#WhyNotMe Entrepreneur Spotlight - José Moreno, Founder, Universal Dental Center

March 30, 2025

By Neal Lilliott

Meet José Moreno, Founder, Universal Dental Center - startGBC April 2025 #WhyNotMe GBC Entrepreneur Spotlight

April marks Oral Health Month, so what better way to advocate than with an incredible GBC alumni entrepreneur who has deployed innovation to help some of our most marginalized communities receive the dental care they deserve and need.

This month, we are proud to spotlight José Moreno, founder of Universal Dental Center. Through his state-of-the-art mobile dental hygiene clinic, José delivers dental care where people need it. Catering to senior and assisted living communities, rehabilitation and sports facilities, corporate offices, and busy families, Jose has everybody covered.

Dental Hygiene Clinic provides accessible, high-quality oral care for seniors, long-term care residents, and individuals with mobility challenges. The mobile clinic offers dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and oral cancer screenings, bringing essential services directly to those in need.

The clinic prioritizes comfort, convenience, and personalized care, ensuring a stress-free experience for every patient. The mission is to eliminate barriers to oral health and make professional dental care more accessible.

About José Moreno, Founder, Universal Dental Center

At 14, José arrived in Canada with his family, uncertain of what the future held. His first home was the Red Door Shelter in Toronto, a place that provided him and and family with refuge teaching him the power of community, resilience, and perseverance.

Starting over in a new country wasn’t easy, but it instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work and the opportunities that come with it. His journey into dental hygiene was driven by a passion for helping others, realizing that traditional clinics didn’t reach everyone—especially seniors, people with mobility challenges, and underserved communities.

Seeing this gap, José wanted to do more. That’s what led José to becoming an entrepreneur and launching a mobile dental hygiene clinic, bringing quality oral care directly to those who needed it most.

Today, Universal Dental Canter is a mission-driven business that not only provides essential dental services but also breaks down barriers to care. The path wasn’t easy - it took sacrifice, patience, and an unshakable commitment to the community. But every challenge reinforced his belief that with dedication and purpose, anything is possible.

José’s hope is that his story inspires others to turn adversity into opportunity and pursue their own vision of change.

Academic Background

Restorative Dental Hygiene (Honours) Postgraduate, George Brown College School of Dental Health 2014

Registered Dental Hygienist 2003

What made you want to become an entrepreneur?

I became an entrepreneur because I wanted to create real change in the way people access dental care. Working in traditional clinics, I saw how many individuals, especially seniors, those with mobility challenges, and underserved communities, were left without options.

I knew I could do more. Entrepreneurship gave me the freedom to build something meaningful, break down barriers, and bring care directly to those who need it most. It wasn’t just about starting a business, it was about creating a mission-driven service that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

Why did you create your business?

I created my business because I saw firsthand how many people struggled to access dental care, especially during the pandemic. Too many individuals - whether seniors, those with mobility challenges, or people in underserved communities - were unable to visit a dental office. I knew there had to be a better way.

That’s why I launched a mobile dental hygiene clinic, designed to bring care directly to those who need it most. My mission is simple: eliminate barriers - whether physical, financial, or logistical - and ensure that everyone has access to quality oral health care.

What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?

Success, to me, isn’t about money or accolades, though they’ve certainly been great. Earning an Honours Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from George Brown College and appearing on TVOntario’s Onsite Program have been milestones. However, true success is about the impact we make in the community, especially for those facing challenges with oral health. The real reward comes when I see the smiles and renewed confidence of individuals after a visit from our mobile clinic. That’s the success that matters most, making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Your beginning does not define your destiny—your determination does. Dream big, serve with purpose, and break down barriers. With passion and perseverance, you can create something truly life-changing.

Any organisations or learning resources you would recommend?

I would recommend startGBC at George Brown College to entrepreneurs because it provides an incredible support system for anyone looking to start or grow their business. With access to mentorship, resources, workshops, and a network of like-minded individuals.

Any books or podcasts you would recommend?

Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers - because it offers invaluable insights into the impact of stress on both the body and mind, something every entrepreneur can relate to.

Anything else you would like to share?

If you take anything from my journey, let it be this: no matter where you start, you have the ability to create something meaningful. Your work matters, and your passion will always lead you to where you’re meant to be.