Growing up in Rochester Hills, MI has made me very passionate about the Mitten State! I have so many fond memories of cider mills, the beautiful autumn season, the Great Lakes, and so much more. However, the childhood memory that truly guided the course of my life was my own pediatric dentist. Little Caitlin would practice cleaning her teeth, as her dentist had done, and loved going to the dentist because of how empowering and fun her visits were! That memory fueled my desire to become a pediatric dentist myself, and reminds me how having a compassionate, fun, and positive dental experience as a child can shape their smiles for a lifetime.
My background as a general dentist in the US Army allows me to provide dental care with children’s future smiles in mind. I strive to provide gentle care to create little smiles for all children that will continue to shine bright into their future, just like my own pediatric dentist. A real full-circle moment!
I attended Michigan State University before completing my dental training at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry where I was elected Student Government President and selected to volunteer at Bay Cliff Health Camp providing dental care to children with special needs. While in dental school I was a recipient of the US Army Health Professions Scholarship, which has allowed me to serve my country as well as travel all over the world. My last 3 years of military service were providing dental care to soldiers stationed in Italy!
While in the Army I completed a 1-year and 2-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, earned a certificate from the American Board of General Dentistry, and earned my Master of Science in Oral Biology from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. After completion of my military service obligation, I received my certificate in pediatric dentistry and a Master of Science in Dentistry from the University of Washington. I also had the honor of being invited to volunteer with the University of Washington to aid in pediatric dental research for a week in Nairobi, Kenya!
I love being able to provide comprehensive, up-to-date dental care. Completing a total of 3 residencies, attending annual dental conferences, as well as seeking additional hands-on training using the newest materials, has allowed me to continually learn and discuss pediatric dentistry with many distinguished colleagues from all over the country. Surrounding myself with other dentists that strive to provide the very best care by continually challenging themselves ensures the best care gets provided to the little ones that trust me with their smiles.
I can often be found walking in the morning sunshine with my Shiba Ibu “Kaiah” who I have raised since she was 6 weeks old. She has served as my travel companion all over the world and even has her own passport! I love traveling and learning about other cultures and trying different cuisines. Cooking is a true passion of mine, so I am regularly creating dishes in my kitchen or hosting events for my friends and family. When I am not cooking or walking Kaiah, I can be found wandering a local farmers market or planning my next adventure here in North Carolina and beyond!