Richard Gesker

Dr. Richard Gesker, serves as Dental Director at Rockbridge Area Health Center, bringing extensive clinical expertise and executive leadership in community health.

Having experienced severe tooth decay and extensive dental procedures as a child, Dr. Gesker’s career is deeply shaped by the emotional and physical impact of early dental trauma. His personal experience inspired him to become a DOCS-trained sedation dentist, dedicating his career to expanding access for high-risk patients, mitigating adverse childhood experiences in the dental chair, and preventing severe oral deterioration through compassionate, trauma-informed care and education.

He is passionate about expanding access to care, removing barriers for high-need populations, integrating dental services with medical and behavioral health teams, and mentoring the next generation of clinicians.

Dr. Gesker earned dual degrees from Temple University’s School of Dentistry (DMD) and School of Business (MBA), holding a Fellowship in Oral Conscious Sedation from DOCS Education. He began his career as a U.S. Naval Dental Officer, providing comprehensive care on humanitarian missions throughout the Middle East—an experience that reinforced his lifelong commitment to integrating dental care with overall medical health.

Throughout his career, Dr. Gesker has served as Chief Dental Officer and executive leader in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), dental support organizations, and health plans, including UnitedHealthcare and Mary’s Center in Washington, D.C. In addition to his leadership, he has served as an adjunct faculty member at Temple University and Howard University Schools of Dentistry, lecturing and publishing widely on community health, pediatric care, and sedation dentistry.