Dr. James Morreale understood the importance of oral hygiene among seniors and the critical role it plays in overall health and well-being, particularly among those in diminished health. In a 2007 article in the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, he said, “lack of oral hygiene, yearly examinations and treatment can destroy oral health tissue and cause loss of teeth, which can have a severe impact on patients’ quality of life. Further, poor oral health can greatly affect immunosuppressed patients who are struggling to stay healthy.”

In honour of his leadership in geriatric dentistry, the dental clinic at St. Peter’s Hospital was officially renamed the Dr. James Morreale Dental Clinic during a special ceremony this month.

“Renaming the dental clinic is a very meaningful tribute to Jim,” said his wife, Mrs. Fran Morreale.

During the ceremony, the Morreale family also presented Dr. Laszlo Szoke, Director of the Dr. James Morreale Dental Clinic, with two dental cavitrons – revolutionary tools that use high frequency sound waves to clean teeth – improving the dental care experience for both dentist and patient. The tools were purchased with donations St. Peter’s received in memory of Dr. Morreale. Kevin Monaco and Robert Bill, representatives from the Rowing Club at St. Mary’s High School and the Leander Boat Club respectively, presented St. Peter’s with donations in recognition of Dr. Morreale’s contributions to each organization.

Kind and inspiring words induced tears of both sadness and joy. Among the many speakers was Dr. Morreale’s brother, Russell, who spoke of James’ passion and dedication to geriatric dentistry and the positive impact he had on it.

Dr. Morreale practised dentistry in Hamilton for 45 years after graduating from the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto. He was elected to the Hamilton Wentworth Separate School Board where he served for 22 years. His other community service included serving on the boards of: Catholic Youth Organization, Children’s Aid Society, Hamilton Philharmonic, Opera Hamilton and Theatre Aquarius. He was the president of the Leander Boat Club, coached St. Mary's High School rowing for 13 years, and was honoured as Hamilton Amateur Coach of the Year in 1999.

“He started with nothing and raised money from the dental community to fund the clinic,” said Donna Cripps, President, St. Peter’s Hospital. “James’ passion and abundant energy will always be remembered. We will miss him but his legacy will live on. Every person who visits the clinic still benefits from what Jim started.”

The Dr. James Morreale Dental Clinic provides quality dental care to patients at St. Peter’s Hospital, St. Peter’s Residence at Chedoke, residents of other long-term care facilities and to seniors throughout the Hamilton community.

LAURA BRUCCOLERI

ST. PETER’S HOSPITAL