Who's Who: Dr. Ross A Bennett

Dentist at Bennett Family Dentistry

WHERE'S HE BEEN: Bennett, 29, was born and raised in Cape Girardeau. He's married to wife Jocey; they have two children, Caroline and Michael. Bennett is a graduate of Baylor University in 2003; and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry in 2007.

WHERE HE'S GOING: In five years, Bennett says he hopes to be "raising my two kids with my wife Jocey and, God willing, we'll have a couple more in that time. I plan to stay active in the community through various service organizations. In my practice, I will continue to integrate technology to provide less-invasive, patient-friendly procedures. I am very excited for the future of dentistry! Many of the recent advances in dentistry have been products that focus on patients. Last year, our office added flat-screen monitors that can play Blu-Ray DVDs and show patients a live video feed of their mouth. I believe future advances will continue to make dentistry more comfortable and less invasive to our patients." On his work in the community, Bennett says, "Teaching and working with youth have always been passions of mine. Throughout my education, I have been blessed to learn from some of our nation's top instructors. I find it a privilege to pass that knowledge on to others. I have enjoyed speaking at several local schools about dentistry and look forward to sharing more about oral health in this community.

WHY HE WAS CHOSEN: "He's a 'mover and shaker' because he is a leader in all facets of community life," wrote Ross' sister, Trisha Mothershead.

Ross' community involvement: Voted No. 1 dental office in Cape Girardeau County in the Southeast Missourian's People's Choice Awards; leader of Men's Fraternity at St. Andrew Lutheran Church; member of Lion's Club of Cape Girardeau; vice president of the Southeast Missouri Dental Society; delegate for Missouri Dental Association House of Delegates; Men at the Cross committee member; Local Celebrity Reader at Blanchard Elementary; guest speaker at West Lane Elementary; volunteer for student dental screenings at St. Paul Lutheran; volunteer for Give Kids a Smile.