The Dental Specialists 
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, Biology (2010), St. Olaf College, Northfield, M
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (2015), Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- General Practice Residency (2016), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
- Certificate in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (2020), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Special Professional Interests
What I enjoy most about oral and maxillofacial surgery is the broad scope of the specialty. It is gratifying to be able to enhance people’s lives through rehabilitation of their oral condition, repair of traumatic facial injuries, or resolution of infection and pathologic conditions. My goal is to gain the trust of my patients by treating everyone as if they were a friend or family member.
Professional Activities
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Minnesota Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- American Dental Association
- Minnesota Dental Association
Verified Patient Reviews
4.9 out of 5
(321 Reviews)
(139 Comments)
Overall patient ratings are based on the average score given by The Dental Specialists patients who voluntarily complete a satisfaction survey from Press Ganey, a nationally recognized firm dedicated to improving patient experience. Click to learn more about our patient ratings.
5 out of 5
September 4, 2023
It was a pretty much painless procedure. I was very satisfied this time around.
5 out of 5
September 3, 2023
Both did an excellent job!
5 out of 5
September 3, 2023
Dr Rivers and his Assistant are excellent people. Very friendly and made you feel at ease. Top notch in my opinion.
5 out of 5
August 22, 2023
Bre was amazing. She sang and held my daughters hand throughout the procedure.
5 out of 5
August 17, 2023
I hope I don't have to return, but if I do , I know I will be in great hands.
5 out of 5
July 26, 2023
Dr. Rivers and his dental assistant were both extremely nice, very welcoming, and very professional.
5 out of 5
June 19, 2023
Dr Rivers was awesome let me know exactly what to expect during the procedure. He also has a great sense of humor.
5 out of 5
June 15, 2023
I felt that my son was in very good hands the entire duration of our visit. From the front desk, the assistant, and the doctor. Makes me feel less nervous about his upcoming surgery, knowing that he is in very capable hands.
5 out of 5
May 31, 2023
Very thorough and detailed before my treatment so I could asses possible costs.
5 out of 5
May 31, 2023
Dr. Rivers and his dental assistant were very helpful, and did an amazing job.
5 out of 5
May 21, 2023
All good!
5 out of 5
April 28, 2023
Very good experience
5 out of 5
April 28, 2023
Averall excellent work and experience
2.8 out of 5
April 24, 2023
My appointment was at 8:30 AM. As I mentioned my interaction with the dentist and an assistant was respectful, though there was minimal interaction/conversation with me. Dr. Rivers quietly urge me To continue seeking any needed dental treatment. Thnakfully,my dental procedure was successful and my gum tissue quickly healed.
5 out of 5
March 3, 2023
Nice work by Dr. Rivers and team! Almost nice enough to say I enjoyed the wisdom tooth extraction. :)
5 out of 5
March 2, 2023
Start to finish to aftercare outreach, this practice demonstrated that integrity yet exists as a human health occupational purpose!!
5 out of 5
March 2, 2023
One of my top three or so intensive dental care experiences ever; such was the proficiency, explanatory aspect, obvious confidence and even humor of this remarkable dentist! My tooth was truly in the best of hands!!
5 out of 5
February 28, 2023
We had a fairly long discussion about how much sedation to use and decided just to use novocain. As it turned out, the extraction took quite a long time and I got a little anxious toward the end, so I could have used more sedation, but that would probably be hard to predict.
5 out of 5
February 9, 2023
It was a very good experience. Your staff is excellent.
5 out of 5
February 7, 2023
I have referred my wife for care.
5 out of 5
February 7, 2023
Dr. Rivers is great both on his skills and his social interactions
5 out of 5
January 23, 2023
Dr. Rivers was very informative and friendly. Even after we agreed that my problems included an issue that he wouldn't work on, but Dr. Zhang could if I wanted to schedule with her ( which I did ) he continued to explain what the options could be. I was very satisfied.
4 out of 5
January 17, 2023
I did not get any information on how to prepare for going under sedation. That was frustrating!
5 out of 5
December 17, 2022
Both the hygienist, and Doctor were fantastic. Made me feel very comfortable and not judged. I have a lot of anxiety and they helped calm me down. Having a positive experience means the world to someone like me and increases the chances of not putting off treatment.
5 out of 5
December 17, 2022
Let me put it this way.. I know I have A LOT of work to do on my teeth. 20 years of smoking and bad genetics will create a lot of damage. I've jumped around from different dentists because if I don't feel comfortable I won't go back. I would go back to this location in a heartbeat. I'm so great full for the positive experience.
5 out of 5
December 4, 2022
This office and staff has been great throughout the whole process. The cost and expectation were clearly explained to me as well as any after care or concerns I had. I will greatly recommend this office to anyone needing their services!
5 out of 5
December 4, 2022
I appreciated that the Dentist explained what procedures were going to be completed and would let me know what to expect throughout the procedure as it was being done. The staff worked very well together and had strong communication with both me and each other.
5 out of 5
December 1, 2022
Good
5 out of 5
November 22, 2022
Dr. Rivers was excellent
5 out of 5
November 12, 2022
As I said previously, I am very happy with the treatment I received.
5 out of 5
November 12, 2022
I will just repeat what I said previously. I am delighted by how quickly I was helped.
4.2 out of 5
November 11, 2022
Good
5 out of 5
November 3, 2022
More that satisfied and more than comfortable with my experience with TDS. I feel confident and have trust in the professionals there when it comes to surgery and care for my dental health.
5 out of 5
November 1, 2022
Excellent bedside manner
5 out of 5
November 1, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised by the experience provided by Dr. Rivers. He did everything just about perfectly in terms of care and service. Truly an exceptional experience. I hope I don't need to see him again but would definitely return as needed.
5 out of 5
October 20, 2022
He made sure that I knew what to expect throughout the whole process, talking to me as he worked. Although I did not feel anxious, I realized that this was a very reassuring practice.
5 out of 5
October 19, 2022
Experience was awesome! I was very happy with the experience!
5 out of 5
October 14, 2022
Thank you I appreciated the follow up call the nxt day.
5 out of 5
September 29, 2022
You are always well informed
5 out of 5
September 29, 2022
Great knowledge of what he is doing keeps me relaxed.
5 out of 5
September 28, 2022
I wasn't nervous at all - the tooth hurt enough that I was looking forward to getting it out!
5 out of 5
September 28, 2022
As noted before, I was very happy that Dr. Rivers was able to carve out time amongst his scheduled patients to see and treat me. He was efficient and thorough without seeming to rush things. Overall I was very impressed.
4.4 out of 5
August 24, 2022
I began to feel sick while they were working and the team immediately stopped, adjusted my chair back and let me steady my anxiety and take a break until I was ready again. They made me feel comfortable and did not pressure me to begin again but gave me all the time I needed and talked me through the rest of the work. They did a fabulous job!
5 out of 5
August 17, 2022
Excellent experience for an extraction. Very professional.
5 out of 5
August 17, 2022
Made me feel super comfortable even thought I was nervous and explained everything thoroughly for me.
5 out of 5
August 11, 2022
My daughter was very nervous. Dr rivers took the time to explain to her and she was more comfortable by the end. In her words "best dentist ever"
5 out of 5
August 9, 2022
Dr.Rivers made me very comfortable and did a excellent job
5 out of 5
July 28, 2022
Dr. Rivers gave very good explanations to all of my questions and concerns. I was very pleased with how the tooth extraction and implant went !
5 out of 5
July 28, 2022
I was anxious before coming in for the appointment - I had never even met Dr. Rivers, but his assistant and Dr. Rivers immediately put me at ease .
5 out of 5
July 26, 2022
I MANAGE A GENERAL DENTIST OFFICE AND WILL BE RECOMENDING YOU TO OUR PATIENTS WHO HAVE U-CARE
5 out of 5
July 20, 2022
Well appreciated excellent successful experience. I had been suffering with cold sensitivity for over a year until the tooth broke. My previous dental office continually told me they didn't know why I was experiencing pain. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Rivers expertise in removing the tooth. No more sensitivity!
5 out of 5
July 19, 2022
My son had a last minute wisom teeth extraction due to severe pain. Every step of the way was made so smoothly by the dental staff we came in conact with. This was my first experience and it could not have gone any smoother from start to finish for Sam. Thank you so much!
5 out of 5
July 18, 2022
Dr. Rivers does such an excellent job. Makes you feel comfortable. Always lets you know what he is doing to you. Always asks how you are feeling. I have a lot of faith in him.
5 out of 5
June 28, 2022
Very impressed
5 out of 5
June 26, 2022
The dentist was excellent!!
4.6 out of 5
June 24, 2022
My daughter said she had a good experience - especially considering what was being done.
5 out of 5
June 16, 2022
Both the dentist and the assistant were awesome!!
5 out of 5
June 13, 2022
Excellent team!!
5 out of 5
June 13, 2022
Best experience
5 out of 5
June 6, 2022
Again, there is no more I wish to add. My experience here has been much more pleasant than I had anticipated.
4 out of 5
May 14, 2022
Good
5 out of 5
May 9, 2022
Everything was great! The staff was polite and friendly. The dentist thorough and professional. I had a tooth pulled, and there has been no pain or discomfort at all! Excellent!
5 out of 5
May 6, 2022
Described things in a way you can easily understand.
5 out of 5
May 2, 2022
Both Dr. River's and his assistant were knowledgeable, kind, showed genuine interest in me. They immediately put me at ease. I am so thankful for a positive experience.
5 out of 5
April 29, 2022
He was very thorough and clear and was easy to talk to.
5 out of 5
April 12, 2022
Dr. Rivers and his assistant are the very best.True professionals
5 out of 5
April 6, 2022
Dr. Rivers was very good and explained very thoroughly what was going to happen
5 out of 5
March 31, 2022
Both Drs. Explained my options very well, Answered repeat questions professionally which helped me make a informed decision.
5 out of 5
March 28, 2022
Everything was explained very clearly. He also listen to me to take breaks.
5 out of 5
March 28, 2022
Good!
5 out of 5
March 28, 2022
I liked Dr. Rivers!
5 out of 5
March 16, 2022
Excellent experience
5 out of 5
March 11, 2022
Each step of my visit was communicated to me well with very little wait time.
5 out of 5
March 11, 2022
I don't enjoy going to the dentist, but everyone does a great job of making it the best possible experience.
5 out of 5
March 11, 2022
Both the assistant and dentist were attentive to my needs. Each explained the process very well and made sure I understood and was comfortable.
5 out of 5
March 7, 2022
Dr. Rivers was very personable as well as knowledgeable and professional.
5 out of 5
March 3, 2022
Thank you!
5 out of 5
March 3, 2022
I have additional issues and he guided me on my next steps for those. I appreciate the help and the recommendation for someone who will help.
5 out of 5
February 28, 2022
I was able to be seen right on time, which was great!
5 out of 5
February 28, 2022
Both assistant Kim and Dr. Rivers were amazing. They were very good about explaining everything to me.
5 out of 5
February 28, 2022
I was very nervous about this appointment and all team members front to back were very supportive and patient with me.
5 out of 5
February 26, 2022
GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
5 out of 5
February 26, 2022
Doctor Rivers answered all my questions. He gave me a topical anaesthetiic by injection that I COULD NOT FEEL!!!!!!! And he followed with needle injections that I also could not feel!!!!!!!!!!!! He very quickly pulled the molar in question, and this was completely painless!!!!!!!! Bleeding was easily controlled . HE GAVE ME DIRECTIONS FOR after care that were easy to understand and were included in my take home kit. I had forgotten to ask him if there was any evidence of infection in the tooth, a question that my neurosurgeon had wanted me to ask.. Dr. Rivers assured me that the tooth was not infected and he did not recommend any f/u or treatment for Infection. Dr. McGivers, was pleased to hear this reassureance since I had.falllen at home and MRI showed I had fractured my DBS electrode. You can imagine what a helpflul encounter this was for me !!!!!!!!!
5 out of 5
February 14, 2022
Dr. Rivers is outstanding, he turned an uncomfortable procedure into a piece of cake.
4.8 out of 5
January 7, 2022
Very knowledgeable
5 out of 5
December 17, 2021
Very professional
5 out of 5
December 17, 2021
Everything went very smoothly and I appreciated the COVID protocols
5 out of 5
December 17, 2021
Excellent. They did a good job of making me feel comfortable
5 out of 5
December 17, 2021
Bothe dental assistant and the dentist were excellent. They explained very clearly what options for treatment were available to me with no pressure to follow any particular one. During the procedure the dentist kept me informed of what I could expect to feel, what he was doing in real time, what the different sounds meant. Having a tooth pulled may not be the greatest experience but they certainly made it as good as it could be. Excellent!!
5 out of 5
December 15, 2021
Great experience during the treatment (tooth extraction)
4.2 out of 5
November 14, 2021
The dental assistant and doctor made me very comfortable throughout the tooth extraction. I had very little pain.
4 out of 5
November 14, 2021
I don't typically give "Very Good" answers, but considering this was a somewhat extensive procedure, I felt everybody did a great job.
5 out of 5
November 8, 2021
Dr. Rivers was excellent!! He gave a professional opinion as to what he thought were good options for me as a patient. He was ethical and professional...I have already recommended him to others!
5 out of 5
November 8, 2021
Both dental assistant and dentist were very supportive
5 out of 5
November 8, 2021
I appreciated the skill of the doctor and the review of my follow up document by his assistant. I was relieved and grateful for such a positive experience.
5 out of 5
October 26, 2021
Without a doubt I would recommend Dr. Rivers and The Dental Specialists staff. They were professional, kind, understanding and dare I say even made an emergency oral surgery fun. I cannot thank you all enough.
5 out of 5
October 8, 2021
Dr. Rivers was very informative about the procedure and talked about implants. The whole procedure went smooth. The dental assistant answered all my questions and was very thorough.
5 out of 5
October 8, 2021
Relaxed atmosphere, super nice personnel. Quick, . Was pleased with containment of bleeding post extraction, slept first night without pain meds, little discomfort 3 days after, while it heals. Thank you! Pleasant experience.
5 out of 5
September 27, 2021
Love Dr. Rivers
5 out of 5
September 11, 2021
Had extraction done, good from beginning to end
5 out of 5
September 4, 2021
Everything went very well and smooth once I was brought back, I had some nerves and concerns. They were all taken care of in a timely manner
5 out of 5
September 2, 2021
Again, great service and very knowledgeable and able answer questions quickly
5 out of 5
September 2, 2021
The experience overall was great. They listened to the needs of my daughter and made her feel comfortable by answering all of her questions. The staff throughout the entire clinic were great.
5 out of 5
August 30, 2021
I have extreme dentist anxiety. They both really helped reduce my anxiety and were patient with me. I was allowed to play my own relaxing music and was explained what they were doing as they went along the procedure
5 out of 5
August 16, 2021
Dr Rivers is the epitome of what I'd like in an oral surgeon. He researches questions, explains options extremely well, even looked at a picture I sent him in an email when I had a cold and didn't want to expose the staff. He explains the options for treatment, and works incredibly well with my dentist and me. And his assistants have taught me a lot as well. I've learned a lot from all of the people I've worked with there, and I've been very happy with my treatments.
5 out of 5
August 13, 2021
Both DA and Dentist were terrific
5 out of 5
August 13, 2021
Could not ask better care and service. Everyone was so helpful.
5 out of 5
August 13, 2021
He was just too nice and professional in his conduct
5 out of 5
August 10, 2021
Dr.Rivers was very good, very fast and pain free extractions. I was very anxious so this made the process easier.
5 out of 5
August 9, 2021
Dr. Rivers is excellent at his job
5 out of 5
August 6, 2021
Can not tell you, he was patient, he listened to me.
4.2 out of 5
August 5, 2021
The oral surgeon was great in providing information about the surgery.
4.6 out of 5
July 12, 2021
The support staff is exceptional.
4.6 out of 5
July 12, 2021
I do not listen well when my teeth are involved. I was not certain of the timeline of my treatment and could not explain it clearly to my wife. The treatment itself was great.
5 out of 5
July 9, 2021
The assistant and dentist were reassuring and compassionate
5 out of 5
July 4, 2021
Very easy appointment from start to finish. Information was presented verbally and estimate was given immediately.
5 out of 5
June 28, 2021
He was very nice and explained things very well to me
5 out of 5
June 14, 2021
Everyone was great! Very helpful with assisting me in making a decision regarding the next step.
5 out of 5
June 3, 2021
The dentist was friendly and informative.
4.7 out of 5
May 21, 2021
good visit.
5 out of 5
May 14, 2021
Dr. Rivers explained everything clearly and was also very patient in answering my questions. He had a fabulous bedside manner. He was very reassuring and approachable.
5 out of 5
April 23, 2021
I am very pleased with Dr. Rivers. He is willing to spend time going over questions I have so that I fully understand what we are going to do. He is extremely patient and very knowledgeable.
5 out of 5
April 6, 2021
excellent care
5 out of 5
April 1, 2021
Treatment plan was very clear and in writing, very helpful.
4.3 out of 5
March 23, 2021
The assistant/nurse did all the beginning q&a and aftercare steps. The Dr/Surgeon did the extraction. He had a difficult time as the root was crooked, so it took him the full time with that. It was rushed a little at the end because of the difficulty, and me without insurance I didn't want to pay for any extras/add'l. So overall I was very satisfied/happy, as I didn't pay extra. The nurse/assistant could have been a non-surgical dentist too.
5 out of 5
March 11, 2021
very professional and kind!
5 out of 5
February 25, 2021
Dr. Rivers was wonderful! ended up nerding out on the radiography a little bit and he was honest with me about the level of concern for my roots.
4.7 out of 5
February 9, 2021
every staff member smiling and good communication. Dr. Rivers very kind,very thorough, non judgemental, great person and professional skills. trust him. hopefully conscious that I don't want a broken tooth and the high cost. couldn't I just have gas thru a mask to save me lots of money???
5 out of 5
February 8, 2021
The dentist is my least favorite place but the dental assistant and Dr. Chris made me feel calm before/during my procedure.
5 out of 5
February 4, 2021
excellent service.
5 out of 5
January 24, 2021
They were very thorough.
5 out of 5
January 19, 2021
So non-judgemental. It was wonderful
5 out of 5
January 15, 2021
Doctor was very professional.
5 out of 5
January 14, 2021
I had emailed a couple of questions in advance of the tooth extraction. Dr. Rivers took the time to research my concerns and thoroughly explained his answers. I could NOT have been more pleased with how seriously he addressed my questions. The dental assistant was also excellent as were the people who helped with scheduling. The scheduling manager was great in making sure I understood how much it was going to cost. Really first rate experience with every individual involved in my visit. Thank you, all.
5 out of 5
January 13, 2021
doctor was great!
5 out of 5
October 2, 2020
Very satisfied with the service I received from the dental assistant and oral surgeon!
2.7 out of 5
September 21, 2020
I had to rush everything so I could get back to work. I understand seeing multiple people in a day, but it was frustrating that I had to rush my experience.
5 out of 5
September 14, 2020
This was an exceptional dentist, I was very impressed. He answered all my questions, gave me needed tips I didn't ask for was not in a rush to get to the next patient, spent as much time with me as I needed and was personable. I think I detected a bit of a sense of humor. He did not feel sad for me with the procedure he was just matter of fact. This is where we are and this is where we need to go. As he was working on me he explained what he was doing which was very comforting. Explained when he completed a step and moving on to the next. I hope he treats all of his patience like he treated me. Never change or if you have to change only get better.
4 out of 5
September 4, 2020
This was the first time having this doctor and hence my apprehension with him. He did a good job and I would feel comfortable coming back to him.