In a world where the boundaries of generosity and service are constantly tested, Gayle Cheatwood, DDS, FADI, FICD, emerges as a beacon of hope and humanitarian spirit. The CDA Foundation is proud to announce Dr. Cheatwood as the recipient of its 2024 Humanitarian Award, honoring his tireless dedication to improving oral health and quality of life in underserved communities around the globe.
Cheatwood practices dentistry in Holtville, but his interest in humanitarian service began during his student years. A 1975 cum laude graduate of Creighton University Dental school, he went on his first mission trip in 1974. Over the decades, his volunteer spirit expanded the horizons of dental care beyond traditional clinics, establishing a legacy punctuated by more than 140 service trips to countries in dire need of dental services.
A leader in humanitarian efforts
A salient feature of Cheatwood’s work is Dental Vision Mission, the nonprofit organization he founded in 2008 to help health care professionals provide care to underserved individuals in developing countries during dental, medical and vision service trips.
His foundation acts as a conduit for resources, donations and volunteer efforts — and Cheatwood even bears the cost of trip expenses himself, ensuring that donations are directly translated into equipment and instruments required for the needed treatment. Every project undertaken, every trip completed, has been powered by his unwavering commitment.
Colleague Ronald Fritz, DDS, provided his own account of volunteering with Cheatwood. “In the fields of Oaxaca, Mexico, where I first joined him in 2016, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of his work. It wasn’t just about treating dental ailments; it was about restoring smiles and self-esteem, educating communities and training others to continue this noble mission. The ripple effect of his teaching efforts can be seen in the numerous colleagues he has trained in remote, portable dentistry practices, innovation being his hallmark.”
Creativity and skill pave the way for better treatment outcomes
Cheatwood’s inventive nature is responsible for groundbreaking techniques and equipment ideal for remote clinic setups, a testament to his deep understanding of both the logistical challenges and essential needs of field dentistry.
He developed a lightweight, corrugated plastic dental chair designed to protect the necks and backs of dental professionals who would otherwise be positioned awkwardly while treating patients on make-shift stools or tables. This compact dental chair design is now used by other service organizations, including the Christian Dental Society. Cheatwood also developed a portable dental operating unit that runs off a 12-volt battery and can be recharged with solar cells, enabling dentistry to be performed in austere environments.
A legacy of service spanning cultures and continents
Cheatwood’s creativity is matched by his compassion, making him indispensable in places where access to dental care is a distant dream.
Beneficiaries of Cheatwood’s service span continents and cultures, from rural villages to densely populated underdeveloped regions, all transformed through improved oral health and the empowerment of knowledge. His ability to connect, inspire and uplift has positioned him as a role model not only for fellow dentists but for anyone driven by the desire to serve humanity.
In recognizing Cheatwood with the 2024 CDA Foundation Humanitarian Award, the CDA Foundation celebrates not just his extraordinary achievements but the spirit of dentistry as a force for good in the world. His work is a reminder that compassion and expertise, when combined, have the power to transcend barriers and change lives. Cheatwood is a provider of care, a curator of hope and a vibrant inspiration lighting the way for future generations committed to making a difference.
About the CDA Foundation Humanitarian Award
Established in 2008, The CDA Foundation Humanitarian Award recognizes California dentists who have distinguished themselves through a lifetime of outstanding, unselfish leadership and contributions to fellow human beings in the field of dentistry. This award honors the late Dr. Andrew Soderstrom, CDA past president and co-founder for the CDA Foundation’s CDA Cares program.
The Foundation will accept applications for the 2025 Humanitarian Award from April 1 through May 31, 2025. Learn more about the award and see a list of past recipients. Visit the CDA Foundation pageto discover other grants, awards and programs that support dental professionals and community-based organizations in providing dental care to underserved communities.