2023 Toothfairy Gala eInvite

Proceeds from the Toothfairy Gala will go to:

BC Cancer Patient Dental Emergency Fund

When people think of cancer, most do not immediately consider the impact cancer treatment has on the oral cavity. Acute and chronic oral complications are common in cancer patients, especially those treated for head and neck cancer. Oral problems including cavities, broken teeth, lost fillings, and gum disease can progress or cause problems during cancer treatment. Oral bacteria may cause an infection when the immune system is compromised or when white blood cell counts are low. If dental problems are treated before cancer treatments begin, there may be fewer or milder acute oral complications.

Cancer patients receiving high dose radiation to the head and neck develop chronic oral complications including xerostomia, mucosal fibrosis and osteoradionecrosis. As one of the most common complications during and after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, xerostomia not only significantly reduces the quality of life (QoL) of potentially cured cancer patients, it may also lead to severe and long-term issues including oral discomfort or pain; difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing; alterations in taste; and an increased risk of cavities or oral infection. Mucosal fibrosis reduces a patient’s ability to open their mouths and keep their teeth clean. Tooth bearing areas of the jaws receiving high dose of radiation have a permanent risk of osteonecrosis of the bone with invasive dental procedures.

While most patients receive regular dental care in the community, a subset of cancer patients are unable to afford routine dental care. The consequences of not obtaining the appropriate dental treatment prior to cancer treatment can be significant and may lead to deterioration in health and QoL.

At the direction of the oncologist, dentist and social worker, the BC Cancer Foundation is able to cover the onetime cost of basic dental procedures (up to $1,300) for this group of patients through the Patient Dental Emergency Fund.

The number of new head and neck cancer diagnoses continues to increase in the province of BC every year, and for patients facing financial pressure the Patient Dental Emergency Fund is needed more than ever.

The BC Cancer Patient Dental Emergency Fund provides cancer patients across the province the oral care they need. Having a source to help stabilize the oral cavity in disadvantaged patients over the next two years will reduce the acute and chronic adverse effects of cancer treatment and prevent more serious complications that would be a burden on the health care system.

2023 Award Recipients

Honorary Award

Distinguished Service Award

Merit Awards

President’s Award

Dr. Gregory Chang

Mr. Alexis Vides

Dr. Clifford Pau Dr. Angela Wong

Dr. Mitra Hashemi

Dr. Peter Lobb

Dr. Tim Tam

Mr. Lorne Valensky

photo creditDave Hutchison Photography Dr. Catherine Poh

BCDA Board of Excellence Award