About Us
Welcome to Mertes Pediatric Dentistry
Where Bright Smiles Begin
As a pediatric practice, our mission is to provide comprehensive, compassionate, specialized dental care to all children where each patient, parent, and the dental team work together to meet each family’s needs. Our philosophy is to provide early intervention in a preventative mode including patient and parent education. We have an excellent team that works well together, supports each other, and cares about the patients.
Our Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Greg Mertes
Dr. Greg Mertes is the owner and founder of Mertes Pediatric Dentistry that was established in 2006.
Dr. Greg Mertes discovered his calling to pediatric dentistry during dental school when he witnessed firsthand how specialized care could transform a child's dental experience. Growing up in Canton, Ohio, Dr. Mertes developed his passion for helping others while being inspired by his close-knit family's values of care and community.
After receiving his undergraduate degree in psychology from Kent State University in 1997, Dr. Mertes graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 2001. He completed a general practice residency at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland in 2002, followed by specialty training in pediatric dentistry at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, where he served as chief resident.
Dr. Mertes has been an active memeber of the medical staff at Akron Children"s Hospital since 2006.
Dr. Mertes takes a unique approach to pediatric dentistry, focusing on building trust and creating positive experiences. He understands that dental visits can be intimidating for children, so he uses child-friendly language and techniques to put young patients at ease. His conservative treatment philosophy means recommending only what's truly necessary for each child's dental health.
When not helping children achieve healthy smiles, Dr. Mertes enjoys playing soccer, traveling abroad, attending concerts (especially Phish!), gardening, cooking, boating, skiing, building with Legos, and fishing – experiences that help him connect with his young patients and their diverse interests.
.jpg)
Our Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Guggenheim
Dr. Meredith Guggenheim grew up in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, where a love of working with children took root early. That passion, paired with a growing interest in science and healthcare that emerged during high school, set her on the path to a career in pediatric dentistry.
Meredith's educational journey began at The Ohio State University in Columbus, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a minor in Dance. She continued on at Ohio State's College of Dentistry, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Following dental school, she returned home to Cleveland to complete her residency in pediatric dentistry at Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital.
Today, Dr. Guggenheim is passionate about educating patients, promoting lifelong health, and building happy, healthy smiles. She values the wonder of learning and the joys of childhood, and brings that same curiosity and care to every patient she sees.
Outside the office, Meredith lives in Shaker Heights and loves to travel, practice yoga, and spend time in nature. She's also a dedicated painter and creative at heart — she illustrated the children's book Tansy, published in 2024.
Meet the Dream Team
Our awesome team works together to create a positive, upbeat atmosphere where children feel comfortable and parents feel confident!
Katy
EFDA
Martha
RDH
Paige
Dental Assistant
Megan
RDH
Hannah
Dental Assistant
Ashley
Office Coordinator
Arica
Dental Assistant
.jpg)
Debbie
Front Desk Admin
Jillian
EFDA
Brooke
RDH
Rachel
Dental Assistant
Sabrina
Front Desk Admin
Samantha
RDH
Sherilynne
Practice Relations Coordinator
Stephanie
Dental Assistant
Addison
Dental Assistant
Hunter
Dental Assistant
See our Fun Team Photos
Your Child's Dental Experience
Transforming Dental Visits Into Positive Adventures
We've thoughtfully designed every aspect of our practice to create dental experiences that children truly enjoy. From our animated waiting area to our child-centered treatment approach, we've reimagined what pediatric dentistry can be.
The Patient Experience
From the moment you step into our lively office, you'll notice we're not your typical dental practice. Our team uses child-friendly language (no talk of "shots" or scary dental terms), plays fun lively music throughout the office, and ensures each child leaves with a smile. We prioritize making visits quick but thorough, so children don't develop dental anxiety.
What to Bring
To make your first visit smooth and efficient, please bring:
.jpg)
Awesome Tools & Cozy Comforts
Our practice combines state-of-the-art pediatric dental equipment with thoughtful amenities designed to keep children entertained and comfortable. We focus on the human aspect of dentistry while utilizing modern technology for precise, efficient care.
Fun "Under-the-Sea" Theme
Our colorful "under-the-sea" themed environment creates an exciting, imaginative space where children can feel comfortable and engaged from the moment they walk through our doors.
.svg)
Entertainment During Treatment
Every treatment room is equipped with ceiling-mounted TVs, allowing children to watch their favorite shows during procedures. This simple distraction helps time pass quickly and keeps young minds engaged on something positive.
Open-Bay Hygiene Area
Our hygiene cleaning area features an open-bay design with music playing throughout the day. This creates a less intimidating atmosphere where children can see others having positive experiences during routine cleanings.
Child-Friendly Communication
We've developed special child-friendly terminology for dental procedures that avoids scary words and creates a more positive experience. This thoughtful approach to communication helps children feel safe and understood during their visit.
Giving Back to Hudson and Beyond
Championing Children's Dental Health
Mertes Pediatric Dentistry is deeply committed to our local community. During Children's Dental Health Month, our team visits local schools to provide educational "tooth talks," helping children understand the importance of dental health in fun, engaging ways. We also participate in preschool fairs and city events throughout the year, making dental education accessible to families across Hudson and surrounding areas.
Beyond education, we proudly sponsor youth activities including boys' baseball teams, ballet troops, and community runs. We believe that supporting children's physical activities complements our mission of promoting overall health and well-being. By maintaining a strong presence in our community, we help create positive associations with dental care that benefit children long before they ever sit in our dental chair.
