METUCHEN, N.J., Dec. 23, 2025 — MouthWatch, Inc., a leader in teledentistry solutions and digital imaging, has announced the recipients of its 8th Annual Teledentistry Innovation Awards, known across the dental community as the “Tellies.”
The Tellies recognize individuals and programs that are reshaping oral healthcare delivery through teledentistry and innovative care models, with a focus on expanding access and improving patient outcomes. The 2025 award winners were honored during a special ceremony held in New York City alongside the Greater New York Dental Meeting.
“The 2025 Tellie Award winners show that innovation matters most when it is applied directly to the patient journey,” said Brant Herman, founder and CEO of MouthWatch and Dentistry.One. “These leaders are not just introducing ideas — they are putting them into practice to improve access, equity and the overall patient experience.”
Oral Health Program Innovator
Sarah Labonte, APRN-CNP, Spurwink (Mainely Connection), was recognized for her role in advancing dental care for foster children across Maine. Through partnerships with Mainely Teeth and Dentistry.One, Labonte helped develop a coordinated and sustainable model that is now emerging as a national example for foster care oral health services.
Dental Hygiene Innovator
Carlos Gaxiola, RDHAP, of Yuma Dentistry 4 Kids, was honored for helping establish one of Arizona’s first pediatric-affiliated hygiene practices. By using teledentistry, intraoral imaging and remote diagnostic collaboration, Gaxiola provides preventive care to about 40 children daily in a dental health professional shortage area.
Dental Innovator
Dr. Christine Hao, MPH, DMD, founder of Sound Dental Care, was recognized for expanding teledentistry services to geriatric, medically complex and special-needs patients. Her work integrates virtual dentistry into mobile and long-term care settings across Washington State, bringing preventive and diagnostic care to homebound and nursing facility residents.
Dental Education Innovator
Tracy Gift of Mohave College received the award for embedding teledentistry throughout the dental hygiene curriculum. Students use virtual tools for collaboration, digital chart reviews and real-time clinical decision-making, extending care across Mohave County while preparing graduates for technology-driven practice.
Dental Industry Innovator
Corina Galvan of Camarena Health was honored for leading the integration of teledentistry within a community health center setting. Her efforts improved workflows, enhanced continuity of care and expanded access for diverse patient populations.
“These award recipients are delivering measurable change in oral healthcare,” Herman said. “Their work highlights how virtual care continues to evolve, strengthening patient outcomes and supporting more connected models of care delivery.”