Research at the College of Dentistry
Research takes place throughout the College of Dentistry. The Dows Institute for Dental Research, established in 1976 with a gift by the Dows family, offers collaborative, joint-use research laboratories and core research space.
James S. Wefel
Professor, Pediatric Dentistry
- Director, Dows Institute for
Dental Research - Director, Cariology Research
Program
Clark M. Stanford
Associate Dean for Research
- Centennial Fund Professor,
Prosthodontics - Director, Office of
Clinical Research - Director of Biomaterials, Bone &
Tissue Engineering
The College of Dentistry's research goals include advancing research and scholarship in oral, craniofacial, and general health. Faculty researchers pursue research through funding from federal or state sources, industrial/corporate partnerships, and private foundations. Using core research facilities, dental researchers pursue basic, clinical, and translational research collaborations.
Current research includes the role of immunity and oral infection; the use of fluoride; developing ceramics for biomedical applications; dental implants from the molecular and cellular levels; access to oral health care; how tobacco use affects oral health; craniofacial birth defects; and caring for patients with medical issues or special needs.