Bozeman Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Get to Know
Derek Mettenbrink, DDS (Dr. M)
Born and raised in Nebraska, Dr. Mettenbrink, fondly known as Dr. M, has always cherished the outdoors. His youth was marked by hunting, fishing, and summers at his family’s lake cabin. He was also a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters and an elected representative for Youth Leadership Tomorrow, demonstrating early community involvement.
These experiences have improved his care as a pediatric dentist in Bozeman by helping him relate to children and understand their diverse interests and needs.
Make Dr. M Smile:
- Exploring the outdoors with my family and our yellow lab
- Skiing on fresh powder
- Listening to elk bugles in the fall
- Watching children’s excitement as they learn about dental health
Philosophy of Care
Dr. Mettenbrink is dedicated to creating a positive dental experience for children, incorporating fun, education, and compassion into every visit. He specializes in treating children with special healthcare needs and provides comprehensive care, including cleft lip and palate treatment and orthodontic interventions.
Education
Dr. Mettenbrink completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, earning a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology with an initial aim toward veterinary science. His career path pivoted after he began shadowing a general dentist, which sparked his passion for dentistry. He pursued his dental education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where he found his calling in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Mettenbrink excelled academically, serving as Chief Resident during his pediatric dental residency at Omaha Children’s Hospital.
Career Path
After completing his residency in 2021, Dr. Mettenbrink and his wife fulfilled their dream of living in the mountains by moving to Missoula. He practiced pediatric dentistry there for over two years before joining Bridger Children’s Dentistry in Bozeman, where he continues to offer expert care with a gentle touch to the children of Gallatin Valley.
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