John L. Ames, DDS

“My fundamental purpose is to be able to make some lives happier and better through the use of my talents, skills, experiences and sensitivity. I hope to do this by sharing my personal rewards in life with others in need.”

A native of Northwest Indiana, Dr. Ames received his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Surgery degrees from Indiana University in Bloomington. Following dental school graduation, Dr. Ames served three years with the U.S. Coast Guard and Merchant Marine as Chief Dental Officer, U.S. Public Health Service in Portland, Oregon. Accepting a unique opportunity, he moved to Indianapolis for a year to work with a nationally recognized specialist in the area of reconstructive dentistry.

Since that time, he has been skillfully and happily practicing dentistry in Northwest Indiana; living his childhood dream of providing excellent dental care to the people of his hometown.

Dr. Ames holds a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD). This honor is awarded to only five percent of all dentists practicing in the United States. As a member of many professional organizations, Dr. Ames has immediate access to the most advanced research and effective technologies in dentistry today. These professional affiliations include:

  • General Member, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Member, American Dental Association
  • Member, Indiana Dental Association
  • Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry
  • Member, American Academy of Sports Dentistry
  • Charter Member, American Association of Functional Orthodontics
  • Member, Indiana University, School of Dentistry Academy of Continuing Education
  • Member, American Equilibration Society
  • Member and past President, Interdisciplinary Study Group, an international organization of dentists devoted to study and research in the field of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders.

Endowed with sincerity, initiative and strong character, Dr. Ames devotes countless hours providing dental services to needy seniors who might not otherwise have access to such care. The doctor lives in Valparaiso with his wife, Sandra. He says “For those of you suffering from the delusion that nature cannot be improved upon, we offer quality and comprehensive dental care…a beautiful smile to enhance your image!”

Our Team

Each staff member is carefully selected, trained and then continually offered further education opportunities and in-service training. As a result, each member of our team is knowledgeable, friendly and efficient. We feel confident you will notice the difference these outstanding individuals make! Our two hygienists, Laurie and Tammy, team up with our chairside assistants, Jackie, Tiffany and Linda, to make each experience you have with Dr. Ames smooth and successful. Dr. Ames trusts you will find all of them to be “personable and friendly, quality-oriented, and sincerely interested in you. Our office manager, Joi, has over 11 years of management experience and is willing to help with scheduling, insurance and any questions you may have. We offer outstanding service and care as we try to get to know you. No matter what your social or economic status is, we see everyone’s importance.”


©2004 Ames Dental Center ~ John L. Ames, DDS ~ Site designed and maintained by TNT Dental