I became a dentist so I could help people. I knew I wanted to venture into medicine in some realm, but I didn’t know quite where, and I decided to follow a lot of people around. And so I followed a doctor, I followed a physical therapist, I followed an optometrist and a dentist, and I found that I really enjoyed following the dentist and watching what he did every day and how he worked with his hands and how there was a variety of procedures that were going on every day, that it wasn’t going to become mundane and the same thing all the time.
And I just liked the patient interaction, the relationships that could be built, and that’s why I decided to become a dentist. I went to the University of Kansas for my undergraduate degree, and then I came over to Kansas City to go to UMKC School of Dentistry and was there for four years. After that, I went over to Colorado.
I was in Denver for a year and I did a residency at the VA hospital, and then I came back to Kansas City, home. I think the most rewarding aspect of dentistry is the relationships that you build with your patients. I know a lot of people have very strong fear of the dentist, and when you can help someone overcome that fear and find a friend in the process, I think that’s really rewarding.
Dr. Ashley Knight Loves Helping Patients With Their Oral Health
Dr. Ashley Knight graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in human biology. Following graduation, she attended the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry. During this time, Dr. Knight was personally awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award by George W. Bush for her outstanding volunteer service and willingness to give back to her community. After earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, Dr. Knight moved to Denver, where she completed a general practice residency at the local VA Medical Center.
Dr. Knight enjoys all aspects of general dentistry, from routine fillings to restorative care. She continues to grow her knowledge of dentistry by completing continuing education courses. She is always happy to talk with you about any questions you may have regarding your oral health.
Dr. Knight is a member of the American Dental Association, the Kansas Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Fifth District Dental Society, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.
Dr. Knight grew up in Lawrence, KS and is an avid KU fan – Rock Chalk! She and her husband enjoy going back to Lawrence to catch the occasional KU game. More than anything, Dr. Knight enjoys spending time with her two young kids.