Dr. Matt Hawn
What inspired you to become a dentist — what do you love most about your work?
For me, dentistry was a perfect blend of art, science, and working with people. We have so many great patients and it's fun to see them transition from being fearful of the dentist to actually enjoying the experience. Always rewarding to hear the laughter as you walk through our office!
What do you enjoy about practicing in the Linden Hills neighborhood?
Linden Hills itself is a very loyal neighborhood – almost has a small town feel to it. It's fun to cross paths with patients at other LH spots like Le Burger 4304, Picnic, or Sebastian Joe’s.
Do you and your family have any favorite activities around town?
We have a one-year-old at home so we love using her as an excuse to go get some ice cream or check out our great neighborhood bookstores. We used to do date nights at Martina or Tilia, but now you'll find me chasing a toddler around Wild Rumpus or the toy store.
Dr. Jane Puntillo
What inspired you to become a dentist — what do you love most about your work?
I was inspired to become a dentist because it blends helping people and working creatively with my hands. Dentistry gives me the unique opportunity to care for a wide variety of individuals – with their own needs, goals, and stories 00 and I truly enjoy building trust and connection with every patient I meet.
What I love about my work is the artistic, detail-oriented nature of the profession. Dentistry requires precision on a very small scale, and I enjoy creating solutions that not only improve health but also restore confidence. Whether I’m relieving discomfort or enhancing a smile, I take pride in the combination of science, artistry, and compassion. Being a dentist allows me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day.
What do you enjoy about practicing in the Linden Hills neighborhood?
What excites me most about working in Linden Hills is the genuine sense of community that defines the neighborhood. There’s a small-town warmth here that you don’t often find in a city; There’s a culture of friendliness and mutual support.
I love being in Linden Hills where independent businesses and neighbors actively support one another, whether through community events, volunteer projects, or simple everyday kindness. It’s a neighborhood that encourages involvement, sparks meaningful relationships, and makes daily life feel purposeful.
Do you and your family have any favorite activities around town?
In my free time, I’m usually surrounded by the energy and chaos that comes with raising four kids. Much of our family life revolves around the many sports teams, games, and events that fill our calendar—whether we’re cheering from the sidelines, volunteering, or shuttling between practices. I’m especially grateful to be in a place where I can work, play, and find balance surrounded by people who lift each other up. It reminds me of what matters most—family, community, and showing up for the people you love.
Dr. Kourtney Kuyper
What inspired you to become a dentist — what do you love most about your work?
I was drawn to dentistry because it blends long term relationships with the chance to keep people genuinely healthy and confident. What I enjoy most is caring for patients through every stage of life, from the excitement of a first lost tooth to the triumph of finally achieving a dream smile. There’s something uniquely special about being part of those milestones.
What do you enjoy about practicing in the Linden Hills neighborhood?
What I love about practicing in Linden Hills is the genuine sense of community not just among neighbors, but among the local businesses that work together to make this neighborhood feel so connected. Linden Hills is truly one of a kind. Getting to care for patients from both Minneapolis and right here in the neighborhood feels a bit like hitting the jackpot. It’s ‘Minnesota nice’ at its finest, and I’m grateful to be part of it.
Do you have any favorite activities around town?
Anything outside! I love walking and running, Minneapolis makes it easy to stay inspired with the awesome trail system. I also love exploring our restaurant scene! At home, I’m part of a comically enthusiastic bakers club with friends, where we try new recipes, celebrate our wins, laugh at the flops, and eat our way through both.
Dr. Carter Lukenda
What inspired you to become a dentist — what do you love most about your work?
I was drawn to dentistry due to the unique blend of hands-on work and the ability to make an immediate impact on someone’s health and confidence. What I enjoy most is building trust with patients and helping them feel comfortable and cared for.
What do you enjoy about practicing in the Linden Hills neighborhood?
The patients are what makes Linden Hills special. Our little neighborhood in Minneapolis has a true sense of community where our patients care about their health as well as supporting all of the amazing local businesses. It is a great place to build long-term relationships with our patients.
Do you and your family have any favorite activities around town?
Yes! We live in the Armatage neighborhood just south of Linden Hills. You will often find us with a coffee from Jones or ice cream from Sebastian Joe's while walking around Lake Harriet. We are also no strangers to trying all the amazing pizza that we can get our hands on!
4289 Sheridan Ave S. | 612-922-6164 | lindenhillsdentistry.com