Carol Rykiel, BSRDH, MS

The motivation behind my passion for dental hygiene stems from a profound commitment to providing high-quality oral health care to homeless individuals in Colorado. As I approach my 32nd year as a career dental hygienist, I am driven by the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of this vulnerable population.

For over eleven years, I have worked with the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, which delivers an array of services—including medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, behavioral health, medically assisted therapy, housing, and additional support resources—to those experiencing homelessness within the state. Each year, we serve approximately 9,600 dental patients.

Homelessness is rarely a voluntary choice. The consequences of inadequate nutrition, addiction, limited access to clean water, and unstable living conditions are visibly reflected in our patients’ oral health. Many individuals face feelings of embarrassment and fear, frequently encountering obstacles in their pursuit of relief from pain, anxiety reduction, and restoration of oral health. It is within these circumstances that my enthusiasm for the profession is truly ignited.

What inspires me most is the opportunity to remove barriers and restore dignity. My work has afforded me the privilege of practicing in diverse settings—ranging from standard dental clinics, shelter-based locations, satellite sites, outreach mobile units, recuperative care centers, and integrated medical floors. Our comprehensive approach allows us to meet clients where they are and ensures coordinated healthcare delivery, alleviating the complexities often faced when navigating such systems. For the last 7 years I have worked on a grant that explores the Diabetes/Cardiovascular disease oral health connection and what benefit it would be to refine dental care for those that have those diseases. Rarely are those diseases independent, and comorbidities exist. It’s hard enough for a housed patient to try to improve their oral and systemic health, but our homeless clients face difficult hardships. Their hearts are literally in our hands!

Recently, I collaborated closely with a Primary Medical Provider in developing a customized periodontal and restorative treatment plan for a patient whose goal was to lower their A1C from 10.0. Through comprehensive care, including regular point of care  glucose testing, A1C, and blood pressure monitoring, and seamless communication with the primary care provider—the patient successfully reduced their A1C to 7.0 over four months. Serving as a coach in this process was both an honor and a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Looking ahead to 2026, I am eager to direct greater focus towards pediatric and senior populations, continuing to embrace new challenges and opportunities for growth. Dental hygiene offers limitless potential for those who persistently strive for professional development and advancement.

My personal experience of homelessness as a child for six years has deepened my appreciation for education and professional growth. I am grateful for the chance to earn a Master’s Degree, serve as a Cavity Free at Three trainer for the Colorado State Department of Health, act as a diabetes program manager, a CPR instructor, a volunteer, serve as a Co-Chair/ Board Member for Kids in Need of Dentistry.

Even after 31 years in the field, my dedication stays steadfast. There continues to be a significant need for compassionate and innovative dental care, and I am committed to advancing this important work.