Our last NJDA Member Recognition Award Recipient of our 2025-26 term is Dr. Frank Graham from Bergen County Dental Society.

Dr. Frank Graham’s lifelong dedication to dentistry and service to the profession began in Bergen County, New Jersey, where he has lived since the age of three. Dr. Graham earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University before pursuing his dental education at Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry. There, he obtained his DMD and went on to receive his Certificate in Orthodontics in 1981.

Following his specialty training, Dr. Graham established a successful solo orthodontic practice in Teaneck, where he provided compassionate, patient-centered care for 35 years. His practice became a cornerstone of the community, reflecting his belief in professionalism, integrity, and the importance of building lasting relationships with patients and families.

Beyond private practice, Dr. Graham has been deeply committed to advancing the dental profession through education, leadership, and advocacy. For many years, he has dedicated his time to educating future generations of orthodontists at Montefiore Medical Center, where he serves as a full-time Senior Attending in Orthodontics and previously led the Orthodontics Residency Program as Program Director. His mentorship and commitment to excellence have inspired countless residents and colleagues alike.

Dr. Graham’s leadership within organized dentistry is equally distinguished. A member of the Bergen County Dental Society since 1982, he has served the organization in numerous roles, including two terms as President in 1991 and 2012, and as the BCDS Government Affairs Council representative—duties he approached with unwavering enthusiasm, regularly attending meetings and reporting back to the membership. His influence extended beyond the county level as an NJDA Trustee beginning in 1994 and as President of the NJDA in 2005.

On the national stage, Dr. Graham has represented his colleagues with distinction, serving as the district’s representative to the American Dental Association and currently as the ADA 4th District Trustee. His extensive contributions include chairing both the ADA Council on Dental Practice and the ADA Council on Government Affairs, as well as serving on the Board of Directors of ADPAC. A respected voice in dental policy and professional advocacy, Dr. Graham has also co-authored three articles published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA).

In recognition of his outstanding service and leadership, Dr. Graham has been honored with Fellowships in both the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists. In addition to his professional commitments, he serves as a CDCA examiner, further contributing to the maintenance of high standards within the dental profession.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Graham’s life is grounded in family and humor. He has been married to his high school prom date, Arleen, for 45 years—a fact he jokingly attributes to “rarely being home.” His warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the Bergen County Dental Society, the NJDA, and the broader dental community.