spear Study Club, and the Seattle Study Club.

As more dental practices become corporate, with pressures from nondental investors who focus on fast-paced schedules and quantity over quality, Dr. Hartle remains passionate about owning her small patient-centered practice.

Dr. Hartle and her husband of 27 years love spending time with their two young adult sons and enjoying Colorado’s blue skies and beautiful mountains. She is excited to see what God has in store for her family and dental practice in the coming year.

James Busch, DDS Lauren Busch, DDS, MS

Dr. James Busch and Dr. Lauren Busch are honored to be chosen by their peers as top dentist/orthodontist after having a long history owning a clinic in Colorado Springs. They both attended the University of Michigan Dental School and immediately entered their respective specialties at University of Pittsburgh and Seton Hill University. They went on to become Board Certified in their fields. They provide gold standard treatments and evidence-based care in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics in one combined clinic.

We have a small family owned and operated dental clinic. It is modern and innovative but is still that classic neighborhood dentist/ orthodontist office of generations ago. You will always see Dr. James for dentistry or Dr. Lauren for orthodontics. We love how being small allows us to treat you like family. We have designed the office to be state of the art but also to keep the dental experience fun and family-oriented for all ages. Our clinic delights the senses — much like a dinosaur museum. We even have a velociraptor standing on the front desk. Dr. James routinely treats infants and children struggling with lip and tongue tie issues. Dr. Lauren also provides complex adult orthodontic treatment including adult expanders and orthognathic surgery. In the

past year, she has started a new research study and has IRB approval to look at whether orthodontics and/or skeletal expansion can improve someone with moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

At Dino Dental, we care about providing the highest quality care for our patients. From choosing top quality equipment, to friendly, welcoming staff, to an extreme attention to infection control, we are at the forefront of children’s dentistry and orthodontics. Babies, children and teens will all love their own unique and individualized experience at this one-of-a-kind comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic clinic.

DinoDent.com (719) 260-1600

8890 N. Union Blvd., Ste. 209 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Left to Right: Dr. James Busch & Dr. Lauren Busch.
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Mark George, DDS

DrGeorgeOrtho.com

(719) 594-9797

15435 Gleaneagle Dr., Ste. 210

Colorado Springs, CO 80921

Dr. Mark George is the owner of George Orthodontics. He took over his father’s practice and has expanded it to four locations; the main location in the Briargate area, a second office in Gleneagle, a third in Monument, and a fourth in Falcon. Despite having multiple locations, his practice is not a corporate chain. He is the sole owner and only orthodontist at each location.

Dr. George grew up in Colorado Springs and attended Rampart High School in the late nineteen hundreds and early part of this century. He completed his dental school education at University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. After working as a general dentist for one year he returned to the frontier town of Lincoln, Nebraska to further his education in their orthodontic specialty residency.

Dr George returned to Colorado Springs in January 2012. While there is no record of parades or other celebrations of his return, this may be due to the winter conditions at the time, or the records may have simply been lost.

He has been practicing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics for 14 years now. Dr George uses the newest technologies and techniques to give his patients a great experience and excellent results. Patients can choose between conventional metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners. With an experienced team at each office, you are sure to enjoy your time in treatment. Consultations are free and informative. No referral is necessary. While the practice has grown in size, so has his family. Dr George and his wife have seven children at last count; six sons and one daughter. At home he enjoys spending time with his family, especially outdoors. He enjoys woodturning and watching his children wrestle. His newest hobby is growing, styling, waxing, and admiring his mustache. At work he enjoys making hilarious jokes that his patients and (especially) employees never tire of.

Cody Boals, DMD

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry was founded on a vision to provide exceptional dentistry while building meaningful relationships with every patient. What started as a family-owned practice led by Dr. Cody Boals and his wife, Dr. Alexa Johnson, is still proudly family-owned and has grown into a collaborative team caring for families throughout Colorado Springs.

Dr. Boals and Dr. Johnson met while attending Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois. After graduating, they moved to Colorado Springs and opened Kissing Camels Family Dentistry with the goal of creating a practice where patients feel comfortable, valued, and genuinely cared for. As the practice has grown, so has the team. Today, they are joined by Dr. Rowan Kubeluis, Dr. Corbin Avey, and Dr. Adam Dore. Each doctor brings unique experience and perspective while sharing the same commitment to high-quality, patient-focused care.

The philosophy at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry centers on giving back to the community and creating a dental practice where people feel at home and are treated like family while receiving the highest level of care. The patient experience is intentionally designed to feel different from a typical dental visit. Warm blankets, pillows, a beverage station, and a welcoming team help create a relaxed environment that eases dental anxiety and makes visits more comfortable.

The practice also continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology and advanced training, allowing the doctors to provide a wide range of services with a strong focus on esthetics while keeping as such care inhouse as possible.

Community involvement remains central to the mission of Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. The team regularly partners with local nonprofit organizations, supports community initiatives, and hosts a free day of dental each year for community members in need.

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Left to Right: Dr. Corbin Avey, Dr. Alexa Johnson, Dr. Cody Boals, Dr. Rowan Kubeluis & Dr. Adam Dore.

Peter A. McIntyre, DDS

It is a genuine honor to be recognized once again by my peers as one of Colorado Springs’ Top Dentists. This recognition means more to me than any award, because it comes from colleagues who understand what it means to dedicate a career to exceptional patient care. After nearly four decades in practice, that acknowledgment still humbles me.

At Briargate Advanced Family Dental, our mission extends beyond healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. We believe the mouth is a window to the whole body, and that exceptional dental care is a form of wholeperson healthcare. That philosophy shapes everything we do.

Our practice has invested significantly in airway-focused dentistry and sleep medicine, recognizing that untreated sleep-disordered breathing contributes to serious systemic conditions. We screen patients for airway issues and collaborate with medical providers to ensure coordinated care.

We have also embraced the oral-systemic health connection in a meaningful, clinically rigorous way. Through Bale Doneen Method training for cardiovascular disease prevention, salivary bacterial testing, and inflammatory biomarker assessment, our team helps patients understand how periodontal disease links to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions. We do not simply treat gum disease — we help patients reduce cardiovascular risk, manage sugar intake, and improve overall health.

I am one member of a well-trained group of professionals who meet regularly to share knowledge across disciplines. This collaboration strengthens our ability to provide outstanding patient care with optimal results.

What I am most proud of is the team we have built. From our clinical staff to our front office, every person shares a commitment to treating patients with warmth, dignity, and evidence-based care. Our patients are neighbors and friends in the Colorado Springs community we are privileged to serve.

Being selected by my peers reminds me why I chose this profession — and why I still love coming to work each day.

John Lydiatt, DDS

Jessica Duru, DDS Devonshire

Whyte, DDS

SpringsDentistry.com (719) 599-5700

6665 Delmonico Dr., Ste. C Colorado Springs, CO 80919

Three Dentists, Three Personalities, One Very Fun Place to Get Your Smile On

Being named Top Dentists by their peers is always an honor — but inside our office, you’re just as likely to hear laughter in the hallways as you are to see award plaques on the wall.

That’s because our three doctors don’t just work well together — they genuinely enjoy each other. And that positive energy is something patients feel the moment they walk through the door.

Dr. Lydiatt, a Top Dentist for many years, often says his favorite part of dentistry isn’t just fixing teeth — it’s watching life unfold. Over the years, he’s cared for generations of families, from kindergarteners to grandparents. Some of those once-nervous kids now sit in his chair as adults — and a few have even gone on to dental school themselves. For him, dentistry is about trust, continuity, and being part of patients’ life stories.

Dr. Duru brings both expertise and heartfelt understanding to her work, with a deep belief that a healthy smile changes more than appearances. As a mother of three young boys, she knows firsthand the importance of balancing health, self-assurance, and busy family life. She loves helping patients feel proud of their smiles, believing that dentistry doesn’t just improve physical health — it strengthens emotional wellbeing and quality of life.

As the newest member of the team, Dr. Whyte adds fresh energy and a modern perspective. Passionate about the blend of art and science in dentistry, she enjoys helping patients achieve whole-body wellness that shines through their smiles. She and Dr. Duru have introduced Botox services, expanding the ways the office supports both health and confidence.

Together, these three dentists share one mission: to provide compassionate care that supports total health, builds lasting trust, and creates smiles that last a lifetime — all while having a lot of fun along the way.

Left to Right: Dr. Jessica Duru, Dr. John Lydiatt & Dr. Devonshire Whyte.

Sheila Soroushian, DMD

Dr. Sheila Soroushian is a Board-Certified Orthodontist who has had the privilege of caring for families across Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountain communities for more than a decade. After earning her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and completing her orthodontic residency at Howard University, she chose to build her career in the community she now proudly calls home. Today, she leads Inner-Smiles Orthodontics, continuing a respected tradition of care that has served local children and adults since 1946, with offices in Colorado Springs and Woodland Park serving families throughout El Paso, Teller, and Park Counties.

Known for her thoughtful, individualized approach, Dr. Sheila believes orthodontics is more than creating beautiful smiles — it’s about supporting confidence, health, and lifelong well-being. She personally sees each patient at every visit, fostering an environment where children feel comfortable and parents feel informed and reassured. Families especially value her careful attention to growth and development, allowing treatment to be timed thoughtfully for each child’s needs.

In addition to private practice, Dr. Sheila contributes her expertise as a member of the Children’s Hospital Colorado Cleft Lip & Palate Team and collaborates with surgical specialists treating complex jaw conditions.

Outside the office, Dr. Sheila enjoys sharing her love of the outdoors with her young son, especially camping and rock climbing together. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she continually seeks the most effective, evidence-based care for her patients. One of her favorite Colorado traditions has been joining the historic AdAmAn Club climb up Pikes Peak to welcome the New Year with fireworks from the summit.

(719) 268-7138

2575 Montebello Dr. W., Ste. 101 Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Karl “Kipp” Pennau, DDS

Iwant to thank you, and the dental community, for ranking me a top oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Colorado Springs for the past twelve consecutive years.

I am the solo owner and surgeon at Oral Surgery Associates of Colorado Springs.

I completed my dental training at the University of Washington, which consistently ranks among the highest dental schools in the country. After dental school, I completed an additional four-year postdoctoral surgical residency.

Wisdom teeth removal is something I deal with daily. I understand that this is often our patient’s first surgical experience. I offer in-office IV sedation, and our team does our best to make each patient feel comfortable and informed about the process from start to finish.

I also have extensive post-doctoral training and experience with bone grafting and placing dental implants. This encompasses everything from single tooth replacement to full mouth rehabilitation. I enjoy helping patients get back to having an aesthetic and functional smile. Many of these cases are complex and take time to achieve the desired results. I am dedicated to help my patients cross that finish line.

My desire is for each of my patients to receive the highest level of surgical care as well as to have an experience in excellence.

We are a team-focused office that strives for precise attention to detail, exceptional communication and holding the highest respect for our patients and dental colleagues. We also offer virtual consultation opportunities for our patients to help reduce travel time, out of work time and faster availability for consultation.

I am fully committed to my practice and plan to spend my entire career here. I hope to offer stability and predictability of care to the people of Colorado Springs and surrounding communities. I partner with my patients and referring doctors and keep their best interests first. You are all my neighbors and will be cared for like family; I look forward to meeting and serving you!

~ Dr. Pennau

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Colleen Jenson, DMD

For Dr. Colleen Jenson and her team at Grace Dental, dentistry has always been about more than healthy smiles. It’s about connection, compassion and creating a place where patients feel genuinely cared for.

Inside the doors of Grace Dental, the atmosphere reflects its name. Founded in 2019, the practice was built on the concept of “Grace” — serving others with kindness, gentleness, and sincerity. Every team member, from the front office to the clinical staff, contributes to this environment with their unique skills, personalities and unwavering dedication to patient care.

Dr. Jenson’s path to dentistry has been shaped by both academic excellence and service. After graduating with honors from Oregon Health Sciences University in 1998, she completed a General Practice Residency at the VA Medical Center in Palo Alto, earning national recognition for her work in hospital dentistry. Her career took an unexpected turn in 2004, when she was mobilized with the U.S. Army in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. That chapter ultimately brought her to Colorado Springs, where she continues to serve as an active reservist while caring for military members, retirees, and families.

At the heart of Grace Dental is a philosophy of honesty, education, and collaboration. Patients receive thoughtful, straightforward recommendations, and the teams works closely with trusted specialists

when needed to ensure optimal outcomes. Over the years, the practice has grown not just in size, but in community. Many patients have become friends — some are like family.

Being named a Top Dentist is a meaningful milestone for Dr. Jenson and her staff, but they see it as a reflection of something bigger: the trust of their patients and the dedication of a team committed to doing what is right, every day. Thank you for walking this journey with us.

Left to Right backRow: Alexa Lyons, EDDA, Serinah Smith, EDDA, Alecia Heisler, EDDA, Taylor Thelkeld, EDDA, Dawn Smith, RDH, Veronica “Roni” Chisman, RDH, Donna Trenker, RDH & Joan Tucker, RDH
Front Row: Sork Hamad, TC, Glenda Ross, PA, Poll - Therapy Dog, Colleen Jenson, DMD, Grace David, TC & Cayley Mendiola, TC
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Geoff B. Haradon, DDS Tyler G. Haradon, DDS, MS

Karl P. Lackler, DDS, MS

Our top-rated dental surgeons at Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists are pleased to announce that we’ve moved to our new, state-of-the-art surgical facility, designed to enhance patient comfort, support advanced surgical procedures, and further elevate the high standard of care we provide.

These highly skilled periodontists provide a comprehensive range of periodontal and implant procedures, utilizing the most advanced technologies and surgical techniques available. Drs. Geoff Haradon, Karl Lackler, and Tyler Haradon are recognized for their gentle approach and calming presence — qualities that have earned the trust and loyalty of their patients. For these three specialists, ensuring patient comfort remains a central priority in every aspect of care, which is why we offer a range of sedation options to support a calm, safe, and stressfree treatment experience.

Doctors Karl Lackler and Geoff Haradon met while attending the top-ranked periodontal program at the University of Texas Health Science Center where they both received their specialty degrees. Dr. Karl Lackler is the former Chief of Periodontics at the United States Air Force Academy, an honors graduate of the University of Illinois College of Dentistry, and Dr. Geoff Haradon is an honors graduate of the University of North Carolina College of Dentistry. Dr. Tyler Haradon received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree with honors from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. He then completed his residency and specialty training in

periodontics and implant surgery at one of the top-rated programs at the University of Illinois at Chicago. There he was further recognized as one of the top surgeons in his program.

The experts at Rocky Mountain Periodontal Specialists bring more than 60 years of combined clinical experience to the Colorado Springs community. These doctors pride themselves in delivering a reassuring, patient-centered approach that consistently prioritizes safety, comfort, and high-quality treatment outcomes.

rmperiohealth.com (719) 574-4867

595 Chapel Hills Dr., Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Left to Right: Dr. Geoff B. Haradon, Dr. Tyler G. Haradon & Dr. Karl P. Lackler.
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Ursula Price, DDS, MS

PikesPeakPerio.com

(719) 548-1711

5426 N. Academy Blvd. Ste. 100 Colo Spgs 80918

Dr. Ursula Price is a board-certified periodontist dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy smiles through advanced periodontal care and a compassionate approach to treatment. Originally from Nebraska, Dr. Price pursued her dental education in Texas, graduating at the top of her class from Baylor College of Dentistry’s Caruth School of Dental Hygiene. Her passion for dentistry led her to continue her education at Baylor College of Dentistry where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 2009. During dental school, Dr. Price received academic honors recognizing her dedication to excellence and commitment to patient care. She completed her advanced periodontal residency and a Master of Science in Oral Biology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 2012. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and maintains active membership in American Dental Association, the American Academy of Periodontology, the Colorado Dental Association, and the Colorado Springs Dental Society.

In June 2018, she proudly became the owner of Pikes Peak Periodontics. One of the strengths of the practice is its dedicated team. Many team members have been part of the office for five years or longer, reflecting a supportive and positive workplace environment. Their experience and teamwork help create a welcoming atmosphere where patients can feel confident they are receiving care from professionals who truly enjoy what they do and value long-term relationships with the people they serve. Together, Dr. Price and her team are committed to providing thoughtful, personalized periodontal care in a friendly and supportive environment.

Outside the office, Dr. Price enjoys spending time with her husband and their two teenage sons. When she’s not caring for patients, she can often be found reading, baking, hiking, or enjoying time with her family.

Ron Thoman, DDS Cree Kofford, DMD, MD

Here at Oral and Maxillofacial Specialists, we are committed to providing you with the highest standard of personalized care that is unmatched in a gentle and professional manner. Our surgeons, Dr. Ron Thoman and Dr. Cree Kofford, cater to patients that expect experience and expertise in their surgical care.

Drs Thoman and Kofford , understand how intimidating it can be to come in for a surgical procedure. For that reason we strive to alleviate all your concerns every step of the way. We provide a variety of oral surgical treatments that are comfortable, safe, and effective. Our practice is equipped with the latest technology so that we can provide comprehensive care for your smile.

We feel that our patients deserve better. We have trained with many of the leading specialists in the various fields involved in our patients’ treatment. These treatments include dental implants, bone grafting, the removal of wisdom teeth, intravenous sedation, corrective jaw surgery, oral pathology, and cleft lip and palate care. Simply put we strive everyday to offer exceptional care to our exceptional patients!

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Left to Right: Dr. Cree Kofford & Dr. Ron Thoman.

Corban Stettler, DDS

At Kids Rock Dentistry and Orthodontics, our mission is simple: to bring smiles to children’s faces as they experience positive, comfortable dental and orthodontic visits. Since Dr. Corban Stettler founded the practice in 2015, this philosophy has guided everything we do.

With three locations in Colorado Springs, over 35,000 patients, and a dedicated team, Kids Rock is one of the fastest-growing pediatric dental practices in the region. Dr. Stettler’s passion for pediatric dentistry was inspired by his own childhood experience. After undergoing a difficult dental procedure, he was treated with kindness and compassion, leaving a lasting impression. This memory shaped his vision for Kids Rock: to create a welcoming, child-centered environment where medical excellence meets education and emotional care.

By reducing the anxiety children often feel about dental visits, we aim to make each appointment a fun and engaging experience. Our approach is built on three key pillars: 1. Fun, Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: We design our spaces and interactions to be child-centered, ensuring that children feel relaxed and engaged; 2. Step-by-Step Guidance: We educate families throughout every part of the dental process, fostering transparency and building trust; 3. Lasting Relationships: By delivering exceptional care and personalized attention, we build long-term partnerships with our patients and their families.

“We’re passionate about supporting families beyond the dental chair,” says Dr. Stettler. “Our goal is not just to provide excellent care, but to become a resource for families seeking a healthier future for their children.”

(719) 424-4668

5430 E. Woodmen Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80920

(719) 285-0085

3350 N. Union Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80907

(719) 900-5558

4515 Broadmoor Bluffs Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Left to Right: Dr. Corban Stettler, Dr. Nicholas Bradford, Dr. Nicholas Evans, Dr. Irina Lovinescu, Dr. Zachary Van Hilsen, Dr. Diana Shaw, Dr. Britny Massey & Dr. Carolina Chapellin-Suarez.

Kate Colvin, DDS

ColvinTao.com

(719) 599-0110

9240 Explorer Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Dr. Kate Colvin grew up in Monument, Colorado and graduated from Lewis Palmer High School. As the daughter of two dentists, she grew up hearing about all about dentistry and knew, from a young age, it was something she wanted to pursue. She studied Biology at the University of Kansas and then stayed in the Midwest to attend dental school at the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in Lincoln. After graduation, she worked in Nebraska, before returning to Colorado in 2015 to raise her family. She is fortunate to own Colvin Tao Family Dental with her mom, Dr. Clara Tao and practice with their associate, Dr. Ben Miettunen.

In our family practice dental office, it is our goal to provide excellent dentistry in a caring and professional environment. Dr. Kate enjoys all aspects of dentistry, with cosmetic dentistry being her very favorite. We see patients of all ages and encourage it to be a family affair. Many families have been with Colvin Tao Family Dental spanning multiple generations. It is especially rewarding getting to know patients and making those personal connections. We have an exceptionally kind and caring staff and use the latest technologies and techniques to ensure each patient has a great experience when they visit our office.

On her days off, Dr. Kate stays busy with her family, especially her three children and their numerous sports and activities. Her favorite hobbies include traveling, hiking, skiing, volunteering at her children’s elementary school, watching sports, running and spending time with friends and family.

Dr. Kate is a member of the Colorado Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Colorado Springs Dental Society and Spear Study Club.

Brad Perrett, DDS Thomas Jennings, DDS, MAGD

For Dr. Thomas “Tom” Jennings and Dr. Brad Perrett, being named Best of 2026 is less about recognition and more about responsibility. Both doctors share a simple philosophy: exceptional care begins with listening.

Dr. Jennings is known for his calm, reassuring presence and thoughtful explanations. He takes time to educate patients, so they fully understand their options, building confidence and trust at every visit. His steady, compassionate approach has earned the loyalty of families throughout the community.

Dr. Perrett brings an energetic passion for precision and innovation. With a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to modern techniques, he helps patients achieve not only healthier smiles, but renewed confidence. For him, dentistry should feel collaborative — never clinical. Together, they’ve created an environment that blends expertise with approachability. Whether it’s preventive care, cosmetic treatment, or complex restorative work, their focus remains the same: personalized care delivered with integrity.

The recognition reflects what their patients already know — excellence isn’t just about clinical skill. It’s about creating an experience where people feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for.

Pinnacle Dentistry is also pleased to welcome Dr. Nicholas Ruana, who is now accepting new patients. His addition expands availability for preventive, restorative, and advanced dental care, ensuring even greater access and flexibility for the community.

At Pinnacle Dentistry, that standard of care isn’t an achievement — it’s the expectation.

590-7100 2430 Research Pkwy., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Left to Right: Dr. Brad Perrett, Dr. Nicholas G. Ruana & Dr. Thomas Jennings.

Kearny Chang, DDS

mtperio.com (719) 594-0091

3920 N Union Blvd., Ste. 380 Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Mountain Top Periodontics & Implants in Colorado Springs is proud to provide advanced periodontal and dental implant care led by Dr. Kearny Chang and Dr. Adam Weaver, two specialists dedicated to delivering exceptional clinical results with a patient-first approach. Combining precision, experience, and compassion, they offer comprehensive services including dental implants, treatment of gum disease, bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, and full-arch restorations.

Dr. Chang is known for her meticulous surgical technique and calm, reassuring chairside manner. Her commitment to excellence

and continuing education ensures patients benefit from the latest advancements in periodontal and implant therapy. By blending modern technology with proven techniques, she helps patients achieve longlasting, functional, and aesthetic results.

Dr. Weaver shares the same passion for precision and patient comfort. Recognized for thoughtful treatment planning and clear communication, Dr. Weaver prioritizes patient education and individualized care. He believes that when patients feel informed and confident, they experience better outcomes and greater peace of mind throughout their treatment journey.

Together, Dr. Chang and Dr. Weaver have built Mountain Top Periodontics & Implants around a philosophy of trust, innovation, and clinical excellence. Their practice integrates advanced technology to provide efficient, minimally invasive procedures while maintaining the highest standard of care.

Serving the Colorado Springs community, Mountain Top Periodontics & Implants continues to earn the trust of patients and referring providers alike. Under the leadership of Dr. Chang and Dr. Weaver, the practice remains committed to restoring health, function, and confidence — one smile at a time.

Left to Right: Dr. Adam Weaver & Dr. Kearny Chang.
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Rebecca Facy, DDS, MD Blake Chaney, DDS, MD

ColoradoMax.com (719) 434-1584

4105 Briargate Pkwy., Ste. 240 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

AS THE FIRST WOMAN Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in Colorado Springs, Dr. Rebecca Facy has spent the past 20 years providing exceptional care to patients of all ages. Dr. Facy practices full-scope oral and maxillofacial surgery and stays current on emerging concepts and surgical technologies.

In 2018 Dr. Facy founded CoMax (Colorado Maxillofacial & Oral Surgeons), a vibrant practice focused on the patient experience. In addition to being a leader in comfort and compassion, the office boasts the latest digital technology and a design award-winning sleek modern vibe. At CoMax, even the most nervous of patients can truly relax in the care of compassionate doctors and enthusiastic staff. CoMax also ensures maximum comfort by offering intravenous sedation for procedures.

CoMax is now a two-surgeon practice since the addition of Dr. Blake Chaney. Much to Dr Facy’s dismay who attended the University of Michigan, Dr. Chaney completed dental school at The Ohio State University. However, their playful rivalry integrates well as they both completed their medical school and a 6-year residency at the University

of Pittsburgh. Both surgeons have a passion for life-changing corrective jaw surgeries (orthognathic surgery) and dentofacial orthopedic surgeries for growth modification. Together they also manage challenging dental implant cases and strive to be a regional leader in combining complex surgical and anesthesia care.

Outside of the office, Dr. Facy and Dr. Chaney are members of multiple regional study clubs and enjoy interacting with their colleagues to give patients the best possible treatment options and care. Dr. Facy is a mother to three children and an avid cross-stitcher. Many of her complex and beautiful creations can be found in CoMax office. In his free time, Dr. Chaney enjoys exploring Colorado with his wife and three boys. He is a fitness enthusiast and recently completed the Pike’s Peak Ascent.

Left to Right: Dr. Blake Chaney & Dr. Rebecca Facy.

Marina Funtik, DMD, MS, FACP

OasisProsthodontics.com

(719) 574-2417

5725 Erindale Dr., Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Dr. Marina Funtik began her dental career from the ground up, starting as a dental laboratory technician in Europe. She then moved to the United States and graduated from the Pikes Peak State College Dental Assisting Program, earning the Outstanding Dental Assisting Student Award, Rising Star Award, the All-Colorado Academic Team Award and Dean’s scholarship. With her strong background in chemistry, she then graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from St. Lawrence University on a full-ride scholarship.

Her dental and science backgrounds made dental school a natural choice. Dr. Funtik earned her DMD from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and then culminated her education as chief prosthodontics resident earning Masters of Dental Science, receiving numerous accolades including the Hanau Excellence in Prosthodontics Award and Dentsply Award. She is Board Certified in the specialty of Prosthodontics.

Dr. Funtik was named a Rising Star in 2015 and a Woman of Influence by the Colorado Springs Business Journal in 2016. She currently serves as a clinical faculty for the American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE) teaching facial esthetics nationally.

In her free time, she loves the outdoors and spending time doing Bible Study.

Bryce Church, DMD

Dr. Bryce Church is a pediatric dentist and the owner of Springs Pediatric Dental Care. He is honored to receive the distinction of a Top Dentist in the area!

Dr. Church’s patients appreciate the time he dedicates to get to know each family and their priorities related to oral health. He believes each family and child is so unique and wonderful, and it is only after learning about their uniqueness (e.g., medical and dental history, temperament, nutrition, genetics, whether traditional or holistic care is preferred), that he can tailor the approach to their needs.

He has a conservative approach with a focus on prevention. He believes screening early for any adverse oral or airway condition allows more options to treat with minimally invasive techniques. He is transparent as he explains what he sees in a child’s mouth or x-rays and enjoys giving parents options from there. If a child needs treatment, he will recommend the appropriate plan without over-treating. Dr. Church is very skilled at completing treatment safely and comfortably on young children.

Dr. Church practices with integrity and values his relationships with families in the community. As a husband and father of four, he tries to

treat every child as if they were his own. As he gets to know his patients and their families over the years, it feels more like he is helping a friend, rather than an anonymous body in a chair. He hopes all of his patients feel that he cares much more about their well-being than he does about their financial contributions to his practice.

(719) 265-9600

13335 Voyager Pkwy., Ste. 100 Colorado Springs, CO 80921

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Eric Ringer, DDS

The surgeons at Colorado Springs Oral & Facial surgery are board-certified and highly trained to provide excellent patient outcomes. Our team is detail-oriented and dedicated to providing the highest level of care. We are proud to serve patients in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. Operating in three convenient locations in Colorado Springs, Drs Nathan Ringer, Eric Ringer and Clint Shelley offer a variety of services, such as dental implants (including teeth-in-a-day full mouth reconstruction), wisdom teeth extractions, IV sedation, oral pathology, bone grafting and sinus lifts, orthognathic (corrective) jaw surgery, and more.

The team at Colorado Springs Oral & Facial Surgery strives to make oral surgery care as accessible and seamless for their patients by accepting many forms of dental insurance and providing flexible financing programs. Our insurance team is committed to the highest standards of excellence in providing the most effective dental coverage for each patient’s custom treatment plan.

With nearly 2000 five star Google ratings for our locations in town, we are confident that we can help you have a great experience getting the care you need.

Left to Right: Dr. Clint Shelley, Dr. Eric Ringer & Dr. Nathan Ringer.
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Rhonda K.Bowen, DDS

RhondaKBowendds.com (719) 599-5185

7608 N. Union Blvd., Ste. 105 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

It is an honor to once again be selected by my peers as a Top Dentist in Colorado Springs. I have devoted more than thirty years to the field of dentistry, and helping patients discover healthy, confident smiles continues to be one of the greatest rewards of my career. I feel fortunate to work alongside an exceptional team of dental professionals, highly skilled specialists, and talented laboratory technicians who share the same commitment to excellence in patient care.

This past year has brought an exciting new chapter for our practice with the move to a beautiful new office in a more ideal location in Colorado Springs. The expanded space allows us to better serve our patients while continuing to provide the advanced technology and comfortable environment they deserve.

I graduated from the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco and remain committed to staying at the forefront of advancements in dentistry. I became a certified Invisalign provider in 2008 and later a CARE Esthetics Provider. More recently, I have had the privilege of serving as a CARE Esthetics educator, teaching hands-on courses to dental professionals from around the world, something I have come to love.

Throughout the years, I have been honored with several professional and community awards, including the Thomas B. Hartzell Award, and I

received a fellowship from the International Academy of Facial Esthetics. I remain an active member of numerous professional organizations, and our practice proudly utilizes the latest in dental technology, including digital X-rays, artificial intelligence, digital impressions, and advanced laser dentistry.

Outside the office, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my wonderful family here in Colorado. My dental team and patients feel like an extension of that family, and I am incredibly grateful for the trust and relationships that have grown over the years.

Emily Batson, DDS, MS

576-4247

1580 E. Cheyenne Mtn. Blvd, Ste. 140 Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Highly motivated by restoring form, function and beauty to people’s smiles, Dr. Emily Batson is a prosthodontist: a dental specialist who focuses on rehabilitations for complex scenarios. Born and raised in Colorado Springs, she attended dental school at Indiana University. After graduating and completing her 1-year AEGD program at Fort Carson, she was honored to serve as a brigade dental surgeon for the 1st Armored Division in Friedberg, Germany. Then, following 3 years of work as a general practitioner in Pueblo, Colorado, she pursued her specialty training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she published research in digital dentistry and gained extensive knowledge and experience working with dental implants. She now lectures regularly to study clubs both nationally and locally and directs a dental study club in Colorado Springs. Dr. Batson is committed to a team approach for her patients, and she frequently works with other dental specialists to provide the best patient outcomes. In addition, she maintains an in-house dental laboratory that allows her to truly customize every smile. Her professional affiliations include membership within the American College of Prosthodontists, the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics, and the Academy of Osseointegration. Outside of prosthodontics, she enjoys traveling, cycling, weightlifting, and spending time with her daughter.

Chris Schultz, DDS

ChapelHillsOrthodontics.com

(719) 528-7022

9240 Explorer Dr., Ste. 115 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Dr. Chris Schultz and the team at Chapel Hills Orthodontics are extremely honored to be named one of Colorado Springs Top Orthodontists this year. As a member of the Colorado Springs dental community for the past 10 years, Dr. Chris has worked to provide the best care for all his patients.

At Chapel Hills Orthodontics, we strive to give every patient an award-winning smile. Our office treats children and adults of all ages and complexities. Starting with our initial complementary exam to your final appointment, our goal is to welcome you into our practice and make you feel at home.

We offer Invisalign, traditional braces, and other orthodontics appliances including palatal expanders. With so many ways to treat our patients, Dr Chris can tailor the perfect treatment plan for each individual. He works to help patients achieve not only the perfect smile, but also an ideal bite.

As an experienced Invisalign provider, Dr Chris treats many cases without the need for ‘old school’ braces. Beginning with our Itero digital scanner, he can help you visualize any areas in the mouth that can be improved with treatment and even see what your final result could look like with the Invisalign Outcome Simulator. Invisalign is available to kids and adults in cases of all different complexities!

Dr Chris has been a member of the community for the past 10 years. He volunteers in his kid’s classrooms and coaches his kid’s sports teams. When he is not working, Dr. Chris loves spending time with his family, skiing and playing golf.

David Hamula, DDS, MSD

Dr. David Hamula was the beneficiary of exceptional orthodontics by his father Warren, a Board Certified Orthodontist who practiced in Colorado Springs and Monument. “I remember a plaque which was displayed while entering dad’s office”, David recalls: ‘The Kindest Expression a Human Face Can Deliver is — a SMILE’. The experience and result of wearing braces gave me confidence with my own smile and favorably impacted my personality as a young man.” While attending Cheyenne Mountain High School, he worked in his father’s orthodontic lab fabricating appliances and developed an appreciation for working with his hands. Eventually he developed a passion for a career in orthodontics.

After attending the University of Denver, Dr. David graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry. He then served his country for over a decade in the Navy Dental Corps with duty stations on USS Belleau Wood and China Lake, California as Department Head where he earned the rank of Commander. He continued academics in the Navy and afterwards by completing three post doctorate residencies in dentistry.

The mission at Hamula Orthodontics is to create smiles that enhance lives. Our goal is to achieve the best esthetic and functional smiles possible for all our patients and to treat them as they want to be treated. Hamula Orthodontics has been selected as a beta test site for innovations in brackets, bands and bonding adhesives. Through extensive education and study clubs with Invisalign and Spark aligners, the practice now offers many of their patients aligner orthodontic options. Dr. Hamula invested the highest standards of patented

cabinetry and delivery systems to allow for exceptional orthodontics in a warm and inviting environment. The office has even been featured in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics for its unique state of the art design.

David and his wife Keri (Glaser) moved to Woodmoor in 2001. Together with their son Steven, they truly appreciate all that the Tri-Lakes community offers. When not socializing with friends, golfing or hiking, David spends time hosting competitions for the Broadmoor Skating Club and officiating as a National U.S Figure Skating judge and International team leader. The three of them also travel extensively, most recently for Pokémon tournaments that have high level competitions around the world.

Dr. Hamula has been in solo private practice of orthodontics in Monument, Colorado for 25 years and he is very honored to be selected by his colleagues as one of Colorado Springs Top Dentists. HamulaOrthodontics.com (719) 488-3737 1860 Woodmoor Dr. Ste. 200 Monument, CO 80132

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Michelle Haman Colonese, DDS

DiscoveryKidsDental.com (719) 596-6920 6725 Rangewwood Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Dr. Michelle Haman Colonese is deeply dedicated to ensuring that every child in the Colorado Springs community has the opportunity to “grow up smiling”. As the lead practitioner at Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry, she has built a lasting reputation for providing comprehensive, high-quality dental care within an environment specifically designed to be safe, comfortable, and fun for her young patients.

Dr. Michelle’s journey in dentistry began in her hometown of Iowa City, Iowa. After graduating from City High School, she attended The University of Iowa for her undergraduate studies and continued her education at The University of Iowa College of Dentistry, where she earned her degree in 1992. Following dental school, she pursued advanced specialization in pediatric care at The University of Kentucky in Lexington. During her rigorous two-year residency, her leadership and clinical excellence led to her being selected as chief resident in her final year.

Since 1994, Dr. Michelle has been a mainstay in the Colorado Springs dental community. Her practice is uniquely equipped to handle the diverse needs of children at every stage of development, ranging from routine cleanings and checkups to specialized orthodontics. To ensure a positive and anxiety-free experience for every child, Discovery Kids Pediatric Dentistry also offers professional sedation and general anesthesia for more complex procedures.

Dr. Michelle remains at the forefront of the dental field through her active membership in several prestigious organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, the American Dental Association, the Colorado Dental Association, and the American Orthodontic Society.

Outside of the office, Dr. Michelle embraces an active Colorado lifestyle alongside her husband, Joe. Whether they are traveling, attending concerts or athletic events, she brings the same energy and passion to her personal life as she does to her clinical practice.

Luke Carubia, DDS, MS, MBA

Dr. Luke Carubia was born and raised in Colorado Springs and graduated as valedictorian from Lewis-Palmer High School. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln before pursuing his passion for dentistry at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Luke completed his pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Illinois Chicago, where he also earned a Master of Oral Sciences degree. In addition to his clinical training, he earned a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University to strengthen his leadership and practice management skills.

Dr. Luke is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. His passion for pediatric dentistry stems from his own childhood experience undergoing extensive dental treatment at a young age, inspiring him to create positive and comfortable dental experiences for children and young adults.

After practicing in Pennsylvania for several years, Dr. Luke returned to Colorado in 2021 and joined Dr. Josh Erickson at SMILE Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. SMILE currently has three convenient locations in Colorado Springs, Monument, and Aurora, with a fourth location coming to Falcon in Fall 2026. The practice provides comprehensive pediatric dentistry and orthodontic care in beautifully designed offices

featuring innovative technology and a comfortable environment for patients and their families.

Outside of the office, Dr. Luke enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa; their Goldendoodle, Charlie; and their daughters, Madelyn and Clara, who have quickly become the center of their world.

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Josh Erickson, DDS, MSD

Dr. Josh spent 5 years after dental school becoming a unique, residency-trained specialist in both orthodontics and pediatric dentistry. He has been caring for patients in Colorado Springs for 18 years.

He and his wife, Teresa, are the founders of Smile Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, established in 2008.

In a word, SMILE is our purpose.

Dr. Josh’s distinctive training as an orthodontist allows him to consistently focus on the growth, development, and creation of beautiful smiles for patients of ALL ages. As a pediatric dentist, he is known for his calm and compassionate approach. His young patients look forward to positive experiences and leave with a confident smile.

SMILE has three convenient locations in Colorado Springs, Monument, and Aurora, with a fourth location opening by Dr. Luke Carubia in Falcon. We provide comprehensive pediatric dentistry and orthodontics in all four locations. Our offices provide a beautiful architectural design and a high-tech and innovative environment of comfort, convenience, and care for our patients and their families.

Dr. Josh’s thorough knowledge of comprehensive oral health and smile esthetics, combined with the warm, family-friendly atmosphere and the caring team create a true dental home for you and your child

Kristen Frazier, DDS

At Frazier Family Dental, we are proud to be a family-owned practice that puts patients first. Dr. Kristen Frazier leads our team with decades of experience and a heartfelt approach to her work, ensuring every visit is positive and stress-free. With no corporate ties, we focus on what truly matters: exceptional dentistry delivered with honesty, affordability, and a personal touch.

We understand that many people experience real anxiety about visiting the dentist. That’s why our practice was built on a philosophy of Gentle Care, designed to make you at ease from the moment you choose to schedule whether online or by phone. With years of experience in pediatric dentistry and a passion for helping anxious patients, Dr. Frazier creates a calm, pressure-free environment. From a child’s very first visit to adults who’ve avoided the dental chair for years, we’re here to ensure your experience is as gentle as it is professional.

Dr. Frazier doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all dentistry. From the moment you walk through our doors, you will notice the warm, welcoming atmosphere where you are treated as a person, not a chart number. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and create customized treatment plans that suit your unique oral health needs and lifestyle.

Quality is at the heart of everything we do, whether it’s a routine checkup, a cosmetic smile makeover, or a complex restorative procedure. We use advanced technology, top tier materials, and the latest, evidencebased techniques to ensure lasting results. Our team is committed to continuously improving our community through dentistry, education and welcoming new patients. We are excited to meet you soon!

(719) 266-4848

7310 Rangewood Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80918

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Erick Anderson, DMD

At Espire Dental Colorado Springs, exceptional dentistry starts with an exceptional experience.

Recognized as Colorado Springs Best Dentist award winner, our team is proud to deliver care that is both clinically excellent and deeply personal. Our doctors, Dr. Erick Anderson, Dr. John Neuhaus, and Dr. Ken Gasper, bring together decades of experience, advanced training, and a shared commitment to helping patients feel comfortable, confident, and truly cared for.

What makes our team special is not just their expertise, but who they are. From a Navy veteran and second-generation dentist, to a passionate mentor focused on whole-body health, to a long-standing leader in advanced dental techniques and education, each doctor brings a unique perspective to patient care. Together, they create a collaborative environment where every patient benefits from a thoughtful, well-rounded approach.

We believe dentistry should feel approachable and tailored to you. From the moment you walk through our doors, you will notice a difference. Our team takes the time to listen, understand your goals, and guide you through care that fits your needs, whether that is preventive, restorative, or more advanced treatment.

By combining modern technology with a compassionate, personalized approach, we make each visit as comfortable as it is effective. It is this balance of skill, experience, and genuine care that has made Espire Dental a trusted name in Colorado Springs.

If you have been searching for a dental home where you feel truly cared for, we would love to welcome you.

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Left to Right: Dr. John Neuhaus, Dr. Ken Gasper & Dr. Erick Anderson.

Robert Corr, DDS, MS Ryan Jack, DDS, MS Sarah Crepps, DDS, MS

ApexEndoCO.com (719) 282-6600 8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste. 220 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Apex Endodontics is honored to be recognized by our colleagues as among the “Top Dentists” of Colorado Springs, earning this distinction every year since 2009. When it comes to your dental health, trust is everything. Our skilled and compassionate specialists have years of experience earning the trust of patients and dentists by providing personalized care for every patient. We take pride in surprising people with how gentle and peaceful root canal treatment can be. Endodontic treatment is not just about fixing a tooth; it’s about bringing comfort, saving a smile, enhancing confidence, and improving health. Our patients relax knowing they are in the hands of professionals who prioritize comfort and the most precise treatment techniques available.

Apex Endodontics is committed to being on the leading edge of technology and best practices. Since opening our doors, we have used advanced dental operating microscopes and 3-D CBCT imaging for

every patient, and we were the first to introduce GentleWave and BioLase technologies to our community. Blending advanced technology with clear communication and a calming culture creates a stress-free experience. Our patients routinely express appreciation for the time our doctors and team take to ensure they feel informed and confident about their care before, during, and after treatment.

Our endodontists strive to elevate colleagues through mentorship, leading academic programs for our local community, and providing lectures to various societies and academies on modern endodontics.

The team at Apex Endodontics would like to express appreciation to our patients and dental community for recognizing our commitment to excellence. In partnership with your family dentist, rest assured we are here if you need us, and we will work to earn your trust and provide an experience that changes your perspective about root canal treatment. asting impact on my patients’ lives,” Dr. Batterson says.

Left to Right: Dr. Robert Corr, Dr. Ryan Jack & Dr. Sarah Crepps.

Food + Drink

Paravicini’s

Italian Bistro

$$ - Award-winning staple in the Springs since 2003 that is a culinary destination for family gatherings, date nights and special occasions. We believe our patrons find the most genuine connections through the act of sharing meals together and we are grateful to serve the community with our family recipes. Experience our delicious Italian cooking in a warm family atmosphere with stellar service you won’t find anywhere else in town. We can’t wait to meet you and yours around the table. MANGIA! 2802 W. Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs, (719) 481-8200, paravicinis.com

Dining Guide

Edelweiss Restaurant

$$ 34 E. Ramona, Colorado Springs, (719) 633-2220, edelweissrest.com

German & continental cuisine. Located near the Broadmoor area. Take a quick trip to Germany with our authentic food and atmosphere. Enjoy our Beirgarten in the summer, and stay warm by the fireplaces in the winter. In-house bakery with 30+ desserts! Live strolling musicians Thurs-Sun! Open 11 am – 9 pm daily. Dinner starts at 4 pm. Full bar featuring many imported beers and wines. Entrées average $20. Menus & reservations at Edelweissrest.com.

ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE

$$ - Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Enjoy award-winning global cuisine based on slow food principles, desserts made in-house, and beautiful views of Pikes Peak surrounded by a stellar collection of fine art! Accepting reservations and walk-ins.

26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs. (719) 685-1430. Open daily 8 am –2pm and Tues-Sat 5 pm–8 pm, adamsmountaincafe.com

JOSE MULDOON’S

$$ - Celebrating over 50 years! Since 1974, we’ve been Downtown’s go-to spot for delicious, authentic Southwestern & Tex-Mex flavors. Extensive margarita & tequila selection. Happy Hour

Daily 3 – 6pm with food & drink specials! Space available for private parties or let us spice up your next event with our catering!

222 N. Tejon. (719) 636-2311, josemuldoons.com

MacKenzie’s Chop House

$$ 128 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, (719) 635-3536, mackenzieschophouse.com

American/steaks. Downtown’s classic steak and chop house led by the award-winning Chef Chris Heise. MacKenzie’s takes you back to a time when going out to eat meant dining and being treated to an extraordinary meal with exceptional service. Featuring classic American fare with thick cuts of prime, kobe, and choice steaks & chops. Fresh seafood, extensive wine list, and weekly “fresh sheet” specials round out the menu. Private meeting and banquet rooms hold up to 60 people. Lunch: Mon – Fri, dinner nightly.

OLD COLORADO CITY
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Dining Guide

Pizzeria Rustica

$$ 2527 W. Colorado Ave.

Colorado Springs, (719) 632-8121, pizzeriarustica.com

Your slice of Italy in Old Colorado City!

DOWNTOWN

Tony’s Downtown Bar

$ 326 N. Tejon St, Colorado Springs, (719) 228-6566, tonysdowntownbar.com

Winner of 85+ Best Of awards in 26 years!

Ristorante di Sopra

$$$ 4 S. 28th St., Colorado Springs, (719) 985-8832, ristorantedisopra.com

DOWNTOWN

Poor Richard’s Restaurant

$-$$ 324 1/2 N. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, (719) 578-5549, poorrichardsdowntown.com

Our wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas earned 5 stars from the Gazette and a spot in Food Network’s top 52 restaurants. We’re the third 4-star Green Restaurant in the U.S. Dough is hand-stretched, topped with premium Italian and local artisanal ingredients. Dine indoors or on our cozy garden patio. Don’t miss our chef’s monthly specials, antipasti, fresh salads, and local gelato. Enjoy craft beer, unique wines, or signature cocktails. Visit pizzeriarustica.com for menu, specials, and reservations (highly recommended!). P.S. Check out Enoteca, our hidden upstairs wine bar, perfect for your next private event! Mon. 5 pm – 10 pm. Tues –Thurs. Noon – 10 pm. Fri – Sun. Noon

Great Midwestern tavern with warm beer, lousy food & poor service — NOT! Pabst, Leinenkugel’s, fried cheese curds, Walleye fish fry, burgers, sandwiches, salads, cocktails & much more! $10 LUNCH HAPPY HOUR with great weekly specials 11am – 2pm M-F with soft drink! HAPPY HOUR 4 – 6pm daily! Breakfast menu served all day, every day. Fun activities & events include Geeks who Drink Tuesdays at 8pm, Thurday Night karaoke, & pool tables – plus we’re your sports bar headquarters & a great place to watch the games with the NFL & NHL packages — GO PACK GO! Open daily, 11 am - 2 am.

Ristorante di Sopra is an upscale dining experience, and the sister restaurant to award-winning Paravicini’s Italian Bistro. Located in Old Colorado City, with panoramic views and rooftop atrium available. we feature Chef Franco’s creative genius on Italian classics with seasonal specialties. Enjoy an extensive, curated, and affordable wine list, classic cocktails, and our wide selection of craft beers. Whether inside the modern styled dining area or on the second-story patio with breathtaking views of Pikes Peak, you’re guaranteed to be impressed.Open daily, 4 pm-9 pm

Poor Richard’s Restaurant is your go-to for delicious New York-style pizza, fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and homemade soups made fresh daily. Enjoy crispy, cheesy slices baked to golden perfection, gardenfresh salads with house-made dressings, stacked sandwiches with premium meats and cheeses, and warm, comforting soups. Pair your meal with a drink from Rico’s Café for the perfect dining experience. Dine in, take out, or order online for a meal that truly hits the spot every time! Real Food. Real Flavor. Real Good.

11 pm.

$10 Lunch Happy Hour!

Great weekly specials 11am-2pm M-F, with soft drink!

Awesome options including Walleye, Sloppers & Cheese Curds!

HAPPY HOUR 3-6pm daily with Daily Shenanigans!

Geeks who Drink Tuesdays at 8pm

Karaoke every Thursday

JIMMY BEARD AWARD WINNING MENU

WINNERS OF 85+ BEST OF AWARDS in 26 years!!!

WARM BEER, LOUSY FOOD, POOR SERVICE.

OVER A QUINTILLION SERVED

326 N. Tejon · tonysdowntownbar.com

Minors allowed with adult til 8pm

Colorado Mountain Brewery

$$ 2 locations: 1110 Interquest Pkwy., (719) 434-5750 & 600 S. 21st St., (719) 466-8240, cmbrew.com

Come experience the true taste of Colorado! Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, a crisp salmon salad, our unique bison meatloaf Wellington, or our award-winning handcrafted beer cheese soup, you are sure to find an original flavor worthy of Colorado. All house and seasonal beers are locally made from the rich and bold malty finish of the Monumental Stout to the crisp, refreshing 7258 Blonde Ale. We also offer handcrafted cocktails and select wines. Enjoy the views of the Colorado Rockies from our scenic patios. Open daily at 11 a.m.

Andiamo Catering by Paravicini’s

$ (719) 418-2160, cateringbyandiamo.com

Bring the experience of Paravicini’s dining to your private events with our catering company, aptly named Andiamo. Our catering services take our special blend of hospitality and deliver it straight to your door or venue space to make tailored menus for your upscale weddings, garden parties, and more! Let us handle the cooking to ensure these festivities stand out to you and your quests as iconic food memories — and you just focus on the important part, enjoying the moment!

Coaltrain Fine Wine, Craft Beer, Spirits

$$$ 330 W Uintah St., Colorado Springs, (719) 475-9700, coaltrainwine.com

With over 40 years of passion and expertise, Coaltrain proudly serves Colorado Springs with an award-winning selection of fine wines from around the world, complemented by an extensive collection of local and international craft beers and spirits. Shop local and experience the difference with friendly, knowledgeable service — plus the convenience of delivery and curbside pickup.

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Happenings

JUNE 13 - JUNE 14, 2026

Pikes Peak Apex Mountain Bike Race

Both events start and finish at Penrose House in Colorado Springs. 1661 Mesa Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Catch the action at this high-profile mountain bike race. Elite riders take on the region’s toughest trails in a multi-day showcase of world-class skill and grit.

Register Now: coloradospringssports.org/events/pikes-peak-apex

MAY

MAY 2, 2026

Ascending Bird by the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N. Nevada Ave. Colorado Springs chamberorchestraofthesprings. org/ascending

A classical music concert performed by the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs, featuring virtuoso pianist Dr. Adam Haas.

MAY 2, 2026

Step Afrika!

Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts 190 S. Pikes Peak Ave. Colorado Springs pikespeakcenter.com/ events/detail/stepafrika

Electrifying, high-energy production that fuses groundbreaking step choreography with highenergy live DJ soundscape.

MAY 8, 2026

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts

190 S. Pikes Peak Ave. Colorado Springs csphilharmonic.org/event/starwars-empire-strikes-back

Features a full screening of the 1980 sci-fi classic on a large screen while the orchestra performs John Williams’ Grammy-winning score live in synchronization with the film.

MAY 16, 2026

Gershwin: Porgy and Bess Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts 190 S. Pikes Peak Ave. Colorado Springs csphilharmonic.org/ event/porgyandbess

Part of the “American Soundtrack” festival, this symphonic performance highlights one of the most significant works in American musical collections.

MAY 16, 2026

Garden of the Gods Art Festival Rock Ledge Ranch 3105 Gateway Rd. Colorado Springs riograndefestivals.ticketspice. com/2nd-garden-of-thegods-art-festival

The third annual festival featuring high-quality works from local and national artists set against the backdrop of Rock Ledge Ranch.

MAY 23 & MAY 30, 2026

Ranunculus Days

Gather Mountain Blooms 5210 South U.S. Highway 85/87 Colorado Springs gathermountainblooms.com/ calendar#smtx-click

A rare opportunity to hand-select luminous ranunculus stems inside a private high tunnel — a controlled environment necessary for these delicate flowers to thrive in the Colorado climate.

MAY 26, 2026

Dragonfly Paddle Yoga, Sound Bath & Brunch

Quail Lake Park 915 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. Colorado Springs dragonflypaddleyoga.com

A unique, upscale experience at Quail Lake with a live sound bath and a catered brunch against the backdrop of Cheyenne Mountain.

JUNE

JUNE 6, 2026

Manitou Wine Festival

502 Manitou Ave. Manitou Springs manitousprings.org/manitousprings-colorado-wine-festival Toast to the start of summer with local pours and stunning mountain views. It’s a relaxed, upscale afternoon in the heart of Manitou Springs for true wine lovers.

JUNE 6 - JUNE 26, 2026

Colorado College Summer Music Festival 5 W. Cache La Poudre St. Colorado Springs coloradocollege.edu/other/ summermusicfestival

Enjoy three weeks of incredible classical music in downtown Colorado Springs. From grand orchestral sets to intimate “Music and Wine” nights, it’s a premier summer tradition

JUNE 13, 2026

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort Anniversary 2 El Paso Blvd.

Colorado Springs bicycleresort.com

Celebrate a decade of this unique “bikelotel” with a lively anniversary bash. It’s the perfect mix of boutique lodging, cycling culture, and great local company.

JUNE 18, 2026

O.A.R. Three Decades Tour with Gavin DeGraw 95 Spectrum Loop

Colorado Springs Fordamphitheater.live

Celebrate 30 years of hits with O.A.R. and Gavin DeGraw at the new Ford Amphitheater. A perfect summer evening of great music in a spectacular outdoor setting.

JUNE 21, 2026

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 5089 Pikes Peak Hwy., Cascade ppihc.org

Experience the legendary “Race to the Clouds.” Watch world-class drivers push high-performance machines to the 14,115-foot summit in this world-renowned, highaltitude motorsports tradition.

Put Your Event on the Radar

Colorado Springs Magazine Arts & Entertainment delivers an integrated print and online experience. From concerts and gallery openings to theater and festivals, we spotlight the very best of our city’s cultural scene.

Have an event worth sharing? Submit it today and be part of the vibrant rhythm of Colorado Springs.

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COLOSPGS Magazine || May-June 2026 || Top Dentists by Colorado Media Group :: NORTH, The Business Digest & So. Colorado Insider! - Issuu