It is humbling to be trusted by parents to care for their most valuable gift: their children. In turn, my staff and I are resolved to treat each child as our own. We are kind, patient, gentle, and empathetic; always taking the time needed to make sure the youngster is comfortable and at ease before proceeding with any care.
I chose healthcare, then dentistry and the pediatric dental specialty, because I love helping people. It is a wonderful feeling to remove pain or discomfort, restore smiles, and improve peoples confidence. Even better, I get to provide these services for children and, in doing so, help set them on the path to a healthier and happier life!
I grew up here in Alabama and attended Xavier University of Louisiana for my bachelors degree. Dental school came next, at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry, where I obtained my Doctorate of Dental Medicine. Remaining at UAB, I completed a rigorous multi-year pediatric dentistry residency.
It is rewarding to talk with and get to know my patients and their family. I want parents to know that I am here for them, that I want their input, and that I am happy to answer questions and address concerns. Most of all, I want parents to know their son or daughter is safe and I am caring for the child to the best of my ability.
Through these organizations I have access to numerous meetings, lectures, seminars, and other avenues to learn from leaders in the specialty. Thoughas a board-certified pediatric dentist, I am required to meet certain continuing education (CE) standards to maintain certification, I enjoy the learning process. Keeping current on the latest innovations, emerging trends, and new research, techniques, and materials is exciting!
Its fun to learn new things and then share that knowledge with patients, families, and my staff. Likewise, active CE ensures I am providing patients with the most up-to-date treatment and care: they deserve only the best, and Im constantly furthering my abilities in order to deliver that!
As a wife and a mother, family is my passion and priority. My husband Ronnie Gatrey and I have two boys, Noah and Abraham, who bring so much light and love to our lives. I spend my free time with my family:watching movies, doing art work, and going to Disney.
Dr. Gatrey and our staff pursue continuing education opportunities to stay at the forefront of new developments. At the same time, we are personable, friendly, and welcoming. We love spending our days in the company of fascinating, dynamic children and treasure the energy and excitement each brings to our lives!