The Canadian Dental Association Magazine 2026 • Volume 13 • Issue 4 PM40064661 CDA Awards 2026 Page 11
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About CDA Founded in 1902, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is a federally incorporated not-for-profit organization whose corporate members are Canada’s provincial and territorial dental associations. CDA represents over 21,000 practising dentists nationwide and is a trusted brand and source of information for and about the dental profession on national and international issues. is the official print publication of CDA, providing dialogue between the national association and the dental community. It is dedicated to keeping dentists informed about news, issues and clinically relevant information. 2026 • Volume 13 • Issue 4 Head of Governance & Communications Zelda Burt Managing Editor Sean McNamara Writer/Editor Sierra Bellows Gabriel Fulcher Pauline Mérindol Publications Specialist Michelle Bergeron Graphic Designer Carlos Castro Advertising: For all Display, Online and Classified advertising inquiries, or to request the 2026 CDA Media Kit, contact: Michelle Bergeron, CDA Publications Specialist mbergeron@cda-adc.ca CDA Essentials is available online at cda-adc.ca/essentials. All display and classified advertisements are included in the full PDF version, with direct links to corporate/ product websites. The online CDA Essentials generates >21,000 page views monthly. Contacts: Michelle Bergeron, CDA Publications Specialist mbergeron@cda-adc.ca CDA Essentials email: publications@cda-adc.ca Notice of change of address send to: reception@cda-adc.ca or publications@cda-adc.ca @CdnDentalAssoc canadian-dentalassociation Canadian Dental Association cdndentalassoc cdaoasis cda-adc.ca CDA Essentials is published by the Canadian Dental Association in both official languages. Publications Mail Agreement no. 40064661. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Canadian Dental Association, 1815 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON K1G 3Y6 Postage paid at Ottawa, ON. ISSN 2292-7360 (Print) ISSN 2292-7379 (Online) © Canadian Dental Association 2026 Cover Photo: FJ Sarmiento for Arthur Mola Photography Editorial Disclaimer All statements of opinion and supposed fact are published on the authority of the author who submits them and do not necessarily express the views of the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Publication of an advertisement or sponsored content does not necessarily imply that CDA agrees with or supports the claims therein. The editorial department reserves the right to edit all copy submitted to CDA Essentials. Furthermore, CDA is not responsible for typographical errors, grammatical errors, misspelled words or syntax that is unclear, or for errors in translations. Sponsored content is solely produced by advertisers. The CDA Essentials editorial department is not involved in its creation. CDA Board of Directors President Dr. Kirk Preston Dr. Todd Graham Saskatchewan Dr. Daron Baxter Manitoba President-Elect Dr. Jason Noel Vice-President Dr. Marc Mollot Dr. Joy Carmichael New Brunswick Dr. Jerrold Diamond Alberta Dr. Mélissa Gagnon-Grenier NWT/Nunavut/Yukon Dr. Lesli Hapak Ontario Dr. Paul Hurley Newfoundland/Labrador Dr. David Lim British Columbia Dr. Stuart MacDonald Nova Scotia Dr. Janice Stewart Prince Edward Island 3 Issue 4 | 2026 |
Contents The Canadian Dental Association Magazine 2026 • Volume 13 • Issue 4 8 20 CDA at Work 7 From the President: The Case for Rest 8 Coming Together Around Admissions 11 CDA Award Winners News and Events 18 Catching Up with the Oral Health Community in Canada: NDEB 20 From Clinic to Kitchen Issues and People 24 My Dentist Saved My Life Classifieds 36 Positions Available, Dental Faculty Positions and Advertisers’ Index Supporting Your Practice 28 Managing Root Caries in Frail Older Adults 30 When the Cyst is Driving the Resorption: Case Report 34 Watch Your Step: Preventing Slip and Fall Claims in Dental Offices 24 28 5 Issue 4 | 2026 |
Courtesy of Dr. Kevin Brown, Bellevue, WA *OMNICHROMA BLOCKER as lingual shelf Before After
Dr. Kirk Preston president@cda-adc.ca The Case for Rest Summer is often the time of year when dentists take a well-deserved vacation. We spend time with family, enjoy the outdoors, travel or simply slow down for a few days or weeks. I hope each of you gets an opportunity to rest. I would also encourage you to think about the concept of rest a little differently. It doesn’t have to be something we only reserve for summer vacations. It can be something we intentionally build into our professional lives throughout our careers. The demands of our profession are manifold. Each day, we balance patient care, complex clinical decisions, business responsibilities, staffing challenges, administrative work and the physical demands of practising dentistry. Dentists often have careers that span 40 years; it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Taking care of our physical and mental well-being is essential if we want to sustain healthy, fulfilling careers for decades to come. Like many dentists, I spent the early part of my career believing that success meant working as much as possible. For years I worked six days a week, with hours extending into the evenings and Saturday mornings. I genuinely believed that if I wasn’t there, the practice would suffer. I worried that my patients wouldn’t receive the service they deserved, my staff would lose paid hours and everything would begin to unravel. Looking back, I realize how this mindset persists among many of my colleagues. We care deeply about our patients and our teams, and we often feel personally responsible for keeping everything running smoothly. That perspective began to change when I completed my MBA. The program required me to spend one week away from my practice every five weeks, for the two-year duration of the program. Initially, I was convinced that my practice would suffer. Instead, something unexpected happened. It made little to no difference to the practice financially and my production actually increased. More importantly, I came back to work after these week-long study breaks with more energy, sharper focus and a better attitude. I wasn’t tired or irritable. My team noticed the difference, and so did I. Knowing that I had regular time away gave me something to look forward to, and when I returned, I was fully present for my patients and my team. That experience taught me something that I wish I had learned much earlier in my career: working more hours doesn’t make us more effective. Sometimes the opposite is true. Occupational health researchers Sabine Sonnentag and Charlotte Fritz have shown that regularly disconnecting from work allows us to recover from the mental and emotional demands of our jobs.1 Their research found that people who are able to “switch off” from work have less burnout and are more engaged and effective when they are working. More recent studies have reached similar conclusions: recovery from work isn’t simply good for our health, it also supports sustained job performance and helps us maintain the energy and focus that our professions demand. Think of it this way: If the benefits of rest could be put into a pill, everyone would take it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or finding it difficult to recharge, you don’t have to navigate those challenges alone. The Working Mind is an evidence-based program developed with CDA and the Mental Health Commission of Canada to help dental professionals build healthier workplaces and recognize the signs of stress in themselves and others. Provincial and territorial dental associations, along with other organizations and societies, can sponsor the program for dentists and their teams. CDSPI’s Members’ Assistance Program (MAP) also provides confidential support for dentists, dental teams, students and their families, offering resources for everything from stress and burnout to work-life balance, counselling, financial and legal advice. Taking care of yourself should not be seen as stepping away from your responsibilities. It’s one of the best ways to ensure that you can continue meeting your responsibilities for years to come. From the President 1. Sonnentag S, Fritz C. Recovery from job stress: The stressor-detachment model as an integrative framework. Journal of Organizational Behavior. 2015:36(S1);S72–S103. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.1924 7 Issue 4 | 2026 | CDA at Work
Coming Together Around Admissions What makes a great future dentist? A national gathering at McGill University in Montreal explored new ways to identify talent, support diversity and strengthen admissions across Canada. The Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry (ACFD) and Canadian Dental Association (CDA) Admissions Conference, held at McGill University’s Faculty Club in Montreal in March 2026, brought together a diverse group of educators, administrators and students to promote discussion and facilitate learning on new approaches used in recruitment and selection for health professional programs. Another goal of the conference was to provide information and opportunities for reflection to support the development of calls for research proposals. The conference was held a day before a meeting of the CDA Committee on Dental School Admission Assessment Tools (CDSAAT). Representatives from Canadian dental schools met to discuss how the group will evaluate and refine admissions methods through CDA-funded research. The committee’s goal is to ensure that admissions tools are rigorous, fair and grounded in evidence and evolve alongside the profession they support. “This initiative reflects CDA’s commitment under our Strategic Plan to work closely with academic institutions and student leaders to advance the profession and help ensure Canadians continue to have access to high-quality oral health care,” says Dr. Aaron Burry, CEO of CDA, who attended the conference. “By engaging directly with dental schools and academic groups, we are making good on our promise to be an active partner in strengthening the future of dentistry in Canada.” “We’re convening the people who are directly involved in selecting the next generation of dentists and asking some fundamental questions about how we do that well,” says Isabelle Gingras, CDA’s program and services advisor. “That means looking closely at admission tools, understanding how they’re being used across the Dr. Paul Allison, executive director of ACFD, co-host of the conference with CDA. Dr. Elham Emami, dean of the McGill University Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, shares her perspective at the conference. 8 | 2026 | Issue 4
country, and evaluating how effectively they help identify candidates who will succeed not just academically, but as future contributors to oral health in Canada.” Gingras says that CDA is passionate about listening to the dental schools, learning where their challenges are and exploring how CDA can better support them. “Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that our admissions tools continue to evolve in step with the profession, so we’re helping to select a workforce that is capable, diverse and aligned with the needs of the population,” she says. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that our admissions tools continue to evolve in step with the profession, so we’re helping to select a workforce that is capable, diverse and aligned with the needs of the population. The conference morning sessions framed the current landscape, with speakers from McGill, University of Montreal and the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada outlining both the opportunities and persistent challenges in admissions processes. A segment on “problem areas” unpacked ethical and practical questions—ranging from marginalized population groups who are underrepresented among dental students and the dental profession to evolving assessment tools—sparking lively discussion among attendees. Participants also reflected on the growing pressures facing admissions committees as competition for limited seats intensifies, with some schools receiving hundreds of qualified applications for only a few dozen seats. Discussions explored how schools can evaluate applicants more holistically and equitably, looking beyond traditional academic metrics such as GPA to better assess qualities and competencies linked to long-term success in the profession. Emerging research presented at the conference also challenged some assumptions in admissions, including questions around the predictive value of manual dexterity testing, with some evidence suggesting that technical skills can be developed and refined through training. Breakout groups offered an opportunity to move from theory to practice, with participants exchanging ideas and identifying priorities for future research and collaboration. “The conference was an excellent opportunity to hear perspectives from across the country and have some very thoughtful, forward-looking discussions about admissions,” says Dr. Paul Allison, professor in the Faculty of Dental Medicine & Oral Health Sciences at McGill University and executive director of ACFD, which co‑hosted the conference with CDA. Dr. Allison says that a number of important ideas emerged that resonated with a broad range of attendees that he spoke with. “Collaborating nationally on admissions, we have an opportunity to reduce duplication, improve consistency and, ultimately, make the work of admissions at each dental school more efficient and more effective in selecting a more diverse range of excellent candidates,” he says. “I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to pursue more research in collaboration with CDA, as there’s a clear appetite among the schools to continue exploring these areas together.” CDSAAT met virtually in July 2026 to continue its work, and an in-person meeting is planned for 2027 in Ottawa. Group discussions among educators, administrators and students. 9 Issue 4 | 2026 | CDA at Work
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CDA Award Winners Each year, the CDA Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the people and organizations whose passion, leadership and commitment have helped shape dentistry in Canada. This year’s recipients were recognized during the CDA Awards Luncheon, held April 24, 2026, in Toronto. One of CDA’s signature events, the luncheon brought together colleagues and leaders from across the country to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s honourees. CDA gratefully acknowledges LISTERINE for its generous support as the event’s exclusive Platinum Sponsor. Throughout a distinguished career in academia, research and professional leadership, Dr. Jack Gerrow has played a transformative role in strengthening dental education, licensure and regulation in Canada and beyond. His pioneering work in developing valid and reliable methods for evaluating clinical competence has helped shape certification processes in Canada that uphold high professional standards and better protect the public. As an educator, prosthodontist and academic leader, Dr. Gerrow has influenced generations of dental professionals through his time at Dalhousie University, University of Toronto, the ACFD Teaching Institute, and the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB). His research has driven important changes in professional certification nationally and internationally, while his mentorship has guided countless students, educators and colleagues. Dr. Gerrow helped establish Canada’s pathway for internationally trained dentists and led innovations in competency-based assessment that continue to influence regulatory practices worldwide. His contributions have been recognized through numerous honours, including the Gies Award for Innovation, an honorary degree from Dalhousie, and his appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada, the latter of which recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Dr. Gerrow has left a lasting legacy through his leadership and vision for the dental profession in Canada. Dr. Jack Gerrow CDA Medal of Honour This award is the highest conferred by CDA. It is given to a dentist in recognition of a lifetime of outstanding service and professional achievement to the benefit of the dental profession, the dental community and society at large, and to which can be attributed significant change. “Thank you to my nominators, and especially to my wife Jan and our incredible children whose support and patience made so much of this work possible. I am deeply grateful to the many mentors, colleagues and friends who shaped my career, from my early days in clinical practice and academia to my work with CDA and NDEB. I have been fortunate to work alongside dedicated professionals who were willing to challenge long-standing assumptions about examinations and embrace evidence-based change. Together, we conducted research that influenced certification and examination systems across multiple professions and countries. As I accept this honour, I would also like to highlight the importance of dental education in Canada. Although Canada has a proud history of excellence in dental education, our faculties face significant challenges. I encourage leaders across our profession to work together to strengthen and support Canadian dental education for future generations.” – Dr. Gerrow 11 Issue 4 | 2026 |
CDA Award Winners Distinguished Service Award This award is given to recognize outstanding contributions to the dental profession, the dental community or the oral health of Canadians at large, in a given year or outstanding service over a number of years. Dr. Daniel Albert has devoted over 30 years to compassionate, skilled and respectful patient care. He has spent much of his career caring for special needs individuals facing dental access barriers. Through nearly three decades of hospital-based dentistry, he has provided essential care to patients requiring treatment under general anesthesia, ensuring that those with complex medical, physical, cognitive or behavioural challenges receive care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Albert’s impact extends beyond clinical practice. Through leadership roles with the Nova Scotia Dental Association (NSDA) and as chair of the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia, he has helped guide the profession through periods of significant change, including the challenges of COVID-19. He consistently promotes patient-focused care, integrity and treatment for those in need. Through his leadership, compassion and enduring service, Dr. Albert has made a profound and lasting contribution to both the profession and the communities he serves. Throughout his career, Dr. Paul Major has played a transformative role in shaping dental education in Canada. As a leader at the University of Alberta’s School of Dentistry, he has guided the growth of one of the country’s premier dental programs, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration and academic excellence. His vision has helped ensure that future generations of dentists are well prepared to meet the evolving needs of patients and the profession. Through leadership roles as president of the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry (ACFD) and the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO), Dr. Major has strengthened collaboration among academic institutions, professional organizations and regulators, helping to advance initiatives that benefit dentistry nationwide. Dr. Major has greatly contributed to orthodontics and craniofacial science and his research and mentorship have advanced knowledge and inspired future leaders. Dr. Deborah Saunders has devoted her career to improving oral health for patients with complex challenges, especially those undergoing head and neck cancer treatment. Through her expertise in dental oncology, she has helped countless individuals regain function, comfort, and confidence while navigating the physical and emotional impacts of cancer treatment. Her compassionate, patient-centred approach has made a profound difference in the lives of those she serves. She’s an advocate for oral cancer prevention and has played a key role in oral cancer education, highlighting the HPV link. Her efforts increased awareness, encouraged early detection, and promoted better health. Dr. Saunders has expertise in cancer therapy, tobacco diseases, and oral-systemic health connections. Through her leadership and dedication, she has helped strengthen the role of dentistry in improving overall health and patient well-being. Dr. Daniel Albert Dr. Paul Major Dr. Deborah Saunders “What does it mean to serve your profession with distinction? Personally, my professional calling has been to provide comprehensive dental care to my community. This includes a significant special needs practice, which came with many challenges. However, these were greatly outweighed by the satisfaction of providing comprehensive care to this segment of the population. I want to thank the NSDA for providing me with many volunteering opportunities. I have learned so much about organized dentistry, and I have made friends across Canada with colleagues that I would not have met otherwise. In particular, I would like to thank Dr. Claire Karst, a special person who has worked tirelessly for our profession. Of course, none of this would’ve been possible without the love and unconditional support from my spouse and practice partner, Dr. Kilby Townshend, along with my children, David, Andree, and Emma. I’m truly humbled to receive recognition for doing what I enjoy and love.” – Dr. Albert “I’m deeply honoured and humbled to accept this award. It is not just a personal milestone. It reflects the incredible teams, mentors, students and collaborators who’ve shaped my professional journey. From my early years at the University of Alberta to my roles as chair and senior associate dean of Dental Affairs, I’ve been fortunate to be part of a community dedicated to excellence, innovation and service. I’ve always believed in the power of education, research, and mentorship to move our profession forward, whether through leading academic programs, supporting international dental graduates, or contributing to national initiatives through the ACFD and CAO. My goal has always been to strengthen the future of dentistry in Canada. This award affirms the importance of collective effort and sustained commitment to the dental community and to the oral health of Canadians. I accept it with deep gratitude and with renewed energy to continue serving this profession that has given me so much.” – Dr. Major 12 | 2026 | Issue 4
CDA Award Winners Award of Merit This award recognizes an individual who has served in an outstanding capacity in the governing or service of CDA over a sustained period of time, or who has made similar outstanding contributions to the dental profession, the dental community or the oral health of Canadians and society at large. As a member of the CDA Board of Directors representing Saskatchewan, Dr. Brian Baker brought thoughtful leadership, practical insight, and a collaborative approach to discussions shaping the future of oral health care in Canada. His commitment to sound governance and professional service strengthened CDA and the broader dental community. Dr. Baker’s leadership reflects a career defined by service. For over 40 years, he provided trusted dental care in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, building lasting relationships with generations of patients. In his rural community, he became a respected mentor and role model whose influence extended far beyond the dental chair. Notably, six of his former patients have gone on to become dentists, citing Dr. Baker as an inspiration. Dr. James Bonar started his impressive career as a Dental Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, then opened a successful practice in Brandon, Manitoba, offering compassionate, patient-centered care for over four decades. He earned respect through his professional commitment and high care standards. A strong advocate for organized dentistry, Dr. Bonar played a significant leadership role at the provincial and national levels. He served as president of the Manitoba Dental Association (MDA), helping to advance professional standards, peer review processes, and advocacy initiatives. His national service includes 6 years as MDA Voting Delegate to CDA, as well as service on the CDA Audit Committee. Since 2013, Dr. Bonar has also contributed to the CDSPI Board of Directors, supporting the financial well-being of Canadian dentists and their families. Dr. Brian Baker Dr. James Bonar “I started this wonderful journey with the CDA Board 6 years ago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we did not have the opportunity to get to know each other well. Eventually, we were able to meet in person, along with our new CEO, Dr. Aaron Burry, who brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in working with the federal government. That proved to be invaluable as the government announced the CDCP. Getting to know and work with an incredibly talented, caring, and giving group of people both past and present has made my time with the CDA Board one of the most meaningful highlights of my career.” – Dr. Baker “I’ve often thought about volunteering as being very important, as it allows for collaboration and building friendships, but also ultimately attaining the goals of the organizations that they serve. I’ve urged colleagues and younger dentists to also participate. I think Winston Churchill said, ‘we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ And for any small contribution that I’ve made over the years, I’ve been rewarded much more. I thank all of the people over the years that I’ve had the chance to collaborate with, and I thank my parents for being great examples in their own volunteerism. I would like to thank my wife, Sandy, for her support over the years. I couldn’t have done it without you.” – Dr. Bonar “When I began my journey in organized dentistry, I could never have imagined receiving this honour. What I did know was that dentistry could be a powerful force for advocacy, leadership and service. Over the past 25 years, organized dentistry has given me the opportunity to live that belief through my career. My passion has been patient advocacy, particularly for those living with and beyond head and neck cancer, supporting symptom management and head and neck cancer survivorship. This work has continually reinforced how deeply oral health is connected to overall systemic health and why our voices, as dentists, truly matter. CDA and ODA have not only shaped my professional path, but the best version of myself. Through mentorship, collaboration and leadership opportunities, I’ve learned that meaningful change never happens alone. It happens when we listen, when we support each other, and work together with purpose. I share this award with the colleagues, mentors, and friends who believed in me, challenged me, and walked alongside me.” – Dr. Saunders 13 Issue 4 | 2026 |
As a CDA Board member for PEI, Dr. Dana Coles provided insightful leadership and sound judgment, fostering collaboration to advance Canadian dentistry. Her contributions helped support CDA’s efforts to strengthen the profession and promote the oral health of Canadians. Dr. Coles has also demonstrated a long-standing commitment to leadership within PEI. Through her service as president of the DAPEI, she played an important role in supporting the profession and upholding high standards of care. Her dedication to education is evident through her work as an instructor at Holland College, where she helped guide and inspire future oral health professionals. Through her clinical practice, professional leadership, and education, Dr. Coles has made meaningful contributions to dentistry in PEI and across Canada. Dr. Clifford Pau has distinguished himself as a national and international authority on the appropriate use of antibiotics and opioids in dental practice, addressing a critical public health challenge. Through his work in research, guideline development, and professional education, he helped advance evidence-based prescribing practices and improve patient safety across Canada. He has co-authored treatment recommendations, developed prescribing tools, and served as a consultant on antibiotic stewardship initiatives. He has shared his expertise extensively through lectures, conferences, and educational programs. His ability to translate scientific evidence into practical guidance has influenced clinical decision-making and helped foster a culture of responsible prescribing within the profession. Through his teaching, research, volunteer work, and mentorship, Dr. Pau has consistently worked to advance public health and has had a lasting impact on patient care, professional education, and the safe and effective use of medications in dentistry. Dr. Dana Coles Dr. Clifford Pau “My journey in dentistry has been filled with many meaningful experiences and dedicated colleagues, all of whom have helped shape my career. Shortly after graduating from dental school and moving back to PEI, I was fortunate to be encouraged to participate in organized dentistry, where I was able to connect with so many passionate individuals who shared a vision and worked to advance our profession. My participation in organized dentistry has kept me connected to the dental community and fueled my continued dedication to caring for my patients. This journey has helped me grow both professionally and personally. And for that I’m grateful. I would like to acknowledge my family and my colleagues who have given me unwavering support and encouragement.” – Dr. Coles “I’m deeply honoured to receive this award. Over the last few years, I have had the privilege of collaborating with BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver Coastal Health, BC Dental Association, Canadian universities and Health Canada on antibiotics and opioid stewardship programs. I was grateful to contribute as a dentist through these multidisciplinary efforts. Improving medication safety has been a passion of mine, and I believe our profession must continue to play a leading role in these important public health conversations. While I’m only a small part of these collective actions, receiving this award is truly beyond my imagination. I’m sincerely thankful for this recognition and for the importance it places on this intersection of care.” – Dr. Pau For more than three decades, Dr. Patrick Redmond has been a respected leader in Newfoundland and Labrador dentistry. From his early service as a Dental Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces to building a successful practice in Gander, NL, and developing a network of dental practices across the province, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, professional growth and mentorship. He is a trusted advisor across the province due to his practice management and leadership expertise. Dr. Redmond has also made significant contributions to organized dentistry through leadership roles with the NLDA, service on CDA committees, and participation on CDSPI and CDCP advisory panels. Beyond dentistry, Dr. Redmond has devoted considerable time to community organizations and civic initiatives, reflecting his belief in service beyond the profession. Through his leadership, mentorship, and dedication to improving both dentistry and community life, he has made a lasting impact in his province and the profession as a whole. Dr. Patrick Redmond CDA Award Winners 14 | 2026 | Issue 4
CDA Award Winners For 35 years, Dr. Norman Vankoughnett has provided comprehensive, high-quality dental care to the residents of Central Butte, Saskatchewan, ensuring that patients in a rural community have access to the same level of care and innovation found in larger centres. His career reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, with service enhancements via technology and broader treatment choices for patients. Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Vankoughnett has been a dedicated mentor and advocate for the profession. Through his service on the Council of the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan, he has contributed to the advancement of dental policy and professional standards. His leadership and guidance have earned the respect of peers across the province. A strong supporter of community initiatives, charitable organizations, and public health programs, Dr. Vankoughnett has become a trusted figure whose influence spans generations of patients and families. Dr. Kelly Regula and Dr. Lori Simoens were recognized for their exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to strengthening Manitoba’s dental community. As past co-chairs of the Winnipeg General Practice Study Club, they created a supportive environment where early-career dentists could build confidence, refine their clinical skills, and embrace evidence-based, patient-centred care through workshops, case discussions and peer learning. Both graduates of the University of Manitoba (U of M), they have each made significant contributions to the profession. Dr. Regula combines clinical expertise with a passion for education as a clinical instructor at the U of M and has extended her commitment to service through dental mission trips in Cambodia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Uganda. Dr. Simoens has demonstrated outstanding leadership as co-owner of Waverley Dental Centre while also contributing as a lecturer, facilitator and active member in professional organizations. Together, they have inspired and supported countless colleagues, leaving a lasting legacy of collaboration, mentorship, and excellence within the profession. Dr. Norman Vankoughnett Dr. Kelly Regula “I’m truly honoured to receive this award and want to give thanks to those who have made it possible. Thank you to my wife, Madonna and daughters, Eva and Ariel, for accepting the time organized dentistry takes away from family. Thank you to Dr. Craig Smith, president of the NLDA, Lesley Patey, executive director, and the nominating committee, for taking the time to submit my name for this award. Finally, I thank all of you in organized dentistry. You represent maybe 10% of the dentists in Canada but do so much for the other 90%. I am very pleased to be one small cog in such a valuable group. Thank you for what each of you contribute to our profession.” – Dr. Redmond “Receiving this award is both humbling and meaningful because it represents the collective support of many people who have guided, challenged, and encouraged me throughout my career. I want to recognize my incredibly talented and dedicated co-workers and staff who constantly strive for the best for our patients. I’m especially grateful to my colleagues and mentors whose guidance pushed me to grow and improve. Working alongside such dedicated and inspiring individuals has made this experience rewarding. This award inspires me to continue striving for excellence, to give back where I can and to approach every opportunity with dedication and integrity. Thank you once again for this recognition. It truly touched my heart.” – Dr. Vankoughnett “The dental profession has given me so many mentors who challenged me, colleagues who supported me, and opportunities to contribute beyond my own practice. One of the most meaningful expressions of that commitment has been co-chairing the General Practice Study Club in Manitoba with my dental partner and dear friend, Dr. Lori Simoens. Together, we created a space rooted in collegiality, curiosity, and mentorship, where dentists could learn openly from one another and strengthen their sense of professional community. Dentistry thrives when we support one another, share knowledge generously, and create environments where growth feels safe and collaborative. I am proud to contribute to a profession that values those principles. Thank you again to CDA and to the many colleagues who make dentistry such a strong and connected community.” – Dr. Kelly Regula Mentorship Advancement Award This award recognizes dentists or dentist-led groups who have improved the sense of community among Canadian dentists through volunteer mentorship and shared learning. Dr. Lori Simoens 15 Issue 4 | 2026 |
CDA Award Winners Oral Health Promotion Award This award recognizes individuals or organizations who have improved the oral health of Canadians through oral health promotion. As the CEO of Welcome Hall Mission since 2016, Mr. Sam Watts has championed the belief that oral health is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Under his leadership, a groundbreaking partnership with McGill University’s faculty of dental medicine and oral health sciences led to the creation of the Jim Lund Dental Clinic, which provides free, comprehensive dental care to individuals experiencing poverty and hardship. The clinic has become essential, serving patients that might otherwise go without treatment. Mr. Watts has also helped create a unique model where compassionate care, professional education, and community service intersect. The clinic serves as an important training site for dental students, residents, and dental hygiene students while fostering a commitment to serving vulnerable populations. His support for a major expansion that will double the clinic’s capacity further demonstrates his commitment to reducing barriers to care and improving oral health outcomes for those most in need. Mr. Sam Watts “This clinic, with 6 modern operatories, is part of a robust partnership that has endured for more than 15 years. With McGill’s faculty of dental medicine and oral health sciences, we have proven that the best place to provide entry-level engagement with people who have difficulty accessing dental care is in the community and in a modern, welcoming setting. People who struggle to make ends meet don’t deserve our second best. They deserve our best. Importantly, this clinic also promotes a critical truth that oral health care is part of the overall continuum of health care. I am pleased and humbled to accept this award on behalf of the team here at Welcome Hall Mission and our partners at McGill. Thanks to CDA for your recognition and for this award.” – Mr. Watts Dr. Jack Gerrow (r.), the CDA Medal of Honour recipient, was recognized during the Reception and President’s Dinner & Celebration of the Dental Profession, held on April 24, 2026, in Toronto. This special event provides an opportunity for colleagues and leaders from across the profession to celebrate outstanding contributions to Canadian dentistry. “I would like to sincerely thank CDA for choosing me to be a recipient of the Mentorship Advancement Award, which is for improving a sense of community among Canadian dentists. I strongly feel that we’re at a point in history where community happens less organically and really requires intentional development. When I think of the mentors that I’ve had throughout my life and career, I picture them leading me and guiding me, carving a path for me. The recognition of this in me helps me to really feel as though I’m part of the collective that’s helping to influence the path for the future. Thank you very much.” – Dr. Lori Simoens CDA sincerely thanks CDSPI, the event’s exclusive Diamond Sponsor, for its continued generous support in making this celebration possible. 16 | 2026 | Issue 4
© 2026 Garrison Dental Solutions, LLC Toll-free 888.437.0032 | gds@garrisondental.com | www.garrisondental.com ADCA826CDA Some cases push the limits - this one pushes back! Achieving Ideal Proximal Anatomy and Contact Tightness Using the Strata-G Wide Prep Ring Fig 1. A 38-year-old healthy female presented with a large carious lesion on tooth #45 (DO) Fig 3. Deep margin elevation (DME) using the “snowplow” technique. Fig 5 Initial finishing was performed with medium coarse Sof-LexTM discs to remove excess from buccal, lingual, and occlusal embrasures Fig 2. Shows the hybrid layer after total etch, prime, and bond with OptiBond FL, the gold standard dental adhesive. Fig 4. Centripetal technique was used for building the proximal wall, completed with a single layer of composite. Careful adaptation to the bottom layer and buccal/ lingual walls is essential. Fig 6. The bitewing (BW) x-ray confirms the ideal emergence profile and anatomical interproximal contours achieved with the selected matrix system. Mario Romero, DDS, University of Guayaquil graduate, completed advanced training at Eastman Institute, earning the Handleman Award. Former AEGD Program Director at Dental College of Georgia, he received multiple teaching honors. An international lecturer and author, he now leads Dentistry180 in Sarasota, Florida. CASE STUDY SGR-KSH-10 contains: 1 Short Ring - blue 1 Tall Ring - orange 1 Wide Prep Ring - green 50 Assorted Matrix Bands 50 Assorted Firm Matrix Bands 10 VariStrip™ 80 Assorted Wedges 12 Assorted Rally™ Polishers 1 Ring Placement Forceps
Catching Up with the Oral Health Community in Canada The National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) We checked in with Dr. Marie Dagenais, NDEB executive director and registrar, to learn more about the work the examination body does and how it’s preparing for the future. has been the executive director and registrar of NDEB since 2018. Prior to this, she spent 27 years at McGill University teaching oral & maxillofacial radiology and was associate dean, academic affairs, for 12 years. Dr. Dagenais has held several positions in various national organizations including president of the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry and chair of the Documentation Committee of the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. What does the NDEB do, in a nutshell? In the simplest terms, the NDEB is a national examination body. We assess general dentists who want to obtain licensure in Canada to ensure a standard of safe care for patients in Canada. The NDEB was created by an Act of Parliament in 1952. Although CDA is not involved in dental regulation, it maintains a collaborative relationship with the NDEB by engaging in dialogue and having a representative observe the NDEB’s Annual Meeting. How does the NDEB contribute to the dental profession and oral health in Canada? At its core, the NDEB’s role is about ensuring a consistent national standard of competence for dentists across Canada. Every dentist who enters practise must have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities needed for safe, effective and independent practise. That consistency is essential; it means patients can expect high-quality care no matter where they live in Canada. Our certification also supports professional mobility. Once a dentist is certified by the NDEB, they can apply for licensure in any province or territory without the need for Dr. Marie Dagenais 18 | 2026 | Issue 4
additional exams or training. That flexibility allows dentists to move, grow and contribute wherever their careers take them, which benefits the profession and improves access to care across Canada. Although our focus is on dentists’ competence rather than direct public protection, our work has a clear impact on public confidence. When patients know that their dentist has met a national standard, it builds trust in the individual practitioner and the profession. How does your work touch the lives of dentists across Canada? Our work connects with dentists at all stages of their professional journey. Every applicant who comes through the NDEB process, whether trained in Canada or internationally, interacts with us in some way. For internationally trained dentists in particular, we recognize that the path to certification can be complex, and we work hard to provide clarity, guidance and support along the way. We’re always looking for new ways to make the process more understandable and accessible. Beyond our work with candidates, we’re connected to the profession through the many dentists who contribute to our examinations, from the development stage through to grading. These individuals, whether they’re teaching in dental faculties or working in private practise, bring an incredible breadth of knowledge and perspective to their roles. Their involvement helps ensure that our exams truly reflect the realities of modern dental practise. What’s coming up for the NDEB in the future? It is an exciting time in exam development for the NDEB. Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how exams are created and we’re embracing these opportunities thoughtfully and responsibly. We recently partnered with an organization to explore how AI can support the creation of practice examinations. This is something we’ve wanted to do for some time, and the technology is helping us to make it a reality. Supporting candidates as they move through the certification process remains one of our top priorities, and this initiative will offer valuable preparation resources to help candidates become familiar with the format and structure of the exam and allow them to identify areas for improvement. It’s a great example of how innovation can directly enhance fairness, accessibility and readiness for everyone on the path to certification. We’re also excited about the potential to make the licensure journey smoother for future dentists in Canada. Building on our existing process for the verification of credentials, we’re exploring the development of a national repository of credentials. This would be a secure system where educational and professional documents would be stored and accessed by multiple organizations involved in the licensure process. This initiative is already gaining traction in other health professions, and it could reduce duplication, save time and facilitate mobility. We’re gathering insights from regulators across the country about their requirements and learning from organizations that have already taken on similar projects. This process gives us a clear picture of what’s needed nationally and outlines recommendations to guide next steps. We’re looking forward to continuing those conversations with partners across Canada. We’re also taking a deep dive into our candidate data. This project started with a request for additional information on the duration of the NDEB Equivalency Process, which is a three-part examination process for dentists trained in non-accredited international programs to demonstrate their competency for dental licensure in Canada. As we looked closely at the data, we saw opportunities to look at correlations for success among the Equivalency Process cohorts. The analysis is providing a structured overview of 15 years of historical exam data, transforming a large and complex dataset into clear, interpretable insights. We hope that the findings can support regulatory bodies, educational institutions and policymakers in developing targeted support programs, such as preparatory courses or mentorship initiatives. At the same time, the analysis can help identify outstanding non-accredited programs that consistently produce strong candidates, providing valuable evidence to guide future recognition or collaboration efforts. ndeb-bned.ca 19 Issue 4 | 2026 | News and Events
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