Dr. Putnam loves dentistry because it combines science and artistry. With his skills, he’s able to help his patients enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles. He also enjoys connecting with patients from all walks of life, using his knowledge to help them achieve their unique dental goals. Seeing the positive impact that dental care can have on a person’s confidence and quality of life is incredibly rewarding for Dr. Putnam! You can learn more about him by reading below.
Why Did You Decide to
Become a Dentist?
Dr. Putnam’s path to dentistry wasn’t a straight line. After spending his first year of college as a chemistry major, he realized that, while he loved science, he wanted a career that allowed him to work closely with people every day. He shadowed various healthcare professionals and found that dentistry offered the perfect blend of science, artistry, and connection. He was inspired by the immediate and lasting impact dentistry can have on people, from relieving their pain to restoring their confidence. That passion has also led him to participate in dental service trips around the world, helping provide care to underserved communities and reinforcing why he loves his profession.
Where Did You
Study Dentistry?
Dr. Putnam attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah for his undergraduate studies before going to Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona for dental school. He was a military officer before entering dental school, so he began his career centered in service, leadership, and patient care.
Following dental school, Dr Putnam completed a General Dentistry Residency at Fort Jackson. Prior to joining Dental Town DC, he served as an active duty dentist at the Pentagon, providing comprehensive care to military personnel. His military background and advanced training have shaped his approach to care, making it patient-focused and high-quality.
Dr. Putnam is a committed lifelong learner and makes it a priority to participate in continuing education courses throughout the year to stay current with the latest techniques, technology, and advancements in dentistry so he can provide the best care possible to his patients. He remains an active member in the Academy of General Dentistry.
Outside of the
Dental Office,
What Do You Like to Do?
Originally from Los Alamos, New Mexico, Dr. Putnam has been married to the love of his life for over 10 years. Together, they have two young boys who keep them busy, entertained, and feeling fulfilled. Family is the center of everything to Dr. Putnam—they enjoy traveling, gardening, cooking, and making new memories together. Their favorite travel destination is Japan, where they enjoy immersing themselves in the culture and helping their boys stay connected to their Japanese heritage.
Outside of the dental office, Dr. Putnam enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and backpacking, although life has changed since becoming a parent! Nowadays, his weekends are filled with T-ball practices, visits to local farmers’ markets, and long afternoons at the park with his children, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. An interesting fact about Dr. Putnam is that he speaks both Japanese and Malay. Learning different languages has given him a greater appreciation for other cultures and has enhanced his ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
