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Meet the
Doctors

Dr. Dave Ries, DDS, MS

Dr. Dave Ries joined Robinson Orthodontics in July 2011. Like Dr. Robinson, he is an alumnus of the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Dentistry, where he completed his orthodontic residency, earned an M.S. in Oral Biology, graduated summa cum laude, and achieved the highest score in his class on the American Board of Orthodontics exam. During his training, Dr. Ries also co-authored articles published in leading orthodontic journals.

A member of the ADA and AAO, Dr. Ries is deeply committed to clinical excellence and staying current with advances in orthodontic care. Just as importantly, he takes a highly individualized approach to treatment—combining the right technologies and plans to deliver balanced facial structure, healthy alignment, and lasting smiles.

Before pursuing orthodontics, Dr. Ries earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Kansas State University on football and basketball scholarships and worked as a consultant for Accenture Technology. He later practiced alongside family in Texas before relocating to Columbia with his wife, Jen, and their three children, Rory, Avery, and Everett.

Dr. Ries is also passionate about supporting local children’s charities and has served as a title sponsor or supporter of organizations including Rainbow House, Coyote Hill, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Columbia Food Bank, Welcome Home Vets, and Mobility Worldwide.

Dr. Rachael Maerz, DDS, MS

Dr. Maerz is a Columbia, Missouri native and is thrilled to be practicing in her hometown. She is also proud to be the only female orthodontist in the community, bringing a unique perspective and approach to patient care. She earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2014 before moving to Columbus, Ohio, where she completed her orthodontic residency at The Ohio State University, receiving both her master's degree and orthodontic certificate. After finishing her residency in 2018, she practiced in a private orthodontic office in Columbus until relocating back to Columbia in 2022.

“What I love most about orthodontics is the opportunity to truly get to know my patients and their families. It's incredibly rewarding to watch patients grow and change over time. Every smile is unique, and I enjoy the challenge of working together with each patient to create their best smile. It's especially meaningful knowing these smiles will be part of life's special moments—birthdays, graduations, weddings, and more.”

Outside of the office, Dr. Maerz enjoys spending time with her husband, Kevin, and their son, Declan. In her free time, she loves heading to the mountains—whether it's for hiking or hitting the slopes during ski season.