Meet dr. ray
Petaluma’s favorite big kid & pediatric dentist!
Dr. Ray didn't set out to be a pediatric dentist. His mom just told him to go to college! He majored in Biology at California Lutheran University, and while working at a dental lab, he discovered the perfect blend of science, creativity, and hands-on fun that is dentistry. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of the Pacific in 1993 and began practicing general dentistry in Petaluma.
That's when fate (and Dr. Marty Steigner) stepped in. Dr. Marty, a beloved pediatric dentist and mentor, encouraged Dr. Ray to pursue his passion for working with kids. He headed to the East Coast to earn his Pediatric Dentistry Certificate from the University of Maryland-and, bonus-he met his future wife there, Dr. Cheryl Willett (also a pediatric dentist, now retired!).
At home, Dr. Ray and Dr. Cheryl are proud parents to two amazing daughters: Ellie, a robotic mechanical engineer, and Lainie, a college student (who may be following in Mom and Dad's dental footsteps!). You might even spot Lainie helping out in the office.
Whether he's making a toddler laugh in the chair or easing a parent's first visit nerves, Dr. Ray's mission is simple: make the dental experience safe, fun, and fear-free. "I love what I do-it never feels like work," he says. "As a dad, I appreciate the trust the parents place in me and it's a privilege to watch their children grow up over the years. Even when the kids are old enough to graduate to an adult dentist, I still see their little face from their first visit with me when they were a toddler."
Since 1999, Dr. Ray has been brightening smiles and calming nerves right here in Petaluma, joining Dr. Marty at their original office on Maria Drive. Now, after more than 25 years in practice, Dr. Ray is caring for a second generation of young patients-proof that families love his warm, energetic style and expert care.
Dr. Ray's patients know him as the dentist who might be riding a hoverboard down the hallway or showing off video game skills between cleanings. From wake surfing and mountain biking to snowboarding and skateboarding, he's always up for an adventure-and that playful spirit makes him a favorite among kids and parents alike.
Fun Facts about Dr. Ray!
Dr. Ray can Juggle!
Whether it's balls, dental tools (just kidding!), or balancing a busy day, he’s got serious hand-eye coordination skills!
he’s a formal national champion!
Dr. Ray was once the NORBA Downhill National Mountain Biking Champion for his age group! And, he won many BMX trophies as a kid!
dr. ray can lasso!
As a child, he worked on his grandfather’s ranch roping calves.
Looking for a pediatric dentist in petaluma who truly gets kids?
Dr. Ray’s your guy! Fun, friendly, and endlessly caring-he's the big kid who makes every little smile count.