UHNM consultant named among UK's most influential people in dentistry for third year running

A consultant orthodontist from University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) has been named among the 50 most influential people in UK dentistry for the third year in a row.

Dr Karen Juggins MBE, consultant orthodontist, has been recognised in the Dentistry Top 50 2026 in recognition of her work leading the UHNM Charity-supported #KeepStokeSmiling campaign.

Dr Juggins has worked at UHNM since 2007 and said she was “honoured” to receive the national recognition for a third consecutive year.

She said: "I'm delighted and truly honoured to be recognised in Dentistry Top 50 2026. Dentistry describes the Top 50 as recognising those with a shared commitment to improving dentistry for patients, for colleagues and for the wider profession. To be considered part of that group is something I'm genuinely grateful for.

"But recognition like this reflects the support and collaboration of so many other people too, all with a passion and dedication to improving dental health in Stoke-on-Trent and beyond.

"The work with Stoke City Community Trust and the Premier League Primary Stars and Inspires teams has been nothing short of amazing. I'm absolutely convinced targeting young people in this way is the way forward."

The #KeepStokeSmiling campaign, delivered in partnership with UHNM Charity, the Stoke City Community Trust and backed by the Premier League, uses the power of football to promote healthy eating and good oral health habits to primary school children across Stoke-on-Trent.

The initiative combines engaging classroom activities with football-themed sessions to encourage children and their families to make positive lifestyle choices that can improve long-term dental health.

The annual Dentistry Top 50 celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact on the profession through their commitment to improving care for patients, supporting colleagues and advancing dentistry across the UK.