Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Dentistry has received a generous donation of dental products valued at over $121,900 from Solventum, formerly known as 3M Oral Care. The 2025 product grant will significantly enhance hands-on learning for dental students and improve patient care.
The donation includes a variety of essential oral health materials such as fluoride varnishes and restorative products. These supplies will support both pre-clinical training and treatments at the Dr. William Murphy Dental Clinic, where students gain practical experience by treating patients.
Supporting Students And Community Care
Dr. Ben Davis, dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, emphasized the importance of high-quality materials. “This grant improves the learning experience for our students and strengthens the care we provide to the community,” he said.
As the only publicly funded dental and dental hygiene program in Atlantic Canada, Dalhousie has a dual mission: to train future oral health professionals and to offer vital dental care to the region. The faculty’s clinic treats thousands of patients every year, many of whom face challenges accessing regular dental services.
Karl Boivin, Solventum’s regional sales director, highlighted the company’s commitment to improving patient outcomes. “Our heritage of innovation drives us to advance oral care,” he said. “By supplying high-quality dental materials for training and patient care, we help students develop critical clinical skills and support those who struggle to access care.”
Boivin described the donation as more than a product grant. “It reflects our shared commitment with Dalhousie to enhance dental education and expand oral health services across Atlantic Canada.”
Building on A Shared Vision
The product grant allows the Faculty of Dentistry to redirect clinic resources toward community outreach and services for underserved populations. This contribution builds on a longstanding partnership that began when the company operated as 3M Oral Care.
Dr. Leigha Rock, director of the School of Dental Hygiene, called the grant a renewed investment. “Our work goes beyond the clinic walls,” she said. “We are dedicated to improving oral health throughout the region, and partners like Solventum make this possible.”
This donation highlights a broader vision: that education, patient care, and industry collaboration together can improve health outcomes. By equipping students with the right tools, Dalhousie helps prepare them to serve their communities effectively.