Dr. Vanderwende-Bleeker’s journey in dentistry began with a strong academic foundation. She first earned her Dental Hygiene degree from Bergen Community College in 1988, developing a deep appreciation for patient care early on. She then pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry at Rutgers University before advancing to the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in 1997. Graduating as a distinguished member of the Gamma Pi Delta Prosthodontic Honor Society, she has since dedicated her career to providing exceptional dental care. Since 2001, she has been serving patients in Wayne, New Jersey, continuously expanding her expertise through ongoing education. Her extensive training includes certifications in CEREC, BOTOX®, and JUVÉDERM®. As an esteemed member of the American Dental Association® and the New Jersey Dental Association, she remains at the forefront of the latest advancements in dental care. Her commitment to excellence has earned her recognition as one of New Jersey’s Top Docs every year since 2006, as well as the honor of being named one of America’s Top Dentists. In 2018, she was further distinguished with Lifetime Honors by the Women of Distinction.

Passionate about transforming lives through dentistry, Dr. Vanderwende-Bleeker finds immense fulfillment in helping patients overcome their fears and rediscover their smiles. Many of her patients have refrained from smiling for decades—some for 20 to 40 years—and she takes great pride in restoring their confidence and witnessing the pure joy that follows. Her compassionate approach and dedication to patient care make every transformation deeply meaningful.

Beyond her practice, Dr. Vanderwende-Bleeker is committed to giving back to the community. She volunteers with Dental Lifeline, providing essential dental services to underserved individuals. She also actively supports numerous charities, including the ASPCA, the Humane Society, and the Lymphoma/Leukemia Society. Deeply involved in her church, she taught Sunday School for 18 years and served on the church council for six years, further extending her generosity through various charitable initiatives.

Dr. Vanderwende-Bleeker shares her life with her husband, an architect, and together they are devoted parents to four children and three beloved dogs. Their passion for service extends beyond dentistry, as they developed a veteran’s housing project, a cause close to their hearts, with aspirations to expand similar efforts in the future.

Outside of her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Dr. Vanderwende-Bleeker embraces an active lifestyle. An avid cyclist, she enjoys riding with her cycling club and participating in group rides whenever she can. She also enjoys skiing, sailing—having earned her ASA Basic Sailing Certificate—and sporting clays. Whether on the water, the slopes, or the open road, she thrives on adventure and continuous personal growth.

Dr. Vanderwende-Bleeker’s unwavering dedication to her patients, community, and personal passions makes her a dynamic leader in dentistry and an inspiring force in the lives of those around her.