We named our dental office “Kiya Dental,” pronounced “Kee-ya,” after our beloved daughter, Kiya. Her name reflects the joy and inspiration she brings into our lives, and we wanted our practice to carry that same warmth and positive spirit. By choosing her name, we aim to create a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere where every patient feels like they’re part of our extended family. Kiya Dental is a place where care, compassion, and quality come first—values inspired by our daughter.
Dr. Harsh Patel, coming from a family with a rich medical background, pursued a career in health to follow his passion for making a difference in people’s lives. He completed his undergraduate education at M.P. Dental College in India and graduated from The University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2014. Dr. Patel further honed his skills with a mini residency in dental implants and earned certifications in laser dentistry and nitrous oxide sedation.
Recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field, Dr. Patel has received awards for Excellence in Operative Dentistry and Prosthetic Case Presentation. After practicing in West Texas for 10 years, he is now relocating to Temple, TX, bringing his extensive experience and dedication to his new community.
Dr. Patel is committed to offering excellent and affordable dentistry, always striving to improve his patients' oral health and overall well-being. Outside the office, he enjoys traveling, watching science-related shows and playing with his 2 year old daughter and spending time with his family.
I am a registered dental assistant and have been with Dr. Fort’s office since 2016. I enjoy spending time with our patients and making sure they feel comfortable while visiting our office.
I am married and have three boys. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, cooking, and spending time with my family.
I attended WCJC where I earned my associate of science degree in dental hygiene in 2011. I enjoy the one on one time I get to spend with each patient and the positive impact a healthy smile can have on their life. My goal is to make every patients experience comfortable without fear or anxiety.
Born in Temple, TX, I have lived in the area most of my life. My husband and I have two amazing children. Much of our spare time is spent cheering them on at the ball fields or with friends and family.
I graduated from Howard College in Big Spring, TX, in 2021. I’m passionate about providing personalized care and strive to make each of my patients feel comfortable and well cared for during their visits. Building strong relationships with my patients is important to me, and I enjoy taking the time to educate them about oral health and preventive care.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my young daughter and exploring new recipes in the kitchen.
My husband, our three children and I fled Ukraine at the end of December 2022. And what a journey it has been!!! We arrived to Texas directly and we are totally blown away by all the help, kindness, hospitality, and care that Americans have given us. Dr. Fort has employed me as a dental assistant in his wonderful, very friendly clinic in March of 2023. Even though I have 18 years of experience in the industry, this year is the best one yet for me. I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to provide the best care for our clients. Thank you United States, thank you Texans, God Bless America!!!
My name is Kristine Buntjer and I am a certified dental assistant at Kiya Dental. My husband Randy and I came to Temple for a job with his company. We love the area and are very happy to be here, although Washington state is our home. We have four children and four grandkids. I started my dental career in South Carolina in 1998 and still love dentistry! I look forward to meeting you when you come in and partnering with you on your beautiful smile.
I have been working with Dr. Fort since 2010 and have been working in the customer service industry for over twenty years. I was born and raised in Temple and also raised my family here.
I can assist you to schedule an appointment, verify your insurance, or answer questions you may have whether we are speaking on the phone or here during your appointment. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. It is important to me that you feel at ease and have your questions answered so that you feel comfortable and confident about your treatment decisions.
I enjoy spending time with my children, grandchildren and friends.
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