Meet Our Team
Dr. Andrea Wimmergren, DDS
Dr. Andrea Wimmergren developed an early interest in healthcare and chose to pursue dentistry at the age of 14. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Minnesota Duluth while gaining valuable clinical experience as a dental assistant.
She went on to complete her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of Minnesota, where she received comprehensive training in preventive, restorative, cosmetic, surgical, and pediatric dentistry. Dr. Wimmergren graduated with distinction, ranking among the top of her class.
Dr. Wimmergren is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and regularly participates in continuing education to stay current with advancements in dentistry. She has developed a particular interest in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry and enjoys helping patients achieve confident, healthy smiles. Her approach focuses on clearly presenting treatment options and empowering patients to make informed decisions tailored to their individual goals.
Outside of the office, Dr. Wimmergren enjoys spending time with her husband and two dogs, traveling, spending time on the water, and working on creative projects at home. She also has a passion for Disney and is always happy to share recommendations for trips to Walt Disney World.
Dr. Kate Marquis
Welcome to the office, Dr. Marquis! From a young age, Dr. Marquis dreamed of becoming a dentist, and she realized that dream by studying at the University of Minnesota.
After completing dental school, she attended a general practice residency at Hennepin County Medical Center, where she gained extensive knowledge in complex restorative cases. Her expertise includes crowns, bridges, dentures, partials, extractions, root canals, and emergency care. Dr. Marquis is also certified in Invisalign and same-day crowns.
As an active learner, she continuously seeks ways to enhance the care and quality of her work for her patients. Dr. Marquis enjoys working with all her patients, especially children and those with special needs. She enjoys helping people love their smiles while improving their oral health.
Outside of work, you can find Dr. Marquis spending time with her husband, son, and dog. They love being outdoors and staying active through camping, hiking, running, golfing, and traveling. Dr. Marquis and her husband enjoy trying new foods and are exploring cooking, so they welcome any new recipe or restaurant recommendations!
Dr. Ryan Lembke, DDS
Dr. Ryan Lembke was born and raised in Chaska, Minnesota. He received a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN. Then, he graduated with honors from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
Dr. Lembke, a true Minnesotan at heart, enjoys spending time outdoors with friends and family. His hobbies include running, fishing, camping, pickleball, and cross-country and downhill skiing.
Dr. Kelsey Utech, DDS
Dr. Utech believes that great dentistry starts with trust and genuine relationships. She is passionate about creating a warm, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and cared for.
One of her favorite parts of being a dentist is getting to know her patients and partnering with them to achieve their oral health goals.
Dr. Utech earned her undergraduate degree in Nutritional Science from the University of Minnesota before going on to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2016. Since graduating, she has practiced throughout the Twin Cities area and is committed to continually expanding her knowledge and skills through continuing education so she can provide the best possible care for her patients.
Dr. Utech lives in Shoreview with her husband and their son. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with family and embracing new adventures together, traveling both near and far.
Jackie, Licensed Dental Hygienist
Jackie loves research and stays current with the latest dental technology and treatment philosophies by participating in study clubs, taking continuing education classes, and mentoring dental hygiene students. She shares her knowledge with her patients so they can make informed decisions about their dental health. Jackie prides herself on being gentle but thorough in her work. It’s a huge compliment to see patients who have overcome a fear of going to the dentist because of the caring, nonjudgmental way we approach their appointments. When she’s not making teeth sparkle, you’ll find her doing lash extensions at a small salon she owns and operates in downtown Anoka. During her free time, Jackie can be found at the lake with her large family (six grown children and two grandbabies), playing golf with her husband, Eric, or playing fetch with her white lab, Lola.
Jillian, Licensed Dental Hygienist
Jillian is a Licensed Dental Hygienist who provides a thorough periodontal exam and dental cleanings for all of her patients. She enjoys
connecting with her patients while educating them on their dental health.
She began her dental career when she was in high school, working part-time after school as a sterile technician. She wanted to make sure the dental field was something she wanted to pursue before heading to college. She graduated from the dental hygiene department at the University of South Dakota and has held a hygiene license in 4 different states, calling Minnesota home for the last 13 years.
Jillian chooses to work part-time, providing the perfect work/life balance. She enjoys traveling, spending time at the lake, and listening to concerts and as many theater shows as she can get tickets to.
She enjoys being part of the River’s Bend Family Dental team and says, “We are like a family and are here to support each other in and out of work.” Jillian also enjoys getting to know her patients while providing customized care for each one.
Jennifer, Licensed Dental Hygienist
Jen graduated from Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, Iowa, as a dental hygienist. She has been practicing for over 8 years.
Jen enjoys connecting with her patients, helping them to overcome dental anxiety, and educating them on their dental health.
Jen grew up in Iowa and currently lives outside of St. Francis, Minnesota, with her husband and two young children.
In her free time, Jen enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family.
Karen, Licensed Dental Hygienist
Karen is part of our great team of dental hygienists here at River’s Bend Family Dental. She brings a very
personable, caring demeanor to our team. Karen enjoys connecting with her patients on a personal level while educating them on oral health and the periodontal disease process in a non-judgmental manner that motivates change.
Before becoming a registered dental hygienist in 1999, Karen worked as a medical assistant for 11 years and briefly as a dental assistant while enrolled in hygiene school. She knew at an early age that she wanted to work in healthcare. Karen graduated with high honors from Normandale Community College in Bloomington, MN.
In her spare time, Karen likes to RV and travel. She also spends a lot of time with friends and family. She and her husband are both from large families and enjoy all the organized chaos that brings—there’s rarely a dull moment!
Karen’s first priority is to make sure her patients are comfortable and at ease. She creates an environment where her patients feel confident in asking all the questions they need to make well-informed and educated decisions about their oral health.
Elma, Licensed Dental Assistant
If you meet Elma, you won’t forget her! She is our awesome Licensed Dental Assistant, working side-by-side with Dr. Wimmergren to make sure any dental procedures you come in for are not only comfortable but FUN!
Elma graduated from Herzing University, class of 2009. She always planned to work in healthcare, initially thinking medical, but after a family member introduced her to the dental field she found her career home.
Along with her husband and kids, she enjoys traveling and visiting national parks. Elma is an animal lover; her family includes two cats, a dog, and a bearded dragon.
Nadine, Licensed Dental Assistant
With more than two decades of dental experience under her belt, we are excited to welcome Nadine to our team!
She excels in all facets of dentistry, but what truly brings her joy is the opportunity to build genuine connections with her patients, learning about their lives and creating a comfortable environment for their dental care.
Outside of work Nadine enjoys spending time with her family. She loves fishing, gardening, and feeding the birds in her backyard!
Sheila, Insurance Coordinator
Sheila joins River’s Bend Family Dental with over 10 years of dental experience. Her expertise in dealing with insurance companies and patients makes her a valuable addition to our team.
She particularly enjoys building relationships with the patients.
Sheila and her husband have lived in Elk River for over 20 years. They have raised four daughters and are now enjoying their two grandchildren.
When Sheila is not at work, she likes to spend time with family and friends.
Katie, Insurance Coordinator
With over 10 years of experience in the dental field, Katie is great at scheduling appointments
and verifying insurance benefits. However, her favorite aspect of working in dentistry is getting to know the patients. Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending quality time with her children at her cabin. She loves fishing, boating, and seeing as many country artists in concert as she can!
Leah, Office Manager
a Dental Assistant in 2003 and transitioned into teaching dental assisting at a college in Denver starting in 2008.
After starting her family, Leah took a break from teaching to spend some time at home to raise her young kids. She was excited to get back into the dental field when she joined our team in 2022!
She enjoys camping with her husband, three kids, and two dogs. Leah works hard to make sure you’ll always have a great experience here at River’s Bend Family Dental.
Sarah, Office Manager
Sarah, our Office Manager, joined the River’s Bend Family Dental team in 2022. Her dental career began after
graduating from Herzing University in 2009 as a Dental Assistant. Her time as a dental assistant helped her to better understand how best to support her clinical team and our patients.
Early in her career, she worked at a dental sedation clinic, where most of her patients came in with severe dental anxiety. Sarah carries these experiences and interactions with her today and prioritizes our patients’ needs. She wants you to feel comfortable and heard each time you visit our clinic.
As an Office Manager, one of her favorite ways to support you is to be your advocate when your dental insurance is denying a claim or being difficult.
Sarah spends most of her free time with her kids, exploring MN parks and finding fun activities to do. She enjoys drawing, watercolor painting, or reading a good book when waiting for the next episode of Yellowstone to stream!
