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.
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.
Ali Syed receives Faculty Fellowship Thinkbox award
Congratulations to Ali Syed for receiving the Faculty Fellowship think[box] award. The use of 3D models in dental education has been a continued passion for Syed, and this project will benefit dental students and healthcare professionals looking to improve their skills in administering local anesthesia. "Working with Dr. Keith Schenider will be an incredible opportunity, as he is a renowned expert in the field," said Syed. "I am grateful for the support of Thinkbox and Dr. Pinto for supporting my application. This fellowship award will allow me to further my research and contribute to the dental education program at the Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine."
Ali Syed Graduates from ADEA Emerging Leaders Program
The ADEA Emerging Leaders Program is designed to provide aspiring leaders in dental education with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers. Successful completion of this program demonstrates a commitment to advancing dental education and leadership potential.
Participants in the program engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes leadership development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. They learn about the latest trends and best practices in dental education and how to manage teams and inspire others.
Upon completing the ADEA Emerging Leaders Program, participants are equipped with the tools and confidence they need to take on leadership roles within their institutions and the dental education community. Graduates of the program go on to make significant contributions to dental education, shaping the future of the field and improving the oral health of communities around the world.
Dr. Andres Pinto shares expertise with The Atlantic
Released over the Thanksgiving 2022 holiday weekend, an article about the origin of canker sores in The Atlantic quoted Dr. Pinto: "Pinto explained: Immune dysregulation is the 'common denominator' behind the ulcers. Inflammation can help the body heal, but too much inflammation can cause the mucosa to break down, which is what we see when we look at the oval-shaped wounds." Read the full article to learn more.