Welcome to Avalon Dentistry!
Providing over 60 years of dental expertise to the Northern Indianapolis area.
About Us
Over 70 Years Serving Northeast Indianapolis and Surrounding Communities
Conveniently located on Shadeland Avenue near the Avalon Hills neighborhoods, Avalon Dentistry has proudly served the greater Indianapolis area for over seven decades. We specialize in family and cosmetic dentistry, offering a full range of services including veneers, whitening, dentures, fillings, and crowns. With deep roots in the community and a constant commitment to staying current with advancements in dental technology and research, we ensure our patients receive modern, top-quality care.
We understand that a visit to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite experience—but we aim to change that. Our compassionate team takes the time to listen and connect, helping patients feel relaxed, informed, and genuinely cared for. At Avalon Dentistry, you're more than a patient—you’re part of the family.
New patients are always welcome. Your comfort and health are our top priority.Our History
Our story began in 1958, when Dr. John Borkowski returned to Indiana after serving as a dentist for enlisted Air Force personnel in Rome, New York. Alongside building his private practice, he dedicated 25 years to mentoring postgraduate Prosthodontic students at the IU School of Dentistry, specializing in crown and bridge work.
In 1987, his daughter, Dr. Christine Borkowski, joined the practice, spending two decades under her father’s mentorship before he retired in 1998. A major renovation in 2010 marked the rebirth of the practice as Avalon Dentistry, where Dr. Chris continues her father’s legacy with pride.
At Avalon Dentistry, we are committed to thoughtful, conservative treatment that prioritizes long-term oral health. Our warm, welcoming team is passionate about building lasting relationships, which is why so many families have entrusted us with their care for five generations—and counting.
Our Team
Our team is lead by Dr. Chris Borkowski-Hicks, DDS and Dr. O'Connell, DDS. The entire Avalon staff are experts in their fields. They are passionate about providing their patients with the highest quality of care and expertise.
Chris Borkowski-Hicks, DDS
Please call me Dr. Chris! I grew up in the dental care field, since I was 12 years old, I always enjoyed helping my Father (Dr. John Borkowski, DDS) around the office. I knew early on, that I would make my career in Dentistry. After graduating from North Central High School, I attended Denison University in Granville, Ohio where I majored in Biology and minored in French. After graduation from Denison University, I went on to Indiana University School of Dentistry and graduated in 1987. Very soon after graduating from dental school, I joined my Dad's dental practice. I was very blessed to have my Father's mentorship until his retirement in 1998, after 50 successful years in dentistry.
Soon after Dr. John's retirement, the practice was named Avalon Dentistry. drawing from the Avalon Hills area where the practice resides. I consider the Avalon Dentistry staff and patients be part of my extended family. Over the years, I have enjoyed watching many of our patients grow from young children, to starting their own families and then bringing their children in for their dental care. I have always enjoyed providing the best dental care possible in a caring, family-oriented environment.
I've been a member of the American Dental Association, the Indiana Dental Association, and the Indianapolis District Society for the past 20+ years. I'm a charter Board member of the IDDS Dental Foundation, serving as treasurer. I'm very proud of the legacy my father established and I am blessed to continue.
Ella O'Connell, DDS
Hello! I'm Dr. Ella O'Connell. Joining Avalon Dentistry fulfills a
lifelong dream of mine. Inspired by my mother, Dr. Chris Borkowski-
Hicks, DDS, and my grandfather, Dr. John Borkowski, DDS, I am
proud to continue our family's legacy in dental care. I hold a
Bachelor of Science degree from Butler University, a Master of
Science degree from Purdue University, and a Doctor of Dental
Science degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry.
Raised in Fishers, I now live in the Broad Ripple area with my
husband, Chad, and our lovable Golden Doodle, Theo. We spend
our free time renovating our home, staying active, and enjoying
long walks with Theo. Family time is also a cherished part of our
lives.
My mother's exceptional relationship with her patients deeply
influenced my approach to dentistry. Her commitment to their well-
being is something I strive to emulate with every patient I meet.
Molly Hicks, DDS
I'm Dr. Molly Hicks, and I am so proud to be joining my family's dental practice as a third generation dentist. My grandfather, Dr. John, and my mother, Dr. Chris, along with my sister, Dr. Ella, have inspired my journey into dentistry—each leaving a lasting impact on my commitment to patient care.
From a young age, I knew I wanted to serve patients as a healthcare professional, and I found joy in the artistry of dentistry, turning smiles into works of confidence and health. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Butler University and my Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from IU School of Dentistry.
I currently reside in Broad Ripple with my fiancé, Alex. When we're not traveling, we enjoy cooking and spending quality time with family.
I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to work alongside my mom, learning from her nearly 40 years of experience. To be able to call my sister and my mom my colleagues is my proudest accomplishment. My goal is to provide our patients with the same exceptional, compassionate care that my family has dedicated their lives to delivering—just as my grandpa did for over 50 years.
Procedures
Our team is lead by Dr. Chris Borkowski-Hicks, DDS and Dr. O'Connell, DDS. The entire Avalon staff are experts in their fields. They are passionate about providing their patients with the highest quality of care and expertise.
Bridges
Crowns
Crowns on Implants
Cosmetic Dentistry
Full Dentures
Tooth Fillings
Partial Dentures
Veneers
Overdentures
Whitening
Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP)
Our team is lead by Dr. Chris Borkowski-Hicks, DDS and Dr. O'Connell, DDS. The entire Avalon staff are experts in their fields. They are passionate about providing their patients with the highest quality of care and expertise.
... Friendly, Exemplary In Their Knowledge ...
I love my dental people! Everybody is friendly, exemplary in their knowledge and skills and truly caring. It's like coming to visit family every time! A special shout-out to Iris who has been especially dear since our very first visits!
— Mrs. D.
Great Customer Service …
Great customer sevice and fair pricing.
— Anonymous
… Wow!
... We've been a part of your family since 1972. … You've have taken care of four generations!! Wow!
— Mrs. Linda K.
… Very Good …
It went ok. The service is very good …
— Mr. And Mrs. B.
Love Avalon Dentistry!
Love Avalon Dentistry! Have been going there 40+ years!
— Kelly S.
… Kind Ways …
… your kind ways are so appreciated. Thanks for all that you have done for me…
— Cynthia W.
She's local and so very caring!
Dr. Borkowski on Shadeland. Been going to her for 30 years. She's local and so very caring! All the staff is, as well as the other dentist in her office.
— Sharla
… Whole Office Is Very Nice.
… She is a very good dentist. My husband and I liked her very much. Her father was also a dentist. I had no problem getting in … The whole office was very nice.
— Mr. and Mrs. B.
Get In Touch
Our experienced and dedicated staff is always available to answer questions and provide unrivaled patient care. Use the form, call us, or email us for more information on how we can help you.
Avalon Dentistry
7118 North Shadeland Ave.Indianapolis, IN 46250