We’re delighted to announce Dr. Rebecca Ryan as Union’s new Chief Dental Officer! A familiar face, Dr. Ryan brings a clear vision for creating an accessible, equitable, patient-centered Dental Home where every community member feels seen, heard, respected, and cared for.
Dr. Ryan joined Union in April 2021, bringing with her not only years of dental expertise but also a deep commitment to community health.
Read more about Dr. Ryan’s career journey, how her new role supports community members, and a few fun facts!
What can you share about your career journey?
Dr Ryan: “I am originally from Arizona and went to dental school at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. I moved to Pennsylvania for my first for my first job as a dentist.“
How did you get connected with our community?
Dr. Ryan: “After dental school, I had the opportunity to go anywhere. My husband is originally from Lancaster, and it’s such a cool place. I love that you can be driving through rural areas one moment, and just a few seconds later, you’re in the heart of downtown enjoying great restaurants. We see that same variety and richness reflected in our patients. We are treating people from all walks of life.“
Why did you choose Union?
Dr. Ryan: “I wanted to move into public health. I remember in a previous job, I had a patient who didn’t have any dental insurance. They had many cavities. Supporting that person and being able to work with them was some of the most rewarding work I have done. It started to shift my focus toward public health and community health.
Union is so special because I see that dental care is an essential part of whole-person care, where we address not just the mouth but the overall health and well-being of each patient.”
How does your role as Chief Dental Officer support community members?
Dr. Ryan: “I’m still serving our community as a dentist, but in my role as Chief Dental Officer, my goal is to support my dental team members. Together, we can continue to improve our patient’ access to their dental home.”
Why should someone choose Union as their dental home?
Dr Ryan: “We have a dedicated team of talented and compassionate providers who strive to deliver top-quality care, guided by the latest knowledge and supported by the best tools and techniques available. At the same time, our community can be sure all of their healthcare needs are being met affordably.“
How does the Dental team play a role in 360 care?
Dr, Ryan: “We have the ability to check in with the medical team about concerns we’re seeing with a patient, and they have the ability to connect with us about dental concerns. We also work closely with Behavioral Health Specialists and Community Health Resource Coordinators. Having all our teams coordinate for our community members really puts our patients first. Our patients have access to everything they need in one place.”
What’s something you enjoy talking to community members about in addition to their dental well-being?
Dr. Ryan: “I used to make handmade jewelry. I got my bachelors in fine arts and metalworking. I still have all of my equipment, but I haven’t done it in a while.
I also love gardening and Dungeons and Dragons. This fall I planted saffron crocus bulbs with the hope of harvesting saffron spice. I want to use it in my cooking. There was a lot of Sonoran-Mexican food where I was from in Arizona. I love to make authentic enchilada sauce, and I am familiar with using Sonoran-Mexican spices.“
Learn more about our Dental Care
Our Dental Care Team partners with you to meet your unique dental care and treatment needs. We believe that your oral health is connected to your whole health. This means getting to know your health history, focusing on your care, and strengthening your well-being.
