At Ruggless Dental, we believe that every great dental experience is a combination of high-quality dentistry and exceptional patient care. Our entire team is dedicated to giving you the personalized attention you deserve. Take a moment to read through our biographies to learn a little about the team at our dentist office in Springfield, IL. Contact Ruggless Dental at (217) 787-0212 to schedule your next appointment! We look forward to getting to know you!
Dr. Shane Ruggless, DMD
Dentist
Dr. Shane Ruggless, DMD earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois Champaign Urbana in 2008 with a degree i
n Integrative Biology. He went on to earn his DMD at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Dental School, where he received a leadership award.
He is active in the American Dental Association and the Illinois State Dental Society, and he is on the board of the GV Black Dental Society.
Dr. Ruggless knew since his high school days that he wanted to become a dentist. He was a member of the Pre-Dental Club while attending the University of Illinois and also participated in a trip to Guatemala to deliver much-needed dental supplies and oral health education to the local citizens.
Dr. Ruggless’s mission is: "To provide high quality dental work while using the latest technologies in a comfortable and relaxed setting." He enjoys the ability to transform a person's smile. Making a positive impact in a patient's confidence and overall health makes being a dentist an amazing experience.
In his free time, Dr. Ruggless enjoys running, golfing, basketball, traveling, and spending quality time with his family and friends.
He married his wife, Allie, in 2011, and have since grown their family. They now have two sons, Greyson and Hayes, and two daughters, Eden and Cammie. They also have a two year old cat, Louie, that they adopted from the Animal Protective League.
Suzanne, RDH
Dental Hygienist/Office Administrator
Suzanne plays two important roles at Ruggless Dental. She is a valued hygienist who keeps our patients healthy and feeling great. She also acts as an office administrator, scheduling, answering your calls, and working with insurance companies on benefits for our patients.
Originally from Pana, Illinois, she received her education at Lakeland College in Mattoon, Illinois. Suzanne has been with our team for over three years.
When Suzanne is away from the office, you can find her enjoying time with family and friends as well as playing with her four grandsons.
Rita, RDH
Dental Hygienist
Rita is originally from Decatur, IL, and earned her education at Parkland College. We are lucky she has been with us for 37 years and counting!
Helping patients stay healthy is a passion for Rita. She helps to educate patients on oral care in addition to providing gentle, thorough dental cleanings.
Rita values her time with family and friends, especially her two grandchildren!
Laura, RDH
Dental Hygienist
Laura, one of our skilled dental hygienists, received her education in Sheridan, WY, and brought her hygiene degree back to her hometown of Springfield, IL. She has been with our dental practice for ten years and loves helping people keep their smiles healthy.
In her spare time, you can find her working with her hands, fixing things, and doing woodworking. She enjoys time at her cabin with her family and young granddaughter.
Lori
Dental Assistant
Lori received her dental assistant training in the United States Air Force and Red Cross at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. She has been a valued member of our team for over seven years.
Her favorite part of dental assisting is working closely with our team, helping our patients, and playing a role in giving them a beautiful smile.
When away from the office, Lori enjoys time with her grandson and family.
Audrey
Dental Assistant/Receptionist
Another one of our team members who plays two roles in our dental office, Audrey is both a dental assistant and our receptionist.
Audrey has forty years of experience in dentistry, making her such a valuable part of our team. She loves getting to know new patients and getting updates from our practice regulars.
In her free time, you will find Audrey antiquing.
Dr. Ruggless and his staff are very friendly and welcoming. The hygienists are kind and gentle with my children and make them feel at ease while in the dental chair. I trust Dr. Ruggless with the dental care of my family!