Dr. Kelsey Gass
Dr. Kelsey Gass grew up in the small town of Roswell, NM where her passion for Orthodontics began. Her experience with braces was fun and life-changing that she decided to set her eyes on becoming an orthodontist.
Dr. Gass moved to Texas where she attended Baylor University and graduated Summa Cum Laude. She began her dental career in Houston where she attended The University of Texas Health Science Center. While in dental school, she was involved in children’s ministry at her church as well as volunteered her time on mission trips to Guatemala where she worked with less fortunate families providing dental care.
Dr. Gass continued her pursuit of excellence in specialty training for Orthodontics at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio where she served as the chief resident. In her free time, she volunteered to work with Young Life Capernaum ministries where she enjoyed working with the special needs community.
She recently moved to Gainesville, GA with her husband to be closer to family. Outside of the office, you can find her spending time with family and friends. She enjoys hiking with her husband Wes, traveling, and taking their golden retriever, Zeke on adventures.
Dr. Gass is excited to become a part of Koch orthodontics and join us in making a lifelong change in our patients’ lives. She is passionate about providing patients with the best care as well as meaningful relationships with each and every person who comes through the door!
Dr. Hazie Simon
Dr. Hazie Simon is a board-certified orthodontist who believes a confident smile can change a life. Growing up 5 miles south of Atlanta, GA, Dr. Simon faced teasing because of his own smile, an experience that inspired him to one day help others feel proud of theirs. His mission is simple but powerful: to build self-esteem, one smile at a time.
He began his education at Georgia Southern University, earning a degree in Exercise Science, before earning a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Clayton State University. He later received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University.
Dr. Simon served as a Dental Officer in the United States Navy, where he provided care for service members across all branches. After completing his service and receiving two medals of achievement, he pursued advanced training in orthodontics at Case Western Reserve University, where he earned his orthodontic certificate and a Master of Science in Dentistry.
His passion for transforming lives extends beyond the clinic. Dr. Simon is the author of Simon Says Smile, a children’s book based on his own journey, created to inspire kids struggling with self-esteem related to their teeth.
With a deep belief in the power of representation, encouragement, and education, Dr. Simon has traveled to over 70 countries and all seven continents, gaining a unique global perspective that he brings into his care. He is a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, National Dental Association, and the Southern Association of Orthodontists.
In his free time, he enjoys sports, travel, and giving back through Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Dr. Simon is proud to serve the Georgia community, where every patient is treated with compassion and every smile is a chance to change a life.
Dr. Jacob Koch
As the middle of seven kids and the proud father of three children, Dr. Koch (pronounced “coke”) has a very special perspective on orthodontic care. As he works with each patient, he thinks of the way he would treat his own children and siblings. He believes in being friendly and caring while providing honest advice and timely orthodontic treatment only when needed.
Dr. Koch received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland in Baltimore. After his dental training, he completed an additional two years of specialized orthodontics training at Louisiana State University.
In his quest to provide the best care possible, Dr. Koch actively participates in many professional organizations and study clubs, keeping himself up to date with the latest in orthodontic treatment and technology. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Hinman Dental Society, and the Schulman Orthodontist Study Group.
Dr. Koch grew up in Las Vegas where he was involved in music, participating in piano performance competitions and state honor chorus. He now accompanies local Georgia high school choruses as his side gig.
Although his kids have grown and flown, Dr. Koch is proud to call Georgia home, and he looks forward to continuing to grow an orthodontic practice that is passionate about giving genuine care to its patients and community.
