Caries-focused Research
What we study: We look at why some patients get cavities again and again, even after treatment, and we test materials designed to break that cycle. This includes restoratives that release minerals back into the tooth and slow down the bacteria that cause new decay at the edges of a filling.
Why it matters to you: Cavities are one of the most common health problems in the world, and treating the same tooth over and over is stressful and costly. Materials that help teeth heal themselves and resist new decay could mean fewer dental visits and healthier smiles, especially for children, older adults, and anyone who struggles to get to the dentist regularly.
Faculty and researchers: Dr. Mary Anne S. Melo (PI), Dr. Yvette Alania, Dr. Kamila Kantovitz
Dental Restorative Materials
What we study: We design and test the next generation of fillings, adhesives, and composites, including materials that respond to their environment (for example, becoming more protective when acid levels rise in the mouth), materials reinforced with nanoscale particles for extra strength and durability, and advanced dental ceramics like zirconia for crowns and other restorations.
Why it matters to you: The materials your dentist uses to fix a cavity or place a crown directly affect how long that repair lasts. Better materials mean restorations that hold up longer, look more natural, and put up a better fight against the bacteria that caused the problem in the first place.
Faculty and researchers: Dr. Mary Anne S. Melo (PI), Dr. Isadora Garcia, Dr. Yvette Alania, Dr. Kamila Kantovitz, Dr. Larissa Alves, Dr. Guilherme Arossi
Bioactive Biofabrication
What we study: We use advanced fabrication methods, including 3D printing and bioprinting, to build dental materials and tissue scaffolds with precise, engineered structures. This lets us create restorations and regenerative platforms with properties that traditional manufacturing can't achieve, tailored to how they'll perform in the mouth over time.
Why it matters to you: 3D printing is already changing how dental crowns and other restorations are made, faster and more precisely. Our research helps make sure that as this technology grows, the materials coming out of it are just as strong, safe, and biologically friendly as they are fast to produce.
Faculty and researchers: Dr. Mary Anne S. Melo (PI), Dr. Nileshkumar Dubey
Oral Health & Clinical Care
What we study: We connect laboratory findings to everyday clinical practice, with a focus on minimally invasive treatment, esthetic outcomes, and care strategies for patients at high risk of cavities, along with the genetic and molecular conditions that can affect tooth development.
Why it matters to you: New materials and discoveries only matter if they make it into the dentist's office and improve your actual care. This theme is where our research gets tested against real clinical and patient needs, so the innovations from our lab are practical, not just theoretical.
Faculty and researchers: Dr. Mary Anne S. Melo (PI), Dr. Priyam Jani, Dr. Guilherme Arossi
