Dr. Ryan Buehner

DMD, MAGD, AIAOMT, SMART Certified Dentist

Dr. Ryan Buehner: A Legacy of Care, A Master of Innovation, A Second-Generation Foundation

Dr. Ryan Buehner is a second-generation dentist following the legacy of his father, Earl J. Buehner, Jr., DDS. His immersion in the world of dentistry began at birth; he lived in the apartment directly above his father’s dental practice in Minersville for 16 years. This unique upbringing instilled in him a deep respect for the profession and a “hometown doctor” approach to patient relationships that remains the heart of his practice today.

Education and the “Disney Difference”

A 1996 graduate of Minersville Area Jr/Sr High School, Dr. Buehner earned his B.S. in Life Science from Penn State University’s Eberly College of Science. During his time at Penn State, he balanced a rigorous academic load with diverse roles, from working stage crew at the Bryce Jordan Center to teaching swim lessons.

Notably, Dr. Buehner spent a semester in the Walt Disney World College Program as a lifeguard at the Contemporary Resort. This experience proved foundational, teaching him the gold standard of “guest-first” service and hospitality that he brings to every patient interaction today. He went on to graduate from Temple University Dental School in 2005.

Growth and Practice Leadership

After five years of dedicated mentorship, Dr. Buehner founded Hershey Dental Associates, LLC in Hummelstown in 2010. Over the last decade, he has transformed the practice into a premier regional provider with over 30 employees across two locations: Hummelstown and his hometown of Minersville.

Clinical Mastery and Biological Health

Dr. Buehner is committed to the philosophy that dental health is integral to total body wellness. Over the last 20 years, his relentless pursuit of continuing education has earned him the most prestigious distinctions in the field:

• Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD): Awarded July 2022.
• Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD): Awarded June 2018.
• AIAOMT (Accredited Member): Earned through the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology in September 2017.
• SMART Certified: Trained in the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique since 2015.
• Ozone Trained: Expertly trained in the application of medical-grade ozone for non-invasive disinfection.
• LLSR Candidate: Currently working toward his Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition.

Advanced Focus Points & Technology

Dr. Buehner stays at the absolute forefront of dental science, investing in the most advanced tools and biocompatible techniques available:

• Biocompatibility Testing: Utilizing BioComp Laboratories blood testing to identify the most compatible dental materials for each patient.
• Airway Evaluation: Comprehensive assessments to identify breathing and sleep-related issues.
• ClearCorrect Aligner Therapy: Providing a discreet, clear aligner alternative to traditional braces.
• Laser Dentistry: Utilizing an impressive suite of 7 different lasers for minimally invasive, high-precision treatments.
• Zirconia Implant Specialist: Expertly trained in the placement and restoration of Zirconia (metal-free) implants.
• Regenerative Dentistry (PRF): Specialized training in Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) for superior biocompatible healing.

Life Beyond the Practice

When he isn’t in the office or attending continuing education courses, Dr. Buehner is deeply involved in local life. He resides within the Lower Dauphin School District with his wife, Jen, their two sons, Clayton and Gavin, and their three cats.

A dedicated father and community member, Dr. Buehner can often be found at the local recreation fields coaching his boys in basketball and lacrosse. The Buehner family takes great pride in supporting the local schools and the Lower Dauphin community, as well as the surrounding communities that have supported his practices for years. Whether he is in the dental chair or on the sidelines, his goal remains the same: supporting the health, growth, and success of the community he calls home.

Dr. Jeffrey Fortna

DMD, SMART Certified Dentist

Dr. Jeffrey Fortna is a dedicated and experienced dentist who has spent his life serving the central Pennsylvania community. He earned his biology degree and later his dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania. After dental school, he began his career in Lebanon, PA, before establishing his own practice in Hummelstown, where he served patients for 25 years. Dr. Fortna later joined Hershey Dental Associates, bringing with him advanced training in implantology, facial aesthetics, and mercury-safe dentistry. He is certified in Botox, dermal fillers, and the safe removal of metal fillings. Outside of the office, Dr. Fortna enjoys spending time with his wife, Shawn, to whom he’s been married for over 30 years, and their grown children, Weston and Madison. He also enjoys sports, outdoor adventures, and traveling.

Dr. Matthew Griffith

DMD, SMART Certified Dentist

Dr. Matthew Griffith, known to patients as Dr. Matt, grew up in Minersville, PA with an early interest in science and healthcare. He earned his bachelor’s degree in life science from Penn State University in 2012 before attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine, where he received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2017. Dr. Griffith began his career practicing general dentistry in Las Vegas, then returned to Pennsylvania to join Hershey Dental Associates. He remains committed to advancing his knowledge through both online and in-person continuing education. In his free time, Dr. Griffith enjoys live music, traveling, watching reality TV, and spending time with friends, family, and his two cats.

Dr. Frederick Minium

DDS, SMART Certified Dentist

Dr. Frederick Minium, DDS, is a compassionate and highly skilled dental professional committed to providing exceptional care in a comfortable, patient-focused environment. As a SMART-certified dentist, Dr. Minium follows the safest protocols for mercury amalgam removal, prioritizing patient health and overall wellness. His approach to dentistry combines clinical precision with a genuine concern for each individual’s needs, ensuring that every patient feels heard, respected, and well-informed about their care. With a strong foundation in preventive and restorative dentistry, Dr. Minium utilizes advanced techniques and modern technology to deliver high-quality results with minimal discomfort. Patients appreciate his calm demeanor, thorough explanations, and personalized treatment plans that reflect both his expertise and his dedication to long-term oral health. Dr. Minium is proud to help patients achieve healthier, more beautiful smiles.

Dr. Giacomo DiNicola

DMD, SMART Certified Dentist

Dr. Giacomo DiNicola is a detail-oriented and compassionate dentist dedicated to delivering excellent care through a patient-first philosophy. With a strong clinical foundation and a sincere commitment to personalized treatment, Dr. DiNicola ensures that each individual receives the attention and respect they deserve. He approaches dentistry with a thoughtful balance of scientific knowledge and gentle communication, helping patients feel confident and comfortable every step of the way. Whether performing routine preventive care or more advanced procedures, Dr. DiNicola focuses on long-term health, function, and aesthetics. His calm demeanor, thorough explanations, and genuine concern for patient well-being make him a valued and trusted provider among those he serves.

Dr. Maura Burns

DMD

Dr. Maura C. Burns is a warm, patient‑centered general dentist who is proud to care for the families of Central Pennsylvania. Originally from Scranton, she has always loved the familiarity, connection, and community spirit of a hometown environment—something she brings into every interaction with her patients at Hershey Dental Associates.

Dr. Burns earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University, where she developed a strong foundation in comprehensive, evidence‑based dentistry. Before dental school, she studied at the University of Scranton, completing a major in Biology, a minor in Biochemistry, and additional studies in History, reflecting her curiosity and her appreciation for both science and the human experience.

Patients know Dr. Burns for her gentle approach, her ability to listen deeply, and her commitment to making every visit comfortable and positive. She believes in empowering patients through education, building trust, and creating long‑term relationships that support lifelong oral health.

Outside the office, Dr. Burns enjoys reading, playing pickleball, and spending time with her fiancé, Jaime, and her close‑knit family. Whether she’s relaxing with a good book or enjoying a weekend with loved ones, she brings the same warmth and authenticity that define her work as a clinician.

Dr. Burns is excited to be part of the Hershey Dental Associates team and looks forward to caring for the community she now calls home.