About

About SAAPD

Did you know?

SAAPD was Founded in 1980

SAAPD was founded in 1980 by a group of young dentists with a genuine interest in the welfare of their patients; and with the intent of practising the gold standard of dentistry and maintaining the high reputation of South African dentists among the International dental community.

SAAPD is Non-Profit Organisation

SAAPD is a registered non-profit organization with the ultimate goal of promoting optimal oral health for our Nation’s children. The aim of the Association is to be the Non-Profit Organization dedicated to the promotion of oral health for children of South Africa.

Originally called the PSSA

SAAPD was originally known as the Paedodontic Society of South Africa (PSSA). The name was changed by majority vote in the 2022 Annual General Meeting to the South African Association of Paediatric Dentistry.

Run by Volunteers

SAAPD has a caring, family-like culture. All committee members are volunteers who are committed to putting the needs of the children and our members first.

Our Vision

Optimal oral health for all infants, children, adolescents, and persons with special needs.
Meet the SAAPD

Executive Committee

This is the team of dedicated volunteers that work hard behind the scenes to make the SAAPD Vision and Mission reality.

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Dr Tshepiso Mfolo

President

I love paediatric dentistry because no single day at work is the same- I love the unpredictable nature of kids. I enjoy the simple conversations and the warm, fuzzy hugs after dental treatment (good or bad).

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Dr Nicoline Potgieter

Past President

I love pediatric dentistry because children are unique, honest, and always bring entertainment... there is nothing more rewarding than helping a child in need.

Dr Julie Resnekov

Dr Julie Resnekov

Vice President

I love paediatric dentistry because it allows me to create a safe, positive dental experience for children—relieving pain, building trust, and supporting them as they grow into confident, healthy smiles.

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Dr Marietjie Weakley

International Representative

I love paediatric dentistry because working with children is not a job to me - it is my absolute passion!

Dr Tamiya Safodien

Dr Tamiya Safodien

Secretary

I love pediatric dentistry because people aren’t born afraid of dentists. Somewhere along the way, they learn it. Children will tell you exactly when they’re scared, exactly when they trust you, and exactly what sticker they want after treatment. There’s something really special about realizing that sometimes all it takes is one good experience, one calm appointment, one person being gentle with them, to change the whole trajectory.

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Dr Daniella Botha

Outreach Manager

I love Paediatric Dentistry because there is nothing more rewarding than a big smile from a child once you've made their lives a little bit better through dental care.

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Dr Luhlile Mali

Markerting manager

I love working with children. Paediatric dentistry is not only rewarding for the kiddies’ present oral health but also their oral health in the future.

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Dr. Londiwe Sibisi Maboye

Branch Manager:
Gauteng North

I love pediatric dentistry because it allows me to be the voice for children and advocate for their health and wellness, ensuring they receive the best care from an early age. The joy of working with little ones brings unique energy, there is never a dull moment!

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Dr Priyal Gosai

Branch Manager:
Gauteng South

I love pediatric dentistry because apart from restoring smiles on innocent faces, I get to shape a child's dental experience for the rest of their lives.

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Dr Gcobisa Kate

Branch Manager:
Eastern Cape

I love paediatric dentistry because when you impact children you impact a future nation! I enjoy working with children and I delight myself in the creativity that is needed to keep them engaged.

Dr Ravena Naidoo

Dr Ravena Naidoo

Branch Manager:
KwaZulu-Natal

I love paediatric dentistry because it brings joy to my heart when I see the big bright smiles of all the little children I treat, knowing that they will be the forerunners in maintaining oral health for their families.

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Dr Nompumelelo Mbethe

Branch Manager:
Mpumalanga

I love paediatric dentistry because it’s so rewarding to see a smile, sigh of relief and victory on a child’s face after a dental appointment. It makes them believe they can achieve anything with the appropriate support & encouragement.

Dr Kayla Henning

Dr Kayla Henning

Branch Manager:
Western Cape

I love paediatric dentistry because I get to turn moments of fear into brave little victories, helping shape how a child experiences healthcare for the rest of their life. It’s not just about healthy teeth - it’s about building confidence, nurturing positive habits, and that proud little high-five at the end of an appointment!

Dr Odirile Rooi

Dr Odirile Rooi

Branch Manager:
Free State

There’s something special about watching a child walk in feeling nervous and unsure, and leave feeling brave, proud, and empowered. Little by little, those small moments turn fear into confidence, and it is awesome to be a part of that.

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Dr Rutendo Kudenga

TREASURER

Paediatric dentistry has always been a complex fun experience for me. From the type of kid that sits on my chair to the treatment I am going to perform. Every moment is exciting and challenging.

BECOME A SAAPD MEMBER TODAY

Join this amazing team of volunteers as they strive to grow and strengthen the field of Paediatric Dentistry in South Africa.

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