Championing Excellence Collectively

Our collective journey to positive transformation. Together, we’re building the future of good oral health.

U of T Dentistry’s dental public health specialty program along with other specialties and undergraduate clinics has been bridging the gap in oral health care access for over 50 years. Last year alone, the Faculty’s clinics served 68,000 patients, many of whom are from underserviced communities. Sonica Singhal, assistant professor and director of the graduate specialty program in dental public health, puts the spotlight on what is made possible at the Faculty’s clinics.

Singhal’s current research includes a clinical trial of more than 500 participants to be followed for more than 3 years – a first in Canadian history. Through self-reported, clinical, and biological data, she is attempting to demonstrate oral health care need and the lack of access among disadvantaged and vulnerable patients. Her findings will act as evidence for considerations of oral health care coverage through public funding and will demonstrate the critical role that the Faculty’s clinics already play in delivering exemplary patient care to those who might otherwise go unseen.

As Canada's premier dental school, U of T Dentistry is a powerhouse of excellence, championing exemplary learning for students, inspiring innovations from researchers, and ensuring access to care for patients. Singhal sees first-hand the transformative impact of the Faculty, catering to patients from all walks of life – regardless of age, gender, cultural background, or socioeconomic status. As U of T Dentistry’s Giving Day ambassador this year, Singhal shares why the school is uniquely positioned to positively impact the oral and overall health of many individuals while simultaneously advancing the future of dentistry.

Every day, I witness the pivotal role this academic institution plays in making oral health care accessible.

“Every day, I witness the pivotal role this academic institution plays in making oral health care accessible. Thousands of patients come to the Faculty not just because of affordability, rather because of trust and assurance that they will receive high quality care, and the opportunity to learn about their oral health and how to take care of it. To sustain this and ensure safety, effectiveness, and efficiency, we need renewed infrastructure and technology. We have to make the right investments to prepare the next generation of oral health care leaders.” says Singhal.

The U of T Dentistry community has a unique opportunity to come together this Giving Day and support the tremendous work happening at the Faculty. “The Defy Gravity campaign and Giving Day is an invitation to Dentistry’s existing and aspiring donor community to collectively make their mark and to experience the palpable impact of philanthropy,” says Selina Esteves, Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations.

This is why Singhal is proud to serve as the U of T Dentistry Giving Day ambassador and to be in touch with many in our alumni, donor, and friends community to share the exciting opportunity to double donor impact on March 26. Donations made to the Dentistry Giving Day funds between February 26 and March 26 will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to a maximum of $1,000 per gift.

“I have seen how our professional community is changing lives through excellence in oral health care education, research and practice — which is why I’m so proud to be a member of the faculty and to invite you and our community to participate in U of T Giving Day by supporting the exciting work underway at the Faculty of Dentistry”, says Singhal.

To explore the priority funds eligible for the match and what might be most meaningful to you, visit: https://uoft.me/givingday2024dentistry.