New program expands access to specialized dental care for children in Collier County
July 21, 2025 — Healthcare Network proudly announces the arrival of its first class of residents in the Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry (AEPD) Program, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible dental care to children throughout Collier County and Southwest Florida.
The inaugural AEPD class includes Ashley Perkins, DMD; Mary Byrnes, DMD; and Sydney Wright, DMD, who bring diverse experiences, advanced clinical skills, and a shared dedication to serving the region’s youngest patients. The AEPD is a two-year postdoctoral residency program designed to prepare dentists for advanced pediatric practice in both clinical and community-based settings.
“The launch of the AEPD program expands our capacity to meet the growing oral health needs of children in our community,” said Douglas Keck, DMD, Dental Director of Healthcare Network. “These residents represent the future of pediatric dentistry, and we are proud to support their development while enhancing care for local families.”
Throughout the two-year program, AEPD residents will receive in-depth training in preventive, restorative, and specialty pediatric care, including care for children with special healthcare needs. They will provide care at Healthcare Network’s dental facilities, work alongside experienced providers, and participate in outreach efforts aimed at improving oral health equity.
This new AEPD program complements Healthcare Network’s existing Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Residency Program, together reflecting the organization’s comprehensive approach to dental education and a continued investment in workforce development.
As part of this commitment, Healthcare Network also welcomes its 2025–2026 AEGD residents: Elivia Jimenez Ciriaco, DMD, and Max Guillen, DMD, who will deliver general dentistry care to patients of all ages while receiving advanced clinical training.
The AEPD and AEGD programs represent Healthcare Network’s expanding commitment to advanced training and workforce development. A Family Medicine Residency Program is also in development, further strengthening the organization’s role in training future healthcare professionals.
For more information about Healthcare Network’s dental services or residency programs, please visit healthcareswfl.org/residency/pediatric-dental-residency-program.
About Healthcare Network
Since 1977, Healthcare Network has distinguished itself as a premier patient-centered medical and dental home. Offering the highest level of coordinated care to all ages, Healthcare Network plays an integral role in keeping the entire community healthy, providing quality and comprehensive care and financial assistance when needed. With practices located throughout Collier County, primary health care services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, dental care and pharmacy as well as behavioral health counseling for both adults and children. Additionally, the organization’s community health workers bring health and social services directly to underserved families. Healthcare Network is recognized by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care and certified as a Patient-Centered Medical Home by HRSA. For more information, visit HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.
