RCDSO CONNECT
Summer 2025
Newsletter of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario
FEATURE ARTICLE:
Supporting the reconciliation journey: partnering to advance Indigenous cultural competency in dentistry - Page 8
Message from the President and the Registrar & CEO
At the College, our commitment is to modern, effective regulation—regulation that upholds the highest standards of patient care while being practical and well-supported in its implementation. This is a time of significant change in the profession, and we recognize the increasing demands placed on dentists. From the introduction of new standards to the divestment of the Professional Liability Program (PLP), the College is undertaking a number of transformative initiatives this year. Our role is to support you through these changes with clear guidance, helpful resources, and a shared commitment to professionalism.
September 30th was the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As part of our acknowledgement of this day, this newsletter highlights the College’s work on a Reconciliation Action Plan, in partnership with First Peoples Group. The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program also contributed an article. We are very pleased to announce a new approved sponsor of Continuing Education Credits: the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council (IPHCC) which offer educational activities designed to increase clinical and cultural competency for health providers.
PLP Divestment
Since 2023, we have been working toward a change to PLP. After a competitive process, the College announced that Navacord, one of Canada’s largest and fastest growing multi-line insurance brokerages, will sustain and build upon the PLP program. You
will continue to receive the great service that you have come to expect when you reach out to PLP. Your current coverage continues throughout 2025. Registration for 2026 will also include PLP coverage, though the liability cost ($1500) will be passed directly to Navacord. Regulatory fees ($2170) are frozen for 2026. It remains less expensive to practice dentistry in Ontario than in most other Canadian provinces.
Professional practice
At its September meeting, Council approved three important documents that will shape professional practice moving forward. Each document reflects a rigorous development process—including research, external consultation, multiple revisions, and review by the Quality Assurance Committee. In some cases, a dedicated Working Group also contributed to shaping the content.
Here’s what’s new:
Foundations of Professionalism: This newly developed document outlines the core ethical principles and professional responsibilities expected of dentists. It replaces the previous Code of Ethics and offers a refreshed framework to guide conduct and decision-making.
Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry: Guidance
for the Profession: This new guidance document explores the implications of AI in dental practice, providing clarity and direction on its responsible use.
Dr. Harinder Sandhu, Chair and President Daniel Faulkner, Registrar & CEO
Practice Models and Corporate Dentistry: As approved by Council, the College will update and develop new resources and requirements to help registrants address unique issues for patients related to the business of dentistry. There is also a plan to offer educational resources to help guide dental students and registrants navigate their professional responsibilities regardless of practice model. There is more information about our approach to Practice Models and Corporate Dentistry in the report on our website.
Rescinding of an Outdated Standard: The former standard Requesting Magnetic Resonance Imaging & Referring to Physician Specialists by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons has been rescinded. In its place, a more accessible FAQ has been published to address common questions and support clinical decision-making.
We encourage you to review these documents and reach out if you have questions or need support. Our goal is to provide comprehensive resources, including education, guidance, and case studies, to help make implementation as smooth and effective as possible.
Throughout 2025 and 2026, we will continue to regularly consult the profession on new standards and practice guidance. There are two new consultations that will be open for comment this year: a draft standard on implant dentistry and a draft professional liability by-law.
In 2025 we are hosting more RCDSO Connect sessions to help dentists keep pace with College news and key developments on standards and advisories. These sessions are often Category 1 courses, if watched live. There will be two more sessions in 2025 as well as a special session on the PLP divestment.
Council Updates
In August, Council welcomed a new public member, Patrick Ballantyne, a member of the Law Society of Ontario who formerly served as CEO and General Manager of the Registered Insurance Brokers
of Ontario. Patrick will serve on the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee, as well as the Registration Committee, contributing his regulatory expertise to our work.
We’re also pleased to announce that Judy Welikovitch, Chair of the Discipline Committee, has been reappointed for another three-year term. Judy plays a vital role across several committees, including the Governance Committee and the Fitness to Practise Committee, and her continued leadership is deeply valued.
After six years of dedicated service, Eli Fisher’s term as a public member has concluded. We extend our sincere gratitude to Eli for her thoughtful contributions and commitment to advancing the College’s mandate.
This year, Council has been spending time developing a strategic vision for the College. As we near the completion of the 2023-2025 Strategic Plan, it made sense to look long term at the future of dental and oral health care practice in Ontario. You will hear more about this vision, and the next Strategic Plan in the coming months and into 2026.
Thank you for the professionalism that you demonstrate every day; for your understanding in this period of change; and most importantly, for everything you do in the very best interest of each and every one of your patients.
Sincerely,
Dr. Harinder Sandhu and Daniel Faulkner
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Executive Committee
Dr. Harinder Sandhu, Chair and President
Dr. Nalin Bhargava, Vice President
Marc Trudell
Brian Smith
Dr. Erin Walker
Elected Representatives
District #1 Dr. Nalin Bhargava
District #2 Dr. Robyn Somerville
District #3 Dr. Peter Delean
District #4 Dr. Neil J. Gajjar
District #5 Dr. Daniel Fortino
District #6 Dr. Harinder Sandhu
District #7 Dr. Erin Walker
District #8 Dr. Osama Soliman
District #9 Dr. Antony Liscio
District #10 Dr. Deborah Wilson
District #11 Dr. Eilyad Honarparvar
District #12 Dr. Anthony Mair
Appointed By Lieutenant Governor in Council
Patrick Ballantyne
Ram Chopra
James Colliver
Vivian Hu
Nizar Ladak
Brian Smith
Roderick Stableforth
Marc Trudell
Judith Welikovitch
Academic Appointments
Dr. Daniel Haas
Dr. Noha Gomaa
Next Council meeting
Next council meeting is December 4th, 2025. The meeting will livestreamed on our YouTube channel.
Questions? Reach out to:
Angie Sherban
Executive Assistant and Council Liaison phone: 416-934-5627 toll-free: 1-800-565-4591
Council Highlights
Council Highlights are emailed out to members and posted online on the College’s website after each Council meeting. It covers some of the key highlights of Council business.
Read the Council Highlights from the September 18th Council Meeting
PLP divestment: what you should know
Five things you need to know about PLP Divestment
1. No need to take any action for 2026 renewal—the College is collecting liability on behalf of Navacord.
2. Regulatory fees are frozen for 2026—no cost of living increase this year.
3. The same highly-qualified and experienced staff will be on hand to answer your questions and service claims.
4. Jones DesLauriers Insurance, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Navacord, will be the broker for the PLP program. Jones DesLauriers has been the brokerage on record for the primary PLP policy and the excess insurance coverage since 2017. Navacord is the current broker for liability insurance for dentists in Alberta.
5. Liability costs for Ontario dentists are comparable to and competitive with costs across Canada.
Jurisdictional analysis: Regulatory and professional liability costs by province/territory
*All other provincial bodies except for Alberta, Ontario and Quebec use CDSPI as the professional liability insurance provider. CDSPI’s premium of $2,097 provides $3M per claim, maximum $9M per calendar year (assumes $2,500 deductible). Posted rate available at: https://www.cdspi.com/insurance/ malpractice/plansheet/#premiums
**Taxes not included.
***Regulatory fees include association fees.
Announcing your new liability coverage provider
On September 15th, 2025, after an extensive and competitive process, we announced that RCDSO Council approved the selection of Navacord as the new owners of the PLP program due to their commitment to preserve the existing service excellence of the program via current PLP staff; their offer of full and comprehensive coverage for dentists; and their deep experience in the liability protection of Ontario dentists.
Navacord, one of Canada’s largest and fastest growing multi-line insurance brokerages, will become the owner/operator of the RCDSO’s PLP as of January 1, 2026. Jones DesLauriers, a broker partner of Navacord, has been the brokerage on record for the primary PLP policy and the excess insurance coverage since 2017. Navacord is the current broker for liability insurance for dentists in Alberta.
What does this mean?
Ontario dentists will benefit from a smooth transition process and three years of reasonable rates and comprehensive coverage.
Ontario patients will continue to have financial recourse in instances where compensation is warranted.
This change in ownership will effectively de-risk the regulatory function of the College.
The change will help ensure sustainable financial health.
It brings the RCDSO in line with the majority of health regulators in Canada.
The total cost of liability coverage ($1,500) will be included in the 2026 renewal process to aid in the transition. RCDSO will pass the full amount on to Navacord. Regulatory fees are frozen for 2026 and will not include professional liability costs in 2027 and beyond. You will not need to take any action during the renewal process to obtain coverage. 2026 annual fee
$2,170 Regulatory fee for all RCDSO registrants (the same as 2025).
As part of this transfer, any known claims (or situation which could possibly lead to a claim) that have not already been reported to PLP must be reported before the end of 2025 to be captured under the current policy. If there are any known claims against you, or situations that could possibly lead to a claim, if you have not already done so, you must report these to the PLP immediately, by contacting: info@plpservices.org
We have provided, and will continue to provide, more information about the transition to you. In addition
to the material available on our website, our Practice Advisory team is prepared to answer questions from patients, dentists as well as other oral health professionals.
Until December 31, 2025, please contact PLP as usual.
For more information please see Professional Liability Program
RCDSO
Supporting the reconciliation journey: partnering to advance Indigenous cultural competency in dentistry
Ontario is home to the highest Indigenous population of any province or territory.i Nationally, First Nations and Inuit Peoples experience nearly twice the amount of dental disease and have more unmet oral health needs than other Canadians.ii iii
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) put forward 94 calls to action in support of reconciliation related to work.iv The RCDSO has committed to forging a path of Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in Ontario specifically looking at the ways we can contribute to Calls to Action #18-24 that relate to health. Specifically, Call to Action #23 which calls for cultural competency training for all healthcare professionals in Canada.
Dentists and their teams play a vital role in the broader healthcare system – and with that comes a role to play in reconciliation.v Oral health is not separate from overall health – it is vital to a person’s well-being, dignity and quality of life. It is in the public interest for the College to support reconciliation efforts.
Government of Canada. “Census of Population.” Statistics Canada, 2025, https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/index-eng.cfm. Accessed July 15, 2025.
ii Government of Canada. “Focus on Geography Series, 2021 Census of Population.” Statistics Canada, 2021, https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/as-sa/ fogs-spg/page.cfm?lang=E&topic=8&dguid=2021A000235. Accessed July 16, 2025.
iii Office of the Auditor General. “Report 4–Oral Health Programs for First Nations and Inuit–Health Canada.” Office of the Auditor General, 2017, Ottawa, Ontario, https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_oag_201711_04_e_42669.html
iv Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action - NCTR
v Office of the Auditor General. “Report 4–Oral Health Programs for First Nations and Inuit–Health Canada.” Office of the Auditor General, 2017, Ottawa, Ontario, https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_oag_201711_04_e_42669.html
RCDSO’s Reconciliation Action Plan
The RCDSO is partnering with First Peoples Group (FPG), an Indigenous-owned, operated and staffed organization, to work with us to design a Reconciliation Action Plan.
This process will involve listening, learning and designing an action plan whereby we can take part in reconciliation and support the ongoing education of dentists.
“During our September 2025 Council meeting, Council received a presentation from Heather Watts, Bob Watts and Hannah Martin, Principal at FPG as we begin this important work.
Understanding the oral health experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Ontario is essential to the overall health and well-being of generations. Access to oral health care, access to oral hygiene products, clean drinking water, nutritious food, trauma informed and culturally safe care, the significant cost to travel to get care are all part of understanding the Indigenous experience with a critical service to care of their health. Our organization is thrilled to work with RCDSO to build an action plan that will set the foundation and impact generations to come.”
– Heather Watts – Principal, First Peoples Group
“This is a significant moment for the RCDSO. As we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2025, I am proud that we are taking another step to promote Indigenous voices and representation within the dental profession.”
– Harinder Sandhu – RCDSO Council President
Considering the history of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, cultural safety in oral health care provided to First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples is of ultimate importance. Mistrust in the health care system contributes to Indigenous people from visiting the dentists to receive proper care for their oral health. It is the vision of IDAC that Indigenous communities across Canada have access to culturally safe oral health care.”
– Dr. Sheri McKinstry – Indigenous Dental Association of Canada
Continuing Education Opportunity: Indigenous Cultural Safety Education for
Dentists
How can dentists contribute to this work? Cultural safety is key. You can begin by educating yourself and your teams about Indigenous health and cultural safety as part of your continuing education efforts.
We are pleased to announce that the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council (IPHCC) is now an approved sponsor under the College’s Quality Assurance Program. This designation allows IPHCC to offer continuing education (CE) points for courses, promoting education activities designed to increase clinically and culturally competent care for Indigenous communities, including those directed at all health professionals and those specific to dentistry.
Cultural Safety Training - Indigenous Primary Health Care Council
The IPHCC is an Indigenous-governed, culturebased, and Indigenous-informed organization with the key mandate to support the advancement and evolution of Indigenous primary health care services provision and planning throughout Ontario. Membership currently includes 23 Indigenous Primary Health Care Organizations (IPHCOs) located across the province. IPHCC takes an Indigenousled and community-centred wholistic approach to improve the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples.
The vision of IPHCC is that the health and wellbeing of all Indigenous Peoples in Ontario is restored and assured. Health systems provide Indigenous Peoples with high quality care, empathy, dignity, and respect.
Continuing Education (CE) categories explained
Ontario dentists are required to earn 90 CE points over a three-year period, distributed as follows: Category 1: Clinical courses approved by RCDSO’s
Quality Assurance Committee and offered by an approved sponsor (e.g., CSDH). Category 2: Clinical courses by approved sponsors, self-study with assessment, or mentoring. Category 3: Non-clinical courses, practice management, and recorded webinars.
What does this mean for IPHCC?
As an approved sponsor, IPHCC will: oversee course administration, attendance tracking, and knowledge assessment. provide CE certificates meeting RCDSO requirements. offer high-quality, practical education for dentists committed to improving access to care.
How does this impact the public interest?
Ensuring equitable access to dental care is a top priority for the RCDSO. Many First Nations, Inuit and Métis patients encounter obstacles in receiving the treatment they need. Continuing education is vital in equipping dentists with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide inclusive care. With IPHCC now recognized as an approved sponsor, more dental professionals can access highquality education focused on enhancing care for Indigenous communities.
This milestone represents a significant advancement, supporting high-quality education while strengthening efforts toward creating a more comprehensive and equitable dental care landscape.
For details on submitting a Category 1 course, refer to the Continuing Education Category 1 Course Submission Checklist or contact ce@rcdso.org.
The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program
Play a key role in the oral health of First Nations and Inuit
By enrolling with Indigenous Services Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program, dental providers can submit claims directly to its claims processor, Express Scripts Canada.
Did you know?
The Express Scripts Canada Provider and Client Website is the gateway for dental providers to work with the NIHB program. Providers can access program policies, forms, quarterly newsletters, the dental claims submission kit, provider billing agreement, and regional dental benefit grids.
Click here to learn more
When you bill the program directly using NIHB fees, clients do not have to face charges which can be a significant barrier in accessing dental care.
Create an NIHB Web Account and Enrol Online!
Dental providers can create an NIHB web account to upload and submit their enrolment documents, and gain access to convenient self-service options. Through your web account, you will be able to verify client eligibility, submit claims and predetermination requests, and view claim statements online.
Enrol for Direct Deposit Payments
Direct deposit is a fast, secure way to receive payment. Switch to direct deposit by logging into your NIHB Web account and updating your payment information.
If you don’t have a web account, you can create one or download and follow the instructions on the Direct Deposit Individual Form for NIHB Providers from the NIHB Dental Forms section on the Express Scripts Canada NIHB Provider and Client Website.
Is
your contact
information up to date?
Stay connected by making sure your NIHB web account profile is up to date!
To update your contact information: Log into your NIHB web account
Click the “My Profile” button on the left-hand menu bar.
Scroll down to the email address, alternate mailing address and fax number section and click the “Update” button.
Make your changes and click “Save.”
Issues with an NIHB Web Account?
Experiencing issues enrolling into the NIHB program, accessing your online claims statement, verifying client eligibility, submitting a claim or predetermination?
Visit the Policy and Program Information section of the Express Scripts Canada NIHB Provider and Client Website, then scroll down to the NIHB Dental Online Account Troubleshoot FAQs. You can also call the NIHB Call Centre at Express Scripts Canada for assistance at 1-888-511-4666.
NIHB Client Information
NIHB clients can be directed to visit the Express Scripts Canada NIHB Provider and Client Website where they can create an NIHB web account, view policy and program information, and find helpful client resources including the NIHB Dental Client Quick Reference Sheet
Access client resources here
Contact us!
For questions related to an NIHB web account, self-service options, NIHB provider enrolment, client and dental service eligibility, billing process and payment, please contact: NIHB Call Centre at Express Scripts Canada: 1-888-511-4666
For questions about the NIHB program and its dental policies, or the status/outcome of specific predetermination requests, please contact: NIHB Dental Predetermination Centre: Dental services: 1-855-618-6291 Orthodontic services: 1-866-227-0943
Quick Links:
NIHB Dental Forms
NIHB Dental Benefit Grids
NIHB Dental Benefits Guide
Dental Claims Submission Kit
Client reimbursement information
Submission of Predetermination Requests Appeal Process
A scent-sensitive approach to patient comfort and care
The College occasionally receives inquiries from patients regarding accommodating environmental sensitivities in dental settings—particularly scent sensitivity. These conditions are often referred to as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) or Chemical Intolerance (CI).
Dentists have a duty to accommodate and to provide patient care that is free from discrimination. Supporting patients with environmental sensitivities should be viewed as an ongoing dialogue—one where both the patient and provider collaborate to explore needs and practical accommodations.
While a dental office generally cannot be entirely chemical or scent-free, here are a few suggestions to consider in being more mindful of patient needs:
Include questions about sensitivities as part of medical history taking.
Encourage patients to share resources and strategies that have been helpful in the past.
Draft a sensitivity policy for the office.
Post signage in public areas that notes a scentsensitive policy.
Move towards enclosed as opposed to open concept operatories.
Increase air filtration and improving air quality beyond the minimum requirement.
Use of unscented laundry detergents for scrubs, lab coats, and uniforms.
Order unscented dental materials and cleaning products.
Allow additional time for aeration following cleaning and disinfection.
Offer appropriate full coverage barriers for equipment where scents may linger (e.g., the operatory chair)
Offer the patient a mask to use in shared spaces (e.g., reception area and hallways).
Offer the patient nose plugs and/or a bouffant cap (or another appropriate substitute).
Schedule the patient as the first appointment of the day to avoid mixing scents from other dental appointments.
Schedule longer appointments if the patient will be breathing through their mouth for the duration of their dental appointment (as more frequent breaks and additional suction will likely be required).
Sensitive office policies can help ensure that patients who benefit from these accommodations are able to access timely and necessary dental care. Moreover, office staff with similar needs may benefit from such policies as well.
If you have any questions or would like to share additional resources, reach out to practiceadvisory@rcdso.org to continue the conversation.
Sedation & general anesthesia: expiration dating - advanced airways
Advanced airway devices
Advanced airway devices (endotracheal tubes, laryngeal mask airways and other supraglottic airways) are used for airway management, to assist with oxygenation and ventilation of a patient.
Dental facilities and visiting (mobile) sedation providers that administer parenteral conscious sedation (1-drug) or deep sedation/general anesthesia are required to have an adequate selection of endotracheal tubes and/or laryngeal mask airways. The specific requirements are set out in the Standard of Practice for Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia in Dental Practice and the facility inspection guides & checklists developed by the Sedation Inspection Program (linked below).
Expiration dating of advanced airways
Some advanced airway devices have an expiration date. Labeling requirements are set out in Federal legislation. According to legislation, expiry dates, if any, are determined by the manufacturer on the basis of the component of the device that has the shortest projected useful life.1
Additional resources
Medical device manufacturers that sell devices in multiple jurisdictions (for example Canada, the European Union and the United States) may choose to add an expiration date on their devices to comply with requirements of other jurisdictions, even if it is not required in Canada.
All medical devices, including advanced airways, should be disposed of and replaced by their expiration date, if one is indicated. If you’re unsure whether the advanced airways at your dental facility have an expiration date, please contact the manufacturer for clarification.
Advanced airways sold in sterile packaging
Advanced airways sold in sterile packaging will maintain their sterility until the expiration date, unless opened or damaged. If there is no expiration date, contact the manufacturer for guidance.
Sedation facility inspection guide and checklists
Oral Moderate Sedation: Type A and Visiting Providers
Parenteral Conscious Sedation (1-drug): Type A and Visiting Providers
Deep Sedation and General Anesthesia: Type A and Visiting Providers
Type B Facility Requirements
New Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry guidance
At its September 2025 meeting, RCDSO Council approved a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Dentistry Guidance document, developed with input from dentists, patients and relevant subject-matter experts.
As AI tools become more common in dental care, this guidance will help dentists understand how to use these tools ethically and responsibly. It will also help patients know what to expect when their dentist uses AI.
Dentists are always responsible for patient care
AI can support clinical decision-making, but dentists remain accountable and provide oversight by evaluating AI outputs critically and considering each patient’s unique context.
Know your tools
Before adopting an AI tool, it is important to understand how it works, including how it manages data and whether its training data reflects diverse patient populations.
Protect patient information
Dentists must still comply with privacy law when using AI. Understand the privacy and security settings and measures of AI tools to ensure that patient data is secure.
Higher risk means greater caution
Higher-risk AI tools require greater oversight. This means understanding the limitations of AI tools and potential for harm, and taking steps to manage risks.
Communicate with patients
Inform patients before using AI tools that could affect their care or treatment decisions. Patients value being involved in decisionmaking around their care. Transparency builds trust and supports informed decision-making.
Stay up-to-date
AI is constantly changing – dentists and staff using AI can learn to use AI tools competently, safely and effectively by completing ongoing relevant training and education.
The guidance includes links to additional resources which may assist registrants in understanding the principles of responsible AI use and how to assess and use AI in practice.
We have also created Frequently Asked Questions to help you interpret elements of the new guidance. Because AI is evolving quickly, guidance will be updated over time to reflect new developments.
INFORMATION SPOTLIGHT
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
We are looking for dentists who want to learn more about writing questions for our Practice Enhancement Tool assessment and are interested in participating in 2026 to develop specialty level questions for:
Dental public health
Dental anesthesia
Oral medicine, pathology, radiology
Orthodontics
To be eligible for consideration, no experience is required but you must: hold a current general practitioner, specialty or academic certificate of registration with the RCDSO be in good standing with the RCDSO.
You will:
Attend three virtual meetings and spend approximately 10 hours on independent work over a two-month period.
Receive training on how to write high-quality multiple-choice questions. Write approximately 10 new PET questions and collaborate with others to refine drafts. Receive an honorarium for your time. If you’d like to participate, please tell us a bit about yourself
Annual Renewal Opens October 15
Our 2026 annual renewal opens on October 15, 2025. We’ll be sending out email notifications with all the information you need to get started. Renewal keeps your registration active and allows you to continue practising in Ontario. You’ll need to update your professional information, confirm your continuing education requirements and submit your annual fee. The deadline to complete renewal before incurring late fees is December 15, 2025, so please give yourself plenty of time. If your contact details have changed, make sure to update them in the RCDSO Portal so you don’t miss our emails. If you have any questions, visit our website or reach out to the Registration team
CONSULTATION ON NEW IMPLANT DENTISTRY STANDARD
We are launching a consultation on a proposed new Standard of Practice on Implant Dentistry. This new Standard will replace the current guideline and outline the knowledge, training and ethical responsibilities dentists must meet to provide implant care safely and effectively. We want to hear from you on how this Standard can best reflect current expectations and evolving practices. The consultation details will be posted on our website in October. Your feedback is essential in shaping a clear, practical and patient-focused Standard. Watch your emails for more information.
Request for assistance
The following are requests for assistance obtaining dental records from various police services and coroner’s offices across Ontario. If you have any information, please reach out to the contact listed in each case.
Name: Timothy FIRMAN
Date of Birth: June 26, 1978
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Detective Constable ROLLAND
Contact Email: missingpersons@torontopolice.on.ca
Name: Sangha SINGH
Date of Birth: September 16, 1984
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Detective DAWN
Contact Email: missingpersons@torontopolice.on.ca
Name: George GUILBEAULT
Date of Birth: July 23, 1935
Requested From: Ontario Provincial Police | Temiskaming Detachment
Contact: Provincial Constable Joel Thibault
Contact Email: joel.thibault@opp.ca
Name: Rahul PATEL
Date of Birth: January 10, 1993
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Detective DAIGLE
Contact Email: missingpersons@torontopolice.on.ca
Name: David BRACE
Date of Birth: May 23, 1956
Requested From: West Region - London Office | Ministry of the Solicitor General
Contact: Nicole Kelly
Contact Email: occ.london@ontario.ca
Name: Karissa COTE
Date of Birth: August 2, 1989
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Detective KAMA
Contact Email: missingpersons@torontopolice.on.ca
Name: Tajae NEARY
Date of Birth: March 7, 1995
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Police Constable YOUNG
Contact Email: missingpersons@torontopolice.on.ca
Name: Ashis THAPA
Date of Birth: July 1, 2003
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Detective Constable O’BRIEN
Contact Email: missingpersons@torontopolice.on.ca
Name: Giampiero J DELGESSO
Date of Birth: July 17, 1968
Requested From: Ottawa Police Service
Contact: Detective Lindsay Beattie
Contact Email: beattiel@ottawapolice.ca
Name: Aniya GODDEN
Date of Birth: May 20, 1976
Requested From: Toronto Police Service
Contact: Detective MISIUDA
Contact Email: joel.kirsh@ontario.ca
New College document: Foundations of Professionalism
At its September 2025 meeting, RCDSO Council approved a new document: Foundations of Professionalism. The document was developed as part of the Access to Care Strategic Project by a dedicated working group, with input from registrants, patients, and other interested parties.
This important resource will: Replace the College’s Code of Ethics; Serve as a foundation for all College Standards, Guidelines, and Advisories; and Help dentists navigate clinical and professional practice.
The document outlines the core principles and duties of the profession, organized around four bioethical principles:
PATIENT AUTONOMY BENEFICENCE
NONMALEFICENCE JUSTICE
Here are some examples of the core principles and duties outlined in the document.
PATIENT AUTONOMY
(Respecting patient choices)
Dentists demonstrate this principle by:
Encouraging active collaboration and shared decision-making.
Obtaining consent for treatment.
Providing patient-centered care that upholds the standards of practice of the profession.
NONMALEFICENCE
(Doing no harm)
Dentists fulfill this duty by:
Complying with legal, professional, and ethical obligations.
Maintaining competence, recognizing limitations, and referring patients, when necessary.
Disclosing harm, raising concerns, and making mandatory reports.
BENEFICENCE
(Doing good)
Dentists uphold this principle by:
Acting in patients’ best interests.
Creating a safe environment.
Collaborating and communicating effectively and facilitating continuity of care.
JUSTICE
(Being fair)
Dentists demonstrate fairness by:
Meeting legal obligations for human rights and accessibility.
Promoting fair and equitable access to oral health care.
Understanding and taking reasonable steps to address the determinants of health.
We have also created companion resources, such as Frequently Asked Questions, to help you understand and apply the core principles and duties in your practice. Additional resources (e.g., case scenarios and checklists) are in development, and registrants will be notified as they become available.
Navigating remediation: taking initiative and responding to the ICRC
Dentistry is evolving, each patient is unique, and there is always something to learn.
Have you been called to submit to the ICRC and want to make a strong impression? Demonstrating your commitment to patient safety and professional growth can make a real difference. The Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) uses a risk analysis tool that considers a member’s level of insight, self-reflection, and proactive efforts to address concerns. Showing the ICRC that you’re actively working to enhance your practice is key.
During the Investigation:
In your written submissions, share if you have: Made changes to your practice, office management, staff protocols, website, etc. Self-studied and/or registered for any continuing education; or Completed an educational opportunity.
If you have documentation that reflects the changes you’ve made, include a copy with your submission. For example, if you created a new record-keeping format, office protocol, patient information sheet, or if you have updated your website.
If you registered for continuing education, provide a copy of your course registration. You may submit your course completion certificate at a later date, and you’re welcome to include any feedback you received from the course provider, if applicable.
Why this matters: The ICRC will consider your submissions before making its decision. Even if the ICRC proceeds to give you feedback (see below), your course registration or completion may help you complete what the ICRC asks of you sooner.
The investigation is complete. The ICRC has asked me to enter into a Remedial Agreement (RA).
What is that?
An RA is a signed agreement between a dentist and the College to complete remediation via a self-study and self-reflection (SR) paper. The ICRC uses this outcome to help remediate low-risk level concerns about a dentist’s care or conduct.
What is involved?
Carefully review the College’s correspondence to understand the areas the ICRC expects you to remediate. This is a low-risk outcome and will not appear on the public register. Review the College correspondence carefully to understand what areas the ICRC wants you to remediate. Next, review the College website about self-reflection papers and peer reviews. You can consult with a lawyer if you choose.
If you are willing, sign and return the RA. Once you receive the Committee’s formal decision and reasons (by email), you will have 60 days to submit your self-reflection paper. Take the opportunity during this period to engage in meaningful learning and reflection by actively engaging with current, evidence-based resources. Follow the self-reflection paper template to guide you.
Your SR paper is not shared with the complainant or others who were part of the investigations. College staff must approve the RA completion. If your SR paper is incomplete or fails to address ICRC’s concerns, the process will be prolonged.
What if my RA has a Peer-Review (PR) Component?
The ICRC may ask a dentist to engage in a peerreview (PR) exercise to enhance their SR paper before submitting it. This can help improve a dentist’s knowledge and self-reflection through discussions with another dentist.
You choose the dentist who will act as your peer-reviewer (not the College nor the ICRC). Your peer must be an active registrant for at least five years. Their public profile must reflect that they are not the subject of any ICRC or disciplinerelated outcomes.
You do not need to disclose that you were the subject of a complaint or a report. Whether or not you share that information with your peer, please do not share any confidential patient health information with them.
Consider discussing a hypothetical practice issue related to the concerns identified by the ICRC. The peer reviewer may be able to share their experience or additional resources to help you address the situation.
Discuss other concerns or questions that might arise and canvass for strategies to help you handle similar situations in the future.
After your peer-review session, you will finalize your SR paper and submit it to the College for approval.
If you are unwilling to enter into a RA (for selfstudy or with peer review), the ICRC will need to reconsider the matter. They may decide on a different outcome.
Have questions about the RA? Contact the assigned investigator or the assigned compliance staff
INFORMATION SPOTLIGHT
2024 Annual Report: A year of meaningful progress
Our 2024 Annual Report, Progress with Purpose, is now available online. This year’s report highlights key milestones in governance modernization, public engagement and quality assurance. These achievements reflect our commitment to safe, ethical and inclusive oral health care across Ontario.
DENTAL CT SCANNER AUTHORIZATION & FACILITY PERMIT ONLINE RENEWAL
It’s time to renew your Dental CT Scanner authorization & facility permit(s) through the RCDSO Portal! The deadline for renewal is October 31, 2025. For instructions to renew, see our renewal guide. Please carefully review the information related to your facility permit(s) or authorization to verify it is correct. If you have any questions related to your renewal please email ctscanners@rcdso.org
CONSULTATION ON BY-LAW AMENDMENTS FOR PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY COVERAGE
RCDSO is divesting its Professional Liability Program (PLP) to Navacord, with Jones DesLauriers as the broker, effective January 1, 2026. To ensure continued protection for patients and dentists, RCDSO is proposing by-law amendments that mandate minimum liability coverage of $2 million per occurrence and $6 million aggregate. The by-laws also enable three years of comprehensive coverage through Jones DesLauriers. These amendments are open for public consultation until November 21, 2025, with Council reviewing feedback in December.
Visit our website to learn more
Explore how we advanced our strategic priorities and responded to the evolving needs of patients and the profession throughout 2024.
Read the 2024 Annual Report
Always check the public register
Dentists should always verify the credentials of potential employees by consulting the RCDSO public register to ensure they are authorized to practice dentistry in Ontario. Before hiring anyone for your practice, be sure to cross-reference their license status on all oral health public registers to maintain compliance and patient trust. Patients are encouraged to check the register as well to confirm their dentist’s authorization to practice and ensure they are receiving care from a qualified professional.
UNAUTHORIZED DENTAL PRACTITIONERS
The RCDSO is committed to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only qualified and registered professionals practice dentistry within the province. In this regard, we publish a publicly accessible list of individuals who have been legally prohibited from practising for various reasons, including lack of credentials, disciplinary actions, or other legal issues.
If you are aware of these individuals or anyone else working without being registered with the RCDSO, please contact us at info@rcdso.org
Dentists should exercise caution when selling used materials and equipment to non-dentists. They may also wish to review the list of unauthorized practitioners available on our website.
GOVERNANCE MODERNIZATION
Join us at our extended RCDSO Connect event on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. EDT for a presentation and panel discussion on the Foundations of Professionalism document. This session is eligible for two (2) CE points in Category 1
Given the significance of the topic, we will offer the session again in late 2025 or early 2026 to ensure broader access, including for those observing religious holidays. Further details will be shared closer to the date.
Register here
At the September 18th meeting, Council received a substantive governance modernization report (found here) and discussed key elements of the College’s modernization journey. The Council members on the Governance Committee had an opportunity to present to Council on the key design elements of the modernization plan.
Discipline summaries:
2025 ONRCDSO 2 (CanLII) | Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario v Lee | CanLII
Heard: June 5, 2025, by videoconference
Decision Date: June 5, 2025
Release of Written Endorsement: June 9, 2025
2025 ONRCDSO 3 (CanLII) | Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario v Estrabillo | CanLII
Heard: March 18, 2025, by videoconference
Decision Date: March 18, 2025
Release of Written Reasons: July 3, 2025
INFORMATION SPOTLIGHT
PROFESSIONALISM DAY AT WESTERN UNIVERSITY
On September 12, several senior staff and Council members from RCDSO, representatives from dental associations (ODA and CDA) and defense counsel took part in Professionalism Day at Western University. This event brings together students, educators and regulators to talk about what professionalism means in oral health care.
It was a great chance for RCDSO to connect with future dentists and show our support for professionalism in the profession. The timing was especially important, as it preceded the launch our new Foundations of Professionalism document. This new resource is meant to help dentists reflect on their responsibilities and support ongoing conversations about professionalism.
During the event, RCDSO staff and Council members led presentations and discussions about ethics, professional behaviour and the expectations placed on dental professionals. Being part of events like this helps us stay connected to dental education and shows our commitment to supporting professionalism across dentistry.
Important: Standard Rescission
Following a comprehensive review of RCDSO’s Standard of Practice Requesting Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Referring to Physician Specialists by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Council decided at its September 18, 2025 meeting to rescind the Standard and replace it with an updated FAQ.
The revised format does not alter the existing requirements for ordering MRIs or initiating physician-specialist referrals. Council determined that an FAQ is the most effective
way to communicate information on this topic, citing its ease of revision and updating as a key advantage. For the full rationale and supporting materials, please refer to the September Council meeting package
The new FAQ is now available on our website, outlining the conditions under which dentists may order an MRI or request a physicianspecialist referral. It includes relevant links to applicable regulations, the OHIP Schedule of Benefits, and guidance on where to find additional information.
For questions regarding this change please contact practiceadvisory@rcdso.org
Welcome new registrants
Emily George
Shruthi Patel
Lamiaa M A Elboghdady
Mahsa Amini
Janki Chetankumar Pandya
Arya Sehat-Pour
Matthew Kerr
- Gagandeep
Alain Sangil David
Monica Bassi
Babasola Olufemi Sodipo
Brian Trung Ngo
Julia McKay*
Alisha Badwal
Supriya Jain
- Harmandeep Kaur
Rahaf Ahmad
Hina Hameed Ullah
- Sumandeep Kaur
Niusha Sohrabi
Harshalkumar Arvindbhai Patel
Elton Hoi Chan Yeung
Evan Tomo Cvitkovic
Maurice Asseraf
Madison Janet Chambers
Mariam Tutarashvili
Tithi Falgun Acharya
Aanchal Bajaj
Sera Sayegh
Meeti Charan
Amandeep Kaur Dandiana
Michael Antonio Joseph Silva**
Jordan William Willbanks
Rana Hazem Abdelazeem Aly Badewy
Hassan Osama Hassan Ahmed
Arjun Chawdhry
David George Muller
Leon Chi
Shobhan Nandy
Andrew Dumitrache
Sara Rahim Khan
Fargol Nowghani-Behambari
Hai Xin Cheng
Negin Sadeghlo
Seyedeh Ghazal Fooladi
Tanya Nguyen
Michael Andrew Tolentino
Aman Jaspal
Obehi Mary Ikem
Gelareh Parvaneh
Jonathan Yanhee Mok
Jacob Raymond Harter
Sadaf Ayazifar
Gurulovleen Kaur Brar
Avani Mahal
Jaspreet Kaur Cheema
Alexander Lorenzo Danesi
Ella Suzanne Plante
Jethro Chun Ho Cheng
Houman Soltani-Hafshejani
Lakshmi Vikram
Sehrish Mahmood
Tavneet Kaur Grewal
Kashif Yusuf Gandhi
Derya Tabakcilar
Alireza Fallah
Vinay Tripathi
Nitish Shaileshbhai Kansara
Pallavi Goel
Anum Rehman
- Akashdeep Kaur
Gaurav Sood
Vidhi Prabhakar Shetty
Maria Alejandra Izarra Reyes
Julia Tinshan Fang
Lareb Tahir Khan
Vikram Gramopadhye
Yasemin Kahraman
Hrishabh Piyushkumar Joshi
Pavneet Kaur Saini
Marium Jagan
Khaled Jamal Moh’d Aljabrini
Komal Challa Mahalingam
Celine Noelia Della-Quercia
Chloe Lansens
Mehdi Shadaloie
Madhur Attray
Jagruti Shirish Borse
Rajviben Rajendrasinh Kathwadiya
Fatima Waqar
Grishma Kush Desai
Aidin Farughi
Manasa Poludasu
Madeleine Hui
- Maninderdeep Kaur
Vijeta Sharma
Moussa Mohamed Raouf Moussa Diab
Venket Ravivarma
Jahan Zeb
Divya Gajeshkumar Solanki
Savita Sharma
Kehzad Kakavand
Jessica Crupi
Clara Hana
Hong Zheng
Mehrnoosh Bahari
Vaidehi Kishorbhai Patel
John P. Wiederholt
Pouya Haddad Pour
Hiral Jaykumar Shah
Dhyey Monarch Doshi
- Sandeep Singh
Rachel Faith Florence
Rula Raad Satar Al-Anbakey
*Holds General licence since June 7, 2013 and added Specialty (OMFS) on August 8, 2025.
**Holds General licence since June 23, 2021 and added Specialty (Perio) on June 2, 2025.
Anabelle Marie-Thérèse Ng
Ivan Ruvinov
Joseph Ramos
Eisha Kaur Aujla
Amandeep Singh Basra
Jalina Boutros
Sandeep Singh Ghotra
Nicole Protopapas
Nojan Zolfaghari
Alexander Terry Stavroullakis
Deepak Sud
Navjot Kaur Bassi
Sandesh Santoshkumar Hegde
Lucia Miranda Santos
Jude Ritheesh Roy
Shinal Sanjay Jain
Jasleen Sachdeva
- Gurjinder Singh
Hind Duraid Sulaiman Al-Zuhair
Dhifaf Jaafar Rasool Al Dabbas
Lorraine Lea Chan Yuen
Amandeep Kaur Jandu
Pranav Gupta
Hadass Rivka Moyal
Praveen Kumar Nethi Balingari
Samuel Raj Srinivasan
Kamal Saad
Christina Stella Attallah
Harleen Nijjar
Lindsay O’Brien
Joanne Lin
Noah Harrison Wolfe
Samia Zarrad
Justin Zhi Trac
Jessica Marie D’Ambrosio
JiHae Jeon
Fatima Abdelgadir Elkendari
Trung Minh Dinh
Dharani Rajendrakumar Ravalji
Amirhossein Saffari
Rami Nahil Wadie Khalaf
Nada Mahmoud Mohammad Alawady
Elaheh Hashemi
Kasra Koucheh Baghi
Hani Rashid Ahmed Al-Ogaidi
Manuel Eduardo Medina Sanchez
Alexandra Erica Craciun
Zainab Zafer
Woohyun Shim
Krutika Arvind Yewle
Philip Kim
Merilyn Manukant Nirmal
Royce Christopher Ing
Naina Kaushikkumar Panchal
Weiwen Tang
Vladyslav Andriyovych Podskalniy
Shreyank Paresh Badiyani
Siddhi Sudhansubhai Amin
Amirali Paknahad
Syed Mohammad Abbas Rizvi
Ahmed Hussein Hassan Hamed Ibrahim
Amna Arshad
Neha Baghrecha
Matthew James Luciano Greco
Tanya Stoeva
Maria Louise Petrina
Yazhou Zhao
Moon Yue Zhang
Luciano Fernando
William Matthew Irvine
Hartirath Kaur Brar
Katherine Angela Ferguson
Charbel Joseph Tannous
Omid Rezvan
Rajbir Singh Sidhu
Emmy Sun
Bohdan Semeliak
Mirette Mounir
Gurman Pal Mallhi
Madison Laramie
Olivia Margaret Sulja
Ifeanyichukwu Ikechukwu Ezeliorah
Turgay Egemen Isikdogan
Ian Solomon Mark
Hamza Radhwan Abdulwahhab Al-Shammaa
Christine Hannah Lee
Dania Refaat Hadi
Minkyung Song
Hemant Seth
Ria Patil
Susanth Sachithananda Baliga
Amna Lone
Miral Ankit Makhecha
Robert James Mason
Sumera Varachhia
Gaurav Kumar Dadhich
Sharath Krishna Kona
Maoia Alkhiyami
Sanaya Vispy Engineer
Sabatinie Xavier
Ikhlas Ahmed Hashi
Christian Raffaele Socci
Himani Vimalkumar Upadhyay
Supriya Shakya
Parmis Mesbahian
Stefania Angela Priore
Rimal deep Kaur
Sapna Ghanshyambhai Kankotiya
Hazem Abdelmoneim Sayed Azab Abdelaal
Bilal Timani
Mia Bracanovich
Puneet Singh Datewas
Kanza Ali
Tala Noaman Abduljabbar Qutachi
- Ramneek
Kamyar Sartipi
Swasti Jayesh Rayka
Anushree Saraswat
Momina Siddiqui
Ali Khalid
Krinaben Narendrabhai Patel
Kashif Aqib Khan
Ashok Binginapalli
Arpan Ashwinkumar Bhagat
Gokulrich Balendran
Harleen Sachdeva
Lauren Rebecca Cait
Maxime Yves Fournier
Geo Mani
Rajeev Kumar Mishra
Tianxiao Qiu
Hee Ran Son
Thulfiqar Abdulkareem Mughir Al-Rubaye
Adham Adel Saad
Kartik Sharma
Muhammad Muneeb Shoaib
Rachel Amber Shulman
Lulua Mustafa Kachwala
Troy Kit Chow
Sherin Babu
Madhubala Ethiraj
Mohamed Abdelhamid Ahmed Ali
Achini Sucharitha Adikari
Meghaben Anilkumar Vegad
Christopher Eric Moller
Shruti Atul Shah
Ryan William Modafferi
Lauren Elkada
Omar Khaled Hassan Nassar
- Jasmine Kaur
Bassem Mekhaeil
Yugandhara Satish Karale
- Ripandeep Kaur
Tarek Nabil Metwally
Jonathan Matthew Wong
Janannii Selvanathan
Emma Grace Wilson
Marwan El Jadayel
Yun Ya Kao
Tina Khordehi
Jasandeep Singh Sehra
Dharm Satishbhai Patel
Madeleine Boguta
Janak Harish Kumar
Junho Lee
Michelle Yan-Wing Sim
Gloria Shui-Kei Lau
Deepak Singh Sran
Carson Kennes
Ahmed Fattal
Paul James Il-Hyuk Kim
Shama Sharma
Victor Minh Quan Nguyen
Shawndeep Chaniana
Avreen Kaur Samra
Anchu Duggal
Justus Tremblay
Prateik Murali
Nader Karam L Mikhaiel Hanna
Riya Eapen George
Pranav Nareshbhai Kharod
Cassandra Frances Collins
Sona Kamala Kunnel Stanly
Sherif Mohamed Kamel Taha Alloush
Priyanka Reddy Kuntloor
***Holds General licence since August 16, 2021 and added Specialty (Dental Anaesthesia) on July 10, 2025.
Brianna Nicole Esteves
Athman Sivaseelan
Sarvenaz Zaree Bavani
Anil Kumar Makkar
Eman A M Albardawil
Sameer Ahmed Kotwal
Quinn Patrick Daniel Boyko
Suprabath Potnuru
Miral Kaushik Patolia
- Mahima
Pirathapan Sathananthan
Karam Neamat Faraj Abo Ualjallow
Sarah Mediouni
Nicole Ellen Doran
Niloofar Rafiei
Jasmeen Kaur Sapra
Hitesh Chawla
Rebecca Kassaw
Keni Bhavinbhai Shah
Manvir Kaur Gill
Karan Prakash Singh
Merna Mekhail
Aakriti Saggar
Pooja Abraham
- Arshdeep Kaur
Geetanjali Sanduja
Targol Ghanbarnia
Steven Nguyen
Braeden Joel Heninger
Peter Richard Siekierski
Anthony Bahgat Lotfi Ibrahim Youssef
Victoria Nicole Montisano
Rachel Imai
Armin Farhoudi
Mishti Sharma
Mohammadali Najimi
Amin Asadollahi Hamedani
Vrushti Rasang Soni
Yan Ning Zang
Vineeth Menon
Komal Dhiman
Lyndsay Marlene Desimone
- Tirathjot Kaur
Hridya Mohanakrishnan Nair
Karla Eva Herrera Quijano
Aumkar Bhatt
- Gurpreet Kaur
Ghadeir Asaad Madlol
Mania Nik Kami***
Anna Makarova
Marwan Sarmad Bahjat Bahjat
Blerina Kadiu
Seyed Sina Ghafari Hosseini
- Manpreet Kaur
David Harold Choo Chong
Rebecca Marie Hicks
Saumilkumar Patel
Reza Shahmohammadi
Melissa Gee Ying Leung
Amanda Jasmine Zhu-Pawlowsky
September 30