Our Office

From the moment you walk into our state-of-the-art dental setting, you will immediately see that we are not just “another dental office.” Dr. Rice and every member of his Professional Dental Team are prepared to make your experience exceed your expectations. We are all very proud of our “educational approach” to establishing a confident, trusting relationship with our patients. From our front office administrators, who coordinate all your financial, insurance, and scheduling needs, to our licensed hygienists and assistants, who provide the finest preventive and clinical care, our entire team is poised to deliver the utmost in patient care.

Your dental wishes, wants, and desires are fully explored and examined. Dr. Rice and the Team are willing and capable to assist you with obtaining your personal Dental Health Goals…whether that be stabilizing a present issue with the intention of completing the project at a later date, full mouth reconstruction, or utilizing outside specialists in addition to our own in-office skills. We are happy to listen to you regarding your concerns. Please give us an opportunity to work with you to make “Your Vision” a reality!

The Copper Ridge Dental Team

Dr. Derek J. Rice

Graduated: University of Tennessee College of Dentistry – 2010
Hobbies: Hiking, camping, fishing, beekeeping, and spending time with family and friends at the lake

Dr. Rice is native to Traverse City. He attended and graduated from Traverse City West Senior High School in 2001. He then moved to Tennessee where he pursued his dental passion and graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in 2010. It was always a goal to return home after completing his education.

Since 2011, Dr. Rice has been practicing dentistry in Traverse City. He is a member of the Resort District Dental Society, Michigan Dental Association, American Dental Association, and serves as a Board Member of the Registered Dental Assisting Program at Northwestern Michigan College. He is also a member of the Michigan Army National Guard.

Burnadette “BJ” Rice

Graduated: Cleveland State Community College – 2010 (Associates in Business Management)
Hobbies: Birds, nature, outdoor activities, classical music, and reading

I started with Dr. Rice in 2011 as the office manager. My background in banking and management was a good fit for this role. I thoroughly enjoy bringing our team together and seeing them each day!

Dr. Rice is my husband and has always wanted to move back home, so here we are! We have one son, Warren, and many animals we love.

Carmen – Registered Dental Hygienist

Started: August 2015
Graduated: Ferris State University – 2013
Hobbies: Spending time with her husband Matt and their three dogs

Carmen is from Elk Rapids, MI and returned to the area in August 2015. She is a member of the American Dental Hygiene Association and Northland Dental Hygiene Association.

The best part of my job is educating patients on their home care while also building personal connections at every visit.

Janine – Registered Dental Hygienist

Started: June 2023
Graduated: Grand Rapids Junior College – 1985
Hobbies: Camping, kayaking, snowmobiling, reading, and riding her Can-Am Spyder

Janine grew up in the Grand Rapids area and moved to Kalkaska in 2001. She enjoys building relationships with patients and educating them on how oral hygiene impacts overall health.

Kathy – Registered Dental Assistant / Front Office

Started: August 2011
Graduated: Northwestern Michigan College – 1989
Hobbies: True crime stories and Bollywood

I enjoy spending time with my family and love traveling and experiencing new places.