Dentist – Sedona, AZ

Get to Know John H. Upton, Jr, DDS, PC

For over 35 years and counting, Dr. Upton has gone the extra mile to help neighbors and friends in the Verde Valley community not only obtain great oral health but also maintain it for many years to come. Today, thousands of smiles shine brightly thanks to his dedicated efforts! Keep reading below if you would like to learn more about him.

Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?

While Dr. Upton once considered architecture as a potential career, he eventually realized that he wanted to use his talents and hands to help people in more direct, tangible ways. He put his passion for aesthetics and overall function to use on a much smaller scale, improving the structures inside the mouth instead of in buildings! Decades later, he stills look forward to creating exceptional smiles for his patients.

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

After studying at Northern Arizona University, Dr. Upton pursued his dental doctorate at Baylor College of Dentistry. Shortly after graduation, he realized there was much more he needed to learn about both the art and science of dentistry, which led him to seek out post-graduate programs that aligned with what he wanted his dental office to look like. Eventually, he found the L.D. Pankey Institute, where the focus was on relationship-based dentistry and helping patients keep their natural teeth for a lifetime – it was the perfect match! He has also attended continuing education programs with F.A.C.E and the Las Vegas Institute. All in all, he has hundreds of hours of advanced training in restorative/cosmetic dentistry, biomimetic dentistry, orthodontics, and every other aspect of general dentistry.

Today, Dr. Upton holds his Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry, which reflects his exceptional commitment to learning. He is also a member of the Arizona Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry.

Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?

Dr. Upton and his wife have four children who are all grown with families of their own, as well as 11 grandkids! When he isn’t busy at work, he really enjoys riding his bicycle, reading, and spending quality time with the entire family, especially at the cabin they have refurbished and restored over the past several years. He’s also passionate about restoring and maintaining his classic 1995 Jaguar.