A newly established student organization helps dental students get to the root of what endodontics is all about. The Endodontics Interest Group provides guidance for dental students who are interested in pursuing specialty training in endodontics.

The group, which held its first meeting in February, is open to all students and offers seminars on the latest technology, research and clinical aspects of endodontics. Co-founder Shariq Khan, DDS ’17, developed an interest in endodontics after working on a research project that examined root fracture cases using high tech imaging technology. He enjoys the specialty’s focus on integrating the latest research and technology into clinical applications that help save teeth.

The Endodontics Interest Group will hold meetings to discuss research opportunities, the residency application process and private practice endodontics. Students will also have the opportunity to hear presentations by faculty members and participate in resident panel discussions and workshops. “Our goal is to provide mentorship and guidance for students who will be applying for postgraduate programs and to nurture professional relationships between future colleagues,” Khan says.

Faculty advisor Ashraf Fouad, DDS, MS, chair of the Department of Endodontics, Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry, is hopeful that the organization will inspire students to pursue endodontic training and deepen their understanding of the specialty. “I am glad to see the enthusiasm of students for endodontic practice and research,” he says. “It is refreshing to observe their eagerness to learn about careers and opportunities related to the specialty, which aspires to save the natural dentition in an optimal state of oral health.”

Click here for more information about the Endodontics Interest Group.