Gilford dentist recognized by international society

GILFORD — The International College of Dentists USA Section recently presented local dental practitioner Dr. Melissa Kennell with a membership plaque, a gold lapel pin and an engraved gold key, symbolic of the fellowship for conspicuous service rendered in the art and science of dentistry.

Kennell is the original creator and dentist of the Children's Dentistry practice, which opened in Gilford in 2010. Since then, she has expanded the practice to include three other locations in Plymouth, Littleton and North Conway.

The International College of Dentists is the preeminent honor society of the world’s dentists involved in serving others. The International College of Dentists is dedicated to the recognition of outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service and continued progress in the profession of dentistry for the benefit of all humankind.

Kennell exemplifies the core values of integrity, leadership and service and was inducted as a fellow of the International College of Dentists at its 89th 2023 Annual Convocation.

During the ceremony, over 285 dentists from the United States were inducted into the college, which has chapters in more than 138 countries and over 12,000 members, including 6,000 in the United States.

Kennell has been practicing in the Lakes Region since 2006. Graduating magna cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a bachelor's degree in psychology from Southern Methodist University of Dallas, Texas, she continued her education at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. She received her doctor of dental surgery degree, graduating magna cum laude and in the top 10 of her class.

Kennell regularly attends continuing education courses nationwide to stay abreast of the current techniques in the fields of pediatric dentistry and Invisalign. In addition to her membership with the American Dental Association, Kennell was the 2021-22 state president of the New Hampshire Dental Society. Her work with NHDS created vast improvements on the state and national level, such as increasing access to care for patients through the creation of the Qualified Dental Assistant Program. The creation of this program demonstrates Kennell’s strong leadership and dedication to her community.