Get To Know Dr. Heidi

Finding the right orthodontist for you or your child is an important decision. When looking for the right one, you can never go wrong with the incredible roster of orthodontists at Snodgrass-King Dental Associates.

This month we are spotlighting Dr. Heidi Sottek, a Mt. Juliet orthodontist also working at the Hermitage Snodgrass-King location.

Tell us a little about your background

I’m from Michigan. My dad was a pastor in our small town of Brooklyn. Actually, my husband and I went to high school together, but we weren’t high school sweethearts. I went to the University of Michigan for undergrad and dental school and we married after my first year of Dental School. We got married young, because I just decided that this is who I want to spend the rest of my life with. We’ve been married for 16 years and have three daughters.

I was in the Air Force for 9 years. I decided when I was in dental school that I would join the military. It was during a summer program in Italy when I was studying art. I just really wanted to do something for my country – give back to my country somehow. I entered in a Health Professions Scholarship Program. I thought I’d only do it three years and be done, but I stayed in longer. I went to ortho school through the military too. They only take 2 every year, and I ended up still there nine years later. I was a general dentist first before being an orthodontist.

How did the military better your education and career?

One of the reasons I entered the military was to not have to deal with patients’ insurance. We could treat the patient the way they needed to be treated regardless of cost barriers. I got to study sedation, worked on wisdom teeth, and did lots of heavy work that broadened my horizon. I feel that the military has one of the best orthodontic residencies because we have a lot of full-time faculty and a tri-service program. We learned how to move and fix jaws, treat a lot of young kids and older men and women who didn’t have that opportunity for aid when they were younger.

At which Snodgrass-King location do you work?

I work with Dr. Hobbs – we work in Mt. Juliet and Hermitage. When I first moved here, they were just opening the Mt. Juliet office.

What made you want to be a dentist?

I was a nerdy kid who just always wanted to be one. I did a mouth report in 5th grade. I actually made a mouth out of clay. I’ve just always been interested. I had braces in middle school and some of high school, and I thought it was really cool!

Is anyone in your family in the field of dentistry?

No one else is a dentist, which is really surprising. My older sister is a dietician, and my mom and little sister are teachers.

What do you love most about being a dentist?

The kids. I love the age group that I get to work with… the teens and preteens. I love watching them grow up. I like seeing how they develop and mature into young men and women.

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Sottek at the Mt. Juliet location or the Hermitage location today!

For a little more information, learn what to expect at your First Orthodontic Appointment.