Dr. Peter Cannon Receives 2025 Outstanding Service Award

Dr. Peter Cannon was chosen as the recipient of the Minnesota Dental Association’s Outstanding Service Award. He was honored by nearly 6,000 dental professionals in attendance at the association’s annual convention on Friday, April 25, at the St. Paul RiverCentre.

Dr. Cannon grew up in Duluth, Minnesota, and earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota, Duluth. He then moved to Minneapolis to complete his education at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. He began his career as a dentist in downtown Saint Paul, practicing on Robert Street for nearly 40 years before joining the Saint Paul Dental Center in 2023.

Throughout his career, Dr. Cannon has served in numerous leadership roles within organized dentistry.  His positions include serving as president of the Saint Paul District Dental Society, president of the Minnesota Dental Association, and, for over a decade, serving on the Advisory Committee of the Health Professionals Services Program. He has also served as a delegate to the American Dental Association’s House of Delegates.  In each of these roles, Dr. Cannon has championed initiatives that prioritize ethical practices, professional development, and improved access to care for all Minnesotans.

Dr. Cannon served as a member of the MDA Executive Committee from 2012 to 2016, becoming MDA president from 2015-2016. He also served as chair of the MDA’s Board of Dentistry Task Force from 2012-2015, and again from 2017-2018.

One of Dr. Cannon’s most impactful legacies is his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his fellow dentists. As a devoted member of Minnesota Dentists Concerned for Dentists, he has been a compassionate source of support for countless colleagues facing addiction.

He has volunteered his time and expertise to the Minnesota Mission of Mercy, providing critical dental care to underserved populations. In addition, he has served as a youth coach for the Saint Croix Valley Lacrosse Association. Most recently, he was appointed to the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.

The Minnesota Dental Association is the voice of dentistry in Minnesota, representing practicing dentists. It is committed to the highest standards of oral health and access to care for all Minnesotans. You can learn more at www.mndental.org.