Meet Dr.Thacker and Staff

Ralph W. Thacker DMD

As a young teenager in his hometown of Owensboro, Kentucky, Dr. Ralph Thacker knew a healthcare career would be right for him. His early interest in science, especially biology and nature, and his love of art, such as drawing, painting, ceramics, landscaping and even taxidermy, made dentistry a natural fit for his talents.

He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in biology with a minor in chemistry, from Murray State University in 1977. He then earned his Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in Louisville, Kentucky in 1982. Immediately after graduation, he served as a dental officer in the United States Air Force Dental Corps at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, for three years before going into private practice in 1985.

He is also a long-standing member of The American Dental Association, Kentucky Dental Association and a member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners.

Dr. Thacker attributes much of his success to his wife Diane, who has supported the dental practice in so many ways. They have two grown children, Bryan and Stephanie, who are both married and living in Kentucky, and have five granddaughters.

Giving back to the community he shares with his patients and calls home is very important to Dr. Thacker. He has been a member of the McLean Chamber of Commerce since 1985 and is a past two-term president of the organization. In an effort to help the community where he works and lives, Dr. Thacker formed the Livermore Enhancement Foundation to assist with economic development and other community improvements. Most recently, he served as director of the Livermore Kentucky Trail Town task force that helped Livermore become the 25th Kentucky Trail Town in the Commonwealth in 2022 with the purpose of attracting people to bike and paddle our local land and water trails, and appreciate the natural resources, while experiencing the fitness benefits along the way. He and Diane serve monthly at the Christian Dental Mission in Owensboro, Kentucky, a mission that provides free basic dental care to those with financial need. They have also served on international dental missions in Vietnam and Honduras. Their Christian faith being central to their lives and career, they have been long term active members of Buck Creek Baptist Church.

When he is not caring for patients, pursuing continuing education, or donating his time to charitable causes, Dr. Thacker enjoys most forms of outdoor adventure including kayaking, backpacking, biking, tennis, and swimming. He also loves spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren, and travel.

Our Team

Hannah-Registered Dental Hygienist

Autumn-Hybrid Dental Assistant

Chasity-Dental Assistant

Tracy Igleheart - Expanded Duty Dental Assistant

Tracy is a certified expanded duty dental assistant, trained at the University of Louisville in 2000. She is also certified in coronal polishing and radiation safety and serves as our office infection control director. Tracy has been an important part of our team since 2000 and specializes in assisting Dr. Thacker in root canal therapy, oral surgery, Invisalign orthodontics, cosmetic veneers and crown and bridges.

Jennifer Rickard - Expanded Duty Dental Assistant

Jennifer is a certified expanded duty dental assistant, trained at the University of Louisville in 2004 and is also certified in coronal polishing and radiation safety. She is an accomplished artist when it comes to finishing tooth colored bonded composite restorations for our patients, as well as creating cosmetic temporary acrylic crowns and veneers for the front teeth. In addition, she assists Dr. Thacker with dental sleep medicine procedures with sleep apnea and snoring appliance therapy, as well at TMJ therapy and Invisalign orthodontics. Jennifer joined our team in 2002 and is dedicated to quality dental care. She is here to assist you with your dental needs!

Diane Thacker - Office Coordinator

Diane is Dr. Thacker's wife and has been a part of the team since 1985. In 1980 she graduated from the University of Louisville, with an Expanded Duty Dental Assisting certificate and in 1984 graduated from Minot State University, with a degree in Business Management. She has much experience as dental assistant, patient coordinator, office coordinator and accountant. She continues to enjoy serving our great family of patients and working with our professionally trained staff as our patient concierge. Your dental health is her number one concern!

Gina- Recare and Insurance Coordinator

Sarah-Patient Care Coordinator