Meet Dr. Katherine Kelly

A Michigan native, I grew up in St. Clair Shores and attended Michigan State University for my undergraduate degree in Microbiology. I then attended the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, where I was earned my Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 1991.

I love to learn, so I continued on and completed my PhD in Pathology through the Department of Pathology in the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in 1997. I then attended the Graduate Orthodontic Program at the University of Oklahoma for orthodontic training and a Master of Science (MS) degree.

All the letters after my name show how much I love to learn!

I also love owning an orthodontic practice and treasure having the time to connect with and build relationships with patients and their families. I care about each, personally, and want the best for them: healthy, happy, successful lives – and a great smile that allows their personality to shine.

In addition to private practice, I am an adjunct professor at the University of Michigan Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, as well as Mott Children’s Hospital. I also started a clinic and training fellowship for orthodontic patients who require reconstructive surgeries and interdisciplinary care.

Working with faculty, residents, and complex patients at the University of Michigan is exciting, rewarding, and keeps me up-to-date on the latest advancements in orthodontics.

I further my learning, too, through active memberships in the:

• American Board of Orthodontics – Board Certified
• American Association of Orthodontists
• Michigan Association of Orthodontists
• American Dental Association
• American Cleft Palate Association

These organizations provide a range of continuing education opportunities, including meetings, lectures, and seminars, as well as multiple journals and other publications.

My team joins me in the ongoing pursuit of learning. We train throughout the year to learn the new technology we are adding to our treatment protocols and continuously work on improving communication. Our collective goal is to provide the most up-to-date treatment in a welcoming, friendly, safe, and supportive environment.

My work and family life overlap: my husband, Dr. Fernando Alberdi and I met in Oklahoma and moved to Saline in 2000 to raise our family.

Our oldest, Dr. Kyle Abbott (SHS 2009) is a wildlife veterinarian Oklahoma. Our middle son, David Alberdi (SHS 2016), is a Graduate Assistant for the track team at Troy University and working to obtain his Master's degree in kinesiology. Our youngest, Will Alberdi (SHS 2024) is on the High School Robotics team. Our kids have constantly kept us busy with their very different interests and activities.

We share our lives with a variety of pets: Cooper (the dog who loves to have his teeth brushed), and a growing number of fish in our aquarium.