Our Doctors
Meet the Hanson Dental DoctorsOur Doctors
Dr. Thomas Hanson
Founder, Dentist
Dr. Thomas Hanson grew up in Willmar, MN and graduated from Dental School at the University of Minnesota in 1991. He has been practicing in Buffalo, MN ever since. Dr. Hanson has a wife and three kids. He enjoys fishing, hunting, boating and most other outdoor activities. He also enjoys competing in triatholons. Dr. Hanson is a member of the M.D.A., A.D.A., International Congress of Oral Implantologists and is a graduate of L.V.I.–The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.
Dr. Katelyn Lowery
Dentist
Dr. Katelyn Lowery grew up in Roberts, WI, and graduated dental school from the University of NE Medical Center – College of Dentistry in 2019. Following graduation, she received a direct commission into the U.S. Air Force Dental Corps and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency, from 2019-2020. Dr. Katelyn was subsequently stationed near Anchorage, AK, and provided dental care to U.S. miliary members from 2020-2024. After completing her military service, she moved back to MN and has been excited to join the team at Hanson Dental! Dr. Katelyn and her husband enjoy theater shows, baseball games, and variety of outdoor activities, especially biking and kayaking.
Dr. Mitchell Hruska
Dentist
Dr. Mitchell Hruska is originally from Wausau, Wisconsin, and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2025 and is excited to be joining the team at Hanson Dental.
Dr. Hruska is passionate about building lasting relationships with his patients and believes that great dentistry starts with trust, clear communication, and a comfortable experience. He enjoys the blend of art, science, and human connection that dentistry offers, and takes pride in helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles.
Outside of the office, Dr. Hruska enjoys spending time outdoors, especially fishing and hiking, and working on his barbequing skills. A proud Wisconsinite, he’s a devoted Badger fan and, perhaps a bit controversially in Minnesota, a loyal supporter of the Green Bay Packers. He and his wife Cecilia are excited to welcome their first child in January.
Controlling Dental Fears
Want to take control of your dental fear? Before you make your appointment, keep in mind following techniques to help you:
- Be up-front about your fears. When you make the appointment, tell the receptionist about your concerns, so the dentist and staff know to treat you to most relieve your fears.
- Ask questions. Often, the anticipation is greater than the actual event. Don’t be nervous about asking your dentist questions ahead of time about the procedures you’ll need. Knowledge empowers people and alleviates anxiety.
- Find a distraction. What concerns you the most? The sound of the drill? The sight of a needle? We can help eliminate the sight, smell or sound with things like headphones or other sensory distractions.
- Discuss your pain-free options. With so many techniques to choose from, it’s rare that you’ll experience significant pain during a procedure. Talk to us about which option is right for you and your treatment.