TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – At 97 years old, a local dentist is still helping people in our area be proud of their smiles. That makes him the oldest practicing dentist in Ohio.
Dr. Richard Zink used to play dentist as a child, using corn cobs. He pretended the kernels were teeth.
After studying at the Ohio State University, Dr. Zink got his dental license in 1958. It’s truly a life-long dream because 67 years later, he’s still working as a dentist.
“I could do it forever, which I probably will,” Dr. Zink said.
13 Action News reached out to the Ohio State Dental Board and officials confirmed that Dr. Zink is the oldest dentist who is still practicing in Ohio. Dr. Zink’s passion is community dentistry. He treats people who might not otherwise have access or the means to go to the dentist.
He volunteers at Tent City every year, providing check-ups to members of Toledo’s homeless population.
Dr. Zink also works at T-Town Smiles, a dental practice that serves patients with low income. He doesn’t usually do check-ups. His specialty is making dentures and implants.
“I think it makes a big difference in their life, they can smile, they can go out in public, they can eat again,” Dr. Zink said.
Bringing a smile to his patient’s face brings a smile to Dr. Zink’s face.
“You get a hug, they come in and you get tears and you change their life,” Dr. Zink said.
After working about 67 years in the business, he’s not slowing down. In fact, he wants to continue until he’s 100!
“I’m only going to work three more years and then I’m going to cut back,” Dr. Zink said, pledging not to quite give up dentistry when he hits that milestone.
Co-founders of T-Town Smiles Connie Wojcik and Lindy Cree say he is a valued member of the team, describing Dr. Zink as enthusiastic, friendly, sparkly, and a wealth of knowledge.
“He’s an amazing dentist and he’s an amazing person,” Wojcik, a hygienist, said.
Cree, who is also the board chairman of T-Town Smiles, said people are shocked to find out that Dr. Zink is 97 years old because he is a more than competent dentist.
“He does a great job with it,” Cree said.
“As long as they feed me cookies,” Dr. Zink replied.
It’s true. This dentist has a bit of a sweet tooth. He says it’s his secret to a long life.
“I’m a cookie monster,” Dr. Zink said. “Cookies, cakes, anything, sweet rolls, that’s what I do.”
Only in moderation. He stays on a healthy diet.
But Dr. Zink said more than anything, his family and his work are what keep him feeling not 97 years old but 97 years young.
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This article was published by WTVG on 2025-11-14 23:29:00
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