General & Family Dentistry in Edwardsville, Illinois
Personalized, Judgment-free Care for Every Stage of Family Life
- Your family can share convenient same-day appointments under one roof
- Familiar care helps appointments feel comfortable from childhood through adulthood
- One trusted dental home keeps changing family needs connected over time
Patient Stories
Real Smiles, Real People, Real Change
Some things you have to see to believe, like the look on someone’s face when they spot their new smile for the first time. Watch our patients share, in their own words, what their experience was really like and how it changed the way they smile.
Your Best Smile Starts Here
In 60-Seconds, Determine Your Dental Implant Eligibility.
Care for every life stage
What Is General & Family Dentistry?
General and family dentistry is comprehensive dental care for children, teens, adults, and seniors. It combines ongoing prevention, evaluation, and treatment planning in one dental home. During appointments, our team reviews your oral health, uses examinations and digital x-rays when needed, and tracks changes over time. Care is adjusted to your age, dental history, current concerns, and goals as your needs change.
- Designed for children, teens, adults, and seniors at every life stage.
- Regular exams and cleanings are often scheduled every six months.
- Care is personalized around dental history, concerns, goals, and age.
Services We Offer
General & Family Dentistry Services We Offer
Families need dental care that fits changing needs, from preventive appointments to restorative support. Our all-ages practice offers a broad range of services under one roof, with personalized options that help you protect your oral health and feel comfortable at every stage.
Popular
Regular cleanings and exams help us spot cavities, gum disease, and infections early, supporting a healthier smile through every stage of life.
Fluoride treatments and sealants add preventive support that can help protect teeth from decay, especially during changing oral health needs.
When a cavity affects your tooth, a filling restores its function with a practical option that helps you eat and smile comfortably.
Care For Every Smile
Benefits of General & Family Dentistry
Choosing general & family dentistry gives your household a steady dental home instead of disconnected care. You can build trust over time with a familiar team that listens, explains choices clearly, and respects each person’s circumstances. That relationship makes it easier to stay engaged with oral health and feel prepared as your family’s needs change.
Keep Every Smile on Track
Busy families can plan dental appointments in one familiar place instead of coordinating separate offices. That simpler routine helps children, adults, and seniors stay consistent with care while leaving more time for school, work, errands, and the moments your family enjoys together.
Feel Comfortable Being Yourself
Dental worries can make even routine care feel overwhelming. A welcoming, judgment-free environment helps you and your family feel heard, respected, and more at ease, so appointments become a familiar part of life instead of something you keep putting off.
Build Confidence for Every Day
When your smile feels healthy and cared for, you may feel more comfortable speaking, laughing, and meeting people. Personalized guidance helps you understand your choices, so you can move forward with greater confidence in social moments and daily routines.
Support Lasting Oral Health
Small concerns can become harder to manage when care gets delayed. Staying connected with one dental home supports prevention and early attention, helping protect your smile’s comfort, function, and health as your needs change through every stage of life.
Give Every Age a Familiar Place
Children can grow up knowing the people and setting around their dental care, while adults and seniors receive support that fits their changing needs. Familiarity can ease anxiety and help your whole family feel more prepared for each appointment.
Make Care Fit Your Goals
No two smiles or family schedules are exactly alike. Honest conversations and clear options help you choose care that reflects your needs, circumstances, and priorities, giving you a practical path forward without pressure or confusing surprises.
One Trusted Dental Home That Grows With Your Family
Care for every chapter
Who Benefits Most From General & Family Dentistry
Wondering whether general & family dentistry fits your needs is completely normal. Candidacy is broader than many people expect, and this section can help you see how personalized, all-ages care may support your health, comfort, and confidence.
Keeping Family Care Connected
Busy family schedules feel easier when dental care stays in one place. You can build a familiar relationship while children and adults receive personalized care through every stage of life.
Building Everyday Confidence
Changes in your smile or comfort can affect how you eat, speak, or feel around others. General dentistry gives you a welcoming place to understand your options without judgment.
Returning Without Judgment
Putting off appointments can make returning feel uncomfortable. You can begin with honest conversation and personalized care, while our judgment-free approach helps you feel like family from the first appointment.
Does Any of This Sound Like You?
Questioning whether you belong in a dental office is normal, especially when your needs or past experiences feel complicated. Look for the moments that sound familiar, then picture care shaped around you and your family.
- You keep putting off your routine dental appointment
- You wince when cold drinks touch your teeth
- Your gums bleed when you brush or floss
- You ignore a chipped tooth when you see your smile
- You tolerate the same toothache for several weeks
- Your child needs dental care that feels welcoming
Begin with Confidence and Clarity
Before and After Results
Natural Results That Build Confidence
From small refinements to full-mouth restoration, these results show what careful planning and years of hands-on work can do. The smiles look balanced and natural, and the patients behind them left with stronger chewing, easier meals, and real confidence in how they look.
Before
After
After
After
Your Transformation Starts Here
Schedule an appointment and start your smile journey today.
Same Day
Emergency Appointments
98%
Satisfaction Rate
40+
Years Combined Experience
500+
Implants Placed
3
Sedation Options
4.8
Average Rating
What to expect
The General and Family Dentistry Process
Knowing what to expect can make general and family dentistry feel more manageable. We listen to your concerns, review your oral health, and explain personalized options honestly, so you can feel prepared for care that supports your family’s changing needs at every life stage.
1
Your First Appointment
Your first appointment begins with a welcoming conversation about your concerns and goals. Exams, cleanings, digital x-rays, or other diagnostic imaging may help us understand your current oral health. Familiar faces and judgment-free guidance give you room to ask questions without feeling rushed or judged.
2
Personalized Family Care
With your needs in view, we explain care options clearly and tailor a plan to your circumstances. Depending on what your family needs, care may include preventive services, fillings, bonding, crowns, bridges, dentures, or other services. Comfort-focused support helps you feel at ease while your care moves forward.
3
Ongoing Smile Support
After your appointment, we help you understand ongoing oral health needs and future appointments. Regular exams and cleanings every six months help us stay current as your family’s needs change, while a familiar dental home supports consistency over time. You leave with a clearer plan and confidence in your family’s continued care.
Your Family's Confident Smile Starts Here
Smile Advantage Plan
Preventive Care Without the Premiums
Dental insurance is not the only way to stay on top of your teeth. Our Smile Advantage Plan covers your preventive care for one annual fee and takes 20% off everything else at our Edwardsville, IL, office. Pick the plan that matches your mouth rather than the one an insurance company assigned you.
Child Plan
For patients age 13 and younger
$
339
/year
- 2 routine cleanings each year
- 2 routine cleanings each year
- Digital x-rays and bitewings as needed
- 1 emergency visit, with exam and x-rays included
- Up to 2 fluoride treatments when indicated
- 20% off any additional treatment
Adult Plan
For healthy smiles needing regular care
$
389
/year
- 2 routine cleanings each year
- 2 full dental exams
- Digital x-rays and bitewings as needed
- 1 emergency visit, with exam and x-rays included
- Oral cancer screening
- 20% off any additional treatment
Gum Health Plan
For patients managing gum disease
$
689
/year
- 4 periodontal maintenance visits per year
- 2 full dental exams
- Digital x-rays and bitewings as needed
- 1 emergency visit, with exam and x-rays included
- Oral cancer screening
- 20% off any additional treatment
- $200 off a sleep apnea appliance
Cleanings, x-rays, and fluoride treatments are provided as determined by your dentist. If periodontal infection is present, the Gum Health Plan may be required at an additional charge. The Smile Advantage Plan is a savings plan, not dental insurance. It cannot be combined with any other insurance and is valid only at our Edwardsville office; care from other providers and specialists is not included. Plan fees are subject to change. For complete details, see the Plan Agreement.
Become a Smile Advantage Member Today
One annual fee, no waiting period, and no claim forms. Your first cleaning can happen at your first visit.
Financing Options
Flexible Dental Financing That Fits Your Life
At Hite Family Dentistry, we offer flexible financing and in-house payment plans that make quality care easier to afford. You focus on your smile, and we’ll help take the stress out of paying for it.
Bite-sized payments, big smiles! Cherry Payment Plans offer easy-to-use financing options to make your dental care more accessible.
No credit score impact until you select a plan.
Streamline your dental care investment with Proceed Finance. Their flexible plans make achieving your smile goals easy and affordable.
No credit score impact until you select a plan.
Designed for everyday dental costs, with a quick check you can complete right at our front desk
No credit score impact until you select a plan.
CareCredit, a trusted healthcare financing option, offers convenient payment plans to fit your budget. Invest in your oral health with confidence.
No credit score impact until you select a plan.
Another route for spreading a larger treatment plan across fixed monthly payments over a longer term.
No credit score impact until you select a plan.
Get Pre-Qualified Today and Start Your Care With Confidence
Your questions answered
General & Family Dentistry FAQs
Questions about General & Family Dentistry are completely normal, whether you are arranging a child’s first appointment or managing ongoing oral health. We explain findings, discuss choices, and tailor care to your needs.
What does General & Family Dentistry include?
General & family dentistry includes routine cleanings and exams, digital x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, fillings, bonding, crowns, bridges, dentures, implants, and more for all ages. We also offer care for gum disease, root canals, sleep apnea, TMJ concerns, cosmetic goals, and urgent dental needs.
How often should I schedule a cleaning and exam?
Most patients benefit from cleanings and exams every six months, though your schedule may depend on your oral health and personal needs. During these appointments, we look for cavities, gum disease, infections, and other changes, helping us plan appropriate care before concerns advance.
Can your office care for children and adults?
Yes. We care for children, adults, and older family members, so your household can receive care in one familiar office. Our approach changes with each person’s age, needs, and goals, from a child’s first appointment to ongoing adult oral health and restorative care.
Can my family schedule appointments in one office?
Scheduling family appointments in one location can save time and reduce the hassle of coordinating care with different offices. We get to know each person’s needs and can provide consistent care as your family grows, while keeping treatment choices clear and individualized.
What if I feel nervous about dental appointments?
If dental appointments make you uneasy, tell us. We provide a welcoming, judgment-free setting and can discuss sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. We also take time to listen, answer questions, and shape the appointment around your comfort needs.
What technology do you use during dental care?
Digital x-rays and diagnostic imaging help us evaluate your oral health and identify changes that may need attention. We also use advanced tools such as CEREC for same-day crowns, plus computer-aided design and manufacturing for restorations. We will explain what we find and discuss your options.
What options are available for a cavity or broken tooth?
Treatment depends on the tooth and the extent of damage. Options may include a filling, composite bonding or a crown. We will examine the concern, explain the choices, and consider function, appearance, and your goals before planning a procedure.
How can general & family dentistry address missing teeth?
Missing teeth can be addressed with dental implants, bridges, or dentures, depending on your oral health and needs. For people missing most or all teeth, All-on-X implants may provide a stable full-arch replacement option. We will review suitable choices with you before treatment begins.
What cosmetic services are available for my smile?
Cosmetic options include take-home teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, composite fillings, and aesthetic CEREC crowns. These procedures can address stains, chips, gaps, misshapen teeth, or worn areas. We consider health and function alongside appearance, then tailor recommendations to your smile goals and circumstances.
Do you offer care for snoring or sleep apnea?
Snoring and sleep apnea can affect sleep and overall health. We offer custom-made oral appliances as a comfortable alternative to CPAP machines for appropriate patients. We will discuss your symptoms, review whether an appliance may suit your needs, and explain what ongoing care involves.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, we are here to help! Reach out to us and we would love to assist you personally.
Meet Our Doctors
Experienced Dentists Who Genuinely Love What They Do
At Hite Family Dentistry, we pair serious clinical skill with a warm, easygoing atmosphere. Our doctors focus on comfortable, patient-first care, with special attention to anyone who feels anxious about visiting the dentist.
DMD
Dr. Hite brings a hands-on, detail-focused approach shaped by his early years in dental lab work. With advanced training in implants, endodontics, and soft-tissue laser dentistry, he loves using technology like same-day crowns and 3D printing to help you eat comfortably and smile with confidence. He’s a perfectionist with a good sense of humor.
Practicing since 2005, Dr. Kniffin has a special heart for patients who’ve avoided the dentist for years. She takes real pride in helping anxious patients complete treatment comfortably, often using sedation to ease the process. Inspired by her mother’s long medical career, she’s driven daily by the difference she can make in your life.

A 2024 graduate of SIU School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Blickhan brings a well-rounded background in biological sciences to her care. Her greatest passion is helping patients move past dental anxiety, turning nervous first visits into genuine confidence. A natural problem-solver, she pays close attention to the details that make your experience better.
Ready to Meet Your Dentist?
Our team takes the time to listen, plan carefully, and treat you like family from day one.
Our Patients Say It Best
Real Smiles From People We Treat Like Family
You’ll find that our patients describe more than great dental work; they talk about feeling heard, welcomed, and cared for like family. Their words reflect the comfortable, judgment-free experience we work to create at every single visit.
staff is always professional and make me feel like part of the family. always a pleasure coming in for work.
Brian Kauhl
3 days ago
Very professional and a one stop shop for all of your needs! Cutting edge procedures and high tech and current equipment
Bill Davison
4 days ago
Very professional and clean! Everyone I encountered was personable!
Linda Curless
4 days ago
My hygienist, Michelle, was very friendly. Good conversation. No cavities or fillings need replacing!
Kevin Wiese
5 days ago
They did a wonderful job forming my gums and my mouth is healthier and I’m much happier. I will let buy anyone who has any denture needs or dental needs. Please come see them. They will take care of you.
James Webb
5 days ago
Michelle is the best hygienist on the planet!I can’t say enough good things about Michelle at Hite Family Dental. My cleaning was extremely thorough and honestly the most comfortable one I’ve ever had. My teeth have never felt so good!What really set Michelle apart was her knowledge. She took the time to explain everything she was looking for and why it mattered, so I left feeling informed instead of just rushed through. She made me feel completely at ease and clearly takes pride in her work.If you’re looking for a hygienist who is skilled, kind, and genuinely cares about your oral health, ask for Michelle. I wouldn’t trust my teeth to anyone else. Highly recommend!
Steve Anderson
6 days ago
Your Smile Could Be the Next Story We Share
Come Visit Us
Your Neighborhood Dental Home in Edwardsville
We’re conveniently located on Lewis Road in the heart of Edwardsville, just off Route 157 and easy to reach from home, work, or school. Whether you’re near SIUE, downtown, or the surrounding neighborhoods, you’ll find friendly, personalized care close by.
Find Us Easily and Plan Your Next Visit Today
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Confidence at every life stage
Your Family's Changing Needs Deserve Judgment-free Care Under One Roof
- Care that grows with your family's needs
- Same-day family appointments simplify busy weeks
- Familiar care from childhood through adulthood
