Friendship Pediatric Dentistry - Flossy Friends Academy

Photos of children with Dr. Ayanna learning about dentistry

Flossy Friends Academy is a fun, hands-on program created by Dr. Ayanna and the team at Friendship Pediatric Dentistry designed to introduce 5th–8th grade girls to the exciting world of dentistry.

Through engaging activities, real-life demonstrations, and inspiring conversations, participants will explore the many dental careers that keep our smiles healthy including dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.

Our Mission:: Dr. Ayanna and her team believe that when girls see what’s possible, they start to dream bigger. Flossy Friends Academy was created to spark curiosity, build leadership, and encourage young girls, especially those from underrepresented communities, to consider a future in dentistry and oral health.
What We Do:: During this free enrichment program, students will get a behind-the-scenes look at the dental world through interactive lessons and mentorship from real dental professionals. Each session is packed with discovery, skill-building, and fun.
Why It Matters:: The earlier girls get exposure to healthcare careers, the more likely they are to pursue them. At Flossy Friends Academy, we make that introduction memorable, empowering, and full of joy.

Friendship Pediatric Dentistry with animated image of Dr. Ayanna smiling holding a happy tooth

Partnering with families and oral health care providers to maintain healthy, growing pediatric smiles - because smiles are brighter with friends!

Board-certified Pediatric Attending Dentist. Community educator. Smile cheerleader. And the little one’s favorite tooth friend!

Hey tooth Friends! I’m Dr. Ayanna Williams, a board-certified pediatric dentist, community educator, and the founder of Friendship Pediatric Dentistry.

I’ve dedicated my career to helping children from infancy through adolescence, including those with special healthcare needs, feel welcomed, safe, and supported in the dental chair.

I believe going to the dentist should feel like visiting a friend. Because when a child feels comfortable, confident, and cared for, everything about their oral health journey changes. I’m here to help every child build a bright smile and every parent feel empowered along the way.

“Every child deserves a dental home where they feel safe, seen, and celebrated”

As a Pediatric Attending Dentist with operating room privileges, I provide care in both private practice and hospital-based settings ensuring that every child has access to safe, high-quality treatment, no matter their needs or background.

I also have the privilege of mentoring dental residents, helping them grow into compassionate, confident providers who are ready to care for kids with the same empathy and excellence I strive to deliver every day.

With a heart for community health, I’m passionate about bringing dental education directly to families through health fairs and local outreach events. My Flossy Friends Academy program was built to open the door for girls to explore dentistry in a fun, hands-on way. I expand access to care, advocate for kids, and train the next generation to do the same.

My educational journey reflects my passion for science, health, and creating brighter smiles.

DDS Degree - The Ohio State University
Pediatric Dental Specialty - Case Western Reserve University
Master of Health Science (Biochemistry) - Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

I am proud to serve as a Pediatric Attending Dentist at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where I mentor future dental providers and advocate for compassionate, accessible care for all kids.

I am also a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, committed to delivering the highest standard of care to every patient, every day.

“I expand access to care, advocate for kids, and train the next generation to do the same” - Dr. Ayanna

Dr. Ayanna is deeply committed to supporting families beyond the dental chair.

As part of her ongoing community involvement, she participates in local health fairs and educational events where she provides free oral health education and nutritional counseling to children and their families.

These outreach efforts are designed to make dental knowledge more accessible especially to families who may not regularly visit a dental office.

Dr. Ayanna smiling at an outreach booth for educational events and local health fairs

Dr. Ayanna in a toothbrush costume supporting friendly and engaging activities

Through friendly and engaging activities, Dr. Ayanna teaches kids the importance of brushing, flossing, and making healthy food choices, while also giving parents the tools they need to support their child’s oral health at home.

Her goal is simple: to help families feel confident, informed, and empowered when it comes to preventative dental care.

From building strong brushing routines to making smart snack choices, Dr. Ayanna helps lay the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.

Her favorite part? Connecting with children and parents on a personal level - because she truly believes that smiles are brighter with friends.

Dr. Ayanna smiling in front of the Pediatric mobile dental care bus to support community involvement

"every healthy smile starts with trust, friendship, and community" "We believe that learning should be fun, friendly, and hands-on"