I had the honor of performing dental charity work in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

Over three days, two other dentists and I from Honduras treated over 200 patients, providing them with necessary extractions, restorations (fillings), cleanings, and education. Meanwhile, other members of our group traveled to local schools, providing mineral treatments and passing out toothbrushes. In total, they saw close to 2,000 children.

Unfortunately, the majority of the kids I saw were already dealing with serious dental conditions. Rampant decay, painful abscesses, and adult teeth already needing root canals or extractions were common sights.

Even so, I truly believe that people are placed in your life for a reason. It was such an honor to be called to help in this way. This experience completely validated my purpose in life and has made my difficult career journey completely worth it.

The trip also inspired me to participate in and coordinate charity work right here in the U.S., as well as abroad. I currently serve as a board member for the Powhatan Dental Outreach Foundation for Children, a charity that strives to educate patients on proper hygiene and provides regular dental visits to children who are without dental insurance. In addition to providing quality dental care in central Virginia, we also work abroad, in places like Honduras and Romania.

— Dr. Dylan McKnight

A Proud Partner of The Other Side Academy

For the past five years, I have had the privilege of providing dental care to members of The Other Side Academy in Denver. What began as a professional relationship has grown into a partnership I am truly proud of.

The Other Side Academy is a residential, vocational, and life-skills program dedicated to helping people overcome destructive behaviors and build healthier, more productive lives. Through accountability, hard work, peer support, and personal responsibility, students are given the tools and opportunity to create a better future.

I am grateful for the trust they have placed in me during such an important part of their journey. Improving oral health can play a meaningful role in rebuilding overall health, confidence, and quality of life, and I am honored that my profession allows me to contribute in a small way.

Over the years, I have met some of the most grateful and resilient people I have ever encountered. I have been deeply touched by the stories they have shared—their struggles, their challenges, and their determination to change. Their journeys have reminded me that we can always do better, that everyone deserves kindness and respect, and that we should remain humble and grateful for the opportunities we have.

The students are the ones doing the hard work. They are accepting responsibility, making difficult choices, and committing themselves to building a different future. I am simply grateful to have the opportunity to support them along the way.

I am proud to partner with The Other Side Academy and deeply grateful to be a small part of the important work they are doing in Denver. Supporting someone on their journey toward recovery, better health, and a better life has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.