William Winspear

The Giving of Inspiration

Perhaps the greatest privilege that the President of the Pierre Fauchard Academy enjoys whilst in office is the opportunity of meeting colleagues from all parts of the world and of discovering the diverse environments in which they practise dentistry. They all have their own fascinating stories, with many chronicling extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and selfless commitment.

Life stories of their senior members are always cherished within families. They continue traditions, they are held high to inspire those who follow, and above all, they accurately depict the lifestyles, the political and economic climates, and the challenges of the time. Collectively, they record the history of communities and countries and are vital in their future developments.

Our international dental family also possesses a wealth of wonderfully uplifting stories; of high profile specialists working in the affluence of major international cities to dentists who trek alone from village to village, carrying their outdated equipment; of dental leaders who have lobbied and persuaded governments into action, to retirees who fondly reflect on their careers and offer both encouragement and circumspection.

Many of them have been caringly preserved in literature and archival files; others are displayed in museums and libraries. However, a countless number have been lost or remain untold, and we, both individually and as a profession, are poorer for this plight.

In 1992, the Academy established its International Hall of Fame of Dentistry to honour "the elite and the greats of the dental profession from throughout the world" and preserve for posterity their distinguished contributions. It serves not only to educate and uphold the profession's history but also to motivate dentists of future generations, to push their own personal boundaries. I urge you to visit the Academy's Web site to discover more about this highly respected project.

We rejoice in anecdotes of our innovators and champions of public causes, of our survivors and benefactors. But what about those who have been forgotten?

During this year of my Presidency, I have embarked on a mission to discover as many of these "forgotten" dentists as possible, so that their efforts and accomplishments can be brought to light and rightfully celebrated. Accordingly, I would appreciate receiving details of any person who is considered to be one of our "unsung heroes." Information may be sent to me at president@fauchard.org or delivered to the Academy's Office.

Personally, I am continually inspired by the dedication of volunteer dentists who have established facilities, which increase the accessibility of oral health care to regions that are underserved; for the needy and underprivileged; and for those who have been displaced through conflict and disaster. These men and women not only provide "hands on" treatment, but they are also confronted each day with arranging the financing of their operations--with the incessant door-knocking and letter-writing to acquire funds. The Foundation of the Academy often is able to assist many of these initiatives with grants that ensure their viability and growth.

Pierre Fauchard was an inspiration to his peers in the 18th century. He has continued to be an inspiration to the international dental profession for more than 300 years. His inspiration has stood the test of time and has well served us all.

William Winspear
PFA International President