Dr. Paul F. DePaola, DDS, MSD, MSHyg. 90 of Lexington, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025. Paul was a devoted husband, father, and "granddad." An avid sailor, collector, and cat-lover, he also enjoyed any time by the sea, especially on the Cape and in Maine. He resided in Lexington, Massachusetts, for many years. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 47 years, Janie Sue (Bailey) DePaola, and his daughter, Laura Lynn DePaola. He is survived by his sons, Steven DePaola and wife Heather, and Scott DePaola and wife Erinn, and his grandchildren, Hailey, Nathan, and Mckinlee. He also leaves behind his brother, Leonard DePaola.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he pursued his passion for healthcare, earning a BA at Harvard, his Doctor of Dental Science degree from Temple Dental School in 1960, serving as a Captain and dentist in the US Army from 1960-1962, earning a Master of Science in Oral Pediatrics from Tufts University Graduate School of Dentistry in 1966, and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University in 1969.
He was a prominent figure dedicated to advancing dental science and known for his extensive work on fluoride's efficacy in preventing dental caries. His contributions significantly shaped the understanding and implementation of fluoride-based preventive strategies worldwide through his role at the Forsyth Dental Center in Boston, where he served as Head of Clinical Trials and was instrumental in numerous large scale public research projects, including establishing a dental program for Kuwait, and helped establish the effectiveness of various commercially available fluoride toothpastes and rinses.
A private funeral service for immediate family will be held in the Fall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Paul F. DePaola's memory to the American Cancer Society, the ASPCA, or a charity of your choice.