Spring 2017

Hope for Those with Diabetic Periodontal Disease 

An experimental drug that mimics an insulin-regulating hormone could rebuild bone, and perhaps advance treatment for Type 2 diabetics.

Almost half of adults over age 30 in the United States have periodontal disease. >>

TMD Fact and Fiction

Many dentists’ websites contain inaccurate information about treating orofacial pain.

Patients looking for relief from the radiating pain of temporal mandibular disorders (TMDs) in the face, >>

New Vice Provost for Research

A highly regarded nutrition scientist, Simin Meydani is an advocate for collaborations across disciplines.

Simin Nikbin Meydani, the former director of the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research >>

O Pioneer!

After graduating from Tufts in 1966, Athena Papas passed on the dental school because she didn’t want to be the only woman in her class. She finally joined the school eight years later as an assistant professor, and in the four decades since has secured dozens of grants for groundbreaking research, helped launch countless life-changing medications and mentored generations of colleagues. Today, half of all dental students are women… and Papas seems to be just getting started.

One morning last summer, Athena Papas welcomed her first patient of the day at >>

Top Stories

All the Presidents’ Teeth

Who didn’t floss? Who was a bruxer? And who could have used some whitening strips? Our faculty give some historical smiles a thorough checkup.

Care Where the Kids Are

At this Boston elementary school, cleanings, fluoride and fillings are available just down the hall.

O Pioneer!

After graduating from Tufts in 1966, Athena Papas passed on the dental school because she didn’t want to be the only woman in her class. She finally joined the school eight years later as an assistant professor, and in the four decades since has secured dozens of grants for groundbreaking research, helped launch countless life-changing medications and mentored generations of colleagues. Today, half of all dental students are women… and Papas seems to be just getting started.

The Patient Whisperers

Every dentist can learn to put the anxious and the fearful at ease. It’s not magic; it simply takes time and effort.

When God Came Calling

Mina Kaddis, D06, was content in his private practice. Then his bishop had a request.

Editor's Picks

21st Century DMD

Educating the next generation of dentists

Building a Health-Care Home

One patient, many providers— and a fresh approach to bringing it all together

A Collective Assault on Opioid Abuse

First-in-the-nation core competencies will give dental students strategies for fighting an epidemic

A Personal Career Network

First job? Buying a practice? Need an associate? Let Tufts play matchmaker.

Hope for Those with Diabetic Periodontal Disease 

An experimental drug that mimics an insulin-regulating hormone could rebuild bone, and perhaps advance treatment for Type 2 diabetics.

In His Father’s Footsteps

The end of one career leads to the beginning of another

Magical Creatures Above

Look up! That’s the new directive in the dental clinic that treats Tufts’ youngest patients.

Safety Gap

Shortcoming in protective eyewear spurs look at new standards