Team
Dr. Jake Schroeder (DDS, Master's Degree in Orthodontics), Orthodontist
Board-certified orthodontist known for upbeat, kind-hearted attitude. Trained under Dr. Brent Larson, past AAO President. Passionate about engineering beautiful smiles. Active in outdoor sports including waterskiing, cross-country skiing, and ultramarathons.
Dr. Nate Caple (DDS, MS), Orthodontist
Duluth native and former U.S. Navy Dental Corps member. Previously ran dental clinic in California and served on medical triage team for Marines. Board-certified orthodontist passionate about creating beautiful smiles. Enjoys hiking, rock climbing, swing dancing, and live music.
Dr. Carolyn Whittow (DMD), Orthodontist
Newest addition to Carlson team. Passionate about supporting patients' journey toward self-confidence. Extensive training in traditional braces, clear aligner therapy, and surgical orthodontics. Active member of AAO, ADA, and multiple state dental associations. Enjoys travel, hiking, boating, and winter outdoor activities.
Annie, Practice Manager
Joined in 2016 as Administrative Director and Treatment Coordinator, promoted to Practice Manager. Ensures smooth and efficient practice operations. Passionate about working with energetic team and getting to know patient families.
Ellen, Treatment Coordinator
Joined in 2020. Enjoys meeting new people and helping them begin their smile journey. Active in volleyball and hiking.
Maya, Treatment Coordinator
Joined in 2019 as Clinical Assistant, became Scheduling Coordinator, then Treatment Coordinator in 2020. Favorite part is making lasting connections with community members. Enjoys walks with children and dog.
Kayli (Licensed Dental Assistant), Clinical Manager
Clinical Manager for Duluth and Cloquet offices. Loves the enthusiastic atmosphere and dedication to excellence. Enjoys aerial yoga and outdoor activities with family.
Karley (Dental Assisting Degree), Clinical Assistant
Passionate about helping patients create beautiful smiles. Enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with friends and family.
Nicole (Registered Dental Hygienist), Clinical Assistant
Worked in private practice as hygienist for two years before joining in Carlson Orthodontics. Passionate about patient education on oral health impact. Enjoys motorcycle riding and thrift shopping.
Emily (Dental Assisting Degree), Clinical Assistant
Recently joined team. Loves helping patients achieve beautiful smiles and making patient connections. Enjoys exploring coffee shops and brunch dates.
Sydney (Dental Assisting Degree), Clinical Assistant
Loves interacting with new people daily. Enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Hailey (Dental Assisting Degree), Clinical Assistant
Loves seeing patients' reactions at brace removal and celebrating with them. Enjoys walks, four-wheeling, and family time.
Kaitlyn, Lab Assistant/Clinical Assistant
Currently in LDA program. Loves seeing patients smile after brace removal. Enjoys four-wheeling, hiking, gym, and sports.
Chloe, Clinical Assistant
Loves seeing patients excited about progress and celebrating brace removal. Enjoys time with niece and farm animals.
Taylor W., Clinical Assistant/Superior Clinical Lead
Joined in 2021, became Superior office Clinical Lead in 2022. Passionate about creating confident smiles. Enjoys outdoor activities and travel.
Elsie, Lab Assistant
Currently in school. Loves knowing she helps patients by making retainers. Enjoys shopping, family time, and outdoor activities.
Sam, Scheduling Coordinator
Worked as phlebotomist since 2009 before joining in 2022. First job in high school was at dental lab creating crowns and bridges. Loves fostering lasting relationships.
Misty, Scheduling Coordinator
Joined in 2022 after interest in dental assisting. Loves seeing happy patients complete treatment. Enjoys family time and vacations.
Christy, Scheduling Coordinator
Local business owner for over ten years. Brings experience and professionalism. Loves office atmosphere and culture. Enjoys time with three adult children and grandson.
Clara, Scheduling Coordinator
Duluth native. Graduated Duluth East High School. Loves knowing she helps impact patients' smile journeys. Enjoys watching TV, reading, and family time.
Christopher P. Carlson (DMD), Dentist
What patients say
Vibe: family-friendly
Carlson Orthodontics receives overwhelmingly positive reviews (15 of 16 five-star ratings) with consistent praise for friendly, professional staff, quick appointment times, and ability to work with anxious patients—particularly children. The practice excels at creating a comfortable, family-oriented environment with personalized treatment plans. One significant negative review documents severe pain management issues related to nickel-containing materials and inadequate initial guidance, suggesting potential gaps in material sensitivity screening and early discomfort protocols.
welcomingupbeatkid-friendlyanxiety-consciousaccommodatingprofessional
- Worked with anxious 9-year-old with crowding and bite issues; adjusted treatment plan when other specialist refused care
- Combined two appointments into one for convenience
- Holiday decorations (Shrek) and contests with cookies for kids
- Free consultation offered
- Emergency accommodations and same-day scheduling flexibility
- Nickel-containing brackets caused severe mouth sores; inadequate initial pain management guidance