MouthWatch, Inc., a leading provider of teledentistry solutions and digital imaging technologies, has announced the recipients of its 8th Annual Teledentistry Innovation Awards, known across the dental industry as “The Tellies.”
Established to recognize individuals and programs transforming the delivery of oral healthcare, the Tellies highlight the use of teledentistry and innovative care models to improve access, efficiency, and patient outcomes.
“The 2025 Tellie Award winners demonstrate how innovation becomes meaningful only when it’s implemented directly into the patient journey,” said Brant Herman, Founder and CEO of MouthWatch and Dentistry.One. “These programs don’t just introduce new ideas—they put them into practice in ways that measurably improve access, equity, and the patient experience.”
This year’s honorees were recognized during a special awards ceremony held in New York City in conjunction with the Greater New York Dental Meeting.
Oral Health Program Innovator
Sarah Labonte, APRN-CNP, Spurwink (Mainely Connection)
Sarah Labonte was recognized for her leadership in the Mainely Connection and Dentistry.One pilot program, which provides coordinated dental care for foster children across Maine. Through Spurwink’s partnership with Mainely Teeth, she helped establish a sustainable care model that is now emerging as a national example for foster care oral health services.
Dental Hygiene Innovator
Carlos Gaxiola, RDHAP, Yuma Dentistry 4 Kids
Carlos Gaxiola has helped launch one of Arizona’s first pediatric-affiliated hygiene practices, expanding access in Yuma, a designated Dental Health Professional Shortage Area. Using teledentistry, intraoral imaging, and remote diagnostics, he delivers preventive care to roughly 40 children per day, significantly improving access for underserved families.
Dental Innovator
Dr. Christine Hao, MPH, DMD, Sound Dental Care
Dr. Christine Hao was honored for advancing teledentistry among geriatric, medically complex, and special-needs patients. Through Sound Dental Care, she has integrated virtual dental services into mobile clinics and long-term care facilities across Washington State, bringing preventive and diagnostic care to homebound and institutionalized populations.
Dental Education Innovator
Tracy Gift, Mohave College
Under Tracy Gift’s leadership, the Mohave College Dental Hygiene Program has embedded teledentistry throughout its curriculum and clinical training. Students collaborate with off-site dentists using virtual tools, conduct digital chart reviews, and make real-time clinical decisions, expanding care across Mohave County while preparing graduates for technology-driven dental practice.
Dental Industry Innovator
Corina Galvan, Camarena Health
Corina Galvan was recognized for leading the integration of teledentistry at Camarena Health. Her work has improved clinical workflows, enhanced continuity of care, and expanded access for diverse patient populations, setting a model for how community health centers can scale technology-enabled dental services.
“These award recipients are driving meaningful, measurable change in oral healthcare,” Herman added. “Their work shows how virtual care continues to evolve, improving outcomes, increasing access, and supporting more connected models of dental services delivery nationwide.”