Dr. Gayle Cheatwood: 2024 CDA Foundation Humanitarian Award Recipient for Dental Aid Impact

2024 CDA Foundation Humanitarian Award: Dr. Gayle Cheatwood

Overview:

Dr. Gayle Cheatwood is the recipient of the 2024 Humanitarian Award from the CDA Foundation. He has dedicated his career to providing dental care to underserved communities in developing countries since 1974.

A Commitment to Service:

Dr. Cheatwood, DDS, FADI, FICD, started his humanitarian work during his student years at Creighton University, graduating cum laude in 1975. His first mission trip took place in 1974. Over the years, he has completed more than 140 service trips to countries lacking dental services.

Founding Dental Vision Mission:

In 2008, Cheatwood founded Dental Vision Mission, a nonprofit that supports health care professionals in delivering care to underserved populations during dental, medical, and vision trips. He covers trip expenses himself, ensuring all donations directly fund necessary equipment for treatment.

Impact on Communities:

Colleague Ronald Fritz, DDS, shared his experience volunteering with Cheatwood in Oaxaca, Mexico, in 2016. Fritz noted Cheatwood’s impact was profound, emphasizing that his efforts not only treated dental issues but also restored smiles, built self-esteem, and trained others to continue this essential work.

Innovative Solutions:

Dr. Cheatwood has created tools that enhance dental care in remote locations. He developed a lightweight dental chair to protect dental professionals from discomfort and a portable dental operating unit powered by a 12-volt battery and solar cells, enabling care in challenging environments.

A Legacy of Care:

Cheatwood’s work reaches diverse populations, transforming lives through improved oral health. His compassion and ability to inspire make him a role model for dentists and anyone dedicated to serving others.

Recognition:

The CDA Foundation honors Cheatwood with the 2024 Humanitarian Award to celebrate his contributions to dentistry and humanity. His journey is a powerful reminder of how skill and compassion can break barriers and change lives.

About the Award:

The CDA Foundation Humanitarian Award has recognized Californian dentists for outstanding leadership since 2008. It is named after Dr. Andrew Soderstrom, a past president of the CDA Foundation. Applications for the 2025 award will be accepted from April 1 to May 31, 2025. For more details, visit the CDA Foundation website.