Meet Our Dentist
A Butler University athlete turned Creighton-trained dentist, Dr. O'Connor blends hometown values with modern restorative and clear aligner care.
Dr. Derek O'Connor is originally from Bourbonnais, Illinois, a small town south of Chicago. He attended Butler University for undergrad, where he majored in Biology and Chemistry while also playing wide receiver on the football team. In 2021, Dr. O'Connor graduated magna cum laude from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska where he received extensive training in all facets of dentistry. He has worked in Illinois for the last 4 years at a family practice started by his grandfather, where he continued his education with courses on restorative dentistry, endodontics, and clear aligner therapy. Dr. O'Connor is excited to join the Havens Family Dentistry team and continue providing the highest standard of care, and building strong relationships with the patients and community.
Dr. O'Connor and his wife Jordan met in Indianapolis when both were attending Butler University and have a daughter, Emerson, and a dog, Addie. They enjoy cooking, traveling, attending sporting events and going to parks as a family. They are looking forward to exploring everything the Columbus area has to offer!
Helpful answers to common patient questions about seeing Dr. O'Connor, consultations, and treatment philosophy.
You can call our office at 614-762-2737 or use the online booking link on this page to request an appointment. Our team will help find a time that works with your schedule and confirm whether Dr. O'Connor is seeing new patients that week. If you have a specific concern, let us know when you call so we can plan enough time during your visit.
Dr. O'Connor graduated magna cum laude from Creighton University's School of Dentistry in 2021, where he trained extensively across general and restorative care. Over the past four years at his family's Illinois practice, he continued taking advanced coursework in restorative dentistry, endodontics, and clear aligner therapy. That combination means he's comfortable handling everything from routine fillings to more involved restorative work.
Yes. Dr. O'Connor has taken additional continuing education courses specifically on clear aligner therapy and has experience guiding patients through the process from start to finish. During a consultation, he'll evaluate your bite and smile goals to let you know if clear aligners are a good fit for you. He'll also walk you through the timeline and what to expect at each stage of treatment.
Yes, Dr. O'Connor is welcoming new patients of all ages as part of the Havens Family Dental team. Whether you're looking for a routine cleaning, a restorative procedure, or a second opinion, he's happy to meet you and review your dental history. Give our office a call and we'll get you scheduled.
Your first visit typically includes a thorough exam, any needed X-rays, and a conversation about your dental history and goals. Dr. O'Connor takes time to listen before recommending any treatment, so expect a relaxed, unhurried conversation rather than a rushed checklist. By the end of the appointment, you'll have a clear picture of your oral health and any recommended next steps.
Yes. Dr. O'Connor spent four years working at a family dental practice started by his own grandfather, so treating patients of every generation is second nature to him. As a parent himself, he understands the importance of making dental visits comfortable for kids and easy for busy families to schedule.
Our front desk team works with a wide range of dental insurance plans and is happy to verify your benefits before your appointment. Call 614-762-2737 with your insurance details and we'll confirm your coverage and estimated costs ahead of time, so there are no surprises at checkout.
Yes, Dr. O'Connor has continued his education in endodontics since graduating from Creighton and is equipped to handle root canal therapy for many cases right here in our office. If a tooth needs more specialized care, he'll let you know and coordinate with a trusted specialist to make sure you get the right treatment.
BOOK YOUR VISIT
Join the Blacklick families who trust Havens Family Dental. New patients and emergencies are always welcome.