“Dentistry has been so good to me. It’s been a real blessing, and I feel I have to bless other people with that.”
Dr. Kuen Chow is the 2025 recipient of the Alberta Dental Association’s Community Connector Award. This award recognizes members who have made exceptional contributions to improving oral health and supporting communities in need.
Dr. Chow’s story begins with lessons from his mother, Wavnie Patricia “Pat” Chow, who was also a doctor. “She knew the risks of skateboarding and things like that,” he laughs, “but she bought me my first skateboard when I was in elementary school.” She taught him about calculated risks and the importance of tackling challenges that aren’t easy to master; an attitude that would stay with him for life.
That outlook became even more meaningful during dental school. Between his third and fourth year, Dr. Chow was hit by a car while riding his bike to class. “He went through a stop sign and hit me,” he recalls. “The bike bent in half, I went onto his hood, and when he hit the brakes, I rolled off and hit my head.”
Despite the accident, he spent that summer on a volunteer dental mission with a friend. “We were learning how to extract teeth better,” he says. “I think that changed the trajectory of my entire career. It made me want to give back. Dentistry has been so good to me. It’s been a real blessing, and I feel I have to bless other people with that.”
Dr. Chow’s first major volunteer effort came in 2003 with the Calgary Urban Project Society (CUPS), where he helped organize dental care for people experiencing homelessness. Dr. Rita Dahlke, then Health Director at CUPS, remembers when they first met. “He was already there organizing the volunteer dental program,” she says. “It’s heartbreaking to hear the stories of people struggling with homelessness or addiction. They don’t choose that path. Those of us who are more fortunate have a responsibility to care for others.”
She also remembers Dr. Chow’s dependability and compassion. “Whenever someone was a no-show, it was usually Kuen who would step in,” she adds.
Since then, Dr. Chow has continued to serve through his church, international dental missions, and a foundation that raises funds to provide toothbrushes for children abroad.
“Volunteer dentistry offers a reward you feel in your heart and soul because patients are so thankful.”
His colleagues say his impact reaches far beyond his professional skill. “He’s an amazing guy,” says Dr. Daniel Yu, a dentist and board member of the Tooth Fairy Children’s Foundation, which Dr. Chow helps lead. “He has a real passion for people and community. Sometimes when life gets busy, his focus reminds you of what really matters. His mentorship goes beyond dentistry. It’s really life mentorship.”
For Dr. Chow, volunteering brings a different kind of fulfillment. “Volunteer dentistry offers a reward you feel in your heart and soul because patients are so thankful,” he says. He often encourages them to carry that gratitude forward. “When someone comes to you for help, pay it forward.”
After decades of service, Dr. Chow remains humble about the recognition he’s received. “I thought I was nearing the end of my career,” he says, “but being recognized by the ADA for contributions from years ago is such a treat. I’m just grateful.”
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