Marie-Claude Desjardins

Dr. Marie-Claude Desjardins is a dentist and academic leader with a longstanding commitment to dentistry and professional advocacy. She earned her doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Montreal in 2004 and became the owner of her dental clinic in Blainville in 2008. She pursued an MBA to enhance her business management skills, reflecting her entrepreneurial drive. She has held a clinical teaching position in operative dentistry at the University of Montreal for several years, emphasizing mentorship and patient-centered care. Since 2010, she has been actively involved with the Association of Dental Surgeons of Quebec (ACDQ), serving on its board of directors from 2018 and becoming its president in 2024—the youngest and third woman to hold this role. As ACDQ president, she prioritizes addressing regional dentist shortages, enhancing oral healthcare quality, and fostering gender equity in leadership.

Education: Doctorate in Dental Medicine (2004, University of Montreal); MBA (2010).

Research interests focus on clinical dentistry, professional education, and healthcare policy. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration between dental educators and practitioners to address systemic challenges in Quebec’s oral healthcare system. She advocates for work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and strategic alliances in professional success.

Grants and labs: No specific grants or lab affiliations mentioned. Her primary focus lies in clinical practice and policy advocacy.

Labs/Teams: Active in ACDQ’s executive team and collaborates with Quebec dental faculty deans to shape future educational programs.