UMSOD Clinician-Scientist Receives Nearly $4.3 M In NIH Funding
Vivek Thumbigere-Math, BDS, PhD, assistant professor, Division of Periodontics, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, is redefining oral health as a gateway to whole-body wellness. Backed by two grants from the National Institutes of Health totaling nearly $4.3 million, his team is exploring the intricate connections between our immune, intestinal, and skeletal systems — and how gum disease may drive chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and osteoporosis-related tooth loss.
UMSOD Dental Hygiene Educators Host Inaugural Event Aimed at Addressing Statewide Dental Hygienist Shortage
Representatives from seven of Maryland’s eight dental hygiene programs, public health leaders, and Maryland Dental Hygienist Association members gathered Aug.15 to collaborate on community-engaged, service-learning projects aimed at benefiting underserved communities in non-traditional settings.
UMSOD Researcher Awarded Grants Totaling $4.1M
Joyce Da Silva, PhD, assistant professor, Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, University of Maryland School of Dentistry is the recipient of a five-year, $3.7 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate how green light therapy may relieve chronic pain and anxiety.
‘The UMB Pulse’ Podcast: ‘Can AI Help Your Dentist Detect Oral Cancer and Cavities?
Can your dentist use artificial intelligence (AI) to spot health problems sooner? Imagine an extra set of eyes that never gets tired — that’s what AI is bringing to dentistry.
Mission of Mercy Delivers Free Dental Care at Shady Grove
The MOM program provides essential dental care to uninsured and underserved adults who might otherwise go without treatment. Through a partnership between UMSOD and Catholic Charities of Washington, D.C., the Shady Grove clinic offers free extractions and fillings to adults 18 and older who lack access to regular dental care. Now in its third year, the Shady Grove program is held in April and October.
UMSOD Celebrates ‘Extraordinary’ Class of 2025
The University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD) graduated what Dean Mark Reynolds, DDS, PhD, MA, called “one of the most diverse and accomplished classes of dental graduates in the nation” during UMSOD’s Honors Convocation at the Hippodrome Theatre on May 23.
UMSOD Alumna Receives National Dental Association's Highest Honor
Leslie E. Grant, DDS ’86, MPSA, is the 2025 recipient of the National Dental Association's (NDA) highest honor, the Legacy Award, which recognizes individuals whose lifelong commitment and extraordinary contributions have left a lasting impact on the dental profession, oral health equity, and the NDA community. Comprising 39 state and local chapters throughout the United States and Caribbean, the NDA promotes oral health equity among people of color by advocating for the needs of and mentoring dental students of color and raising the profile of the profession in the community.
The prestigious award, which was presented last month at the NDA annual conference in Kansas City, Mo., celebrates those who have paved the way for future generations through service, leadership, and an enduring legacy of excellence.
“Your influence as an educator, advocate, and trailblazer has enriched our profession, empowered future generations, and strengthened the legacy of the National Dental Association,” reads the award inscription. “With deepest gratitude, we recognize your enduring contributions and transformative impact on the communities we serve.”
Grant also was the 2018 recipient of the American Association of Women Dentists’ (AAWD) Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award, the organization’s top honor. Named after the first woman to earn a doctorate in dentistry, the award honors an AAWD member who has a record of accomplishment in one or more areas of dentistry, such as clinical dentistry, organized dentistry, academia, government, anthropology, archeology, philanthropy, or consulting. In 2015, The Daily Record named Grant one of Maryland’s “Top 100 Women,” a list that recognized outstanding professional achievement, community leadership, and mentoring. In 2006, Ebony magazine named Grant as one of the “One Hundred Most Influential African Americans.”
Baltimore Foster Youth to Get a Dental Home
For children in Baltimore’s foster care system, getting to a dentist has never been straightforward. Appointments fall through during placement changes. Providers don’t always accept Medical Assistance. And without consistent care tracking cavities and cleanings, oral health can take a back seat to other pressing issues.
Announcing Interim Dean of the School of Dentistry
Dr. Warburton will serve as interim dean while Mark A. Reynolds, DDS, PhD, MA, serves as the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s interim provost and executive vice president.
Fluoride Safety Back in National Spotlight
A new meta-analysis linking fluoride exposure to lower IQ scores in children has reignited debate about water fluoridation, even as dental experts emphasize the safety and importance of fluoride at U.S. recommended levels.
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