Dr.Tulkki is originally from Cold Spring, MN. He attended Gustavus Adolphus College prior to entering dental school at the University of Minnesota. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2001 from the University of Minnesota Dental School. He had three years of restorative dentistry experience before pursuing two years of specialty training in endodontics. He received his Masters of Science and Certificate in Endodontics in 2006 from the University of Minnesota. While completing his residency his research focus was antibacterial properties of irrigating solution on bacterial biofilms. In 2010, Dr. Tulkki received board certification from the American Board of Endodontists, a distinction pursued by approximately 40% of the endodontists in the country. He is a past president of the Minnesota Endodontic Association.  

In addition to clinical practice, he has been involved with the University of Minnesota Dental School while teaching, lecturing, and participating in multiple Jamaica dental missions. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, American Association of Endodontists, Minnesota Association of Endodontists, and the American Board of Endodontists.

Dr. Tulkki resides in Orono with his wife, Amy, a veterinarian, and their three children.