Meet The Team at
Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dental Office Serving the St. Louis Community

Meet The Team

Kearston

Front Office Assistant

Kearston works in the front office since 2021. She has been in the dental field for over 20 years, working as either an assistant or in the front office.

Hobbies: Kearston most enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. Kearston and her husband like to find new restaurants to visit. She and her kids spend a lot of time playing games. In her spare time, she loves to read or watch a good movie.

Carrie

Pediatric Dental Assistant

Carrie is an Certified Expanded Functions Dental Assistant. She has been working on the dental industry for 23 years.

Hobbies: Carrie lives on a farm with cows.  She loves to cook and garden.  Carrie has been married for 25 years with 2 grown children.

Marcia

Pediatric Dental Assistant

Marcia is the newest member of the Team.

Hobbies:  Marcia is married with 2 grown children.  She enjoys spending time with her 3 granddaughters and enjoys cooking and spending time with family and friends.

Meet Dr. Mary Margaret Kratz

Dr. Mary Margaret Kratz is the founder and leading pediatric dentist at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry. A St. Louis native, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, followed by specialized pediatric training at the renowned Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Her career began in general dentistry but quickly evolved into a passionate focus on comprehensive, compassionate care for children.

Dr. Mary Margaret is especially skilled at helping children overcome dental anxiety and creating a positive experience for patients of all ages and abilities, including those with special healthcare needs. Known for her gentle approach and calm, encouraging demeanor, she works to ensure that every child—and parent—feels understood, supported, and at ease.

Outside of the office, Dr. Mary Margaret finds joy in the simple things: cooking, staying active, and long boat rides at Table Rock Lake. She treasures time with her husband, children and  dogs. As both a provider and a parent, she brings a unique, empathetic perspective to her care. Her personal experiences fuel her commitment to open communication, patient education, and creating a supportive environment that empowers families.

She welcomes questions, values transparency, and takes time to understand each child’s needs and dental history—because a strong foundation begins with trust and understanding.

Dr. Mary Margaret Kratz, pediatric dentist in St. Louis, smiling warmly at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry.

Tell Us About the Name

My maiden name is Pearman, and I’ve always loved that a portion of the word “pearl” is tucked right inside it. That connection is more than just a coincidence—it is symbolic. My upbringing is the core of everything I do. It is a reminder that family has always been my strongest support system, shaping who I am today.

Just as my maiden name is more than just a name—it is the root of my values and decisions—I believe a child’s experience with their dentist lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits and confidence in their smile.

As a mom myself, I know how deeply precious our children are—true gems in our lives. Thank you for trusting us with your Little Pearls. It’s an honor to care for them and be a part of their story.

Family laughing together at home, showcasing happy smiles nurtured through gentle pediatric dentistry at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry.
Soft pink watercolor pearl representing healthy, radiant smiles at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry
Delicate watercolor scallop shell element for Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry’s coastal theme

What Sets Us Apart

At Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in creating a warm, child-friendly environment for kids of all ages and abilities. Our approach is personalized to meet each patient’s unique dental needs, helping them feel safe, understood, and empowered.

Using advanced technology, we monitor dental health closely for early, conservative intervention when needed. We also dedicate extra time to education—using disclosing agents and hands-on demonstrations to help kids (and parents) understand where to focus during brushing and why it matters.

At Little Pearls, we also emphasize preventative care as the cornerstone of our practice. By educating families and implementing early intervention strategies, we aim to prevent the progression of oral diseases and maintain the overall health of our young patients. This proactive approach to pediatric dentistry ensures that our patients not only receive the best care but are also empowered to maintain optimal oral health outside of our office.

Pediatric dentist Dr. Mary Margaret Kratz and young patient giving thumbs-up after a fun dental visit at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry St. Louis.

Financial Information

At Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to make dental care accessible and stress-free for all families. We are proud to be in-network with a wide range of dental insurance providers.We are committed to serving the St. Louis community, and we look forward to welcoming your family to Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry.If you have specific questions regarding your insurance plan or need details regarding your benefits, please contact our office at (314) 343-1037. Our friendly staff is here to help you understand your coverage and ensure that you have all the information you need to manage your child’s dental health with ease and transparency.

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Smiling child and Dr. Mary Margaret Kratz showing excitement after a positive pediatric dental visit at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry St. Louis.
Colorful dental tools and educational models in an exam room at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry, highlighting a fun, child-friendly environment.
Dr. Mary Margaret Kratz teaching proper brushing to a young patient using a toy model at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry in St. Louis.