Meet the Doctors of Shemen Dental
Our doctors at Shemen Dental Group look forward to meeting you and providing dental services to patients of all ages.
Eddy Sauer, DDS
Shemen Dental Group is your trusted choice for dentistry in Amarillo. Our team provides exceptional oral care tailored to your unique needs. The practice began when brothers Dr. Eddy and Dr. Scott Sauer merged their dental offices into one.
Choosing the right name wasn’t easy. While reading the Psalms, Dr. Eddy discovered the word “oil,” a term associated with anointing and healing. In Hebrew, this word translates to “Shemen.” The brothers felt it perfectly symbolized their mission: creating a place of healing for all patients. Since that moment, Shemen Dental Group has remained committed to compassionate, patient-focused care.
Community Involvement
Dr. Sauer actively participates in the local community. From 1990 to 1995, he served as a member of the WTAMU Alumni Association Board and later became the president of the Panhandle District Dental Society in 2001. Since 2007, he has been a board member of the Turn Center Foundation, a nonprofit offering therapy services for children with physical disabilities. In 2012, he was elected as the foundation’s president.
Dr. Sauer also serves on the board of Streams of Water Ministries. This organization supports communities in Mexico by providing food, clothing, and other essentials. Their orphanage, Rescue a Child, houses 20 Tarahumara Indian children and shares the love of Jesus with those who have been abandoned or forgotten.
Dr. Sauer has been married to his wife, Tina, for over 40 years. Together, they have four daughters and two granddaughters. The Sauers are active members of Messiah’s House, a nondenominational church in Amarillo.
Advanced Training and Continuing Education
Dr. Sauer has completed extensive training and certifications, including:
- Fellowship Award with the Academy of General Dentistry (500+ hours of FAGD/MAGD continuing education)
- Six continuum levels at the LD Pankey Institute`
- LSU Dental School Esthetic Continuum
- Over 200 hours of continuing education in implant dentistry
- Alumni of the Dawson Academy
Nathaniel M. Avirett, DDS
A proud native of Amarillo, Texas, Dr. Nathaniel Avirett graduated from Amarillo High School before earning his bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University in 2007. Deeply committed to his community, he has always valued serving his family and neighbors.
Dr. Avirett places significant importance on recognizing the worth of each individual, which has brought him great fulfillment in the dental field.
Commitment to Education and Professional Growth
Dr. Avirett strongly believes that education and experience are essential for providing quality dental care. After earning his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry in 2011, he pursued additional training at the prestigious Pankey Institute. Currently, he is working toward his Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry.
He actively participates in several professional organizations, including:
- American Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Pankey Alumni Association
- American Academy of Cosmetic Orthodontics
Faith, Family, and Community
Dr. Avirett is a devoted husband to his wife, Dr. Erin Avirett. Together, they enjoy raising their three children—two sons and a daughter. Outside of his professional life, he loves spending quality time with his family and exploring the outdoors. His favorite activities include hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking.
In addition to his family commitments, Dr. Avirett served in the Texas Army National Guard, with the rank of Captain. He is also an active member of his church and remains deeply involved in community service.
Ben Padilla, DDS
Dr. Padilla was born in Glendale, AZ, into a proud military family. In 1975, his family moved to Canyon, TX, where he graduated from Amarillo High School. He earned his first degree in Finance from West Texas State University in 1984.
Later, in 1996, he completed a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from West Texas A&M University. Driven by his passion for healthcare, Dr. Padilla pursued his Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, graduating in 2002.
A Dedicated Dental Career
Dr. Padilla began his career at Kids Kare in New Mexico, focusing on pediatric care as a general dentist. In 2006, he returned to Amarillo, where he continues to serve his community. His work as a general dentist emphasizes compassionate care, with a special focus on pediatric dentistry.
Family, Fitness, and Community
Family holds a special place in Dr. Padilla’s life. He treasures time spent with his loved ones, including his nieces and nephews, and remains devoted to caring for his elderly father.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Padilla is a lifelong fitness enthusiast. A runner since seventh grade, he enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and trail running in Palo Duro Canyon.
Faith and Approachability
Dr. Padilla’s faith is central to his personal and professional life, guiding his interactions with patients and the community. Known for his friendly and approachable demeanor, he strives to make every patient feel comfortable and cared for during their visit.
Prioritizing Your Oral Health at Every Stage of Life.
Shemen Dental is a Trusted Dental Provider For Patients of All Ages
Shemen Dental priority is to build lasting relationships with patients while providing compassion and guidance on their oral health journey. Whether it’s your child’s first dental visit or adults and seniors with advanced treatment, our friendly staff is here to support your smile every step of the way.
