Meet Dr. Jeffrey Johnson

I love being a dentist. Mouths are private, sensitive, intimate places that people aren’t keen on having other people work in. I don’t take for granted the trust my patients place in me, and am always aware of them as a person, first and foremost, not their teeth.

I love the variety each day gives me, both in terms of the people I spend time with and the procedures I perform. General dentistry covers a wide array of services, from a check-up to in-depth restorations; each of these must be designed around the person, to address their clinical and personal needs, so they have a positive experience and get the results they want.

It’s gratifying to receive appreciation for fixing a broken tooth, restoring a smile, giving someone relief from pain, and making sure each process is painless.

Being a dentist, especially in the town where I grew up, and knowing what I do has a lasting impact on the quality of life of my neighbors, is immensely fulfilling.

Education and Experience

I knew in third grade that I wanted to go into some field of healthcare. I completed my undergraduate studies at North Park University, in Chicago, and it was there that I gravitated toward dentistry. The ability to work with my hands, combining science and medicine, and provide care that improves lives, was appealing. My Doctorate of Dental Surgery was awarded by the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2006.

One of the most amazing aspects of dentistry is how dynamic it is. The dental landscape is rapidly changing, with research leading to new technologies, methodologies, and materials. It is important for me stay current on these advances, which is why I participate in continuing education. CE helps me to navigate through the latest options, and ensures I incorporate those that are evidence-based and grounded in real science into patient care.

Professional Memberships

• American Dental Association
• Minnesota Dental Association
• Northeastern District Dental Society, current secretary/treasurer
• Duluth Dental Forum

In the Community

I love living and working in my hometown. I benefited from others being involved in the community while I was growing up, and now it’s my turn to give back, and help improve others’ lives in some small way.

We each have a gift, and I feel it is important that we share our gifts and talents, whenever and however we can. I am proud to volunteer with Give Kids a Smile and Minnesota Mission of Mercy; these dental organizations provide life-improving care to the underserved.

Beyond the Practice

I am happy to be raising my family here in Hermantown. Anna, my wife, and I have four sons: Grant, Henrik, Jakob, and Sven. Most of my free time is spent with my family. The boys are active in sports, so Anna and I spend a lot of time getting them to and from practices and games. We also love to travel, hike, and geocache.

I’m an avid reader, when I can find quiet time — devouring both fiction and nonfiction — and am a trivia junkie, as well.