Interview with Dr. Jessica McBride: A Story of Heart, Hustle, and Healing Smiles

At Midlothian Dental Center, we’re more than just a dental practice — we’re a community built on connection, compassion, and care. And few people embody that spirit more fully than Dr. Jessica McBride.

As a mother of three daughters, a dedicated dentist, and a longtime baking enthusiast, Dr. McBride brings intention and heart to everything she does — from the exam room to her kitchen at home. Her journey to dentistry wasn’t the traditional path, but it’s one filled with purpose, perseverance, and a deep love for people.

We sat down with Dr. McBride to hear more about her day-to-day, the choices that shaped her path, and the moments that remind her (and us) why dentistry is about so much more than teeth.

Q: Walk us through a typical day in your life — how do you balance dentistry, motherhood, and everything in between?

A: A typical day for me starts with caffeine, music, and a call to my mom!  When the kids are in school I’m usually in charge of making sure the older girls don’t oversleep before I leave for work, but after work there’s the usual tasks – cooking, laundry, and (believe it or not) some downtime and relaxation. On the weekends we do whatever is on the agenda – errands, birthday parties, family outings, etc. – I have had to become really good at prioritizing and delegating over the years!

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in dentistry while raising three children — and what kept you motivated along the way?

A: I was encouraged to pursue dentistry thanks to my mentor, so my end goal was in mind long before having children!  That said, my academic journey was far from traditional – From studying for a microbiology exam while in labor with our first child (I still laugh about this with my OBGYN to this day!), to bringing all three girls to school on the weekends while I practiced drilling teeth in the sim lab – there were definitely days where I questioned my sanity!  But ultimately the inability to accept failure as an option kept me motivated and on track despite every hardship and detour

Q: Dental school and parenting three daughters sounds like more than enough — but knowing you, there’s probably more. What else were you involved in during that time?

‍A: Yes, I am a known glutton for punishment!  I actually owned a bakery throughout my time in dental school and residency – it was a whirlwind of an experience that started in my kitchen, thrived during the pandemic, and eventually expanded into a brick and mortar cake decorating studio.  It was absolutely exhausting, but even more rewarding!

Q: You wear so many hats — dentist, mom, baker, and more. What’s your secret to managing it all with grace?

‍A: Some days are certainly harder than others, but for the most part I just try to break things down into smaller, more manageable tasks, and delegate when I reasonably can.  I often find that most of the things that I think need to be done “right now” aren’t really that urgent – and that helps me to regroup and redirect my energy.  I certainly would be remiss if I didn’t mention my husband Ryan and my parents – they are an amazing support system and I am lucky to have them in my corner when things get tough and I need a moment to reset!

Q: You’ve been baking for over a decade — how did that passion begin, and what role does it play in your life today?

‍A: I was inspired to start baking when I had our first daughter – I always thought that it would be a nice tradition and fond memory to bake a homemade cake for each birthday, and it expanded from just baking for the girls, to baking for holidays and family events, and eventually I began to bake for close friends.  After years of perfecting recipes and beginning to dabble in cake artistry, I was encouraged by a friend to start selling to the public – and shortly thereafter, Sweet Bites RVA was born!  We had an amazing 6+ years, but small business ownership began to lose its sparkle in the midst of trying to prioritize family and transitioning from residency to private practice. So while I have officially “retired” from baking for the public, it will remain a deliciously creative hobby for years to come!

Q: You clearly have some superpowers — what’s one unexpected strength or talent people might not know about you?

A: I have a natural affinity for music and love to sing – I grew up singing and playing instruments (piano and cello), and l was in show choir throughout high school.  If you spend some time in my chair, you will probably notice I am always humming or singing while working!

Q: What moment with a patient has stayed with you — one that reminded you why you chose this path?

A: I don’t know if I can choose just one!  I am reminded several times a day why I chose this profession.  It could be something as simple as chatting with a patient over a common interest, or as complex as restoring someone's ability to chew properly and smile with confidence – whatever the scenario, I can truly say that it is a privilege to be able to fulfill my calling and serve so many wonderful people. 

In every patient she meets, Dr. McBride sees more than a smile; she sees a story, a relationship, a chance to make someone feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Whether she’s easing a child’s dental fears, perfecting a crown with an artist’s eye, or baking a cake for a birthday celebration, Jessica brings warmth and intentionality to every part of her life.

She’s proof that you don’t have to choose between being a caregiver, a professional, and a person with passions — you can be all of it. And maybe that’s her true superpower.

Dr. Jessica McBride is now accepting new patients at our Midlothian and Bon Air locations. Click here to request your appointment today! .