Meet Dr. Burson

Your smile, my specialty

Hi! I’m Dr. Michelle Burson. I am Iowan through and through. I grew up in Red Oak, IA in the southwest corner of the state. I attended the University of Northern Iowa and majored in Biology. After considering a few other professions, I realized that I wanted to work with people and loved science, so I pursued a career in dentistry.

I attended the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and during this time found a love for treating complex dental issues. I also had my own implant complication where my original implant on my front tooth needed to be completely replaced. My dentist and surgeon taught me the importance of planning and attention to detail. I had a wonderful outcome, and I knew I wanted to do this for other people as well. All of these experiences lead me to Prosthodontics!

I did my residency at the University of Iowa in Prosthodontics and honed my skills to help those that have been struggling with their teeth. I’m excited to be in the Iowa City community and ready to serve you!

In my free time I like to play piano, exercise, watch tv and movies (I am always up for recommendations!), cook and more importantly eat! My husband and I enjoy traveling, walks, and trying new restaurants. We adopted our pup, Murphy, from the Muscatine Humane Society and we enjoy taking him on walks, hikes and swimming.

I can’t wait to get to know you!

Meet our office manager, Flavia! Flavia is originally from Honduras, but has been living in Iowa since she was five years old. Flavia is married and has 5 children. Flavia worked at the University College of Dentistry in the prosthodontics department for five years. She enjoys attending her children’s activities, community service, and helping with the family business. Flavia also speaks Spanish and can help interpret!

Meet Kiah! She is one of our dental assistants. Kiah has a passion for dentistry and making everyone feel comfortable at their appointments. She graduated form the University of Iowa in 2022 and plans to go to dental school. In her free time she enjoys going to her family cabin and spending time with her loved ones.

Meet Christina! She is an Iowa native. Christina graduated from Kirkwood's dental assisting program. She has 15 years of experience assisting in advanced education programs and 9 years of private practice. In her free time she enjoys watching vintage movies with her fur baby.

Chelsea is originally from Mt Pleasant, IA. Her career background is assisting for veterinary and chiropractic care. She has assisted in life saving surgeries on cats and dogs.

She like to watch scary movies, trying new baking recipes and taking her dogs to the river. She also has had her artwork shown in galleries across Iowa and Wisconsin.

Amalia is a fourth-year pre-dental student at the University of Iowa. Her current career is pre-dental assistant, library associate and UIHC employee. She is first-generation college student for her family and will be graduating in December 2023. She will be traveling to Costa Rica in January 2024 to provide dental care to rural communities.

Meet Murphy! Our mascot and therapy dog in training. He was rescued by Dr. Michelle and her husband at the Muscatine Humane Society! He hangs out in the back, but loves meeting patients upon request. He is a great pyrenees mix and loves long naps, socks and any sticks he can find. You can ask Dr. Michelle for photos at any of your visits and she will be more than happy to show you the hundreds she has on her phone! Murphy is super excited a part of the Vivid team!