Hero Story

I would like to nominate my husband’s dental practice for consideration. Deerhaven Dentistry in Traverse City has provided free dental care to people unable to afford it, for the past 25 years through their annual ‘Doctors with a Heart’ days. Their dentists and staff donate their time on those days have and provided compassionate care to thousands of people through the years. They provide same-day care like cleanings, fillings, X-rays, and extractions. Deerhaven has always tried to give back to their community as thanks for the support they have received from their patients. In addition to Doctors with a Heart, Deerhaven also does a Veterans Day free clinic each year, at which they provide no-cost dental care to any US military veteran. These clinics have been going on since 2015.

Deerhaven also is active in Guatemala mission dentistry, with Dr. Steve Niergarth and his wife establishing a permanent dental clinic in Chichicastenango, Guatemala. They have traveled extensively to Guatemala to treat the local Mayan population, and have been joined by various other Deerhaven team members at different times.

I believe Deerhaven Dentistry exemplifies what is best about our healing professions, by giving back to those in need.