By: Allison Currie
Dr. Violet D’Souza, PhD, MS, MSc, BDS, is an affiliate scientist with Nova Scotia Health and an assistant professor in the faculty of dentistry at Dalhousie University. She is also cross-appointed as an assistant professor in the department of surgery at Dalhousie University.
Can you tell us a little bit about your field of research?
My research focuses on oral health equity among vulnerable populations, including cancer survivors, individuals with cognitive decline, and humanitarian migrants. I use both quantitative and qualitative research methods to examine how oral health intersects with broader medical, psychological, social and policy contexts. This mixed-methods approach allows me to evaluate clinical outcomes and systemic trends while also understanding the lived experiences that shape access to and quality of care. Grounded in both clinical dentistry and public health, my work aims to develop evidence-based, patient-centred interventions and policies that address complex health systems challenges and improve care delivery for underserved communities.
What led you to this field or inspired you to do this work?
My path into this field began during my clinical training in restorative dentistry in Finland, where I studied dental anxiety and became interested in the behavioural aspects of care. Later, during my PhD, I worked with head and neck cancer survivors to develop a multimedia tool to support informed decision-making, which had a direct impact on patients' well-being. These early experiences—and later work with individuals in long-term care and palliative settings—exposed me to the systemic neglect of oral health in medically complex and socially vulnerable populations. That inspired my commitment to addressing these gaps through research, education and policy.
How does your research translate into healthcare solutions for the patient/public?
My research informs practical tools, care models, and policy recommendations aimed at improving oral health care for underserved populations. For instance, the multimedia tool I developed for cancer survivors enhanced patient education and decision-making, while my current projects explore how to better integrate oral health into long-term care and migrant health services. By identifying barriers and proposing system-level solutions, my work helps shape more inclusive, accessible and equitable healthcare.
What is the biggest challenge or opportunity in your field of research?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is the increasing politicization of preventive health measures, such as water fluoridation and HPV vaccination. Despite robust scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, public skepticism—often fueled by misinformation and lack of awareness—can obstruct their implementation and acceptance. Water fluoridation, in particular, has become a political flashpoint, and this dynamic has begun to affect other areas of public health, including immunization efforts.
Compounding this issue, many people in Canada still face systemic barriers to accessing basic medical and dental care—whether due to financial hardship, geographic isolation, or cultural and language obstacles. These structural inequities further widen health gaps in already marginalized populations.
At the same time, these challenges present a powerful opportunity: to actively engage the public and policymakers with credible, accessible, and culturally sensitive information that reinforces the importance of prevention and equity in healthcare. My work contributes to this by generating evidence, translating it into actionable solutions, and advocating for policies that integrate oral health into broader public health systems. Building trust, fostering dialogue, and centering community needs are essential steps toward a healthier, more equitable future.
Why is research and participation in research important?
Research is essential for uncovering health inequities and designing solutions that are evidence-based and responsive to real-world needs. Participation in research—from patients, caregivers, and communities—ensures that our work remains grounded in lived experience and that the benefits of research are shared equitably. Inclusive participation is especially important in oral health, where marginalized voices are often underrepresented.
What does the ideal future in your field of research look like to you?
In an ideal future, oral health is recognized as a fundamental part of overall health and is seamlessly integrated into healthcare systems. Access to preventive and restorative care would be equitable and universal, regardless of a person's background or medical condition. Health professionals would be trained to address oral health in all care settings, and policy would support structural change that prioritizes the needs of vulnerable populations. Research would continue to inform inclusive, patient-centred approaches at every level.
Research is care, and clinical studies help translate research into potentially life-changing therapies that can help you, your friends and your loved ones. Want to know more about how to get involved? Visit Nova Studies Connect today: novastudiesconnect.ca
