Back home, Dr. Zhong saw the challenges of dental education firsthand, including a shortage of patients seeking care from dental schools post-pandemic and the impact of the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). “Certain procedures, such as crowns and dentures, had long wait times for pre-determination, which deterred patients from seeking treatment at the dental school. However, I’m glad that the CDCP has enabled many underserved populations to seek treatment for the first time in years,” she says. Alternative opportunities—like rotations at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Yonge Street Mission, and Filling the Gap—have helped Dr. Zhong and her cohort gain additional clinical experience while allowing patients to receive the treatment they need. Giving Back, One Gift at a Time Dr. Zhong has a deep commitment to service at her core. During the harshest days of the pandemic lockdowns in 2021, Dr. Zhong and her sister, Briana Zhong, launched Gifts That Smile, a grassroots initiative providing comprehensive hygiene care packages to vulnerable populations. “While social distancing was prominent across the country, we recognized the challenges everyone faced, affecting seniors, homeless youth, and health care workers in accessing necessities,” says Dr. Zhong. They started local, sourcing donations and packing items like toothpaste, masks and soap in their living room. Grants, including one from the federal government’s Rising Youth program, allowed them to scale up. “One delivery to a long-term care home was unforgettable,” says Dr. Zhong. “The residents were waving and smiling as we came with the deliveries. It reminded me that even small gestures can mean so much.” They have since delivered over 1,000 care packages across Canada, reaching every province and territory. Dr. Zhong participated in an outreach mission in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, (above and right photos) organized by Great Shape! Inc. 26 | 2025 | Issue 4 Issues and People
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