Known for her bubbly personality and love for all things Lilly Pulitzer, Dr. Donna Klein isn’t just a pediatric dentist — she’s a ray of sunshine for the children in rural Kentucky. As a dedicated advocate for children’s dental health for nearly 20 years and the sole practitioner at Pediatric Dentistry of Winchester, Dr. Klein combines her extensive experience with a genuine passion for serving her community.
A Journey Rooted in Community
Born in New Jersey but raised in Eastern Kentucky, Dr. Klein understands the unique challenges of her patients and knows firsthand the barriers many children face in accessing quality dental care. “I grew up in a small town, grew up very poor, and wanted to serve those types of patients,” she reflects. Her commitment to her community is unwavering, and she has spent her career building a pediatric dental practice that prioritizes the needs of local children and families.
Beyond her practice, Dr. Klein extends her commitment to the next generation of dental professionals. Over the past 16 years, she has enthusiastically hosted high school students, undergraduate students, dental students, and pediatric dental residents in her office, helping to inspire and mentor future practitioners.
Embracing Collaboration
For years, Dr. Klein ran her practice independently, balancing patient care with the demands of running a business — all while navigating the responsibilities of motherhood. But when her friend and colleague, Dr. Greg White, approached her with an opportunity to help create a group practice, she saw something she couldn’t pass up: collaboration. “I was super excited,” she says. “I knew I could trust my colleagues, who were also my friends.”
While the transition involved legal and logistical challenges, Dr. Klein found the process straightforward, thanks to the supportive environment created by PepperPointe Partnerships. “They took it step by step, making it easy for me to get everything together,” she recalls.
A Focus on Family and Patients
Dr. Klein’s primary mission remains rooted in serving her community. Joining a larger group practice has not only provided her with valuable resources but has also allowed her to maintain autonomy and continue providing her patients with a special personal touch. “Having my own practice is like having my baby,” she explains. “It meant a lot to me to serve my patients while also having the support of a group.”
As a mother of two children to Isaac and Anna Grace, Dr. Klein values the importance of family time. The partnership has helped her balance her professional commitments while enjoying precious moments with her kids and family.
Wins and Growth
Reflecting on her five years with PepperPointe, Dr. Klein emphasizes the daily victories she experiences. “I feel like every day is a big win!” The collaboration has made navigating challenges more manageable, especially during difficult times like the pandemic, where having a network of supportive colleagues was invaluable.
On a personal level, she has found a renewed enthusiasm for her work. “I’ve become more involved in dentistry and have more time for my patients,” she notes, highlighting how the partnership has enhanced her professional life.
A Passionate Leader in Pediatric Dentistry
Beyond her practice, Dr. Klein is deeply involved in shaping the future of pediatric dentistry through leadership and advocacy. She is currently serving her second term as President of the Kentucky Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (KAPD), having previously held the position from 2021 to 2023. Dr. Klein is also the Kentucky State Representative for the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (SSPD) for the 2025-2027 term, a role she previously held from 2019 to 2021. “It’s important to have a voice for change and support my fellow colleagues statewide and nationally,” she explains.
In addition, Dr. Klein has served on the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry (UKCD) Alumni Association Board for over six years. She currently chairs the wellness retreat committee, focusing on women’s health, further demonstrating her passion for the well-being of both patients and professionals in the field. Her dedication to service was recently recognized by Clark Regional Medical Center, where she was honored for 15 years of providing vital dental care to children in the operating room.
Looking Ahead
With excitement for the future, Dr. Klein is eager to share the success of her practice with others in the field. “I love that we get to join other groups and share what we’ve accomplished,” she says. “There’s a sense of security and support that benefits our communities and patients.”
Dr. Donna Klein is more than just a pediatric dentist; she is a community leader, a mentor, and a friend to her patients. Her journey reflects a commitment to dental excellence and a deeprooted desire to uplift those around her. With her enthusiasm for collaboration and community, Dr. Klein is poised to continue making a significant impact on the lives of her patients for years to come.
More than 48% of the doctors supported by PepperPointe are female, reflecting the organization’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the dental industry. This commitment contributes to stronger practices and ultimately improves the overall quality of care to the communities they serve.