Meet Our Motley Crew of Big Grins
Pediatric Dentists and Kid Experts

Dr. Rachel Ecker, DMD

Dr. Rachel Ecker, a board-certified pediatric dentist and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Growing up in Boulder, CO, she discovered her passion for dentistry during a mission trip to Haiti. She studied Psychology with a focus on infant and child development at Rhodes College in Memphis, TN, and earned her dental degree from Midwestern University in Arizona. Dr. Rachel completed her residency at Miami Children’s Hospital, where she specialized in special needs dentistry.

At Big Grins, Dr. Rachel emphasizes value-based care and the role of nutrition in pediatric dentistry. She is also involved in research projects and collaborates with the nonprofit Locally Haiti. Married to Dr. Sam Ecker, they have two children, Abby and Tom, and enjoy hiking, skiing, and quilting in their free time.

Dr. Marisa Werger, DMD

Dr. Marisa Werger, a board-certified pediatric dentist, grew up in Fort Collins, where she completed the International Baccalaureate program at Lesher Middle School and Poudre High School. She went on to major in physiology at the University of Wyoming – Go Pokes! During college she volunteered with Project Smile in Fort Collins, where she first met the Big Grins team who ignited her passion for pediatric dentistry.

Following graduation from the University of Wyoming, Dr. Marisa was accepted to Harvard School of Dental Medicine. After four years in Boston, she stayed on the east coast to complete her residency at Children’s National Hospital in Washington DC, where she served as Chief Resident. During residency she gained extensive experience in dental care for children with special healthcare needs and treating dental trauma.

Outside of work, Dr. Marisa loves to dance and be active whether it’s at the studio, the gym or outdoors! She spent several summers in Spain and speaks Spanish fluently. She is married to husband Captain Ira Werger, who serves in the United States Army, and together they have three dogs.