Dr. Kip Etheridge, DDS
“I have the best profession in the world, providing Dental Healthcare in Battle Creek, Michigan. When I was a child, many hours of my day was spent drawing and enjoying the artistic side of my brain. It was while I was working towards my Eagle Scout, on my Dentistry Merit Badge, in Boy scouts, that I spent some time with my childhood Dentist. I discovered that you can blend science/medicine/healthcare with artistry, as you might say “I was hooked.”
I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy, School of Dentistry in 2000 and returned to my hometown. In March 2001, Dr. Richard Rivard sold me his dental practice and in January 2009, I acquired the practice of the deceased Dr. Dominic Cannatti. My journey has led me to many wonderful experiences and friendships. After graduating, I joined the Oakridge Study Club; which is comprised of excellent dentists and specialists all from the Battle Creek area. It was there that I learned one of the most valuable lessons ever; it was that I did not graduate from Dental School knowing everything!
I truly enjoy my team and patients. We make every attempt to listen to our patients’ desires and needs, and then formulate a plan of action to meet those desires and needs, using the most advanced materials and techniques available.
Renae Etheridge, RDH, BS, CFO, Dental Hygienist
I realized at a young age, third grade to be precise, that this was going to be my calling. In 1999, I graduated with my Bachelor Degree in Dental Hygiene, from the University of Detroit Mercy, School of Dentistry. My career choice has enabled me to improve patients’ health and I could not think of anything more rewarding.
My role, at Etheridge Dentistry, is one of “wearing many hats.” I am considered the Chief Financial Officer, so that means I handle much of the day to day operations; which permits my husband to focus on patient care and planning. My other responsibility is filling in for our hygienists, our assistant, and front office when needed. Continuing education is always on my list. We are continually learning and what a great way to keep oneself informed of the newest material, techniques and sometimes changes to how we advise our patients.
Education is extremely important and I have a passion for helping when and where I can. I enjoy going to the elementary schools and educating the children about their oral health. It is amazing to hear and see what they have remembered year after year and it allows me to build on that.
I have 4 beautiful children and in my spare time I enjoy swimming, golfing, crafting, and sewing.
Erin, RDH – Dental Hygienist
I graduated in 1998 from Bellevue High School and was always interested in the healthcare field. After several years at Central Michigan University, I transferred to Kellogg Community College and chose Dental Hygiene as my career path. I earned my hygiene degree in 2004 along with my Associates Degree in Allied Health. I joined the Etheridge Dentistry team later that same year and couldn’t have asked for a better team! My co-workers are more like family and they mean the world to me. They are caring, understanding, and have a good time even on difficult days. I enjoy being a hygienist and working with my patients one on one, getting to know them personally, and working with them to improve their oral health. I attend many continuing education courses each year and am always striving to learn new information to help my patients.
I live in Bellevue with my two boys, Westin and Parker. They keep me very busy, but when I do get a free moment I enjoy reading, gardening, photography, camping and fishing.
Maria, RDH – Dental Hygienist
I graduated from Kellogg Community College in 2018 and received my Dental Hygiene Degree along with my Associates Degree in Allied Health. I am Local Anesthesia and Nitrous Oxide Sedation certified. I am happy I chose dental hygiene as my career because I enjoy working with patients and getting to know them personally. I love educating my patients on the importance of their oral health and giving them a great experience with the care that they need. I joined the Etheridge Dentistry team in the fall of 2024 and have been loving it since day one! Everyone is helpful and very passionate about what they do.
I’ve been married to my husband, Ricardo, for over 9 years. We have 3 beautiful children, Kimberly, Alanna, and Ricardo. They keep us pretty busy but we enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors, watching movies, and doing fun family activities.
Tylee, RDH – Dental Hygienist
I always knew I wanted to help people somewhere in the HealthCare field, when attending Grand Haven High school I was able to become a part of their Career Line Tech Centers Dental Assisting Program. This is when I fell in love with the field of dentistry, from there I attended Ferris State University and graduated in 2023 with a Bachelors in Allied Health, a Certificate in Gerontology and my Associates in Dental Hygiene. Additionally I am Certified in Local Anesthetic and Nitrous Oxide.
I truly enjoy being a dental hygienist, getting to know my patients and making them feel comfortable. I joined the Etheridge Dentistry team in 2025 and have loved every day of being a part of this team.
I moved down to Battle Creek shortly after graduation when my husband Kevin and I purchased our home with plenty of room for our Dog Finley to play. We both love to spend time with family and friends and doing activities outside like golfing, hunting, fishing and relaxing out on the lake.
Michelle, DA – Dental Assistant
I have worked in all aspects if a dental office, from front office to assisting clinically for 27 years. I started at Etheridge Dentistry in May of 2025 and I am blessed to be a part of this outstanding team. In all those 27 years, I have had the opportunity of working also with different specialty offices. I have learned a lot and want to keep learning!
Striving for excellence in my duties as an employee, but also in my interactions with each patient, is my goal. I want each patient to have a good experience and leave with a smile on their face. I still remember my first days in a dental office where I had zero knowledge about teeth and dental care and someone took the time to teach me. I will be forever grateful for that knowledge being handed down to me and all I’ve learned along the way. I want to share that knowledge with each patient so they can have confidence in the great dental care we provide.
When I am not at work, you may run into me at a grocery store, church, or one of the many eateries in Battle Creek! I have been married for over 30 years to my husband, Hanxay, and we have two beautiful adult children, Hannah and Noah. Both of our children live in Grand Rapids so we spend a lot of time up there!
Mindy, DA – Dental Assistant
🌟 Hi there! I have a genuine passion for helping people and creating brighter smiles. I’m proud to have joined Etheridge Dentistry in May of 2025, and I’m excited to be a part of a dedicated team that prioritizes patient comfort and care.
💡I am always eager to learn and stay updated on the latest advancements in dental practices so that I can make every visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Building trust and connections with patients is so important to me, and I strive to make everyone feel right at home in our office.
💙 When I’m not at work, you can find me spending time with my two boys and extended family, enjoying the outdoors, and baking delicious treats. I can’t wait to meet you and help you on your journey to a healthy, happy smile! 🦷✨
Riley, Patient Care & Insurance Coordinator
I have always loved interacting with people and finding ways to help make their days better. In 2021 I started in the healthcare field working the front desk at a primary care practice and quickly realized how much I enjoy giving patients the most positive experience possible. Going to the doctor, no matter the reason, can be an anxiety inducing situation and I am truly passionate about giving people a listening and empathetic ear as the first person they see before their appointments. Patient care is important both in and out of the exam room and I hope that after having joined the Etheridge Dentistry team in fall of 2025 that I can help make our patients days a little brighter.
When I’m not at work you can find me across the way in Marshall where I enjoy participating with the community theatres in the area. I also enjoy spending time with my boyfriend and friends, reading, and cooking new recipes.
