About WCDS

Leadership

The society's officers have included President Richard Hsu, DMD, Pres-Elect Jared Thompson, DMD, and Sec-Treas Stan Edwards, DDS. Executive Directors have included Carolyn Pearce and Becky Petersen. The listing below reflects the composition of the executive board over time, including earlier terms.

• Oregon Dental Association component
• American Dental Association component
• About 300 member dentists

Washington County Dental Society is the professional organization for dentists practicing in Washington County, Oregon, and a component of the broader state and national dental associations. With roughly three hundred member dentists, the society serves as a gathering point for practitioners across the county, from long-established practices to newer offices entering the profession. The organization exists to strengthen the dental community, support colleagues in their work, and promote a shared standard of care that patients throughout the region can rely on.

The society's stated objective is to encourage the improvement of the dental health of the public, promote the art and science of dentistry, and encourage dental health education. Beyond that public-facing purpose, it works to provide a safe, secure environment for the support of dental professionals, empowering them to shape their own professional destinies. That dual focus — public oral health on one side and professional resilience on the other — frames much of the society's programming and community involvement.

Education and events are central to the society's identity, with classes, continuing education courses, and professional meetings offered throughout the year. These gatherings typically feature guest speakers, exhibitors, and opportunities for dentists to connect, exchange ideas, and stay current with developments in the field, including advances in technology and clinical practice. Registrations, travel details, and reservations for speakers and exhibitors are organized through the society's event pages, keeping members informed about upcoming gatherings and postponed or rescheduled sessions.

As a recognized component organization of the state and American dental associations, the society maintains a governance structure including a board and executive leadership, along with links to related professional resources and additional websites of interest to members. The society also publishes updates and news, shares announcements with the wider dental community, and maintains resources for members seeking information on office management, patient care topics, and professional topics such as navigating regulatory or association resources.

Public outreach and community service remain a guiding commitment for the organization, which promotes oral health awareness and access for residents of Washington County and neighboring communities. The society's communication efforts extend beyond members to patients and families, offering guidance on oral health, preventive care, and staying informed about current issues affecting dental practice. Through education, advocacy, and professional support, Washington County Dental Society continues its mission of advancing excellence in dentistry while serving the public it serves.