Meet the Team at Starbody Dental
At Starbody Dental, our team is more than a group of dental professionals — we’re a family that genuinely loves working together to care for yours. Each person here plays a vital role in making your visit feel relaxed, judgment-free, and rooted in trust. Whether you're here for your first cleaning or a life-changing smile transformation, we’re ready to listen, support, and treat you like one of our own.

Meet the Starbodys
Dr. Kaitlyn and Dr. Michael Starbody don’t just lead our practice — they live the values we’re built on: empathy, quality, and connection. Their paths to dentistry were shaped by deeply personal experiences as patients, which helps them understand what it truly means to receive compassionate, patient-first care.
Shared Experience, Shared Mission
Dr. Kaitlyn’s journey through oral surgery and years of orthodontics, and Dr. Michael’s experience living with a cleft lip and palate (including 13 surgeries over 18 years), gave them uncommon insight into how dentistry can impact a person’s life. These experiences didn’t just inspire them — they now fuel every interaction they have with patients.
Their story began at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, where a shared passion for service and a volunteer mission trip to Jamaica brought them closer. That common ground became a shared purpose — and today, a thriving practice dedicated to delivering care the way it should feel.


Life Together, In and Out of the Office
Dr. Kaitlyn and Dr. Michael are proud parents to their daughter Harper and son Beckham. Dr. Kaitlyn loves ziplining, rafting, and anything adventurous, while Dr. Michael is a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan and plays in a local soccer league.
Together, they enjoy working out, traveling, and exploring the outdoors as a family. They bring this same energy, compassion, and teamwork into every patient interaction — creating an environment where you’re known, not just treated.
Get to Know Our Team
Together, our team works with a shared commitment to empathy, excellence, and listening — the foundation of truly personalized care.

Kaley –
Dental Hygienist
Known for her gentle approach and warm personality, Kaley builds long-term relationships with patients while helping them maintain optimal oral health.

Ja’Nequa –
Dental Hygienist
A calming presence in the chair, Ja’Nequa takes time to educate and encourage patients through personalized hygiene care.

Melissa –
Dental Assistant
With an eye for detail and a heart for service, Melissa supports clinical care while making every patient feel seen and heard.

Mandy –
Dental Assistant
Mandy brings both skill and compassion to her role, ensuring patients feel at ease during every step of their treatment.

Veronica –
Patient Communications Specialist
Veronica is often the first voice you’ll hear when you call — ready to help you schedule, navigate insurance, and feel supported from day one.

Rachel –
Patient Communications Specialist
Known for her kindness and efficiency, Rachel makes sure every visit is smooth, stress-free, and aligned with your preferences.
Our Credentials & Commitment

Dr. Kaitlyn Starbody
Education
Bachelor’s in Health Sciences
Indiana University– Purdue University
Doctor of Dental Medicine
Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, Cum Laude
Clinical Recognition
Recognized for clinical skills in Removable Prosthodontics
Professional Affiliations





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Dr. Michael Starbody
Education
Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences, Minor in Chemistry
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Doctor of Dental Medicine
Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, Cum Laude
Dean’s Summer Research Program
hundreds of hours of CE in Implants, Invisalign, Sedation
Professional Affiliations





Why Patients Trust the Starbody Dental Team
You’ll always see the same doctor — no bouncing around
We make note of your preferences to personalize every visit
We never rush or push treatment — we take the time to listen

We treat anxious patients with empathy and offer sedation options
We follow up personally after procedures to check on your recovery
And yes, we run on time
Experience the Difference a Real Relationship Makes
We’re not just here to treat teeth. We’re here to know you, support you, and help you feel confident in your care — whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. Because to us, you’re not just a patient. You’re part of the Starbody Dental family.