Q&A: 10 Under 10 honoree advocates for greener future

‘Never be afraid to stand up for your principles’

Ivy F. Lin, D.M.D., of Lake Forest Park, Washington, one of this year’s recipients of the ADA 10 Under 10 Award, is an advocate for climate action and sustainability within dentistry.

The ADA New Dentist Committee chose each of the awardees for demonstrating excellence and inspiring others in science, research and education; practice excellence; philanthropy; leadership; and advocacy. All 10 are ADA members who graduated from dental school less than 10 years ago.

Dr. Lin, who earned her dental degree in 2017 from McGill University in Montreal, is the assistant director of the general practice residency program at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Below is a Q&A with the honoree on her inspirations, future plans and more. She will receive a commemorative plaque and be recognized Oct. 9 at the ADA 2026 Scientific Session’s Changemakers Celebration in Indianapolis.

 

ADA: What inspired you to choose dentistry as your career, and what continues to motivate you today?

Dr. Lin: I chose dentistry because I wanted a hands-on career where I could directly improve the health and lives of the people in my community. Today, my motivation has evolved through my role in academia, where I am inspired daily by the opportunity to shape the next generation of dental professionals. By mentoring students and residents, I am driven to instill strong ethical values and empower them to uphold the highest clinical and environmental standards of our profession.

ADA: You were nominated by a peer for your contributions to the profession. Which accomplishment or impact are you most proud of, and why does it matter to you?

Dr. Lin: While I am incredibly proud of my work expanding care to underserved communities, I am most proud to be a pioneer in the field of environmental sustainability in dentistry. Forging an entirely new career path is a daunting challenge, especially when faced with systemic barriers, skepticism and a strong resistance to change. In the face of these obstacles, it can be difficult to measure how much of a difference I am making in the moment. However, what matters to me is knowing that I am giving my best to protect the planet for future generations. I believe that even the smallest sustainable shifts we make in our clinics today can create powerful butterfly effects, ultimately transforming the future culture of our profession.

 

ADA: Looking ahead, what are you most excited to pursue or work toward in your career or within the dental profession?

Dr. Lin: I am excited to currently be transitioning into the role of program director for the general practice residency at the University of Washington. This role serves as a natural stepping stone toward my goal of taking on greater leadership responsibilities within dental academia in the future. Ultimately, I look forward to using this expanding leadership platform to champion academic excellence while firmly embedding environmental stewardship into the future of dental education.

ADA: How has being an ADA member supported you — professionally or personally — throughout your career so far?

Dr. Lin: Being an ADA member has been instrumental in my career by helping me build a deeply supportive community of peers and teaching me the ropes of effective advocacy. The mentorship and professional development I have received through the Association gave me the foundational tools to navigate complex regulatory and legislative landscapes. Looking ahead, I am excited to apply these insights and continue learning as I step into my new role as president of the Snohomish County Dental Society this year.

ADA: Looking back, what is something you wish you had known when you graduated from dental school?

Dr. Lin: I believe my dental school prepared me exceptionally well for the workforce, especially by instilling in me the immense value of completing a one-year post-graduate residency training. Looking back, I wish I had known that it is completely normal not to have everything figured out right away upon graduation.

 

ADA: What message or encouragement would you share with a new dentist or dental student just starting their journey?

Dr. Lin: Starting your dental journey in today’s corporate-driven market can bring unique pressures, making it easy for the fast pace of business to occasionally conflict with your ideal practice values. My biggest encouragement is to never be afraid to stand up for your principles, or to walk away from a practice that doesn't align with your ethical standards. Remember that your first job is rarely your last, so prioritize finding an environment where your professional integrity can truly thrive.

ADA: In one sentence, how would you describe what dentistry means to you?

Dr. Lin: To me, dentistry is an amazing skill set and platform that allows me to contribute to the betterment of my community.

ADA: What does being recognized as an ADA 10 Under 10 Award recipient mean to you?

Dr. Lin: Being recognized as an ADA 10 Under 10 Award recipient is an incredible honor and a powerful validation of my path in leadership and sustainability. This recognition provides tremendous encouragement for me to keep serving my community, driving clinical excellence and advocating for a greener future for us all.