About Us

At Hill Avenue Dental, we believe dentistry is about more than just teeth—it’s about people. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care in a comfortable and welcoming environment where every patient feels valued. We take pride in building lasting relationships and helping families in our community achieve healthy, confident smiles for life.

Our Philosophy

We believe the best dental care starts with trust, communication, and a commitment to doing what’s right for each patient. Every treatment plan is thoughtfully designed to fit your unique needs, goals, and comfort level. Our approach focuses not only on treating problems, but on preventing them—so you can enjoy a lifetime of better oral health.

Comprehensive Care for Every Smile

From routine checkups to more advanced treatments, we offer a full range of dental services to support your oral health at every stage of life. Whether you’re bringing in your child for their first visit or looking to restore or enhance your smile, our team is here to provide consistent, reliable care you can count on.

A Comfortable, Patient-First Experience

We understand that visiting the dentist isn’t always easy, which is why we’ve created an environment focused on comfort and ease. Our friendly team takes the time to listen, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident every step of the way. Your experience matters just as much as your results.

Experienced, Trusted Providers

Our doctors bring years of experience and a shared passion for helping patients achieve their best smiles. They stay current with modern techniques and advancements in dentistry to provide care that is both effective and efficient. Most importantly, they are committed to treating every patient with honesty, respect, and compassion.

Proud to Serve Our Community

As part of the Spirit Lake community, we are honored to care for generations of families. We value the relationships we’ve built and are grateful for the trust our patients place in us. Our goal is to continue serving our community with the same dedication and care for many years to come.

Meet Your Dentists

Our doctors are dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in a welcoming and comfortable environment. With years of experience and a shared commitment to excellence, they take pride in helping patients of all ages achieve and maintain healthy, confident smiles.

Darren Dotson,
D.D.S.

Dr. Darren Dotson is committed to delivering personalized dental care with a strong focus on patient education and comfort. He takes the time to understand each patient’s needs and provides thoughtful treatment options to support long-term oral health.

Amy Hartzell,
D.D.S.

Dr. Amy Hartzell is passionate about creating a positive dental experience while providing gentle, comprehensive care. She enjoys building lasting relationships with patients and helping them feel confident in their smiles.

See why our patients love us

Hill Avenue Dental was where I went 5 years ago when I lived here and only stopped because I had to move. I was visiting family here when I needed a dentist and called them. They got me in right away and solved my problem quickly. Dr. Dotson is excellent and I haven't found a dentist yet that I trust more than him for all my dental needs.

Dr. Hartzell is the most professional and efficient dentist that I have had work on my teeth. I am a 76 year old patient, so I have had several dentist. When I have had a problem I have been able to get in quickly. For example I chipped a took and called to get an appointment at 1:15 pm and was in the dentist chair at 2:10 and teeth (ended up having 2 teeth repaired and fixed in less than 30 minutes.

Dr Dotson was friendly and asked lots of questions to be sure he understood my concerns. After living in another town and having the same dentist for 20 yrs, I was afraid to try a new dentist. However Dr Dotson gave me confidence after speaking to him and the work he did on my front teeth was equally superior.

Great service. They fit me in last minute and we're very kind and listened to me and my concerns. The front desk clerk that sits to the right of the desk was kind of abrupt and rude. The rest of the staff were great.

I absolutely love having Dr. Hartzell as our dentist! She is so kind and is beyond great with my kids also! The whole office is amazing and every hygienist I’ve seen has been so wonderful! It’s a great experience every time!

Have been going to Dr. Hartzel for a number of years. I can't say enough good things about her & her staff. I saw Dr Dotson once & found him to be as efficient & friendly as Dr Hartzel. I would never consider going anywhere else for my dental care & I highly recommend this clinic.