While not originally from Virginia, Dr. Ryan Buckwalter and his family fell in love with the wonderful state years ago while in dental school at MCV/VCU. Ryan and his wife, Mindilynn, have three children. The older two joined the family together (twins) during those dental school years, and the third followed a few years later. As the father of three children, he understands that the first few experiences in the dental chair can set the tone for life.
Dr. Buckwalter’s interest in dentistry started as a teenager. After suffering dental/facial trauma at the age of 13, Ryan became very familiar with the subspecialties of dental care. From oral surgeons to endodontists, he was impressed at what dentistry was able to achieve. Over the next decade, and many experiences as the patient, he recognized that dentistry was a wonderful way to combine his love of art and science.
Dr. Buckwalter is originally from Sandy, Utah. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Utah in 2003, and subsequently attended dental school at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. Following dental school, Dr. Buckwalter pursued employment that would allow him to advance his training in specific procedures. This led practicing in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Williamsburg, Virginia.
Dr. Buckwalter’s experiences as the patient over the years not only influenced his decision to become a dentist, but also his course of study after graduation. A self-professed lover of continuing education, he has sought additional education in all aspects of clinical dentistry. Most recently, Ryan completed a training and study continuum in dental implants and tissue grafting, earning him the status of a Fellow of the International Congress of Implantologists.
Over the years, he has enjoyed serving his community through dental volunteerism. He has volunteered at Mission of Mercy (MOM) projects all around the state, as well as having ongoing participation with Dentistry From the Heart.
Ryan considers himself blessed to be able consistently to pursue those same areas of advanced care, and he enjoys being able to employ them in the treatment of his patients. Whether the care is simple or complex, he repeatedly shares that he truly enjoys being part of the solution, having happy patients and being committed to preserving the legacy of smiles.
Dr. Buckwalter maintains professional affiliations with:
· Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
· American Dental Association (ADA)
· International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
· Virginia Academy of General Dentistry (VAGD)
· American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
· Charlottesville Albemarle Dental Society (CADS)
