Our Office

From the moment that you walk into our state-of-the-art dental setting, you will be immediately aware that we are not just “another dental office.” Dr. Rice and every member of his Professional Dental Team are prepared to make your experience exceed your expectations. We are all very proud of our “educational approach” to establishing a confident, trusting relationship with our patients. From our front office administrators who work to synchronize all of your financial, insurance, and scheduling needs, to our licensed hygienists and assistants who provide the finest preventative and clinical care, our entire team is poised to deliver the utmost inpatient care.

Your dental wishes wants, and desires are fully explored and examined. Dr. Rice and the Team is willing and capable to assist you with obtaining your personal Dental Health Goals…whether that be stabilizing a present issue with the intention of completing the project at a later date, full mouth reconstruction, utilizing outside specialists in addition to our own in-office skills. We are happy to Listen to You regarding your concerns. Please give us an opportunity to work with you to make “Your Vision” a reality!

The Copper Ridge Dental Team

Dr. Derek J. Rice

Dr. Derek J. Rice
Graduated - University of Tennessee College of Dentistry - 2010
Hobbies - Hiking, camping, fishing, beekeeping, and spending time with family and friends at the lake.

Dr. Rice is native to Traverse City. He attended and graduated from Traverse City West Senior High School in 2001. He then moved to Tennessee where he pursued his dental passion and graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in 2010. It was always a goal to return back home after completing his education. Since 2011, Dr. Rice has been practicing dentistry in Traverse City. He is a member of the Resort District Dental Society, Michigan Dental Association, American Dental Association, and Board Member of the Registered Dental Assisting Program at Northwestern Michigan College. He is also a member of the Michigan Army National Guard.

Burnadette "BJ" Rice

Burnadette "BJ" Rice
Graduated - Cleveland State Community College – 2010 Associates in Business Management
Hobbies - I absolutely love birds and anything nature! Any excuse for being outdoors I’ll take. I also enjoy classical music and reading.

I started with Dr. Rice in 2011 as the office manager. My background in banking and management was a good fit to take on this role. I thoroughly enjoy bringing our team together and seeing them each day! Dr. Rice is my husband and he has always wanted to move back home, so here we are! We have one son, named Warren, and many animals we love.

Carmen

Carmen – Registered Dental Hygienist
Started – August 2015
Graduated - Ferris State University - 2013
Hobbies – Spending time with her husband Matt and three dogs, Buddy, Buster, and Cooper

Studied at Ferris State University.
Member of the American Dental Hygiene Association.
Member of Northland Dental Hygiene Association.
Carmen is from Elk Rapids, MI. Carmen moved back to the area in August 2015 and has worked at Copper Ridge Dental since.
The best part of my job is not only discussing and educating my patients on their home care but also connecting with them at a personal level. I look forward to catching up with them on every visit.

Melissa

Melissa - Registered Dental Hygienist
Started - May 2018
Graduated - Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Hobbies - Spending time outdoors and enjoying the great lakes.

Melissa is a registered dental hygienist with a background in business. Melissa grew up in Benzie County and now lives in Traverse City with her husband Jeremy and their golden retriever, Breslin. In their free time, they enjoy traveling.

The best part of my job is caring for patients and expanding their knowledge of oral health.

Janine

Janine - Registered Dental Hygienist
Started - June 2023
Graduated - Grand Rapids Junior College - 1985
Hobbies - Camping, Kayaking, Snowmobiling and reading. Spending time with family and riding my Can-am Spyder

"I grew up in the Grand Rapids area and moved to Kalkaska in 2001. The best part of my job is getting to know my patients. I also enjoy educating my patients on keeping their mouths healthy and how their oral hygiene can impact their overall health"

Kathy

Kathy - Registered Dental Assistant / Front Office
Started - August 2011
Graduated - Northwestern Michigan College - 1989
Hobbies - True Crime Stories and Bollywood.

"I enjoy spending time with all my family and always enjoy traveling and seeing new places.

Kathryn

Kathryn - Registered Dental Assistant

Started - July 2023

Graduated - Northern Michigan College- 2005

Hobbies - Crafting, Traveling with her husband, biking, camping, and making memories with her grandchildren.

"I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them with ease through their dental procedures"