Meet Dr. Kate Dardis
Dr. Kate Dardis has been a pediatric dentist for more than 11 years since beginning her career in Chicago where she lived for 4 years before relocating to San Diego. She’s grateful for the opportunity to build positive experiences in the dental setting for children of all ages. She works hard to engage and educate families while equipping them with the dental skills and knowledge necessary to serve them throughout life. She believes that with a focus on good communication, compassionate care, and devotion to preventive strategies, a bright dental future is possible.
Education
Dr. Dardis completed her undergraduate studies at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where she graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Zoology. She was invited to the Scholars Program in Dental Leadership and earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan. There, she received the AAPD Predoctoral Student Award for “outstanding promise in the field of Pediatric Dentistry.” Following the completion of her dental degree, Dr. Dardis went on to receive her specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Maryland. She regularly attends continuing education events and is a member of a number of study clubs to remain informed of the latest and safest approaches to providing evidence-based, quality care.
Special Certifications
Dr. Dardis is a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. In addition to regular continuing education, Dr. Dardis has obtained certification in oral conscious sedation through the Dental Board of California. This permit is available only to dental professionals with advanced training in sedating children and they must have facilities and equipment specified by the Dental Board. Each year, Dr. Dardis obtains education specific to safely sedating children, as well as avoiding and managing medical emergencies. She also maintains certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), which requires initial training and biannual coursework.
Professional Associations
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Diplomates
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- San Diego County Dental Society
- San Diego Association of Pediatric Dentistry
Life at Home
Dr. Dardis enjoys spending her free time with friends and family. She and her husband, Mat, enjoy hiking and backpacking, sailing, and road tripping to camp in our beautiful National Parks. She’s frequently running and loves the challenge of marathon training.
