AAPD to Honor Outstanding Members

The Future of Pediatric Dentistry: Honoring Excellence and Innovation at AAPD 2025

What if the key to a healthier future for our children lies within the dedication and innovation of a select group of pediatric dentists? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recently celebrated its 2025 award winners in Denver, showcasing the individuals who are shaping the landscape of children’s oral health.Let’s delve into what makes these honorees stand out and how their work is paving the way for future advancements.

Celebrating the Best in Pediatric Dentistry

The AAPD’s annual awards recognize outstanding contributions to the field, from clinical practice to research and policy progress.These awards highlight the diverse ways in which professionals are making a difference in the lives of young patients. The AAPD 2025 meeting, held in Denver from May 23-25, served as the perfect backdrop to honor these extraordinary individuals.

Pediatric Dentist of the Year: Dr. Natalia Chalmers

Dr. Natalia Chalmers received the prestigious Pediatric Dentist of the Year award, sponsored by NuSmile. This award recognizes her significant contributions to the dental profession through clinical practice, academics, and policy development. Her extensive volunteer leadership further exemplifies her commitment to the field.

Did you know? Dr. Chalmers’ work in policy development could lead to more accessible and affordable dental care for children across the United States.

Jerome B. Miller “For the Kids” Award: Dr. Brianna Muñoz

Dr. Brianna Muñoz was honored with the Jerome B. Miller “for the kids” Award,recognizing her outstanding efforts in children’s oral health and welfare. This award,established by the AAPD Foundation in 2007,celebrates up-and-coming clinicians,researchers,and academicians who are dedicated to improving the lives of children.

Merle C. Hunter Leadership Award: Dr. Sarat ‘Bobby’ Thikkurissy

The Merle C. Hunter Leadership Award was presented to Dr. Sarat ‘Bobby’ Thikkurissy for his exemplary leadership service within the AAPD. This award honors the memory of Merle C. Hunter, AAPD Executive Director from 1968-1986, and recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership within the organization.

Manuel M. Album Award: dr. Martha Forero

Dr. Martha Forero received the Manuel M. Album Award for her significant contributions to the oral health of children with special needs. This award, supported by the Album Society, recognizes individuals or organizations that have made a profound impact on this vulnerable population.

Expert Tip: When treating children with special needs,patience and understanding are key. Dr. Forero’s work highlights the importance of tailored dental care for this population.

Dr. Lewis A. Kay Excellence in Education Award: Dr. Bina Katechia

Dr. Bina Katechia was honored with the Dr. Lewis A. Kay Excellence in Education Award, sponsored by Pediatric Dental Associates, Ltd. This award recognizes the director of a pediatric dental program who best exemplifies outstanding leadership, commitment to educating residents, and contributions to society and the profession.

Suzi Seale Coll Evidence-Based Dentistry Service Award: Dr. Tim Wright

Dr. Tim Wright received the Evidence-Based Dentistry Service Award for his major contributions to the dental profession through evidence-based clinical practice, academics, and policy development. This award, established by the AAPD’s Evidence-Based Dentistry Committee (EBDC), recognizes individuals who champion evidence-based approaches in pediatric dentistry.

Paul P. Taylor Award: Dr. Margaret FANTIS

Dr. Margaret FANTIS was awarded the Paul P. Taylor Award for her prestigious journal article in Pediatric Dentistry. This award, resolute by the AAPD Editorial Board and awards’ Committee and supported by the Baylor Pediatric Dentistry Alumni fund, recognizes outstanding research in the field.

Dr. Ann Page Griffin Humanitarian Award: Dr. Sahar M. Alrayyes

dr. Sahar M.alrayyes was honored with the Dr. Ann Page Griffin Humanitarian Award,sponsored by Practicon,Inc. This award recognizes an AAPD member dentist who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to alleviating suffering and improving the oral health of underserved populations in the United States or abroad.

Quick Fact: Many underserved communities in the U.S. lack access to basic dental care. Dr. Alrayyes’ work is crucial in bridging this gap.

Dr.Beverly A. Largent Access to Care Innovator Award: Dr.MARIA RITA BERNARDO

Dr. MARIA RITA BERNARDO received the Dr. Beverly A. Largent Access to Care Innovator Award, sponsored by Elevate Oral Care. This award recognizes an outstanding grantee of the AAPD Foundation whose efforts are making a difference for children in their community.

Early Career Dentist “under 10” Award: Dr. Sara Ehsani, Dr. Kyulim lee, and Dr. Nina Ray

In its inaugural year, the Early Career Dentist “Under 10” Award honored Dr. Sara Ehsani, Dr. Kyulim Lee, and Dr. Nina Ray for their exceptional excellence in pediatric dentistry through clinical practice, research, leadership, academia, advocacy, or service.

Resident Recognition Award: Dr. Ziwei Chen

Dr. Ziwei chen received the Resident Recognition Award for her innovative contributions to her training program. Honorable mentions were given to Dr. Berenice Cheng, Dr. nida-e-Haque Mahmud, and Dr.Amanda Swanson.

The Future of Pediatric Dental Care

These award recipients represent the forefront of pediatric dentistry. Their dedication to innovation, research, and community service is shaping the future of oral health for children. As the AAPD continues to support and recognize these professionals, we can expect to see even greater advancements in the field.

Embracing Technology and Innovation

The future of pediatric dentistry will undoubtedly involve the integration of new technologies. From teledentistry to advanced diagnostic tools, technology has the potential to improve access to care and enhance treatment outcomes. The work of these award winners often incorporates these cutting-edge approaches.

Focus on Preventative Care

Preventative care remains a cornerstone of pediatric dentistry. Educating parents and children about proper oral hygiene habits is crucial for preventing dental disease. The AAPD and its members are committed to promoting preventative strategies to ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Addressing Access to Care Disparities

Access to dental care remains a significant challenge for many children, particularly those in underserved communities. The work of Dr. Alrayyes and Dr. BERNARDO highlights the importance of addressing these disparities and ensuring that all children have access to quality oral health care.

The Future of Pediatric Dentistry: An Expert’s Viewpoint on Innovation and Access to Care

Time.news sat down with Dr. Evelyn Reed, a leading voice in pediatric dentistry, to discuss the recent american Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) 2025 awards and what they signify for the future of children’s oral health.

Time.news: Dr. Reed, thank you for joining us. The AAPD recently honored several outstanding pediatric dentists.What is the overall importance of these awards?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: It’s my pleasure. The AAPD awards are crucial as they spotlight individuals who are truly pushing the boundaries of pediatric dentistry. They recognize not just clinical excellence,but also leadership,research,innovation,and perhaps most importantly,a commitment to serving the underserved. These awards serve as inspiration and a roadmap for the future of the field.

Time.news: The “Pediatric Dentist of the Year” award whent to Dr. Natalia Chalmers. Can you elaborate on her contributions to the landscape of children’s oral health?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: Dr. Chalmers’ award is well-deserved. She’s made significant contributions across the board – in clinical practice, academia, and policy development. Her work in policy is especially impactful,as it has the potential to improve access to affordable dental care for children nationwide. This is especially crucial given the rising costs of healthcare.

Time.news: Access to care was a recurring theme.Dr. Sahar M. Alrayyes received the Dr. Ann Page Griffin Humanitarian Award, and Dr. Maria Rita Bernardo was honored with the Dr. Beverly A. Largent access to Care Innovator Award. why is addressing access to care disparities so critical in pediatric dentistry?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: Access to care is arguably the biggest challenge we face. Manny children,especially those in underserved communities,simply don’t have access to regular dental care. This leads to preventable dental diseases that can impact their overall health and well-being. Dr. Alrayyes and dr.Bernardo are shining examples of dentists who are actively working to bridge this gap, whether through humanitarian efforts or innovative programs within their communities. It is truly inspiring.

time.news: The Manuel M. Album Award recognized Dr. Martha Forero for her work with children with special needs. What unique considerations are involved in providing dental care to this population?

Dr.Evelyn Reed: treating children with special needs requires a tremendous amount of patience, understanding, and specialized training. Each child is unique, and Dr. Forero’s work highlights the importance of tailoring dental care to meet their individual needs. It’s about creating a safe and cozy environment where these children can receive the oral healthcare they deserve.

Time.news: We also saw recognition for excellence in education and evidence-based dentistry. How do these aspects contribute to the advancement of pediatric dental care?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: Education is the foundation upon which future generations of pediatric dentists are built. Dr. Bina Katechia’s award highlights the importance of strong leadership and commitment to educating residents. Similarly,Dr. Tim Wright’s Evidence-Based dentistry Service Award underscores the need for clinical practices based on solid scientific evidence. Incorporating evidence-based dentistry allows practitioners to provide better care and promote oral health. these elements ensures that the field continues to evolve and improve.

Time.news: the article mentions the integration of technology and a focus on preventative care as key aspects of the future. What advice would you give parents on how to best protect their children’s oral health?

dr. Evelyn Reed: Preventative care starts at home! Make sure your children are brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily as soon as teeth start touching. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and schedule regular dental checkups. Early detection and prevention are critical to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Parents must take an active role in their kids’ oral health journey. The earlier the intervention, the better the long term outcome.

Also, make sure to check the AAPD’s website [[2]] for awards, submission information, and also upcoming conferences such as the AAPD 2025 conference[[3]].

Time.news: Dr. Reed, thank you for your insightful comments. It’s clear that the future of pediatric dentistry is shining, thanks to the dedication and innovation of professionals like those honored by the AAPD.