Welcome to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences. We are a comprehensive unit encompassing all diagnostic disciplines of Dental Medicine. Our faculty direct several courses in our undergraduate and graduate curriculum that highlight the importance of a strong foundational knowledge of basic sciences to the practice of Dental Medicine. Our full-time members are board certified in their respective disciplines and offer comprehensive exposure to our students to routine patient screening and evaluation as well as diagnostic work-up of challenging cases. Our clinical services cover the School of Dental Medicine, the University Hospitals system (in collaboration with the Departments of Oral Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry, and the AEGD program) and local practicing dentists and physicians.
Mission: To provide education for the competent management of disorders of the oral and maxillofacial region to dental students and graduate dental practitioners. We also provide excellent interdisciplinary care to patients in search of relief of head and neck pain, oral mucosal complications, osseous disease, sleep breathing disorders, salivary complications, and effects of cancer treatment.
Vision: We will be a world-class center in oral and maxillofacial medicine, radiology, and pathology. We will accomplish this through innovative education, research, and patient-centered care.
Interprofessional education and practice lie in the core of this mission, and we actively participate in several joint projects with the Schools of Nursing and Medicine. Our research involves orofacial pain, oral premalignant disorders, pediatric oral medicine, and interprofesional education outcomes. I appreciate your interest in our department and invite you to explore the additional pages that contain relevant information about who we are.
Dr. Andres Pinto Leads Lecture on Trauma-Informed Care in Oral Health
On January 22, Dr. Andres Pinto, professor and chair of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences at the School of Dental Medicine, delivered an engaging lecture on trauma-informed care in the oral health care setting. Held in Room 251 of Samson Pavilion, the event attracted approximately 50 students eager to learn about the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care.
The session was organized by the newly formed Trauma-Informed Care student group, part of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), and spearheaded by Nolan Kranc (D2), the group's president. The event also saw participation from first-year dental students, highlighting growing interest in this critical approach to patient care.
Dr. Pinto’s lecture provided valuable insights into recognizing and responding to trauma in clinical practice, reinforcing the need for dental professionals to approach patient care with sensitivity and awareness. The discussion emphasized the impact of trauma on oral health and the ways practitioners can create supportive environments for their patients.
This event marks a significant step in integrating trauma-informed care principles into dental education at CWRU. For more information about the Trauma-Informed Care student group, students are encouraged to connect with Nolan Kranc.
Highlights from the AAOMR Meeting in Hawaii
We are thrilled to share the exciting developments and innovative research presented by our team at the recent AAOMR Meeting held in Hawaii from October 16-19, 2024. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Ali Syed, Associate Professor and Director of Radiology, our colleagues showcased groundbreaking projects that promise to advance the field of dental radiography and precision dentistry.
Advancing Precision Dentistry: Deep Learning Algorithm for Segmentation of Mandibular and Bifid Canals on CBCT
Presented by: Suayip Duman, Research Intern
Suayip presented an innovative study on developing and validating an advanced AI tool for precisely segmenting mandibular and bifid canals in CBCT imaging. This research aims to enhance dental implant planning and surgical procedures by automating the complex process of tracing these structures, thereby reducing the risk of neurovascular complications.
Innovation at Your Fingertips: Leveraging Open-Source Free Code for Rectangular Collimators
Presented by: Andrew Rukovena, IT Head
Andrew Rukovena showcased a groundbreaking project that used 3D printing to fabricate rectangular collimators for dental radiography. This initiative, aimed at reducing radiation exposure and costs, involved designing and testing a 3D printable collimator. By making the designs globally available, this project promises to improve the efficiency and affordability of dental radiography, highlighting the transformative potential of 3D printing in healthcare.
American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
A group of dedicated high school students—all mentored by Associate Professor Ali Syed—presented their summer research at the annual meeting in Atlanta, GA, in October. Each Student brought their unique expertise to the table, contributing to the advancement of the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.
"It is inspiring to see that the young scholars' rigorous inquiry and enthusiasm have left an indelible mark on Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, and fulfilling to see the future generation's research pushing the boundaries," said Dr. Syed.