Research is an integral part of the College of Dentistry's mission. Faculty, students and staff members are actively engaged in the College's oral health research projects.
Informational Handouts
Research Opportunities for Prospective Faculty
Research Opportunites for Prospective Postgraduate Students
College of Dentistry Research Fast Facts
2022-2023 Academic Year
- Faculty and staff members authored 114 scientific publications and 6 textbook chapters in the past 5 years.
- Received $1,187,036 in extramural research support for studies on cell signaling in skin biology, palatal fusion and cancer, dental materials, digital dentistry, DNA damage and repair in cancer biology, and more.
- Received sustained support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), averaging over $1.3 million per year for the past 10 years, despite having the 10th smallest dental student class size.
- 14 grants awarded to faculty and staff members.
- 100% of dental and dental hygiene students conducted research in their programs and 25% presented at national conferences and meetings.
College of Dentistry Research Focuses
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Biomaterials ResearchBiomaterials research is one of the fastest growing areas at the College. Research focuses are facial prosthetic materials, biomechanics, mechanical physical properties, facial prosthetic materials, and biological evaluation of materials. |
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Bioregulation ResearchBioregulation research involves understanding and manipulating the immune system, inflammation, and bone physiology to lead to more effective treatment of numerous conditions. |
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Oral Cancer ResearchOral cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. The prognosis of oral cancer remains relatively poor, calling for a better understanding of how treatments work and developing more effective treatment options. |
Research Centers & Consortiums
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Cruzan Center for Dental ResearchThe center was established to conduct well-designed clinical trials and clinical studies and receives funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), private foundations and industry. The center was made possible due to the generosity of Dr. and Mrs. Winston V. Cruzan. |
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Oral Mucosal Immunity Consortium (OMIC)The OMIC represents a multi-center collaboration of clinical and basic science researchers with a goal of sharing knowledge and ideas to better understand how the oral mucosal systems function when healthy and in the presence of disease. |
Student Research Program
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Students lead cutting-edge research projects with guidance from faculty, gaining insight into how they can help shape the future the oral health. They present their research findings at the annual College of Dentistry Research Day and at national conferences and meetings. |