Our Team | Bristol Family Dental

About Us

At Bristol Family Dental, we believe that oral health is an essential part of your overall wellness. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing thoughtful, patient-centered care in a welcoming and comfortable environment. By combining gentle care, modern dental techniques, and personalized treatment plans, we help patients feel confident about their oral health at every stage of life.

Our philosophy is simple: dental care should be effective, comfortable, and centered around your individual needs. From routine cleanings and preventive care to restorative and cosmetic treatments, we focus on creating a positive dental experience that helps reduce anxiety and supports long-term oral health. At Bristol Family Dental, we strive to make every visit feel welcoming, professional, and personalized, so you can leave with a healthier smile and greater confidence in your dental care.

History Behind Our Clinic

Bristol Dental has built its practice around providing comfortable, dependable dental care for patients and families in the community.

Over the years, the practice has continued to grow and evolve, combining personalized care with modern dental technology and proven treatment techniques.

Today, Bristol Dental remains focused on creating a welcoming experience where patients feel heard, respected, and confident in their care.

Dental clinic office interior with modern equipment and welcoming patient area

Friendly dental receptionist welcoming guests into the office

Older woman smiling while sitting in dentist chair during appointment

Young patient high-fiving dental staff member after appointment

Ross Katkowski, DMD, General Dentistry

Dr. Katkowski earned his bachelor's degree from Hofstra University before completing a Master of Science in Biology at George Washington University, where he made the dean's list. He went on to Tufts University School of Dental Medicine for his dental degree, followed by a one-year residency at Rochester General Hospital in New York. He continues his education through Spear Education seminars, a local study club, and CE courses with the Connecticut State Dental Association, and he's an active member of the ADA, CSDA, and Bristol Dental Society.

Dr. Katkowski decided to pursue dentistry after working at the NIH, where he realized he wanted hands-on work with patients rather than a desk or lab job. That drove him to open his own practice, where he runs a family-focused practice, treating patients of all ages and building long-term relationships with the families he treats.

Outside the practice, Dr. Katkowski lives in Glastonbury, Connecticut, with his wife, Kathryn, and their two daughters. He's working toward climbing every 4,000-foot mountain in New York and New England, having completed 69 of 115 so far

Carissa Tanaka, DMD, General Dentistry

Dr. Tanaka is originally from New Jersey. She attended college at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, where she graduated with a B.S. in Behavioral Neuroscience. She then studied dentistry at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and received her D.M.D. in 2012. After dental school, Dr. Tanaka got married and moved to Connecticut to join her husband and complete the Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at the University of Connecticut. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Connecticut State Dental Association, and Dental Society of Greater Southington.

In her free time, Dr. Tanaka is busy raising two young boys with her husband. She enjoys cooking, going out to eat, hiking, reading, and watching her boys play soccer.

Arabella Christian, DMD, Endodontics

Dr. Christian, a Connecticut native, received her dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. She continued her dental education at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, where she completed a threeyear residency program in the specialty of Endodontics. Prior to her dental studies, Dr. Christian earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology from Boston University and a Master of Science degree in Biology from Central Connecticut State University. Dr. Christian enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, running occasionally, and cooking. Dr. Christian is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, the Connecticut State Dental Association, and the Hartford Dental Society

See Why Patients in Bristol Love Visiting Us

This is a great dental office. Everyone is terrific here. I really appreciate that they are so up-to-date in the field of dentistry. The office staff is very efficient and caring. They can access your insurance and help you with any questions or help you may need.

Carol G.

I love Marie. She’s been my hygienist for the past 28 years. always does a great job at cleaning, advising me on any next steps on maintaining good hygiene for my teeth. All staff and dentist at Bristol family dental are very friendly and professional.

Joe L.

Bristol Family Dental is exceptional! Nancy is an extremely professional hygienist and GREAT to talk to! Dr. K is a GREAT dentist!

Daryl V.

I had a cleaning with Diane for the first time. She was very thorough, on time (even a little early) and very pleasant! The check in and check out process was quick! Thank you.

Lisa F.

Annette cleaned my teeth and she was awesome. As for a past professional I can appreciate the time she spent and her expertise. Excellent job I would recommend her and the entire staff. Steph and Kathleen were great!

Sabrina B.

Such a great dentist office with amazing professional staff ! Clean office! Easy to find. They always making sure that I felt comfortable and feel safe after falling and damaging my from 3 teeth! They have been an amazing experience despite the horrible situation! 10/10.

Idalia L.

I have never been fond of that dentist chair. Don't enjoy any of it. However, on this cleaning , Annette introduced herself as my hygienist. I got to say, the most attentive ,very caring experience. Thanks good job!!!

Brian B.

All the staff here are wonderful! I started going here a few years ago and transitioned my children here a year ago. We have never had a bad experience, and they have been flexible with payment options. Scheduling is also a breeze! Cannot say enough good things!

Danielle B.

The visit to the office was fantastic. Dr K and staff are always professional and patient oriented. If you want a caring and professional staff then Bristol Family Dental is the only place to go!

Jeff S.

The Team Caring For Your Smile

About Us

History Behind Our Clinic

Our Dentists

Ross Katkowski, DMD, General Dentistry

Carissa Tanaka, DMD, General Dentistry

Arabella Christian, DMD, Endodontics

See Why Patients in Bristol Love Visiting Us

Where to Find Us

A Great Smile is Worth Protecting