Pediatric dentistry is a distinct field that focuses on the oral health and unique needs of infants, children and young adults with special needs. Pediatric dentists complete a standard four-year degree in dentistry followed by an additional two to three years of rigorous, specialized training in pediatric dentistry. This specialized program of study and hands-on experience prepares pediatric dentists to treat their patients and start them on a path to a life of healthy teeth and happy smiles.
I love treating kids. Theyre energetic, resilient and endlessly imaginative. We try to create an experience that taps into those qualities and makes a trip to the dentist something to look forward to.
Dr. Tiede is a Pediatric Dentist. She completed her undergraduate college education at St. Louis University in St. Louis in 1986 receiving a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Dr. Tiede attended Dental School at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and graduated in 1991. She then joined the United States Navy and completed a General Practice Residency in Oakland, California. After six years in the Navy, Dr. Tiede joined the Public Health Service/Indian Health Service where she provided dental care to Native Americans on the Pine Ridge and Blackfeet Indian reservations. In 2001, she was selected for training as a pediatric dentist at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska. Dr. Tiede graduated from the program in May 2003 and returned to work as the pediatric dentist on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
In November 2004 Dr. Tiede decided to leave federal service and open Missoula Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Tiede is a board-certified member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a fellow of the American Orthodontic Society. In addition, she is a member of the Montana Dental Association, the American Dental Association and the American Association of Women Dentists. Dr Tiede has lobbied Congress and statewide on behalf of pediatric dental patients. Dr. Tiede serves as the ADAs national representative for fluoride, and as a board member of both the American Orthodontic Society and the Creighton University School of Dentistry. Dr. Tiede is also a part-time professor in the department of Pediatric Dentistry at Creighton University.
Interacting with children is incredible. Their enthusiasm and endless curiosity is truly inspiring. I believe a healthy smile allows each child to confidently succeed in all other aspects of life, and a healthy smile begins with the very first dental visit. Therefore, I strive to provide a positive, stress-free environment from the minute they walk through our doors.
Dr. Mettenbrink is a board-eligible Pediatric Dentist. He completed his undergraduate college education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2015, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology. He then trained at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry and graduated in 2019. Dr. Mettenbrink then furthered his dental education by completing a two-year pediatric residency at Nebraska Childrens Hospital & Medical Center, located in Omaha, Nebraska. While there he specialized in treating infants through adolescence and children with special healthcare needs. Dr. Mettenbrink was chosen to serve as Chief Resident during his final year of residency. He is a member of the Montana Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, American Orthodontic Society and the American Dental Association.
Samantha Clark is a board certified pediatric dentist hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas. Dr. Clark graduated from dental school through the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2013 and attended Indiana University for her pediatric residency. After graduating residency in 2015, she took a job with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, working in Polson and St. Ignatius, MT. She worked with the Flathead reservation until 2019. In the fall of 2019, Dr. Clark took a job contracting with the Army in Stuttgart, Germany for one year. Upon returning to the United States, Dr. Clark joined Missoula Pediatric Dentistry full time. She now works part time with the MPD team. Dr. Clark is a member of The American Dental Association, The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Clark lives in Kalispell with her husband, her son, and their two dogs. When shes not working, you can find her backcountry skiing, running (now with a stroller), perfecting her sourdough recipe, or learning to silversmith.
