Dr. Joseph Kelly
DMD
Dr. Kelly is the heart and soul of Salmon Creek Complete Dentistry. As the owner and lead dentist, he brings a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and a genuine commitment to patient well-being. With a focus on comprehensive dental care and a passion for making a difference in the lives of his patients, Dr. Joe is dedicated to ensuring every visit to Salmon Creek Complete Dentistry is an exceptional experience.
Qualifications
- Doctor of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) at Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU)
- Bachelor of Science, Brigham Young University
- Continuing Education in Advanced Dentistry Techniques and Technologies
- Over 10 years of experience in the field of dentistry
- Successfully transitioned Salmon Creek Complete Dentistry from the legacy practice of Dr. Russell Church
- Mentor for CDOCS (Same Day Milling Crown) – Sharing expertise and knowledge with fellow dental professionals
- Active member of the American Dental Association (ADA)
- Represents Clark County as a Delegate to the Washington State Dental Board
Dr. Kelly’s approach to dentistry goes beyond fixing teeth; it’s about empowering his patients with knowledge and understanding. He believes in asking “why” and ensuring his patients understand the connections between their oral health and overall well-being. His dedication to comprehensive care means he doesn’t just look at a single tooth; he examines the whole mouth, seeking out connections that can impact his patients’ lives, from detecting potential sleep apnea issues to identifying early signs of systemic health conditions.
Dr. Joe is known for his caring, friendly, and gentle demeanor. He often brings a touch of music into the dental office, humming or singing to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a background in playing the violin during his younger years, he understands the importance of harmony, which he brings into his practice by simplifying complex dental concepts with relatable analogies. Dr. Kelly’s easygoing and approachable nature helps patients feel comfortable and confident in their dental care journey.
As an Airforce veteran, Dr. Kelly embodies the core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. These values drive his commitment to providing exceptional dental care to his patients and continuously seeking ways to improve and innovate within the field of dentistry.
A Background in Service
Dr. Kelly’s journey began in the Airforce, where he learned the core values of integrity, service, and excellence. He has carried these principles into his dental practice, ensuring that every patient receives the highest level of care.
A Caring Approach
Patients describe Dr. Joe as caring, friendly, and gentle. He has a unique habit of humming or singing, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that immediately puts patients at ease.
A Passion for Education
Dr. Joseph Kelly believes in the power of knowledge. He takes the time to explain procedures, answer your questions, and ensure that you understand the “WHY” behind your dental needs. This commitment to patient education empowers you to make informed decisions about your oral health.
Analogies for Clarity
Dr. Kelly’s ability to draw relatable analogies makes complex dental concepts easy to understand. He believes in making dental care accessible and not confusing for his patients.
A Comprehensive Approach
Dr. Joe doesn’t just look at individual teeth; he views your oral health as a holistic puzzle. This approach helps him identify connections between oral health and broader health issues, ensuring you receive comprehensive care.
Embracing Technology
Dr. Kelly is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental technology. His vision includes implementing laser dentistry, advanced scanners, same-day crowns, and more to enhance your dental experience.
Community Involvement
Beyond the practice, Dr. Joseph Kelly is active in the dental community, mentoring for CDOCS (Same Day Milling Crown) and participating in policy discussions at the state level.