Meet Dr. Rayna Strong, DMD, MBE

Dr. Rayna Strong was born in Portland, OR and raised in Estacada, OR. She studied biology, urban studies, and theology at Wheaton College in IL, before earning a dual degree, DWD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) and MBE (Master of Bioethics) from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013. Dr. Strong’s career has centered on care of underserved populations, serving as a community dentist in FQHCs from 2013 to 2023 before becoming an in-school dentist.

Her patient care approach focuses on listening, educating, and providing minimally invasive care to promote long term health. She empowers people to transform their lives and communities by hearing their stories, building on the knowledge of their own lived experiences, and forming genuine connections over shared values. Dr. Strong is an advocate for wellness, balance, and justice – recognizing health as a divine right and making optimal health and well-being a reality for everyone.

Dr. Strong mentors young people interested in college or health professions and enjoys providing helpful “oral health talks” to students, adults, and professionals. She values connectedness and finds joy in extended family gatherings. Her self-care activities include reading, yoga, hiking, paddle boarding, cloud watching, and stargazing. She is also a mother of two dynamic young children.

Dr. Strong’s current work involves innovative school-based and community-based oral health care models and writing and speaking on social ethics, health justice and community oral health topics. Dr. Strong’s recent appointments include serving in a clinical faculty at PNWU School of Dental Medicine and serving on the WA State Dental Board.