Kevin Lewis, a prominent figure in the field of dentistry, has died at the age of 76.
His most notable role was at Dental Protection, where he served for 27 years, including 18 years as the Dental Director from 1998 to 2016. He was a prolific writer, contributing to and editing various dental publications for over 40 years, and authored two textbooks. He also lectured internationally and was involved in broadcasting.
A former Trustee, Ambassador, and Founder of the College of General Dentistry, Kevin passed away peacefully at Peterborough Hospital on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
His career in dentistry spanned decades, beginning with 20 years as a full-time general dental practitioner and practice owner. In the early part of his career, he was heavily involved in the British Dental Association up to Branch Council level and in Local Dental Committee matters. For some years, he was also a Vice President of the British Association of Dental Therapists. He later transitioned to a part-time role to pursue his interests in dento-legal matters.
Kevin was a founder member of the Transition Board that established the College of General Dentistry and served as a Trustee until 2022. Just one month before his passing, he was awarded the College Medal, the institution’s most prestigious honour. He is survived by his wife, Rhiannon, his son Nick, his daughter Angharad Sian, and his daughter-in-law Jane.
Responding to news of the death of Kevin Lewis, British Dental Association Chair Eddie Crouch said: “It is with great sadness we share news of the passing of Kevin Lewis, a much-loved friend, colleague and champion of dentistry. Kevin was pivotal in developing BDA Indemnity and the values on which it is based. He was instrumental in devising the building blocks that has made it such a success from its inception in 2019.
“Always a lifelong supporter and member of the BDA since he graduated from the London Hospital (as it was then), he joined us as a consultant after he retired from Dental Protection Limited (DPL) where he was Dental Director. He steered DPL into being the largest provider of indemnity services for UK dentists whilst also building the organisation’s profile across many jurisdictions across the world.
“Throughout his career he fought tirelessly for the profession and the “troops in the trenches” delivering dentistry at the tooth face. He wrote copiously with an erudite skill and style, publishing seminal pieces in the BDJ, gave many presentations with a wicked sense of gentle humour, delivered with a chuckle and a twinkle in his eye. There are so many people whose careers were shaped by him and whose advice and support they depended on, always given selflessly and with no expectation of anything in return. A rare quality these days.
“Kevin was a true gentleman – the kindest soul. Dentistry has lost a true friend.”
Raj Rattan, Dental Director at Dental Protection, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and former colleague. Kevin was a visionary dentist in his practising days and a greatly respected figure in the field of dentistry. His inimitable writing style and excellent presentations, amongst many other talents, engaged and inspired and left a lasting mark.
“Kevin spent 27 years with the Medical Protection Society (MPS) in various capacities. He was first a Board member, then a dentolegal adviser and then Dental Director between 1998 -2016. He also served on MPS Council. His contribution and commitment to dentistry was exceptional; he was a true champion of the profession in every sense.
“I am immensely proud to have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Kevin. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time and both myself and my colleagues at Dental Protection, offer our sincere condolences.”
