Long before he became known as “Dr. Matt” to thousands of local children and parents, Matt Karsten learned a lesson that would shape the course of his life: service is not about yourself. It is about using your gifts, talents, and opportunities to improve the lives of others.

That lesson guided him through dental school and specialized pediatric training. Today, it guides him as founder of Kids First Pediatric Dentistry, where he has spent his career helping children build healthy smiles and healthy futures.

Born and raised in the Fox Valley, Dr. Matt understands the values that define this community — hard work, responsibility, faith, family, and a willingness to help others. Throughout his life, one principle has guided his decisions both personally and professionally: “Always do the right thing.”

It sounds simple, but he believes some of life's most important values often are. Whether leading a dental practice, raising a family, or caring for a young patient, Dr. Matt returns to that principle again and again. Doing the right thing means treating people with respect. It means telling the truth, even when it is difficult. It means putting the needs of others ahead of your own convenience. It means maintaining high standards when no one is watching.

Those lessons are evident throughout his practice today.

When a child sits in his dental chair, Dr. Matt doesn't simply see a patient. He sees a young person with hopes, fears, potential, and a future. He understands that a positive interaction today can influence a child's confidence, health, and perception of healthcare for years to come.

That perspective is one reason parents trust him. Children are not rushed through appointments. Their concerns are heard. Their questions are answered. Their successes are celebrated. Every child is treated with dignity and respect.

Dr. Matt views children as one of our community's greatest responsibilities. He believes every child deserves adults who will encourage them, teach them, protect them, and help them grow. He knows he is not simply caring for teeth. He is helping children develop healthy, confident smiles that can positively impact every area of their lives — how they speak, eat, learn, socialize, and see themselves.

“Kids First” is more than the name of the practice. It reflects a philosophy that guides every interaction. Dr. Matt believes children deserve to be seen as individuals, not procedures, and that building trust is just as important as providing excellent clinical care.

After earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Matt completed a two-year pediatric dentistry residency at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia. He then returned home to establish a practice dedicated exclusively to children.

Over the years, he has become a respected leader within his profession, serving as a member of numerous dental and pediatric organizations and as a past president of the Elgin Dental Society and its study club. Yet despite his accomplishments, those who know him best often describe him as approachable, humble, and focused on serving others.

Outside the office, Dr. Matt's greatest source of pride is his family. He and his wife, Samantha, are raising five children, giving him firsthand insight into the joys and challenges of parenthood. That experience helps him connect naturally with the families he serves.

Dr. Matt Karsten reminds us that character is built one decision at a time. His guiding principle remains the same today as it has throughout his life: always do the right thing.

A Fox Valley-based pediatric dentist and founder of Kids First Pediatric Dentistry.

The practice treats children as individuals, not procedures, with a focus on trust, patience, and making every child feel heard.

Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, followed by a two-year pediatric residency at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia.

Past president of the Elgin Dental Society and its study club, and a member of numerous dental and pediatric organizations.

Jennifer helps local businesses grow through community-driven marketing that actually feels like community — not just another ad. Based in the Fox River Valley after being born and raised in Chicago, she specializes in print-based advertising, neighborhood magazines, and alternative marketing strategies designed for business owners who want real relationships with their customers, not just impressions.

Through printed features and networking events, Jennifer connects Northern Illinois businesses to the neighbors right down the street — building trust the old-fashioned way, with a modern approach.

Know a business with a story worth telling, or curious about print-based and community-driven marketing for your own business? Contact Jennifer at Jennifer.Abbatacola@N2co.com