Philosophy of Care

Dr. Chet believes quality dentistry can change people’s lives. If you look better, you are going to feel better about yourself. If you eat better, you are going to be healthier, and your quality of life is going to improve. If you find cancer before it has spread, a life can be saved.

Dr. Chet has helped patients experience real-life stories like these, and their life-changing gratitude fuels his passion to help others.

Quality and relationships are two pillars of Dr. Chet’s practice philosophy. In other words, if you’re going to do something, do it well.

He strives to recognize the needs of the whole person and, when possible, use his gifts to help change that person’s life for the better.

Education & Career

Dr. Chet earned a degree in civil engineering from Purdue University and worked in the real world for several years before deciding to pursue a career in dentistry.

One of his favorite jokes: he used to build big bridges; now he builds little ones.

His background in engineering and dentistry has given him unique opportunities to serve others, including volunteer work in Africa and Central America.

After college, Dr. Chet spent six months in Uganda, volunteering with Engineering Ministries International. During dental school, he traveled to Honduras and Costa Rica, where he provided dental care and helped with peoples dental needs for those in underserved communities.

He hopes to one day take his children to another country so they can gain perspective on how blessed they are to live in America.

Problem-Solving & Clinical Approach

Although his problem-solving and creative abilities are sometimes credited to his engineering training, Dr. Chet will tell you they are rooted in his upbringing on a farm. He believes there is a difference between having book knowledge, knowing how to apply that knowledge in a useful way, and having the hands-on ability to physically and artistically create what the mind has conceived. Those qualities: knowledge, practical application, creativity, and technical skill, are among the characteristics he believes make a good clinical dentist.

Personal Background

Originally from rural southern Indiana, Dr. Chet attributes many of his values and character traits to the life lessons he learned growing up on his family’s farm.

Hard work and dedication are two of his core beliefs.

His most important conviction is that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9).

Dr. Chet, his wife Ashley, and their family attend Centerpoint Fellowship Church and would love for you to join them for worship sometime.

Professional Associations & Certifications

Dr. Swartzentruber is a member of several professional organizations, including:

• American Dental Association

• Alabama Dental Association

• Academy of General Dentistry

• American Academy of Facial Esthetics

He is also certified by the American Board of Laser Surgery in dental laser proficiency.