About Our Office

About The Practice

We practice comprehensive dentistry. This means doing whatever you need to achieve your objective. Each patient is unique, and as such, each treatment plan is unique. It may be that you only need a cleaning and maintenance or one or two simple restorations. Or you may need a more complex restoration to replace missing teeth and restore proper function. You may have your heart set on cosmetic alterations of one or two teeth or an extensive cosmetic makeover. Whatever the need, we can provide a result that you can be proud of.

You will experience a comprehensive examination starting with an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. Dr. Pate will gather lots of information about your oral condition. He will ask for your input as to how you characterize your condition and your priorities. He will also ask your opinion on what you would like to change about your teeth and/or smile. When appropriate, radiographs and photographs from all angles are taken and analyzed. In some cases, models of your mouth are taken, and mock-ups of an ideal smile or restoration are created. A preventive maintenance plan will be implemented to establish and/or maintain your teeth and gums in a healthy state. When necessary, temporary restorations are placed and adjusted to the same form and function as the final restorations will be. You can then wear these temporary restorations and be certain that they look and feel the way you want them to look and feel. Adjustments are made if necessary, and when the temporaries meet the approval of you and Dr. Pate, impressions of the temporaries are made and sent to the dental laboratory to use as a guide in fabricating your final restorations. This way, you can see and feel the results before your bright new smile is permanently yours. After delivery, the preventive maintenance plan is continued indefinitely to help keep your new smile healthy and comfortable for years to come.

With the above approach, dramatic changes are made at the first restorative visit. A patient can walk out after one visit with an incredible cosmetic restoration that is then converted to final restorations a few weeks later. With few exceptions, the general rule is from old, uncomfortable teeth to healthy and attractive restorations in one striking visit, no matter how bad it is in the beginning. Then, it can be maintained for a lifetime of happy smiles.

Dwight H. Pate, D.M.D.

Dr. Dwight H. Pate graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 1985. He then completed a residency program in General Dentistry at The University of Alabama in Birmingham, where he began acquiring considerable knowledge in the concept of comprehensive dental diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment delivery. With this background, he opened his private practice in Auburndale, FL, in 1988. He continued his pursuit of comprehensive excellence by placing a strong emphasis on continuing education in order to stay current with the leading-edge materials and methods available. This led him to complete extensive studies with The Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Study in St. Petersburg, FL, and The Institute for Advanced Dental Studies in Swampscott, MA, near Boston. Also studying with The Pride Institute, these studies and other ongoing continuing education have helped him to develop his philosophy of comprehensive state-of-the-art dentistry and help him to keep his diagnostic and treatment planning skills current and up to date. He studied implant dentistry extensively with the University of Florida Implant Educators program and he currently is an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor with the University of Florida, teaching 2 days a month at the University of Florida Dental School's Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident program located in Seminole, Florida.

Ryan Bare, D.M.D.

Dr. Ryan Bare is a 7^th generation Florida pioneer who was born and raised here locally in Winter Haven, Florida. Dr. Bare graduated from Lake Region High School in 2014. From there, he attended The University of Central Florida where he obtained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. In 2020, Dr. Ryan Bare went on to attend dental school at the Dental College of Georgia in Augusta where he earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine.

Not long after earning his Doctorate Degree, both Dr. Bare and his wife, Olivia, decided to follow their hearts and made their way back home to Polk County, Florida. With their dog, Tucker, by their side, they journeyed back to their roots to be close to family, friends, and the community they both love.

In Dr. Bare’s spare time, he enjoys spending time outdoors and partaking in activities like fishing, golfing, and hunting.

Dr. Ryan Bare D.M.D. is a Board-Certified General Dentist that is passionate about providing comprehensive care for each of his patients. It is an honor for him to serve and care for the community he both knows and loves. Dr. Bare is committed to staying up to date within his field and is trained in digital dentistry. He strives for quality over quantity in each of his procedures and practices. Overall, it is Dr. Bare’s goal to provide a positive patient experience with every interaction and procedure he is engaged in.

A Photo Of A Team — Auburndale, FL — Dwight H. Pate DMD PA

About Our Team

Our primary focus centers on listening to you and trying to understand your heartfelt wants, needs, and desires. From the moment you call or visit our office, you will see and feel evidence of this every step of the way. Our team of experienced, highly trained, and friendly professionals strives to make you feel relaxed and comfortable with your visit. We are eager to answer any questions regarding your dental care. Please feel free to share with us your needs and concerns.

Our next most important focus is that our staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful. They take great pride and satisfaction in what they do, and they have a commitment to high standards of quality and integrity. Our entire team, from the administrative staff to the dental assistants to the doctors and hygienists, one and all, are licensed professionals with many hours of training and continuing education. We are all eager to help you achieve and/or maintain optimal oral health and a beautiful, healthy smile that communicates confidence and quality to everyone you meet.

Lesley Long — Auburndale, FL — Dwight H. Pate DMD PA

Lesley Long – Business Administrator

Lesley is our Indiana born and raised small-town gal, she is Hoosier by birth and a Gator by choice. She has been working with Dr. Pate for over 20 years! She is an avid college football and basketball fan, including tailgating of course, and she exudes passion for her dog walking business.

“I love getting to know each patient and creating life changing experiences!! Go Gators!”

Jennifer Oatman — Auburndale, FL — Dwight H. Pate DMD PA

Jennifer Oatman – Business Administrator

Jennifer has been with us for over 6 years, but her career in dentistry spans over 23 years, working both as a dental assistant and an administrator. Auburndale is home to Jenn, born and raised! This proud mother of 4, one of whom walks on four paws, cherishes nothing more than spending time with her family, sharing stories, good food, and laughter.

“There is an art to each patient’s individual case. I love seeing the beautiful transition that occurs and the confidence that radiates from a patient’s smile when their treatment is complete!”

Danielle Denmark — Auburndale, FL — Dwight H. Pate DMD PA

Danielle Denmark – Certified Dental Assistant

Danielle began her career in dentistry with Dr. Pate nearly 17 years ago! Her favorite part about her job is the relationships that are made with patients. Danielle loves to travel, try new restaurants, and spend time with family and friends. She is a mother of a bright five-year-old little girl that loves gymnastics and her Sunday school class.

“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient,”

Denise Handley – Certified Dental Assistant

Denise and Dr. Pate have worked together since 2020. Denise began her dental career over 37 years ago as a dental assistant. She is knowledgeable in all areas of dentistry, enjoys helping and interacting with patients. Our patients and staff enjoy her bubbly, positive personality, and radiant smile. Denise is also an Artist, loves to travel, and spend time outdoors. She values quality time with her husband Jimmy of 27 years and their 4 children with 4 grandchildren.

Denise Handley

Cristina Matis - Certified Dental Assistant

Cristina started her dental career 15 years ago as a dental assistant and administrator. She is committed to offering compassionate care and creating a welcoming environment, while making each visit as smooth and stress free as possible. As a wife and mother of three boys, she balances her career with an active lifestyle, enjoying time outdoors with her family.

Karen Mulling– Registered Dental Hygienist

Having previously worked for Dr. Pate for 6 years, I am happy to be returning to do what I enjoy doing, helping people achieve their brightest smiles. I am honored to play a role in uplifting the lives of those I'm privileged to work with. Family is the heart of who I am. During my time away from the office I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Whether it is at home, the beach or in the mountains they are my happy place.