VCU School of Dentistry welcomes Darrin Wiederhold, D.M.D., M.S., as an assistant professor with the Department of General Practice. Wiederhold started his role in January 2026.

Wiederhold comes to Richmond from Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he served as dental director at the Scranton Primary Health Care Clinic. He earned his D.M.D. from Temple University School of Dentistry and a master’s degree in Oral Biology from the Medical College of Ohio in Toledo. Wiederhold completed his General Practice residency at The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, where he served as Chief Resident.

With nearly 30 years of clinical care experience and more than five years in academic dentistry, Wiederhold brings a deep commitment to patient care, education and service to his role at VCU.

Wiederhold was initially drawn to academics for its blending of clinical practice and education, allowing him to simultaneously be a lifelong learner and a teacher.

“I chose a career in academics because I have always truly enjoyed the synergy and camaraderie that comes from educating future generations of healthcare leaders and innovators,” said Wiederhold.

In addition to his work as an assistant professor, Wiederhold will be leading operations at the Roger Wood Special Care Clinic. 

“Increasing access to quality, comprehensive dental care for the underserved special needs population is a top priority for me,” said Wiederhold. “I am also very committed to helping educate future dental professionals in caring for this population of patients so they will feel more comfortable treating these patients in their own practices.”

The Roger Wood Special Care Clinic opened its doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in August 2025. The clinic provides comprehensive care to individuals over the age of 18 with developmental and acquired disabilities. Students at VCU School of Dentistry also receive the unique opportunity to learn how to treat patients with special needs. 

“Without a doubt, the opportunity to care for special needs patients is the most rewarding aspect of my position,” said Wiederhold. “I am also equally lucky to have the opportunity to demonstrate to young, aspiring dentists how rewarding caring for these patients can be.”