Our Staff
Our skilled, intelligent, courteous staff is here to make sure you and your child are as comfortable and satisfied as possible throughout your entire visit. Take a moment to find out more about everyone below.
The Dentists
Kelly A. Kirtland, D.D.S.
Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
I graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, TX ten years ago (06/98). Between college and dental school I worked for a pediatric dentist who inspired me. He showed me how rewarding and challenging a career in pediatric dentistry can be. As of January 10, 2011, I've celebrated eight years of practice ownership. I also completed a one-year General Practice Residency in Denver, CO at Denver Health Medical Center and a two-year Pediatric Dental Residency in Cleveland, OH at Metrohealth Medical Center.
Upon completion of specialty training, pediatric dentists voluntarily seek the personal quest for professional excellence through an evaluation and critique of their abilities by their colleagues. Pediatric dentists are eligible to be examined by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a board of five peers elected by the membership of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists. This rigorous examination is voluntary and is for the purpose of validation and improvement of the pediatric dentist's clinical and diagnostic abilities. Successful examination permits one to be designated a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and to become a member of the College of Diplomates, which I have done.
You can find out more about my education and me by viewing my CV.
Dr. Keerthi Golla, D.M.D.
I have recently had the pleasure of becoming Dr. Kirtland’s associate. I’ve enjoyed working with her pleasant/talented office staff as well as being in this community. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at the University of Pennsylvania, dental school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. I did my General Practice Residency at University of Illinois Chicago and completed my pediatric dental training at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. In my spare time I like to explore the city as well as spending time with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you!
Office Manager
Pat Snow
I have been working for Dr. Kirtland for as long as she has owned this practice. I handle all the “behind the scenes” work: our accounts receivable, payroll, and accounts payable. I make all the arrangements with patient insurance carriers and schedule all of our little ones for dental surgeries in the operating room at the hospital or with our dental anesthesiologist who sedates children in the office for us. I have over 30 years of dental experience that I bring to the office.
Dental Hygienists
Joanna Etchison, RDH
Originally I majored in early childhood education at Illinois State University. I later received my Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene from Parkland College in Champaign, IL in 2005. Since graduation, I have worked exclusively in pediatrics. I have a true passion for working with children and special needs patients.
Tricia Barney, RDH
I am originally from Dayton, Ohio. I received my degree in dental hygiene from Sinclair College in 1993. I have worked exclusively with children and special needs patients since that time. In 2003, my husband, our three children and I moved to Illinois. We love it here, but we still say "GO BUCKEYES"!
Rochelle Landon
I am originally from rural Minnesota. I graduated from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene in 2008. I really love working with children and patients with special needs. I recently married and enjoy living in Illinois.
Full Time Assistants
Sarah Serpico
I have been working with Dr. Kirtland since August of 2006. I am the head assistant in charge of ordering all Dental Supplies and all the fun toys and stickers! I am Polishing and Sealant Certified. I am also certified in radiology and Anesthesia/Sedation assistant monitoring by the Illinois State Dental Society. I am a nationally certified dental assistant. I also assist Dr. Kirtland at Valley Ambulatory Surgery center where we restore children’s teeth while they are under general anesthesia. I love working with kids!
Jasmine Thorne
I started working with Dr. Kirtland as a full-time dental assistant in August of 2007. I am a nationally certified dental assistant and am additionally certified in radiology, polishing and sealant application by the Illinois State Dental Society. I have a Masters in Intercultural Studies from Wheaton College and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Modern Languages (French and Spanish) from Knox College. I enjoy polishing kids’ teeth and making their smiles bright. Hope to see you soon!
Elisabeth Romano
I have been working with Dr. Kirtland since March of 2005. I am Polishing and Sealant certified, as well as Basic Intraoral and Panoramic Radiographic techniques certified by the Illinois State Dental Society. I am working towards becoming a licensed Cosmetologist and am currently attending Pivot Point International. My experiences at Dr. Kirtland's office have given me excellent communication and human relations skills and I look forward to using these to better my career as a Cosmetologist.
Nikki Thorne
I have worked for Dr. Kirtland since May 2008. I have since become certified in Coronal Polishing,Pit & Fissure sealant placement and radiology. I am cross-trained to assist the doctor and be up front. I primarily work as the head receptionist and love greeting you and your children.
Nina Giamberdino
I have been working with Dr. Kirtland since January 2010. I started part time at the office and moved to full time in the summer. I'm certified in digital radiology, Coronal Polishing and pit and fissure sealant placement, as well as anesthesia/sedation assisting and monitoring. I graduated from Lincoln College in 2008 and was a gymnast for 12 years. I absolutely love working with children and especially love helping them succeed in having the best possible oral health.
Jessica Braem
I have recently started working at Dr. Kirtland's office since February, 2011. My goal is to become a dental hygenist, for which I am attending school next year. I am certified in coronal polishing, sealant & fissure placement, and soon will be certified in nitrous oxide + sedation as well as radiology. I love working in this occupation to ensure everyone walks out of the office with bright smiles!
