Father & Son · Our Team

Meet the Team

Longmont Dental is more than a father-and-son practice — it is a family of people who know your name, remember your story, and treat you like one of our own. Dr. Kurt and Dr. Wyatt Knechtel lead chairside care alongside a support team with decades of shared history at this office.

Long-term relationships, familiar faces

Many of our team members have grown alongside this practice — and alongside the families we serve in Longmont.

29 years of dentistry with Dr. Kurt Knechtel
Father & son dentists since 2023
Kristi — 30+ years in dentistry · 25 years with Dr. Knechtel
Melissa — 11 years as a dental assistant
A team that treats patients like family

Our dentists

A father-and-son team with shared values — advanced training, honest communication, and care that feels personal.

Dr. Kurt W. KnechtelDMD

Dentist / Owner

29 years in dentistry

Dr. Knechtel has been practicing dentistry for 29 years. He received his degree at Oregon Health Science University in 1995. After college, this former Longmont High School graduate, returned home to start his practice. Dr. Knechtel likes to remain on the cutting edge of dentistry and continually looks for ways to improve the patient experience. He has added to his credentials by getting extra training in implant placement and orthodontics in addition to his original degree.

He loves spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He enjoys traveling and spending time in the outdoors. He is also an avid fly fisherman and occasionally brings back pictures of his trophy fish to give proof of his fishing stories.

Dr. Wyatt J. KnechtelDMD

Dentist

Joined the practice in 2023

Dr. Wyatt, who joined our practice in 2023, holds a degree from Case Western Reserve University. Working alongside his father from the start, he is dedicated to helping patients achieve the healthy smiles they’ve always wanted. Dr. Wyatt led the implementation of SureSmile at the office, providing an alternative to traditional braces.

Outside of work, he cherishes exploring the outdoors with his two boys, Eli and Archie. His interests include sports, travel, and movie outings with his wife.

Our support team

The familiar faces who greet you, guide your visit, and help you feel at ease — many with decades of experience at Longmont Dental.

Kristi Vonalt

Office Manager

30+ years in dentistry · 25 years with Dr. Knechtel

Kristi has been working in the dental field for over 30 years. Originally trained in dental assisting, Kristi’s knowledge of dental procedures, dedication to our patients, and tenacious ability in managing insurance issues has made her an invaluable asset to our practice. Kristi has been working with Dr. Knechtel for 25 years.

In her spare time, Kristi loves home remodeling projects, spending time with her 2 children and 3 grandchildren. She also enjoys spending time with her husband snowmobiling, dirt biking and hanging out on the Western Slope.

Zana Ganzel

Dental Assistant

Dental assistant since 1997

Zana hails from Olympia Washington where she received her dental assistant training in 1997. Her warm and bubbly personality makes her great with our patients and fun to work with. When Zana is not in the office, you can find her enjoying the beautiful Colorado outdoors with her family and friends. She loves hiking, skiing, mountain biking and back country camping.

Melissa Beeck

Dental Assistant

11 years as a dental assistant

I have been a Dental Assistant for 11 years and truly love what I do. Getting to know our patients is amazing and helping them improve their smiles and overall dental health makes my day.

I am a Colorado native and love all the beauty Colorado offers. I have two amazing kids Ella and Decker. We love to travel and spend time with our families. I’m a big football fan and enjoy going to the CU Buffs games. I also like to play sports whether it’s softball, volleyball, or a game of cornhole!

Muezetta Cromer

Hygienist

Muezetta Cromer is a hygienist at Longmont Dental. She provides preventive care and works with patients to keep their smiles healthy between visits.

Nichole Youchoff

Hygienist

Nichole Youchoff is a hygienist at Longmont Dental. She provides preventive care and works with patients to keep their smiles healthy between visits.

Stephanie

Dental Assistant

Stephanie is a dental assistant at Longmont Dental. She works alongside the dentists and support team to help each visit feel welcoming, organized, and comfortable.

Ready for dental care that feels like family?

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