Meet Dr. Kati Hetrick
Growing up in Kansas instilled in me the values of community, education, and wellness that guide my approach to pediatric dental care. As both a dentist and a mother of two, I understand the importance of creating positive dental experiences that build a foundation for lifelong health.
My journey in dentistry began at the University of Kansas, leading to the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, where I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2009. Recognizing that excellence in pediatric care requires continued growth, I completed an advanced two-year residency to deepen my expertise across all aspects of dentistry.
Specialized training with Dr. Larry Kotlow in infant tongue-tie release opened new possibilities for helping children develop properly. Using advanced CO2 laser technology, we provide gentle, precise care that supports better feeding, speaking, and breathing. This commitment to comprehensive care extends to sleep-disordered breathing treatment, where we utilize the innovative Vivos System to help children achieve restful sleep and improved daily function.
In our practice, we blend modern dental science with holistic approaches. From biocompatible materials to whole-body wellness strategies, every aspect of our care is chosen thoughtfully. We understand that oral health connects deeply with overall wellbeing, influencing everything from digestion to breathing patterns.
Our practice environment reflects our commitment to:
- Creating comfortable, positive dental experiences
- Partnering with families for optimal wellness
- Providing natural approaches to oral health
- Meeting each child’s unique needs
- Following holistic healing principles
Continuing education remains central to our practice, allowing us to offer the latest advances in airway development and preventive care. We stay current with research while honoring time-tested natural approaches to dental wellness.
As your family’s partner in dental health, we commit to:
- Answering all your questions thoroughly
- Delivering effective, gentle care
- Sharing practical oral health guidance
- Supporting complete development
- Building trust through positive experiences
Our recent move to North Carolina has brought us closer to family while allowing us to serve this wonderful community. I look forward to welcoming your family to our practice, where we focus on creating healthy smiles and confident children.
Best regards,
Dr. Kati Hetrick
DDS, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Advanced Training in Pediatric Dental Care
Specialized Certification in Tongue-Tie Treatment
Member of American Dental Association
As the daughter of two dentists, dentistry flows through my veins like a family river of care. It has always been my passion, but it blossomed into something truly special—a heartfelt calling—when I embraced the beautiful journey of motherhood.
When I became a mother, my world opened up like a flower reaching toward the sun. Things I had never given a second thought—breastfeeding, tongue position, growth and development—suddenly became fascinating gardens of knowledge I couldn’t help but explore with wonder.
As I navigated parenthood’s winding path, I was blessed to discover an amazing circle of support that held me up when I needed it most. The more I learned and the more small victories I celebrated, the stronger my desire grew to extend that same nurturing hand to other families walking similar paths.
Today, my heart’s mission is to share these precious insights with other families, helping them nurture their little ones through every stage of growth—from those tender baby days, through the curious toddler years, into adolescence and beyond—so they can unfold into their fullest, brightest selves.”
At GrassRoots Dental Wellness, we believe in gentle, thoughtful care that considers the whole child and their unique developmental journey. Dr. Hetrick brings not only her professional expertise but also her compassionate understanding as a mother to every patient interaction.z