WELCOME
Conveniently located on Keene Street in Columbia, Missouri, our office provides modern dentistry in an enthusiastic, friendly and inviting environment.
Our Team

Dr. Stuart Pickens Dr. Stuart Pickens

I am a graduate of Mizzou, class of 1976. After completing my undergraduate degree at Mizzou in 1976, I went on to graduate from UMKC Dental School and then completed my residency in Pediatric Dentistry in 1983. I practiced in Slidell, LA for 14 years before moving back to Missouri.

My wife Kay and I have 5 boys. Our first/oldest graduated from MU last year – School of Engenering – IT and we currently have another son at MU-freshman and one at Columbia College Graphic Arts – 5/09 Graduation. The other two are students at Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas. Freshman & Junior

My goal is to make dentistry for children as pleasant an experience as possible. Frequently we find that children who have had bad experiences in the dental office have fears of dental treatment that continue throughout their lives. For this reason, we often treat young children using sedation or when necessary general anesthesia.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests that parents bring their child in for his/her first visit about age one (1) and I fully support that recommendation. The reason for this early visit is to make sure the child is not susceptible to early childhood decay, consult with the parent on proper home care, and provide any preventive care such as fluoride varnish if it is warranted. We also are able to comment on the development of the child’s teeth and growth patterns. This early visit also helps me establish a rapport with the child and build a trusting relationship. I look forward to seeing you and your child and assure you that we will treat him/her with kindness and respect.
Dr. Kyle LisenbyDr. Kyle Lisenby

At a young age, Dr. Lisenby developed a passion for science and a desire to help other people. Being your dentist gives him the privilege to help improve your health, appearance, and confidence. He has an incredible god-given ability to repair worn, decayed or discolored teeth. If you are looking for quality dental care that will last a long time, Dr. Lisenby is the best dentist for you. Quality dentistry takes precision and attention to detail. He never rushes or compromises the level of care you deserve. Even if you have had a negative dental experience in the past, you have made an excellent choice by scheduling a visit with Dr. Lisenby. Here is a little background on our doctor so you can get to know him before your time with us!

Education: Graduating from the University of Illinois, he received his Bachelor of Science as a microbiologist. He enjoyed the intricate work and meticulous nature of the laboratory, but he missed the interaction with people. Driven by his desire to help others, he earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine outside St. Louis. There he excelled and graduated Cum Laude and in the top 10% of his dental class! He received multiple distinguished awards including “Most Outstanding Student in Implant Dentistry” and the “Waterpik Prosthodontic Award” for exceptional skill in crowns, bridges, and dentures.

Community Involvement: Very involved in the dental community, Dr. Lisenby is a member of the American Dental Association, Missouri Dental Association, and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. He also serves as the Vice President of the Columbia Dental Society. Dr. Lisenby has also philanthropically set aside his time and skills to the underserved population of Missouri and abroad by donating dental treatment to intercity St. Louis children and impoverished Jamaican citizens through dental mission trips. Dr. Lisenby and his family are members of The Crossing Presbyterian Church here in Columbia.

Continuing Education: Maintaining his edge is a top priority for Dr. Lisenby. He strongly believes that to be at the forefront of dental care one must deep current with the latest advancements in the field. He regularly attends numerous continuing education courses all over the country, pursuing a strong background in implant, cosmetic, and conscious sedation dentistry. He has completed course work at the Aligntech Institute where he became a certified ClearCorrect provider, and he has also completed course work under Dr. Gordon Christensen and Dr. Frank Spear, dentistry’s most recognized and respected instructors.

Dr. Lisenby’s Perspective: “My priority is to provide a comfortable environment where our team can focus on your concerns. Our entire team is committed to treating you with personalized, gentle care. I consider myself a dental consultant and advocate instead just another doctor telling you what you need. My approach to your dental care starts with listening. After our examination together, I will discuss the choices you have to repair your teeth and smile so that you may make an informed decision, the right decision for you at the time.”

After working with Dr. Lisenby, the staff at Plaza Dental Group believes that of all Dr. Lisenby’s attributes, his compassion and respect for his patients is paramount. He is dedicated to treating patients as if they were family members. Dr. Lisenby and his wife, Andrea, reside in Columbia in Millcreek Manor subdivision. When he is not in the office, you might spot Dr. Lisenby on the MTK Trail biking or training for an upcoming marathon. Dr. and Mrs. Lisenby also enjoy taking in Cardinals games and rooting the Missouri Tigers on to victory. Go Mizzou!
Dr. Suleyman Gulmen Dr. Suleyman Gulmen

I was born in Bulgaria and grew up in Turkey where I attended and graduated from Hacettepe University Dental School in 1968. I came to the United State to attend graduate school at the University of Minnesota where I graduated with a MSD in Oral Pathology in 1972 and followed with a residency in General Pathology at in 1974. I was offered a teaching position at the prestigious Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri in 1974. Once here in Missouri I decided to pursue my American Dental degree (DMD) which I obtained from Washington University in 1977 and followed by specializing in orthodontics from St. Louis University graduating in 1985. I have been in private practice as an orthodontist for 23 years and I am proud to be a Professor at St. Louis University Orthodontic Graduate Program where I still teach part-time.

I believe orthodontics should be about not just fixing crooked teeth, but also to improve the patient’s facial profile, and bite relationship which in turn improves self esteem and self confidence.

For the last 34 years I have called Missouri my home where I raised two children and where I have helped over 5,000 patients achieve a beautiful smile. I love what I do - help people, mostly children, improve their self confidence and make their smile a reflection of who they are on the inside. I am happy to be part of the Plaza Dental Group, where we are in business to see you smile!
Dr. Suleyman Gulmen Dr. Arthur Misischia

Dr. Misischia is a graduate of Washington University Dental School, and an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon certified by the Missouri Dental Board to perform general anesthesia in an outpatient setting. He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the National Board of Anesthesiology, and a Fellow of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He is certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and in Pediatric Advanced Life Support.

Dr. Misischia is certified to administer General Anesthesia for patients in the convenience of our office.