Meet Dr. Deana Fugate, DMD

Veteran-Owned, Patient-Focused Dentistry in Goshen, IN

Dr. Deana Fugate brings more than 20 years of experience, advanced training, and a patient-first philosophy to her work at Goshen Smiles. Known for her friendly approach and clinical precision, Dr. Fugate is proud to provide family, cosmetic, and preventive dentistry to patients throughout Goshen, Elkhart, and surrounding areas.

She opened Goshen Smiles with a clear mission: to deliver judgment-free, high-quality dental care without being restricted by corporate or insurance-driven limitations. Her practice is centered on building trust, offering honest recommendations, and empowering every patient to feel confident about their oral health.

Known for her friendly approach and clinical precision

Dr. Fugate is proud to provide family, cosmetic, and preventive dentistry to patients throughout Goshen, Elkhart, and surrounding areas.

She opened Goshen Smiles with a clear mission: to deliver judgment-free, high-quality dental care without being restricted by corporate or insurance-driven limitations. Her practice is centered on building trust, offering honest recommendations, and empowering every patient to feel confident about their oral health.

Education & Advanced Training

Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)

University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, 2003

Residency: Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)

Completed in 2004, with focused training in comprehensive care, oral surgery, and restorative techniques

Military Background & Service

Before entering private practice, Dr. Fugate served as a U.S. Navy dental officer, where she treated service members in a wide range of challenging environments. She completed a 7-month deployment to Iraq in 2005, providing care under high-pressure conditions and refining her ability to think critically and act compassionately.

This experience gave her a lifelong appreciation for teamwork, adaptability, and service—all values she brings to her dental practice every day.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Fugate has practiced in multiple states across the U.S., working in private practice, group settings, and public health environments. This wide-ranging experience shaped her comprehensive and inclusive approach to care. Her clinical strengths include:

Preventive dentistry and patient education

Tooth preservation and conservative treatment

Smile makeovers and cosmetic restorations

Bruxism and occlusal therapy

Clear aligner therapy and bite correction

Emergency dentistry with same-day solutions

Personal Philosophy: Respect, Comfort & Long-Term Wellness

At Goshen Smiles, patients never feel rushed or judged. Dr. Fugate believes in meeting people where they are—emotionally, financially, and physically. She takes time to explain each treatment option, listens closely to concerns, and prioritizes comfort in every visit.

As a female, veteran-owned, and family-owned practice, Dr. Fugate is proud to create an environment where patients feel seen, heard, and supported.

Outside the Office

When she’s not caring for patients, Dr. Fugate enjoys spending time with her family and staying involved in the Goshen community. She is passionate about serving others, both inside and outside the practice, and is proud to call northern Indiana home.

Get to Know the Practice

Looking for a dentist who puts people first and never compromises care for corporate quotas? Learn more about our approach to family, cosmetic, and restorative care:

Visit Dr. Fugate at Goshen Smiles

Whether you're new to the area, looking to change providers, or returning to dentistry after some time away, Dr. Fugate and the Goshen Smiles team are here to support your smile journey.