Meet Our Team
Ben Grothe
Business Development Lead
Ben Grothe serves as the Business Development Lead at Root Dental, where he plays a key role in expanding access to the practice’s elevated, patient-centered approach to care. He holds a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and brings a strong foundation in healthcare systems, operations, and community outreach.
Growing up in a rural farming community in Centerville, Iowa, Ben developed a deep appreciation for the importance of accessible, high-quality healthcare. That perspective continues to shape his work today. When Dr. Maggie Grothe set out to create Root Dental, Ben was inspired by her vision and the opportunity to help bring a more thoughtful, comprehensive standard of care to the community.
He especially values Dr. Grothe’s commitment to functional, whole-person dentistry. Her focus on identifying and addressing the root cause of dental concerns reflects a level of care that is both intentional and lasting. Supporting that mission and helping more patients experience it firsthand is what drives him each day.
Ben is passionate about connecting people to care that can truly change how they feel about their health and their smile, while ensuring every patient feels supported and confident throughout their experience at Root Dental.
Outside of the practice, Ben enjoys spending time with his wife, Dr. Grothe, along with their two cats, Finnegan and Pippa. He values an active lifestyle and meaningful connection, both within the community and at home.
Cassandra Sanchez
Dental Assistant
Cassandra Sanchez is a dedicated Dental Assistant at Root Dental, where she is passionate about creating a welcoming, comfortable experience for every patient. She is committed to helping patients feel at ease, especially those who may feel anxious or have been away from dental care for some time.
Cassandra was drawn to dentistry by a desire to change the way people feel about going to the dentist. She values the opportunity to build genuine connections with patients and takes pride in helping them understand not just what is happening, but why. For her, dentistry is about more than treatment. It is about trust, education, and creating a positive experience from start to finish.
She especially appreciates working alongside Dr. Maggie Grothe, whose thorough and thoughtful approach to care continues to inspire her. Cassandra admires Dr. Grothe’s commitment to functional dentistry and her dedication to ensuring every patient feels comfortable, supported, and never judged. She values being part of a team that prioritizes long-term health and truly goes above and beyond for each individual.
Each day, Cassandra is motivated by the opportunity to meet new patients, learn through a variety of cases, and be part of a process that helps patients better understand their oral health. She finds joy in making a meaningful difference in how patients experience dentistry.
Outside of the office, Cassandra enjoys baking, spending time outdoors, and exploring new coffee shops. She grew up in Elgin, Illinois, and loves seeking out new experiences and adventures. One of her goals is to travel more, with Japan at the top of her list.
Ann Taylor
Registered Dental Hygienist
Ann Taylor is a Registered Dental Hygienist at Root Dental who brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to care. She earned her dental hygiene degree from Rock Valley College and is passionate about supporting patients in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health through a comprehensive, integrative approach.
Ann was drawn to dentistry by her love of connecting with people and her desire to help patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in their care. She values the opportunity to build lasting relationships and guide patients in understanding the connection between their oral health and overall well-being.
She is proud to work alongside Dr. Maggie Grothe, whose strength, compassion, and commitment to functional dentistry set the foundation for the Root Dental experience. Ann appreciates being part of a team that prioritizes intentional, comprehensive care and is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of the patients they serve.
Outside of the office, Ann enjoys spending time with her husband and their two cats, Jax and Moose. A lifelong local, she values time at home, attending church, gardening during the summer months, and connecting with friends and community.
Jaelyn Pawlowic
Dental Assistant
Jaelyn Pawlowic is a Dental Assistant at Root Dental who is passionate about helping patients feel confident, comfortable, and supported throughout their care. She is currently completing her dental assisting certification, furthering her commitment to providing exceptional patient experiences.
Jaelyn was drawn to dentistry through her own personal journey. After spending several years in orthodontic treatment, she developed a deep appreciation for the impact a smile can have on confidence. She is especially passionate about helping patients feel good about their smile at every stage, creating an environment where they feel encouraged, understood, and never judged.
She loves being part of the Root Dental team and finds inspiration in Dr. Maggie Grothe’s commitment to functional, root-cause dentistry. Jaelyn values connecting with patients who are seeking a more intentional approach to their health and enjoys supporting them as they begin or continue their wellness journey.
Each day, Jaelyn finds joy in seeing patients leave happy and confident in their smile. She especially enjoys the small moments, like hearing how refreshed and clean patients feel after their hygiene visits.
Outside of the office, Jaelyn enjoys spending time outdoors and going on walks with her four-year-old French Bulldog, Blue, also known as “Blueberry.” She grew up in Huntley, Illinois, where she continues to stay connected to her community.