20 June 2023

The Oral Health Foundation congratulates Professor Nairn Wilson CBE FCGDent on being appointed Knight Bachelor in King Charles III’s first Birthday Honours List.

Professor Wilson has had many roles in dentistry, including past trustee of the Oral Health Foundation, President of the General Dental Council as well as founder and founding fellow of the College of General Dentistry.

He has been a long-standing supporter of the Oral Health Foundation and gave his expertise freely between 2011-2018 as a trustee.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation said: “I’m delighted to hear of Professor Nairn Wilson’s knighthood.

"Sir Nairn has been an influential figure in dentistry for 50 years and this recognition is truly deserved.  The Oral Health Foundation was incredibly fortunate to have his presence, knowledge and leadership as part of our board of trustees for many years and we value him as a life-long friend of the charity to this day.

“On behalf of the Oral Health Foundation and myself, we send our utmost congratulations.”  

He is thought to be the first dental professional to be knighted since Sir Nicholas Sturridge KCVO in 2007 and is the first to be made a Knight Bachelor since Sir Ian Gainsford in 1995.

His citation reads “Honorary Founding President, College of General Dentistry. For services to dentistry.”

Sir Nairn will be formally ‘dubbed’ a Knight, and presented with his insignia, by HM The King or a senior member of the Royal Family at a ceremony of investiture at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, or the Palace of Holyrood House later this year.

He was made Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2004 for dentistry and healthcare regulation services.

He is a Past President of the British Dental Association and Emeritus Professor of Dentistry at King’s College London. He was a Professor of Restorative Dentistry, Dean and Head of the College’s Dental Institute, and Deputy Vice Principal for Health.