About
Morningside Dental Care is one of the premier dental offices in Manhattan, located in the heart of Harlem at 527 Manhattan Avenue. Founded by Dr. Donna Williams, who moved to Harlem in 1994 after leaving the Virgin Islands, the practice was established with a clear mission: to transform the perception of dental care quality in Harlem and provide exceptional, comprehensive dental services to the community. Dr. Williams initially worked as a dentist at Harlem Dowling Foster Care Agency before opening her solo practice on 125th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue, which eventually evolved into the thriving Morningside Dental Care practice it is today.
The practice operates on a philosophy of total body dentistry, recognizing that patients come as whole individuals, not just their teeth and gums. The team understands the intricate relationship between oral health and overall health conditions, emphasizing how diet and total body wellness play crucial roles in maintaining optimal oral health. This holistic approach distinguishes Morningside Dental Care from traditional dental practices and reflects a commitment to patient-centered, comprehensive care.
Morningside Dental Care is staffed by experienced dental professionals, including Dr. Donna Williams and Dr. Cameron Lewis, who brings extensive oral surgery experience to the practice. The team is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental innovation, with doctors and staff regularly attending continuing education seminars to learn the latest dental techniques and technologies. This commitment to professional development ensures that patients receive cutting-edge treatments and the highest standard of care.
The practice is particularly renowned for pioneering advanced treatment options in the Manhattan area. Dr. Williams was one of the first dentists in New York City to offer LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure), the only FDA-approved laser treatment for gum disease. This innovative technique has enabled the practice to save teeth that might otherwise require extraction, significantly improving patient outcomes. Additionally, Morningside Dental Care is the only dental office above 79th Street in Manhattan to feature a state-of-the-art CEREC machine—a computer and milling system that creates all-porcelain crowns and bridges directly in the office, eliminating the need for multiple visits and temporary restorations.
The practice demonstrates a strong commitment to patient comfort and accessibility. Dr. Williams is certified by the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS), enabling the practice to treat patients who experience dental fear and anxiety, including those with childhood-related dental trauma. This specialized capability ensures that all patients, regardless of their anxiety levels, can receive the care they need in a supportive environment.
Beyond clinical excellence, Morningside Dental Care is deeply committed to community service and making dental care accessible to underserved populations. The practice participates in outreach programs such as the College's mobile dental care van, 'Smiling Faces, Going Places,' which brings comprehensive dental care to underserved children in New York City public schools and Head Start facilities. Dr. Williams has also been involved in mission work providing dental care access to underserved populations in Machias, Maine, reflecting the practice's broader commitment to dental health equity.
The practice offers flexible payment options to accommodate diverse patient needs, including a Wisdom Membership Plan priced at $360 annually, which covers regular cleanings and exams plus a 20% discount on other treatments—providing a budget-friendly alternative to traditional insurance. The office accepts numerous insurance carriers and offers multiple payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, and various insurance plans.
Morningside Dental Care serves patients of all ages, from pediatric patients to adults, offering comprehensive care throughout every stage of life. The multilingual team speaks English, Spanish, Swahili, and Tagalog/Filipino, ensuring effective communication with Manhattan's diverse population. The practice prides itself on building lasting relationships with patients through empathetic communication and genuine commitment to well-being, creating an environment where patients feel heard, cared for, and confident in their dental journey.
