Trusted Grove City, OH Dentist
Meet Jacob Merrell, DDS
Dr. Merrell is proud to be carrying on a long-standing tradition of excellence here at Park Street Dental of Grove City as our new owner! He’s passionate about helping patients escape oral pain and regain beautiful, functioning smiles they can feel happy with. Whether you need to replace a missing tooth or are simply overdue for a checkup, he can’t wait to get started. Interested in learning more about him?
Why Did You Want to Become a Dentist?
When Dr. Merrell was 16, he needed to have jaw surgery because his jaw was located too far back, which negatively impacted his bite and how he was able to chew food. Prior to this surgery, he’d undergone four years of braces, extractions, and various other procedures, which just weren’t enough to correct the problem. He was extremely nervous at first, but his dental providers answered all of his questions and talked him through what was happening step by step, which put his mind at ease. He ended up having to stay in the hospital overnight and couldn’t open his jaw for six weeks – he could only drink shakes through a straw!
While it was definitely uncomfortable, it would have been much scarier if Dr. Merrell hadn’t gotten that transparent communication. The experience always stuck with him, and today, he strives to clearly explain procedures to his patients while working hard to make sure they feel completely at ease at every stage of care.
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
Dr. Merrell pursued his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University in Utah, followed by his dental doctorate at Ohio State University. While there, he was the President of the Academy of LDS Dentists, led study groups, and assisted younger students in clinical skills. He became certified in advanced anesthesia and also did extra assisting in various clinics, including graduate endodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, and emergency treatment. Today, he regularly pursues three times the amount of the required continuing education hours a year so that his skills stay sharp and up to date!
Dr. Merrell is currently a member of the following organizations:
- American Dental Association
- Ohio Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
Dr. Merrell met his wife Laura during their first week at college, and they’ve now been together for almost a decade. She works as a nurse practitioner at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. They also have two daughters named Lucy & Jane, and their world definitely revolves around them! When he isn’t busy caring for teeth, his #1 priority is spending time with family. They go on bike rides together and visit various places like nearby parks, the Columbus Zoo, and the Franklin Conservatory. He also stays connected with his parents, five siblings, and other family members.
