Annual Meeting Awards

Congratulations to the 2026 Winners! (Click here)

Please consider nominating someone you know who deserves recognition in 2027. You may contact the MDA office at 406.443.2061 or email LeeAnn Meredith at MDAOffice@MontanaDental.org for more information. Nominations will open early 2027. Awards will be presented at MDA's 2027 Annual Meeting in May. The 2026 Annual Meeting Awards Nominations forms are available below - for inspiration for 2027!

Dentists:

• Clinical Excellence
• T.T. Rider Award

Dental Team:

• Outstanding Dental Hygienist
• Outstanding Dental Assistant
• Outstanding Dental Office Manager

Past Award Winners 

T.T. Rider Award 

In 1967, the Montana Dental Association established an award for MDA members who have  "rendered outstanding service to the profession and their community." The first recipient of the award, given at the 1969 Annual Meeting, was Dr. Thomas Thiel Rider of Missoula. It was determined that the award would be presented in his name in the following years. 

Clinical Excellence Award

In 1987, the Fifth District Dental Society proposed the establishment of an award "to promote continuing dental education and clinical excellence in Montana dentistry." The guidelines for nominations for the Clinical Excellence Award are as follows:

• Candidates should be in practice for a minimum of fifteen (15) years;
• Candidates should have an established reputation for excellence in clinical skills;
• Candidates should demonstrate commitment to Continuing Dental Education, evidenced by CE involvement, teaching, publishing, clinical work, or other related activities. 

Dental Team Awards

Outstanding Dental Hygienist Award

Outstanding Dental Assistant Award

Outstanding Dental Office Manager 

Friend of Dentistry