We are thrilled that Dr. Cesar Sabates, the American Dental Association President-elect will begin his presidency in October. Dr. Sabates is a leader, an advocate, and the past president of DLN • Florida.
As a DLN volunteer with 24 years of service, he has donated over $80,000 in dental treatment to people with special needs. Dr. Sabates recognizes the critical need to improve oral health among people with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile.
“Dental Lifeline Network is so pleased to see Dr. Sabates take the helm of the ADA,” said Fred Leviton, CEO of the national nonprofit. “He will, no doubt, continue to use his leadership position to advocate for better dental care for vulnerable populations who cannot access treatment.”
One of his patients couldn’t be more pleased to be seen by Dr. Sabates. Gloria, a 41-year-old Florida woman, was suffering from depression and anxiety while caring for her husband with cancer. She had not been able to visit a dentist in years and her poor oral health had become an obstacle, making it hard for her to lead a normal life. After a past failed implant, her appearance and pain in her mouth was unbearable.
Thankfully, she was connected to Dr. Sabates and the DLN Donated Dental Services (DDS) program. Dr. Sabates provided several exams and x-rays extracted four teeth, completed 13 surgical procedures, and provided dentures, all free of charge. In addition, DLN volunteer laboratories Dental Technik Azzaretto and Clinton Dental Lab fabricated the appliances.
Gloria, and many other patients seen by Dr. Sabates through the DDS program, are so appreciative to have access to crucial, comprehensive dental care, despite the inability to pay.
Dr. Sabates previously served as the 17th District trustee for the ADA Board of Trustees from 2016 to 2020 and was a delegate in the ADA House of Delegates from 2000 to 2016. He is also past president of the Florida Dental Association and South Florida District Dental Association and the first Florida member to serve as ADA president.
