Wilber's journey in dentistry is unique and inspiring, from becoming a licensed dentist in Peru to his current role as an Associate Professor at Pacific University. He is a dedicated oral health professional passionate about community service and improving oral health care for all. He has recently done community service internationally in Jamaica and Peru and has spoken of his experience.

Born in the mountains of Peru during a civil war, Wilber's journey in dentistry began when he went to the capital for dental school. After completing his education, he worked and completed his residency at a public health hospital in Lima and at a rural health center in the Chanchamayo region of Peru—his early career involved working in the jungle and providing dental care in remote areas. Passionate about volunteering, he conducted numerous dental campaigns, often traveling by boat along the river and on foot with a small team to reach Indigenous communities. His journeys involved camping and walking to villages for hours, carrying dental equipment alongside other healthcare professionals to provide community service. The work involved treating patients and educating them about oral health. In many villages, people used sticks instead of toothbrushes, and the government distributed candies without addressing the need for dental care. Later on, he moved to Lima, where he opened a dental office and continued his community service with the Peruvian Red Cross, focusing on providing dental services to elders and victims of guerrilla warfare.

In 2002, Wilber moved to the United States, starting a challenging journey. From overcoming the language barrier to adapting to a new country, Wilber faced each obstacle with resilience. His determination led him to Pacific University (PU), where he learned about dental hygiene, a turning point that allowed him to leverage his experience and skills from Peru. By 2010, he had already been volunteering in Oregon, working with various small organizations and health promoters from the Catholic parish.

Wilber had the opportunity to create a mobile clinic in Oregon serving the community. Despite many challenges, he persevered and utilized his skills for community service. Dental clinics had a waiting list of 40+ patients, which indicated the increased need for dental services. His work provided much-needed dental care and emphasized the importance of community service in underserved areas. At PU, his goal was to raise awareness of the community’s needs among students and faculty by showing his work and motivating them to do the same, which led to him becoming an Adjunct Professor at Pacific University. As his program grew, Wilber played a role in the committee that successfully acquired a grant to purchase grants to purchase a mobile van to extend their reach. In 2019, he was in the first cohort of dental therapists and a part of the Pilot #300 Project; by 2022, he received his dental therapy license. His work now focuses on providing dental therapy and hygiene to adults in need, particularly those uninsured.

Participation in community service trips providing dental services in Jamaica and Peru has been impactful for Wilber. His first international trip was to Nicaragua, an experience that provided insights into different healthcare systems and the barriers they face. These trips, far different from tourist experiences, offered eye-opening insights into various communities' local infrastructure, dental clinics, hospitals, and overall needs. 

In Jamaica, Wilber's focus on sealants for children aged 5 to 15, taking dental hygienists with him and supervising students, led to the treatment of 254 patients over ten days, providing extractions and sealants. When he travels to Peru, he raises awareness about oral diseases and their prevention by educating the community and engaging dental professionals to prioritize preventive care. 96% of the kids had caries due to a lack of fluoride and access to dental care. Wilber led the donation of toothbrushes and education of parents about oral health. Wilber emphasizes the importance of education and preventative care in addressing oral health issues. He discusses the influence of diet on oral health, particularly in Peru, where soda costs less than water, leading to many oral health issues due to the high sugar levels and acidity. He advocates for a shift in focus towards preventative care and education to address these issues. 

Wilber sees significant changes needed in the dental field to improve access to care, especially in underserved communities. The field needs to focus on expanding access to care through workforce expansion. Programs like mobile clinics and dental therapy can significantly impact underserved communities. His current program at Pacific University has positively affected the underserved as he writes grants annually to subsidize costs for patients from 50-100%, depending on the patients. Educating parents and communities about oral health is crucial, as is providing affordable and accessible dental services. Mid-level providers like dental therapists are essential in the oral health care field.

Wilber advises dental students and new professionals to take advantage of community service opportunities and engage in international outreach as it opens their minds and hearts to people of differing backgrounds, cultures, and upbringings. Community service can change their perspective and inspire healthcare professionals to continue connecting with other communities.

Moreover, Wilber's goals and aspirations for his career in dentistry and contributions to the field are community-focused. He aims to establish more clinics with dental therapy services, providing emergency services, extractions, fillings, and cleanings for adults. He also plans to return to Peru to continue providing services and education. Wilber is passionate about demonstrating dental therapy and mid-level providers' importance in improving dental care.

Wilber is grateful to be part of the American Dental Therapy Association (ADTA) and the Hispanic Dental Association. He continues to inspire others to achieve their dreams with commitment and support. Wilber discusses his teaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of listening to students and helping them follow their dreams and aspirations. With a support system that believes in you, you can achieve anything, Wilber emphasizes.