Wendy Williams

After 40 years in dentistry and 20 years as a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP), I can honestly say I still love what I do.

As the owner of Special Access Dental, I have dedicated my practice to bringing dental hygiene care to individuals who often cannot access a traditional dental office. My patients include the elderly, homebound, medically fragile, and individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs.

What I love most about my profession isn't just cleaning teeth. It's the relationships I build, the challenges I overcome, and the difference I can make in someone's life.

One experience that will always stay with me involved a patient with autism who had difficulty tolerating dental treatment. Instead of rushing the process, I began a series of desensitization visits. Each appointment focused on building trust, introducing dental instruments, and helping the patient become comfortable with dental care at their own pace.

Progress was gradual, and every small accomplishment was worth celebrating. It took eight visits before I was finally able to complete a dental cleaning.

And when we finished, my patient gave me a high five!

That simple high five meant more to me than words could express. It wasn't just about completing a cleaning. It was about the trust we had built, the barriers we had overcome, and the confidence my patient had gained.

Moments like that remind me why I chose this profession.

Throughout my career, I've learned that dental hygiene is about so much more than oral health. It's about compassion, patience, dignity, and meeting patients where they are, both physically and emotionally.

I also love educating caregivers and families, mentoring future dental hygienists, and showing others that our profession can extend far beyond the four walls of a dental office.

After four decades, I still look forward to seeing my patients and finding new ways to make dental care accessible to those who need it most.

What makes me love dental hygiene?

Sometimes it's not the perfect cleaning or a full schedule of patients. Sometimes it's eight visits, countless small victories, and one unforgettable high five.

That is why I love dental hygiene. And after 40 years, I wouldn't trade this profession for anything.

Wendy Williams, RDHAP