At Hite Family Dentistry, we believe great care goes beyond treatments; it’s about building trusting, respectful relationships with our patients. We are on a mission to create a comfortable, welcoming space where all ages feel at home and in control of their dental health. Whether you’re here for a routine cleaning or a complex procedure, we’ll take the time to listen, explain, and ensure your experience is positive from start to finish.
The Core Values That Guide Our Team
We are proud to be part of your journey toward lifelong dental health and well-being. The following are core values that inform everything we do: 
- Integrity — We uphold the highest ethical standards in every aspect of our practice, ensuring transparency, honesty, and respect in all interactions.
- Compassion — We provide empathetic and personalized care, treating each patient with kindness and understanding and always prioritizing their comfort and well-being.
- Excellence — We strive for the highest quality in dental care through continuous learning, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients.
- Trust — We build lasting relationships based on respect in an environment where patients feel confident in their care and comfortable sharing their concerns.
- Innovation — We embrace advancements in dentistry and integrate the latest innovations to improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience.
- Teamwork — We foster a collaborative and supportive work culture that values each team member’s contributions and upholds our common goal of excellent patient care.
- Education — We are dedicated to furthering our knowledge of dentistry by pursuing professional development and incorporating new innovations.
Our amazing team members are committed to your comfort and oral health. Please take a few moments to read their bios to learn how they contribute to your experience.
Dr. Ben Hite
Dr. Ben Hite is the owner and lead dentist at Hite Family Dentistry. He received his undergraduate education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine in 2008. Growing up in a military family and initially planning a career as a dental lab technician alongside his father, Dr. Hite ultimately found his true calling in dentistry. His journey from lab work to patient care has deeply influenced his hands-on, meticulous approach to dentistry and has shaped his commitment to clinical excellence.
Known for his dedication to continual learning, Dr. Hite has completed advanced training, including a McGarry Implant Mini-Residency, endodontic seminars, and soft-tissue laser certification. His passion for technology and innovation—spanning 3D printing, same-day crowns, and other cutting-edge advancements—empowers him to deliver optimal care that combines function, aesthetics, and comfort for every patient. He loves seeing patients regain their confidence, knowing they can eat their favorite foods and smile proudly.
Dr. Hite’s approach to dentistry is centered around a philosophy of patient-first care and a commitment to quality. He’s dedicated to helping patients enjoy a lifetime of health and confidence by addressing their dental needs with empathy, precision, and the latest technology. With a reputation for being both a perfectionist and a light-hearted presence around the office, he works closely with his team to create a positive, welcoming environment for all.
Outside the office, Dr. Hite is a family man who loves spending time with his wife, Beth, an orthodontist, and their three children, Nolan, Brynna, and Braelyn. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoys golf, fishing, pickleball, basketball, skiing, and adventure travel. Known for his sense of humor, he’s always ready to share a laugh, whether he’s at work or play. Plus, he has a unique claim to fame: he’s lived through a variety of natural disasters, from earthquakes to typhoons, making him resilient and well-rounded in his life and practice.
Dr. Hite invites all patients to experience the unique blend of expertise, compassion, and humor that defines Hite Family Dentistry.
Dr. Nicole Kniffin
Dr. Kniffin has been practicing dentistry since 2005 and joined the Hite Family Dentistry team in May 2022. She completed her undergraduate degree at Eastern Illinois University and earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. She furthered her expertise through an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at Scott Air Force Base.
For Dr. Kniffin, the best part of working at Hite Family Dentistry is being surrounded by a team of caring, passionate individuals who genuinely love helping people. She particularly enjoys working with patients who have avoided the dentist for years due to anxiety, and she takes great pride in helping them complete their treatment, especially using sedation to make the process more comfortable.
Inspired by her mother’s 42-year career in the medical field, Dr. Kniffin was drawn to dentistry to continue the legacy of helping people when they are in need. Her passion for making a difference in her patients' lives motivates her daily.
Outside of the office, Dr. Kniffin loves to travel, hike, sew, and read. She is also actively involved in her church, Hope Chapel, and enjoys attending concerts to see her favorite musicians and comedians. A fun fact about Dr. Kniffin? She and her family occasionally work together on a hosta farm, and she knows the lyrics to a lot of songs!
Dr. Marisa Blickhan
Dr. Blickhan graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine in 2024 and joined the Hite Family Dentistry team shortly after. With a background in biological sciences and minors in forensic sciences and chemistry, she brings a diverse and well-rounded perspective to her dental practice.
One of Dr. Blickhan’s greatest passions in dentistry is helping patients overcome their dental anxiety. She finds deep fulfillment in seeing patients leave the office with a positive outlook, knowing their experience was manageable and genuinely uplifting. Turning their concerns into newfound confidence is incredibly rewarding for her.
Dr. Blickhan also loves the collaborative atmosphere at Hite Family Dentistry. The spirit of teamwork and mutual support among her colleagues ensures that every day is rewarding and productive, allowing them to provide the highest quality care for their patients.
A natural problem-solver and perfectionist, Dr. Blickhan felt drawn to dentistry from a young age. Her passion for helping others and attention to detail make dentistry the perfect career for her.
In her spare time, Dr. Blickhan enjoys trying new things—whether it’s discovering new restaurants, traveling, or attending concerts and comedy shows. She also loves hobbies like embroidery and working on jigsaw puzzles. And a fun fact about Dr. Blickhan? She’s a big fan of reality TV!
Kendra
Office Manager
Kendra has been an integral part of our team since 2017. Her role involves assisting doctors, team members, and patients with any questions, concerns, or decisions that arise. Kendra excels at implementing systems and handling changes, aiming to ensure the team can reach their fullest potential. She describes her role as the one to dot the I's and cross the T's behind the scenes.
Kendra earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), and her training has been honed through hands-on experience in the dental office. She deeply values the trust and responsibility placed in her and particularly appreciates Dr. Hite’s ethical standards and patient-centric approach. She finds it deeply rewarding to work closely with patients to discuss their treatments and know they receive the best care possible.
The sense of family and shared goals within the team is what Kendra cherishes most. She takes pride in knowing that together, they significantly impact their patients' lives while supporting each other and the success of the practice.
Outside of work, Kendra enjoys spending time in nature, whether it’s being around water or exercising outdoors. Her unique hobby is taking unplanned road trips, enjoying the thrill of seeing where the road takes her without a set route or destination. A fun fact about Kendra is that she is a self-proclaimed game show junkie and could watch them all day.
Keva
Registered Hygienist/Treatment Coordinator
Keva’s path to dentistry began after attending a dental hygiene open house with a neighbor, she realized she had found her calling. Now, with over 20 years of experience, she has helped patients achieve their dental goals and feel more confident in their smiles. As a registered dental hygienist and treatment coordinator, Keva works closely with patients to understand their dental needs, helping them explore their treatment options and guiding them toward optimal oral health.
Keva began her dental career in 2000 and has been part of the Hite Family Dentistry team since 2012. She is especially proud to be part of a team Dr. Hite has assembled, where positive energy and genuine enjoyment for the work create a wonderful environment for the team and patients.
Outside the office, Keva enjoys an active lifestyle, including hiking, paddle boarding with her daughter and nieces, and traveling to new places. Though her career in dental hygiene has been rewarding, Keva jokes that if life had taken a different turn, she might have become an MMA fighter.
Annie
Registered Dental Hygienist
Annie's dental journey began with a part-time job in college, making deliveries for a local dental lab. Every office she visited seemed filled with people who genuinely loved their work, and that inspired her to pursue a career in dentistry. More than two decades later, Annie has built a rewarding career as a dental hygienist, and she’s proud to be part of the Hite Family Dentistry team.
Annie joined the practice in 2023, bringing over 20 years of experience and a passion for building meaningful relationships with her patients. She loves getting to know families and creating an environment where patients feel comfortable and confident during their treatments.
For Annie, being part of such a close-knit team makes her job even more enjoyable. She believes that working hard and having fun go hand-in-hand at Hite Family Dentistry, and she’s grateful to be part of the best team around.
Outside work, Annie loves spending time on the water—boating on any lake is her favorite way to relax. She also enjoys watching her boys play soccer and is a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan. A fun fact about Annie? She finds it nearly impossible to stay still when there’s music playing—she loves to dance!
Sue
Registered Dental Hygienist
Sue's passion for dental hygiene developed at a young age. During childhood orthodontic appointments, she was inspired by a remarkable hygienist who let her observe procedures. By sixth grade, Sue knew she wanted to pursue a career in dentistry. She has been a dedicated dental hygienist since 1982 and a valued part of the Hite Family Dentistry team since 2003.
Sue loves educating her patients on maintaining their oral health and keeping their smiles for life. She takes pride in making patients feel confident about their dental care. She is affectionately known around the office as "Tinkerbell" for her ability to fix things and keep everything running smoothly.
When she isn't caring for patients, she's on the go with her family—often running her children to their sporting events or walking the family dog. In her rare moments of free time, she enjoys biking with her kids. Here is a fun fact about Sue: She knew from an early age that she wanted to be a dental hygienist!
Nena
Registered Dental Hygienist
Nena has always valued dental health, which led her to pursue a career in dentistry. With over twenty years of experience in the field, she joined Hite Family Dentistry in 2022, where she continues to make patients feel comfortable and well cared for. She loves getting to know her patients and learning about their lives, striving to ensure they receive thorough care while feeling relaxed throughout their treatments.
Nena received her education from Lewis and Clark Community College and has been a dedicated dental hygienist since 2001. What she enjoys most about her role is not just the work but being part of a team that feels like family. For Nena, working hard while having fun is the perfect balance at Hite Family Dentistry.
Outside of the office, Nena enjoys walking her dog and reading. Here is a fun fact about Nena: She has never had a cavity!
Michelle
Registered Dental Hygienist
Michelle received her education and training from Lewis and Clark Community College. She brings warmth, empathy, and genuine love for people into every patient interaction. With a naturally friendly and calming presence, Michelle is especially skilled at supporting anxious patients.
Having joined the Hite Family Dentistry team in February 2025, Michelle appreciates the camaraderie and trust among the staff. She describes her coworkers as a close-knit group who genuinely enjoy working together to provide the best care possible.
Michelle’s path to dentistry is personal. Having never visited the dentist until adulthood, she recalls how nervous and embarrassed she felt walking in for her first appointment. The experience was transformed thanks to a kind and compassionate hygienist who never made her feel judged, and inspired Michelle to pursue a dental career.
Outside the office, Michelle enjoys time with her family and is often found cheering at a volleyball game, enjoying bonfires, joining in trivia nights, or planning weekend getaways with close friends. She’s a lifelong book lover who participates in two book clubs and loves a good page-turner. Michelle also has a soft spot for rescue dogs—and if she could, she’d adopt them all.
Mikella
Dental Assistant
Mikella joined Hite Family Dentistry in May 2022, bringing a strong desire to learn and grow in the dental field. Although new to dentistry when she started, Mikella received comprehensive on-the-job training from Dr. Hite, who welcomed her enthusiasm and guided her through every aspect of patient care. Now, she works alongside the doctors, ensuring each patient achieves the best possible outcome for their smile.
Mikella’s favorite part of her role is being part of a team that transforms smiles and changes lives. She finds it incredibly rewarding to see the joy on a patient’s face when they leave the office with a smile they’re proud of. Working with such a supportive and dedicated team, Mikella feels part of something special, where everyone works together to make a difference in patients' lives.
When she’s not in the office, Mikella loves spending time outdoors. Whether fishing every spare second, camping, or playing coed softball, she enjoys staying active and embracing nature. A fun fact about Mikella is when she’s not outdoors, you might find her enjoying bingo nights with her granny!
Stephanie
Dental Assistant
Stephanie's passion for dentistry started early, as she always enjoyed visiting the dentist as a child. She loves helping patients feel comfortable and ensuring they leave with a smile, knowing their oral health is in good hands. As a dental assistant, Stephanie enjoys working closely with each doctor at Hite Family Dentistry, combining her skills with a passion for patient care.
Stephanie began her dental career in 2015 after graduating from Missouri College’s dental assisting program. She joined our team in 2021 and has found great fulfillment working alongside a supportive and dedicated team. Whether guiding patients through treatment or ensuring their comfort, she’s always focused on making the experience as positive as possible.
When she’s not working, Stephanie loves to explore new places, take day trips, and try new restaurants with friends and family. A fun fact about her is that she dreams of living near the ocean and hopes to get back into horseback riding one day.
Lynnzey
Dental Assistant
Lynnzey joined our team in 2023, bringing her enthusiasm for helping patients feel comfortable and at ease during their dental treatments. She completed her dental assistant training at Vatterott College and first began working in dentistry in 2017. After taking three years off to spend time with her children, Lynnzey is excited to be back in the field she loves.
Lynnzey always enjoyed visiting the dentist as a child, which helped spark her interest in the field. Her early interest grew into a career where she now enjoys getting to know patients and building relationships with them. She finds great satisfaction in making patients feel relaxed and confident about their care, which has always been her favorite part of the job.
Outside of work, Lynnzey stays active by working out, shopping, and planning interior decorating. A fun fact about Lynnzey? She can speak in any accent!
Abby
Dental Assistant/Lab Coordinator
Abby was drawn to the dental field by her passion for helping people feel confident in their smiles. She’s always believed that a smile is one of the first things people notice, and if someone isn’t happy with theirs, she’s eager to help make it better. Whether providing great care or simply offering reassurance, Abby loves seeing patients leave the office smiling.
Abby began her dental career in 2016 after completing her training at Advanced Dental Careers. She joined our team in 2021, where she found a workplace that truly feels like family. Abby thrives in an environment where everyone gets along and collaborates seamlessly to provide excellent patient care. What she finds most rewarding is helping patients who arrive unhappy with their smiles leave with newfound confidence.
When she’s not at work, Abby enjoys spending her weekends playing bingo, playing pickleball with friends, and watching her daughter play volleyball. She also loves crocheting in her free time. A fun fact about Abby is that cows are her favorite animal!
Lesley
Business Assistant/Hygiene Schedule Coordinator
Lesley joined Hite Family Dentistry in 2017, but her career in dentistry dates back to 1998. She began working for the practice's previous owner and stayed with the team for 19 years before Dr. Hite took over. Throughout the years, Lesley has become an invaluable team member, serving as the hygiene coordinator and ensuring patients feel welcome from their arrival until they check out.
Lesley’s love for dentistry began after she had some dental work done as a child, sparking her interest in teeth and dental care. Her favorite part of the job is getting to know the patients and working with a team that truly feels like family. She appreciates the strong sense of camaraderie among the team members and enjoys being part of such a warm, supportive environment.
In her spare time, Lesley enjoys staying active by going on walks with her husband and friends and cheering on her kids at their sports games. One unique talent she has is walking impressively fast, but when she’s not speeding along, you might catch her dancing and playing air guitar to “Jesse’s Girl!"
Alyssa
Business Assistant/Treatment Coordinator
Alyssa joined the dental field in 2020 and became a part of the Hite Family Dentistry team in 2022, where she plays a crucial role in enhancing patient experiences and outcomes. Her passion for the dental field grew as she immersed herself in the work, falling in love with the profound impact she could have on patients' lives.
At Hite Family Dentistry, Alyssa finds her work deeply fulfilling, and most days, it doesn’t feel like work at all. She treasures the family-like atmosphere of the practice, which she believes is the key to success, and the positive environment it creates for patients and staff. Alyssa finds her role as a treatment coordinator particularly rewarding, as it allows her to work closely with doctors to help patients change their lives.
Outside of the office, Alyssa and her husband love canoeing and taking their dogs camping. Their second favorite thing to do together is go to concerts, whether they know the musician or not! Alyssa also enjoys crocheting, which helps her unwind and create beautiful, handcrafted pieces.
Samantha
Business Assistant/New Patient Coordinator
Samantha joined Hite Family Dentistry in June 2023, bringing her dedication to helping patients feel confident and informed about their treatment and dental insurance. As a business assistant, Samantha plays a crucial role in ensuring patients understand their treatment plans and financial options. She takes pride in confidently answering any questions patients or team members have and ensuring everyone feels supported and taken care of.
Samantha’s training comes from the hands-on guidance of her fellow team members, who have helped her grow and thrive in her role. She finds great satisfaction in sitting down with patients, listening to their concerns, and helping them feel more at ease by offering solutions and relieving some of their stress. To her, the most rewarding part of her job is knowing she’s making a difference every day by helping others.
Outside the office, Samantha’s life is busy with her two young children—soon-to-be three! When she does find time to relax, she enjoys reading and tending to her collection of indoor plants, which includes everything from succulents to monsteras. Despite her green thumb indoors, a fun fact about Samantha is that she can’t seem to keep outdoor plants alive!
Susie
Sedation Nurse
Susie's journey into dental sedation began with her own experience as a patient when a chance encounter with a sedation nurse inspired her career choice. After graduating from SIUE School of Nursing, she joined Dr. Kniffin in March 2021 and brought her expertise to Hite Family Dentistry in 2023.
As a sedation nurse, Susie collaborates with our dentists and dental assistants to provide comfortable experiences through IV sedation, allowing patients to complete multiple procedures in a single visit. She takes pride in helping transform patients' lives and smiles and appreciates how her team maintains a positive atmosphere while delivering exceptional care.
Her commitment to healthcare extends beyond our practice through participation in medical mission trips to remote locations, including Peru, India, Madagascar, and East Africa. When not caring for patients, Susie enjoys gardening, boating, and fishing. She's also an avid cook who explores global cuisines, a passion that began with learning Cuban recipes from her husband and expanded during the pandemic when she and her family prepared dishes from a different country each week.
Duke
The Dental Dog
Woof! I'm Duke, Dr. Hite's best friend and constant shadow at the office. While he takes care of teeth, I'm in charge of tail wags, snuggles, and making sure everyone feels extra special when they visit.
I never met a human I didn't love, and I'm always thrilled to make new friends! Many patients ask for me by name during their appointments, and I guess you could say I'm a bit of a local celebrity! The wonderful team here spoils me with endless attention (but don't tell Dr. Hite—I'm supposed to be working!).
You might think my job is just being adorable, but I take my role as a therapy dog very seriously. Whether someone needs a friendly paw to hold during their visit or one of our amazing team members needs a mid-day mood boost, I'm always ready to help. After all, a happy practice is a healthy practice!