Dr. Jacob

Smestad

Dr. Jacob Smestad received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery Degree (DDS) from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2010. Soon after, Dr. Smestad joined his father-in-law, Dr. David Gunelson, at the current practice location in Hibbing and started becoming active in the Iron Range dental community. When Dr. Gunelson retired in 2011, Dr. Smestad started North Star Dental Care and continues Dr. Gunelson's brand of comfortable and personalized dentistry.

Dr. Smestad is originally from a small town in southern Minnesota, called St. Clair, but the abundance of outdoor activities and nearby family in northern Minnesota attracted him to Hibbing. Depending on the season he can be found biking, running, skiing, hunting, fishing and enjoying spending time with his wife, Sara, their three children, William, Joseph and Maria.

Dr. Brekke

Johnsrud

Dr. Brekke Hudelson received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in 2017 along with her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree. Dr. Hudelson completed a general dentistry residency program at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center before joining North Star Dental Care in July 2018.

Dr. Hudelson is delighted to have returned to her hometown of Hibbing to practice dentistry with the incredible team at North Star Dental Care. She is the daughter of Hibbing educators and graduated from Hibbing High School. When not practicing dentistry, Dr. Hudelson spends her time with her family fishing, hunting, kayaking, capturing photos and enjoying the beauty of the northland.

Our Team

Keri

Office Manager

Keri grew up near Virginia and has been working in the dental field for 20+ years. She is the first smiling face to greet you at North Star Dental Care. She keeps the office running smoothly with her managerial, reception and clerical talents. Keri enjoys interacting with each and every patient who walks through the door, and is especially good at making them feel comfortable when they arrive for their appointment. Keri received her degree in Dental Assisting from Hibbing Community College. In her free time, Keri enjoys camping, hiking, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, and dirt and street bike riding. Certification: Licensed Dental Assistant

Leigh

Dental Hygienist

Leigh is a Chisholm native who has been working as a hygienist for 4+ years. She received her Dental Hygiene degree from Lake Superior College in Duluth. Leigh enjoys meeting new people in our community and getting to know our patients on a personal level. When not keeping your smile in great shape, Leigh can be found hiking, fishing, and swimming, especially with Cooper, her Ivory Labrador Retriever. Certification: Registered Dental Hygienist

Hillarie

Dental Hygienist

Hillarie is a Hibbing native, who has been working as a hygienist for 10+ years. Hillarie earned her Dental Assisting degree from Hibbing Community College, then went on to receive her degree in Dental Hygiene from Lake Superior College in Duluth. Hillarie enjoys working with and connecting with people from her hometown and the surrounding area. When not enhancing your smile, Hillarie enjoys being outdoors, spending time with family and friends, raising her two boys, and playing with her dog, Cash. Certification: Registered Dental Hygienist