Dr. Killeen’s experience in the dental field covers nearly 15 years so far – and she looks forward to many more! What she enjoys most about her job as part of the Pioneer team is getting to know her patients on a level beyond just their teeth and gums. Forming personal relationships and connections makes the work even more worthwhile. If you’d like to learn more about her, just keep reading below.
Originally from Springfield, Dr. Killeen completed her undergraduate degree at Saint Louis University. Then, she pursued her dental doctorate at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. After one year in private practice and public health, she chose to return to the school and achieve her certificate in periodontics, as well as her Master in Oral Biology.
In addition to practicing periodontics at our office, Dr. Killeen is a full-time associate professor of periodontology at the UNMC College of Dentistry, where she teaches dental students, dental hygiene students, and post-graduate periodontal residents. She is also heavily involved in research! Currently, she works as the principle investigator in multiple clinical trials that involve inflammation control in periodontal maintenance patients.
Dr. Killeen and her husband Marty have four energetic and hilarious children named Peter, Patrick, Liam, and Lucy. The kids’ various activities (including Boy Scouts, tennis, bike riding, and more) keep the family extremely busy. Marty works as a pediatric dentist in Lincoln and spends his free time as part of a biking team named The Lincoln Abrahams; they take on gravel races across the country. They also have an adorable Irish Wolfhound at home named Seamus.
As for personal hobbies, Dr. Killeen has a never-ending “to read” list, although she always makes time to read Jane Eyre (her favorite book of all time) at least once a year. She’s also an avid runner and tries to complete one yearly marathon; her favorites so far are the NYC marathon and Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN. Her ultimate goal is to qualify for and run the Boston Marathon! Cooking is another big interest of hers, especially recipes with Thai or Indian flavors. Finally, she and Marty make time to travel whenever possible – Istanbul, Turkey stands out as one of her favorite trips because of the beautiful city and incredible food!