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School of Dental Medicine

From lab discoveries to public outreach initiatives, students, faculty, staff and alumni at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine prove their dedication to advancing oral health in Cleveland and around the world. Read the latest news that highlights the innovation, care and community impact at the heart of our efforts to advance clinical excellence and service across populations.

Recent News

Alex Matthews
DMD/MPH Student Alex Matthews Earns Top Honors at 2025 Ohio Public Health Conference
Alex Matthews, a DMD/MPH dual-degree student at the School of Dental Medicine, earned top recognition this spring at the 2025 Ohio Public Health Conference in Columbus, taking home First Place in the Student Oral Presentation competition for his project titled Ohio Pediatric Dentists’ Perspectives…
aerial of CWRU
Associate Professor Scott Pelok awarded Nord Grant
Associate Professor Scott Pelok has been awarded a Nord Grant for his most recent research project. Extended Reality (ER) is becoming a powerful tool in dental education, offering immersive learning experiences. It allows students to interact with virtual models, helping them understand complex…
CWRU Clap Out Event
SODM joins university’s third annual ‘Clap Out’ celebration
On Wednesday, May 14, graduating students from across Case Western Reserve University gathered on the Case Quad for the third annual “Clap Out”—a growing Commencement Week tradition celebrating the achievements of soon-to-be graduates. Led by a procession of university leaders and honorees,…
Digital Dentistry with Intraoral Scanners and Advanced Software Integration
Revolutionizing Patient Care Through Digital Dentistry with Intraoral Scanners and Advanced Software Integration
Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine is proud to announce a groundbreaking advancement in our Digital Dentistry Transformation Project—the implementation of digital impressions using cutting-edge intraoral scanners and advanced software solutions. This initiative represents a…
Exterior shot of Adelbert Hall in the summer
From CWRU to Harvard: A trailblazing endodontist expanding access to, interest in dentistry
CWRU School of Dental Medicine alum Morgan Celistan, DMD (DEN '20), serves as predoctoral director of endodontics at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, where she mentors students and advocates for expanding access to the field of dentistry. In honor of Women’s History Month, we celebrate her…
Photo of person sitting at desk with computers, smiling at camera
2025 Commencement Speaker Announced
The School of Dental Medicine is pleased to announce that Dr. T. Gerard (Gerry) Bradley, president of the University of Louisville, will serve as the School of Dental Medicine’s 2025 Commencement Speaker this May. Dr. Bradley brings a wealth of experience in dental education, research, and…
Dr. Catherine Demko
Dr. Catherine Demko—a mentor to women in dentistry at the School of Dental Medicine
Catherine Demko, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Community Dentistry, attributes her passion for science to its endless opportunities for creativity and discovery. With an early interest in biology and genetics, Demko began her academic journey studying microorganisms and patterns…
dean-chance-feat
Dean Kenneth B. Chance steps down after 11 years leading the dental school
After more than a decade as dean of Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, Kenneth B. Chance Sr. (DEN ’79) will step down from the role Dec. 31. “Ken has helped guide the School of Dental Medicine through a number of significant changes over the past decade, from the…
Jeffrey Mills headshot
Resilience and hope
In 1982, Jeffrey Mills, DDS (WRC ’79, DEN ’82), was a promising young dentist and soon-to-be new father ready to begin the next chapter of his life. Yet, four hours before commencement, Mills was shot and killed by a home intruder. Having earned his undergraduate and dental degrees at Case…
A pennant with the CWRU logo
Honoring excellence: inspiring stories from Black alumni of the School of Dental Medicine
In celebration of Black History Month, we’re sharing the insights, achievements and words of wisdom from Black alumni who are shaping the future of dentistry. Madge Potts-Williams, DDS (DEN ‘81) Lead Dentist, Manatee County Rural Health Services, Bradenton, FL Consultant,…