The ITI operates through a global network of Sections that bring professional development opportunities to members in their local regions. Each Section is guided by a dedicated Leadership Team responsible for implementing the ITI’s educational initiatives, fostering community engagement, and promoting excellence in implant dentistry.
In this new feature, the ITI Blog takes a 360° look at both the personal and professional lives of the dedicated leadership teams who drive the ITI’s mission in their respective regions. We’ll explore their professional journeys, their motivations for joining the ITI, and gain insights into the people behind the titles.
Let’s meet the team behind the ITI Section Canada
Leadership Insights: Q&A with the Canada Section Team
In this issue, we interview Prof. Dr. Dr. Ahmed Ballo (Chair) and Dr. Joanie Faucher (Study Club Coordinator).
What inspired you to join the Section Leadership Team?
Prof. Dr. Dr. Ahmed Ballo (Chair): After more than 20 years as a proud ITI member, I wanted to give back to the community that shaped much of my professional journey. Leadership within the ITI is a way to mentor younger clinicians and continue promoting excellence in implant dentistry across Canada.
Dr. Joanie Faucher (Study Club Coordinator): I’ve always been passionate about mentorship and education. Being part of the ITI leadership allows me to connect colleagues, exchange ideas, and foster professional growth among members.
Prof. Dr. Dr. Ahmed Ballo, Chair
Educational Background: Dual doctorate in Prosthodontics and Oral Surgery; extensive academic training in implant dentistry.
Current Position: Chair, ITI Section Canada; practicing prosthodontist and oral surgeon; professor and researcher in implantology.
Professional Experience: Over 20 years of experience as a surgically trained prosthodontist, combining clinical excellence with teaching and research.
ITI Involvement: Joined ITI in 2005; ITI Fellow; mentor and Study Club speaker; now leading the Canadian Section as Chair.
Fun Fact: Passionate about art and painting in his spare time.
What project or initiative with the ITI are you most proud of?
Ahmed: I’m most proud of mentoring clinicians in the ITI Study Clubs and supporting a new generation of dentists. These interactions create a strong professional network and elevate the overall standard of care.
Joanie: One of the initiatives I’m most proud of is encouraging collaboration between clinicians through Study Clubs. They are great platforms for continuous learning and sharing real-world experiences.
Dr. Joanie Faucher, Study Club Coordinator
Educational Background: DMD, Laval University; MSc in Periodontology, University of British Columbia.
Current Position: Study Club Coordinator, ITI Section Canada; practicing periodontist in Quebec City.
Professional Experience: 13 years as a periodontist specializing in regenerative and implant therapies; active clinician and mentor.
ITI Involvement: Joined ITI in 2010 during residency; became a Fellow in 2023; active Study Club Director and contributor to Section events.
Fun Fact: Proud mom of three boys who keep her on her toes!
What advice would you give to professionals considering involvement with the ITI?
Ahmed: My advice is to get involved early and stay inspired. The ITI provides lifelong opportunities for education, networking, and sharing evidence-based knowledge.
Joanie: Don’t hesitate! The ITI offers a strong community and a wealth of resources that help you grow as a clinician and as a person.
Which ITI core values do you most strongly identify with and why?
Ahmed: I identify most with ‘Setting the Standard’ because it reflects a lifelong commitment to quality and evidence-based care. It’s what the ITI represents at its core.
Joanie: I identify most with ‘Collaboration’. The ITI is built on teamwork and shared knowledge, which helps us all achieve excellence.
Share something interesting about yourself outside your professional life.
Ahmed: Outside of my professional life, I’m also an avid painter and art enthusiast. It helps me balance the precision of my work with creativity.
Joanie: I’m a proud mom of three energetic boys aged 8, 10, and 12. They keep me grounded and constantly remind me of the joy in small things.
The Canada leadership team exemplifies the ITI’s commitment to excellence in implant dentistry through education, research, and community building. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for advancement in the field continue to drive the Section’s growth and impact across the region.
Stay tuned for our next Section Spotlight, where we’ll introduce you to more of the ITI sections.
