Lead Dentist Ammon
Get to Know Jed Zirker, DMD
Dr. Zirker firmly believes that great dentistry starts with great relationships. Taking time to understand the needs of each patient, from their goals to their concerns makes all the difference. He approaches dentistry as a partnership, guiding patients through all options to solve their oral health concerns. Being able to create beautiful smiles that change lives brings him great joy, which is why he continues to study and improve himself even after practicing for over 20 years.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?
Dr. Zirker admits he had horrible handwriting in 2nd grade, so his mom told him that he needed to improve it or become a doctor…
He grew up learning the value of work by farming next to his father, and those long days taught him from a very young age that education was going to help him be the best husband, father, and provider for a family. While he was an undergraduate, a friend in a science class said that he was headed to dental school. Dr. Zirker had never thought about dentistry, but it just felt like the right thing to do. As it turned out, he couldn't be happier with the path he chose!
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
After graduating from Idaho State University, Dr. Zirker earned his DMD from the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. This was followed by doing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at Idaho State University. He was eventually invited to teach at this very same residency and did so for 18 years.
To ensure he consistently offers his patients the most effective and up-to-date care possible, Dr. Zirker regularly completes advanced training through Spear Education and is an active member of the American Dental Association and Idaho State Dental Association.
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
Dr. Zirker married the girl of his dreams, Malissa, in 1999. They have been blessed with six children: John (Avi), Emma (Tanner) Bateman, Abigail, Jared, Cara, and Grace. He says that his love languages are working hard and spending meaningful time with family. They love to be in the backyard together, playing games and enjoying family dinners while watching the beautiful Idaho sunsets. For him, it feels a little bit like heaven on earth.
Dr. Zirker has always enjoyed working with his hands, so when he does have free time, you’ll often find him making log pole beds. He does absolutely everything himself. He cuts down the tree, brings it home to dry out for a season, then strips the bark off. One of the best parts (other than lying down in the completed bed) is seeing the hidden character under the bark that gets uncovered.