SMALLTOWN DENTAL - Key Persons
Dr. Daniel Bordatto was raised locally in Peoria, IL (born in Clearwater, FL) and attended Richwoods High School. He Graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Go Badgers!) with a degree in Biology. Prior to dental school he spent 6 months on a mission trip as a volunteer dental assistant in San Ignacio, Belize. Dr. Bordatto then earned a D.M.D. doctorate degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Here he received the Dr. Marshall W. Milnarik Award for clinical and academic excellence in his third year. He then received the Leo & Wanda Sabien Class of 1955 Award for exceptional commitment in the care of others in his fourth year. Dr. Bordatto completed rotations at the Peoria County Health Department, Salud Family Health Centers in CO, the Chicago Health Outreach, and volunteered at the Chicago Bears TeamSmile events. After working in private practice for 2 years, he settled here in Peoria. He and his wife (also a dentist) enjoy traveling the world. They have visited multiple countries on 6 continents while spreading the word about oral health education. During their time abroad, they experienced different cultures and remedies around the world. This led them to exploring public health dentistry by moving out west to the Four Corners where they worked with the Indian Health Service at the largest hospital on Navajo Nation, Northern Navajo Medical Center. After learning valuable lessons and providing high quality dentistry in both public health and private practice settings, Dr. Dan and Dr. Krupa Bordatto are excited to be back in central Illinois near family and raise their own family.
Dr. Bordatto enjoys most procedures in general dentistry: Comprehensive care, complex restorative, root canal therapy, surgical extractions, fixed, removable, implant restorations, esthetics, appliances etc. He loves interacting with people, improving smiles and self-confidence, practicing for the right reasons with a positive passionate dental team, and creating art with fine-tuned techniques and detail. He strives to take as much time as needed with each patient to make sure they are comfortable and have all questions answered. His wide range of experience working in various settings and witnessing a wide range of cases from corporate to private to public health gives him an understanding for which parts of dentistry he thrives in most. He is an ADA member, Invisalign certified and stays up to date with the newest techniques and yearly continuing education.
Outside of work, Dr. Bordatto enjoys anything to do with sports and travel. He has been to over 60 countries. He played baseball, football and basketball at Richwoods, and dabbles in table tennis, family time and hiking/playing fetch with the family dog, Molar!
Hailing from Galesburg, IL, Dr. Krisher completed his undergraduate studies at Greenville College. He went on to receive a Master's in Biological Sciences from SIU Edwardsville, and then on to the University of Illinois at Chicago to become a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. Professional Memberships: ISDS, ADEA, PDDS, CDS. He loves to play golf and soccer, and spend time with family and two Huskies!
As a Peoria-area native, Dr. Jim Horst completed his pre-dental course work at Illinois Central College before moving onto the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana earning his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at the University of Illinois at Chicago. This is also where he met his loving wife Michelle, who is a Dentist herself.
Kristie is an Illinois Central College graduate with an Associate Degree in Applied Science - Dental Hygiene and is certified in CPR. She has also been a part of the dental field for 18 years. Kristie is married to Jason and together they have 3 children - Sylvie, Cal, & Scarlett. She enjoys spending time with family, traveling, exercising, cooking and shopping. Kristie loves the constant flow of new people, conversation and patient interactions. She also loves working for doctors who value their staff and encourage them. She especially loves and respects each patient and looks forward to caring for them with kindness, respect and education.
Dr. Kristie Mueller first attended the University of Illinois graduating with a bachelor's degree in Biology while also competing for the women's swim team. She then went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry in Lexington, KY. She was excited to return to central IL and practice dentistry in a close knit family oriented community. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Association and the Peoria District Dental Association.
Dr. Mueller has been practicing family dentistry in Chillicothe for 20+ years where she has also enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and attending her two children's sporting events. She travels whenever possible with her husband Steve and loves the ocean, hiking and visiting new places.
Dr. Krupa Patel Bordatto was born and raised in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, IL. She graduated Cum Laude from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor's degree in Biology, and went on to receive her Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the University of Illinois Chicago. Her passion for dentistry started early; she worked as a dental assistant and office manager prior to dental school. During her studies, Dr. Bordatto developed a passion for educating patients on the importance of oral health and the links to systemic health. She enjoys pediatric dentistry, root canals, crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetics, and orthodontic aligners. Dentistry is an art form and Krupa is honored to be a part of an advancing profession that not only improves health but strengthens confidence. Her favorite part of dentistry is the patient connection; Dr. Bordatto understands how intimidating a dental chair can be for some patients, whether it be a child's first visit or an adult who's recovering from a previous experience, she considers it a privilege to ensure all patients feel comfortable.
During her free time, Dr. Bordatto enjoys spending time with her wonderful family; her husband, Daniel Bordatto DMD, their son Zavier, running around with their canine Molar, and spending time with family and friends. She has a love for traveling and has had the privilege of visiting over 50 countries; experiencing the diversity of cultures, healing remedies of different cuisines and the special subtleties that make us all different, but the commonalities that make us all the same. Dr. Bordatto previously worked in Peoria, IL, then took some time away to fulfill a passion to serve the indigenous people through public health dentistry. She worked on Navajo Nation to help improve the conditions of the Diné community and assist on the front lines of the Covid 19 pandemic. This allowed her to move to the Four Corners where she was able to enjoy the outdoors, explore our nations amazing National Parks and take time for self-care through yoga and meditation.
Dr. Krupa Patel Bordatto is excited to return to central IL and join Smalltown Dental. She looks forward to welcoming you into our dental family and hopes to have the honor to serve your dental needs.
Dr. Peter Smidt graduated from Olivet Nazarene University with a degree in biology and chemistry before earning his doctorate of dental surgery from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. He completed rotations at the Peoria County Health Department, the Lawndale Christian Center in Chicago, as well as a dental mission trip to Jamaica.
Dr. Smidt is a member of the:
American Dental Association
Illinois State Dental Society
Chicago Dental Society
Peoria District Dental Society
Illinois Academy of General Dentistry
Tazewell County Dental Clinic
International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals
Dr. Smidt is committed to furthering his education in dental surgery, dental implants, and root canal therapy through regular continuing education courses, including:
E4D Technologies
Engle Institute
The Pankey Institute
Spear Education
Dr. Smidt has a daughter, Cambria, and a son, Lofton. In his free time, Dr. Smidt enjoys dental mission trips, playing and coaching athletics, hunting, playing the piano, and passionately following the St. Louis Cardina
A native of Morton, Dr. Roth graduated from MHS in 1999. She attended Augustana college and graduated in 2003 with a major in biology and a minor in biochemistry. Dr. Roth then went on to earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine in 2007. While completing her undergraduate degree, she was awarded a scholarship under the Navy's Health Professions Scholarship Program and was commissioned to the United Stated Navy Dental Corps upon graduating from dental school. During her two year residency at Children's Hospital Colorado, Dr. Roth was awarded a NuSmile resident research award for her research project "The impact of chemotherapy, radiation and bone marrow transplantation on the developing dentition." Little did she know that her topic would directly impact her own child's life. Dr. Roth completed her commitment to the US Navy after serving for ten years in Naples, Italy. Dr. Roth is actively involved in organized dentistry, a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Roth and her husband have two boys; Graham and Jude. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, running, painting, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Dr. Hutchison attended Northwestern Dental School and did her General Practice Residency at the University of Chicago and has been practicing for 38 years. Dr. Hutchison is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society and Peoria District Dental Society. She enjoys meeting different people from many walks of life and turning a fearful dental patient into one who is no longer afraid to come to the dentist! She also enjoys educating patients about their dental health and options available to meet their dental needs. She and her husband Mark have a son Jonathan and daughter-in-law Peyton living in northern California and a son Joel that works at OSF as Physical Therapy Rehab technician while working on MBA degree. Dr. Hutchison has had the privilege of going on several mission trips to provide dental care in the Dominican Republic and Ecuador. She also enjoys teaching a Ladies' Bible Study, reading, and baking.
Cathy graduated from Illinois Central College in 1993 with a Certificate in Dental Assisting and has an Associate degree in Arts and Science. She has had continuing education in coronal polishing, sealant placement, and digital scanning and is CPR certified. Cathy enjoys getting to know her patients and helping them have great smiles. She enjoys traveling with her daughter Abby, doing CrossFit, and spending time with friends and family.
Cassie completed her Dental Assistant Certification at Midwest Technical Institute and is certified in CPR. As a dental assistant, she works chairside with the doctors and provides great care for our patients. Cassie is married to her husband Ryan, and she has a dog, Ellie. In her spare time, she enjoys DIY projects fixing up their home, spending time outdoors, reading, and of course shopping! Making patients feel confident, comfortable, and happy with their smile is always her goal.
Dr. Katie attended Millikin University for her bachelor's degree in Biology. She enjoyed singing in the choir at Millikin. After her bachelor's degree, she completed her Doctorate in Dental Medicine at SIUE Dental School. In her free time, Katie enjoys running, playing the piano, and spending time with family. Dr. Katie and her husband Bret enjoy walking their dog, hiking, and fishing.
Kia has been a dental assistant since graduating MTI in 2013. She has had additional training in placing sealants and has CPR certification. She lives in East Peoria with her significant other, Lamont and her German Shepherd, Luna. Kia enjoys running 5K's with Luna and fashion and beauty. "I enjoy helping patients become healthier and restore confidence through their smile."
Dr. Krupa Patel Bordatto was born and raised in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, IL. She graduated Cum Laude from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor's degree in Biology, and went on to receive her Doctorate in Dental Surgery at the University of Illinois Chicago. Her passion for dentistry started early; she worked as a dental assistant and office manager prior to dental school. During her studies, Dr. Bordatto developed a passion for educating patients on the importance of oral health and the links to systemic health. She enjoys pediatric dentistry, root canals, crowns, bridges, dentures, cosmetics, and orthodontic aligners. Dentistry is an art form and Krupa is honored to be a part of an advancing profession that not only improves health but strengthens confidence. Her favorite part of dentistry is the patient connection; Dr. Bordatto understands how intimidating a dental chair can be for some patients, whether it be a child's first visit or an adult who's recovering from a previous experience, she considers it a privilege to ensure all patients feel comfortable.
During her free time, Dr. Bordatto enjoys spending time with her wonderful family; her husband, Daniel Bordatto DMD, their son Zavier, running around with their canine Molar, and spending time with family and friends. She has a love for traveling and has had the privilege of visiting over 50 countries; experiencing the diversity of cultures, healing remedies of different cuisines and the special subtleties that make us all different, but the commonalities that make us all the same. Dr. Bordatto previously worked in Peoria, IL, then took some time away to fulfill a passion to serve the indigenous people through public health dentistry. She worked on Navajo Nation to help improve the conditions of the Diné community and assist on the front lines of the Covid 19 pandemic. This allowed her to move to the Four Corners where she was able to enjoy the outdoors, explore our nations amazing National Parks and take time for self-care through yoga and meditation.
Dr. Krupa Patel Bordatto is excited to return to central IL and join Smalltown Dental. She looks forward to welcoming you into our dental family and hopes to have the honor to serve your dental needs.
Dedicated throughout his distinguished career to advanced education and excellent care for his patients, Dr. Houska has expertise in all facets of general and cosmetic dentistry. His skills as a clinician are widely recognized in the dental field. For more than twelve years in a row, the members of the McLean County Dental Society leadership appointed Dr. Houska as Chairman of their Peer Review Committee, a highly respected position of oversight of the quality of dental care delivered throughout McLean County. Dr. Houska is a member of the esteemed American Academy of Sleep Medicine, having pursued postdoctoral studies in the field of dental sleep medicine. One of the few dental practitioners in Illinois trained in the treatment of snoring via oral appliance therapy. Dr. Houska provides effective relief for patients to improve their quality of life. For over thirty years, Dr. Houska has continued his postdoctoral education as a member of the Academy of General Dentistry. Advanced study and certification in dental implant restoration and Invisalign treatment give Dr. Houska the ability to deliver a broad range of treatment options to patients in order to optimize dental function and to create beautiful smiles.
A member of the Illinois State Dental Society, American Dental Association, and McLean County Dental Association, Dr. Houska has been named one of the "Top Cosmetic Dentists in America" and completed the two year postgraduate program in dental systems management at the prestigious Pride Institute. He is the founding President of the Psi Omega professional fraternity at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Houska is the recipient of the Community Partner Award from the BabyFold for providing pro bono dental treatment to the children of the BabyFold for more than 25 years. He has also received recognition from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bloomington/Normal for his generous support of their programs and is designated as a Visionary Sponsor by the Town of Normal Children's Discovery Museum.
Knowledge, clinical expertise, and genuine concern for patient's comfort and wellbeing are the hallmarks of Dr. Houska's dental care.
Dr. Molly Kutkat grew up in Morton, IL and feels blessed to be treating patients in her hometown. She attended Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville where she studied biochemistry before graduating Cum Laude from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine to fulfill her dream of becoming a dentist. Dr. Kutkat loves the long-term relationships she builds with her patients. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, and Peoria Dental Society. In her free time, Molly and her husband Drake, and their daughter Mila love to travel to National Parks, spend time with their two black labs, work out, and go to concerts.
Dr. Chechang attended the University of Iowa for his Bachelor's Degree in Human Physiology before earning his Doctor in Dental Medicine degree at Midwestern University. He has volunteered in events with TeamSmile and has completed a dental mission trip in the Dominican Republic. Dr. Chechang looks forward to building relationships and getting to know patients.Dr. Chechang is a member of the:-American Dental Association-Chicago Dental SocietyHe is the youngest of three siblings with two wonderful hard-working immigrant parents. In his free time, Dr. Chechang likes staying active by being outside hiking, fishing, biking, and doing some photography.
Born and raised in Morton, IL Dr. Braker grew up working in his family's construction company. After a job shadow in high school he fell in love with dentistry and knew that is what he wanted to pursue. From high school he graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in biology before earning his doctorate of dental medicine from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is passionate about general dentistry, implant dentistry and furthering his knowledge with continued education.
Outside of work, Dr. Braker loves to mountain climb, travel with his wife and son, and spends most of his free time working on their fixer-upper farmhouse.
Stephanie graduated from Illinois Central College with a certificate in Dental Assisting. She has been a part of the dental field for over 30 years. She has several years of experience as a Dental Assistant but loves her role on the Business Team. Stephanie and her husband Chad, have three kids: Mason, Alec, and Lydia. Stephanie's time away from the office is spent with her family. Stephanie loves helping the wonderful patients at Morton Dental Center and looks forward to working with her great co-workers.
Dr. Stephanie's goal is to provide truly exceptional care for every patient that walks through her office doors. By treating patients and staff with respect, she uses her background and continuing education to ensure patients have a good experience. Dr. Stephanie truly believes that the patient's well-being is the most important factor to deliver quality dental care to patients.
She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's of Science in Biology from Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania. She played NCAA Division I softball all four years at Lafayette College. Dr. Stephanie worked as a dental assistant and orthodontic assistant throughout college and dental school. She completed her D.M.D. degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She graduated dental school earning the following awards: Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Award, Academy of Osseointegration Outstanding Dental Student in Implant Award, American Academy of Implant Dentistry Award. I also was elected to alumni membership in Sigma Chapter of Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the national dental honor society. I published research and presented at 2021 ADEA conference. She enjoys an active lifestyle with her family and two huskies!
Vanessa Buchheit is the Chief Operations Officer for Smalltown Dental and has devoted nearly 20 years to the dental industry. Before becoming a COO, Vanessa spent years developing dental teams by working side-by-side with them in a national consulting role. Using her real-world professional experience coupled with her mastery of the business, Vanessa can ensure that our operations at Smalltown Dental support superior patient care and maintain employee satisfaction. In her free time, she loves traveling and spending time with her family.
Vanessa started with Smalltown Dental as Business Team in Tremont, IL then transitioned to practice manager at Smalltown Morton. She then grew to be the practice manager at Smalltown Kids as well and is now the Regional Manager. Vanessa has enjoyed the opportunity to meet all the teams, build relationships with so many team members and grow within the company. Prior to that she has experience as an office manager in a chiropractic office and an orthodontic office. She was also the co-founder and CFO at Aerial Athletics for 6 years. Vanessa is married to her husband Mark and his 2 kids keep them busy with basketball, baseball, and softball. Vanessa and Mark volunteer frequently with community events and St. Jude. In her small amount of free time Vanessa also loves to travel and spend time with family & friends.
Prior to coming to Smalltown, Vanessa graduated from Illinois Central College with an Associate Degree in Applied Science with a focus in Respiratory Therapy. Vanessa is bilingual and is fluent in English and Spanish. In her free time Vanessa likes to spend time with family and friends, learning to cook traditional Mexican meals, Do-it-yourself projects, and listening to music.