EIOH's 2026 Conferences Bring Leading Experts and Emerging Science to Dental Professionals
Eastman Institute for Oral Health's lineup of 2026 continuing education conferences promises clinically relevant and research driven learning.
Stories
From Fear to Purpose: Finding His Calling at Eastman
Inspired by the compassionate care at Eastman that helped him overcome his own fear of dentists, Brian DeWind found his calling through the Dental Assistant Training Program.
Eastman Institute Awarded $2.9 Million to Study Dental Implant Failures
Eastman Institute for Oral Health has been awarded $2.9 million to study why dental implants sometimes fail and how those failures might be prevented.
Strengthening Clinical Decision-Making in Orofacial Pain Through Systematic Review
Improving patient comfort and advancing the treatment of orofacial pain is a major goal of Eastman Institute for Oral Health’s Dr. Maryam Altuhafy.
A Mentor, Scholar, and Advocate for Faculty Development: Remembering Dr. Walter Psoter’s Contributions to Eastman Institute
Walter Psoter, DDS, PhD, (GPR ’80) brought global perspective and outstanding mentorship to his role as a faculty member at Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH). He passed away December 11 at age ...
He Listened When Others Didn't: How One Patient Launched Ralph 'Lin' Saunders Career
Ralph “Lin” Saunders, Jr., DDS, MS still remembers the patient who changed the course of his life — an elderly woman, soft-spoken yet worn down. She had seen several dentists before him, searching ...
Sangeeta Gajendra Appointed Chair of EIOH Community Dentistry
Eastman Institute for Oral Health has appointed Sangeeta Gajendra, DDS, MPH, MS, (GenDen '04, MS ‘12) as chair of Community Dentistry and Oral Disease Prevention.
‘This Has to Change’ — A Mother’s Quest on Behalf of People with Disabilities
Basic dental care that most take for granted is out of reach for thousands like Nicholas Caruso.
Community Water Fluoridation Works: EIOH Debunks Myths, Highlights Lifelong Benefits
Experts from the University of Rochester’s Eastman Institute for Oral Health underscore the safety, effectiveness, and enduring public health benefits of community water fluoridation in a commentary ...
UR Schools of Medicine and Nursing, Eastman Institute for Oral Health Launch Academy of Educators
A new initiative is bringing together faculty from Eastman Institute for Oral Health and across the University of Rochester Medical Center to strengthen healthcare education through collaboration and ...
UR's School of Medicine & Dentistry Names Jin Xiao Associate Dean for Oral Health Education
Eastman Institute for Oral Health Professor Jin Xiao, DDS, PhD, has been appointed associate dean for Oral Health Education at the University of Rochester’s School of Medicine and Dentistry.
Adela Planerova Appointed Chair, Special Needs Dentistry at Eastman Institute for Oral Health
Eastman Institute for Oral Health has named Adela Planerova, DDS, MS, as the inaugural chair of its newly established Special Needs Dentistry Department.
Journey to Confidence: Restoring a Smile and Changing a Life
This mother was at her wit's end because she couldn't find a dentist to help. Born with a rare genetic disorder, her daughter is missing 20 permanent teeth and most of her baby teeth are misshapen ...
EIOH Researchers Rank Among the Top Scholars Worldwide
A recent global analysis by ScholarGPS has recognized Eastman Institute for Oral Health as home to some of the world’s leading researchers in oral health and related specialties.
EIOH Receives $2.1 Million to Expand Training and Public Health Initiatives
EIOH has been awarded a $2.1 million federal grant to develop a training model designed to increase dental care in underserved communities and to expand the dental workforce who care for people with ...
Renovated EIOH Clinic at School 17 Expands Access to Care for Rochester Families
A major renovation at EIOH's dental clinic inside School No. 17 is bringing significant improvements in care to a Rochester neighborhood challenged by poverty and limited access to health services.
New Eastman Dental Foundation Board President and Members
After serving his two-year term as president of the Eastman Dental Foundation Board, Bruce Tandy, DMD (UR '75) has passed the baton to current president John C. Buttrill (MBA ‘83).
Dr. Linda Rasubala Graduates from Senior Leader Education and Development Program
As the first EIOH faculty member to have been accepted and completed the SLED program, Dr. Rasubala said completing the program has been both a privilege and a profoundly meaningful journey.
Redefining Success: EIOH Grads Urged to Lead with Compassion
“The world needs healers, not just clinicians. Compassion, not just competence.” Wise words from Hans Malmstrom, DDS, to the Eastman Institute for Oral Health Class of 2025.
Redefining Dentistry in Primary Care a Must
By weaving oral health into primary care education, research, and community practice, recent studies demonstrate that prevention-driven, patient-centered care is imperative for a healthy population.
Dr. Carlo Ercoli Named 102nd President of the Academy of Prosthodontics
Dr. Carlo Ercoli, chair, EIOH Prosthodontics, has been named the 102nd President of the Academy of Prosthodontics.
Dr. Ira Kamp: Inspiring Excellence Through Compassion, Wisdom and Purpose
Compassion is the very essence of Dr. Ira Kamp’s approach to practicing dentistry and teaching. He has been teaching part time in General Dentistry for nearly 20 years, where he has left a profound ...
Generous Donations Support Eastman Institute’s Fund for Babies with Cleft Lip and Palate
Generous contributions to EIOH's Kids with Clefts Fund support patients with cleft lip and palate and their families in a variety of ways.
Shifting Dreams: Dr. Alomeir’s Journey of Discovery
She had it all planned out. Nora Alomeir’s dream was to become an endodontist. But when her husband was accepted to Eastman Institute for Oral Health, she had to adjust her plans a little.
EIOH Research: Zinc Solution Reduces Tooth Staining in SDF Treatment
In a promising breakthrough published in BMC Oral Health, EIOH researchers have found that adding a Zinc solution to teeth before Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) treatment significantly reduces tooth ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Kaylee Young
Dr. Kaylee Young knew coming to EIOH was the right choice, not just for the top-tier training, but for the people.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Mathias Martinez
With a drive to learn and make an impact, Dr. Mathias Martinez Coronel embraced Eastman as a place to sharpen his clinical skills while advancing knowledge through research and teaching.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Liana Umbrio
For Dr. Liana Umbrio, choosing Eastman’s General Practice Residency meant combining top-tier clinical training with the comfort of being close to home in Canada.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Rebeca Keegan
When choosing a residency, Dr. Rebeca Vasconcelos Keegan trusted the recommendations of her NYU colleagues and was drawn to Eastman’s value and reputation. That decision led to years of training, ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Katherine Mader
Dr. Katherine Mader Noeldner is grateful for the close-knit bond with her co-resident, Dr. Gabriela Parra. From sharing lab tools and skills to traveling together for conferences, their friendship ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Ethan Barkin
During his residency, Dr. Ethan Barkin immersed himself in clinical care, research, and leadership roles, all while building lasting relationships and discovering a new sense of home in Rochester.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Lauren Shine
For Dr. Lauren Shine, the University of Rochester’s motto Meliora deeply resonated with her. She said that Eastman’s commitment to this growth mindset made her match day decision an easy one.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Gasser Ibrahim
Dr. Gasser Ibrahim was inspired to come to EIOH by the many alumni practicing in the Toronto area when he lived there.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Krisha Shah
During her Dental Public Health residency, Dr. Krisha Nilesh Shah demonstrated her commitment to community engagement and research.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Zack Zeiler
One reason Dr. Zack Zeiler (OMFS ’25) chose EIOH was for its welcoming and collaborative culture.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Virda Baig
Dr. Virda Baig (OFP ’25) discovered more than just an academic program at EIOH – she found a welcoming community that feels like family.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Claire Lee
Claire Lee had just earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester when she seamlessly transitioned into graduate studies at EIOH in clinical and translational research.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. David Vaccaro
Dr. David Vaccaro III (GenDen ’25) discovered his calling as a dentist in first grade when he pulled out a classmate’s loose tooth using only a tissue and his hands, speeding up the Tooth Fairy’s ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Megha Sheth
Dr. Megha Sheth found that her time at EIOH not only improved her technical expertise, but shaped her into a confident, compassionate clinician ready to serve a wide range of medically complex ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Gabriela Parra
For Dr. Gabriela Parra (Prostho ’25), choosing EIOH was more than a professional decision – it was a family tradition. Her sister, Dr. Adriana Parra Barillas helped to inspire Gabriela’s own path.
Remembering Dr. Edward Sommers
Dr. Edward Sommers, part-time faculty at Eastman Institute for Oral Health for 44 years, has passed away.
Innovative Procedure Paves Way for Safer Orthodontics in Patients with Receding Gums
A groundbreaking case at the University of Rochester’s Eastman Institute for Oral Health is helping rewrite the rules for how patients with receding gums can safely undergo orthodontic treatment.
Advancing Special Care Dentistry
Dr. Nadia Stephens, assistant director of EIOH’s Specialty Care Clinic, works closely with members of the Specialty Care Dentistry Association to advocate for inclusive, patient-centered oral ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Abdallah Michail
Graduating from Eastman Institute for Oral Health with a master’s in Dental Sciences and a certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Dr. Abdallah Michail is committed to advancing ...
Hormonal Changes in Pregnancy Linked to Higher Cavity Risk, Study Finds
A new EIOH study has revealed a significant link between hormone levels in pregnant women and their risk of developing cavities.
EIOH Alumni: Where Are They Now?
For Dr. Jill Patel (GPR ’22), coming to EIOH for a GPR residency in Rochester was the perfect chance to reconnect with her roots and be closer to family. Now in Philadelphia, she applies her ...
EIOH Periodontics Names New Program Director
Dr. Elli Anna Kotsailidi (Perio ’19, MS ’20) has been named the program director of the Periodontics Residency Program at Eastman Institute for Oral Health.
Study Shows Teledentistry Boosts Treatment Completion for Rural Kids
A new EIOH study has found that 81.6% of children in a rural teledentistry program completed their recommended dental treatments within six months of their virtual consultations.
Life-Changing Trip Strengthens Resident's Passion for Dentistry and Global Outreach
Traveling to Uganda with Build Your Smile Dental Foundation was a life-changing experience for EIOH prosthodontics resident Dr. Mahshid Torabi. The experience deepened her passion for dentistry and ...
EIOH Faculty, Alumni and Supporters Recognized
Eastman Institute for Oral Health faculty, alumni and steadfast supporters were recognized with deserving awards by the Seventh District Dental Society.
Alexandra Tsigarida Named Chair, EIOH Periodontology
Associate Professor Alexandra Tsigarida, DDS, MS, has been named Chair of the Periodontology Department, Eastman Institute for Oral Health.
EIOH Leadership Transition for the National Dental PBRN Northeast Region
Dr. Dorota Kopycka-Kedzierawski has assumed the role of director of the National Dental Practice Based Research Network, Northeast Region.
New Study Finds OTC Pain Relievers Outperform Opioids
A combination of over-the-counter pain relievers is more effective than opioids in managing pain after wisdom tooth extractions, suggesting a new standard therapy for dental and other pain. The ...
Is Fluoride Bad for You?
The experts at Eastman Institute for Oral Health answer all your questions about fluoride.
EIOH Welcomes New Faculty
Eastman Institute for Oral Health has recently welcomed nine new faculty members, each bringing a wide range of specialty skills and leadership to advance its educational, research and clinical care ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Drs. Onur Nacakgedigi & Rubem Araujo
Friends turned Family: EIOH residents Drs. Onur Nacakgedigi and Rubem Araujo share special bond.
A Chair That Changes Lives: Redefining Dental Care for Patients with Obesity and Complex Conditions
For many of the nearly 10 percent of U.S. adults who are severely obese, their inability to find a dentist with a chair that holds their weight often prevents them from getting dental treatment.
EIOH Researchers Ranked Highly by ScholarGPS
Several Eastman Institute for Oral Health scientists have been recognized for their research by ScholarGPS, which uses sophisticated analysis for rankings.
From Struggles to Confident Smiles
Ruth Cooper wasn’t sure where to turn when she needed her dentures adjusted. Having recently lost her job in 2015, she was short on money but was able to get help at Eastman Dental.
URMC Cancer and Dental Specialists Help Man Regain Function, Speech After Oral Cancer Surgery
After Matthew Keeling endured 20 hours of surgery and 30 radiation sessions for his advanced oral cancer, he was referred to Eastman Institute for Oral Health, where a specialist designed a custom ...
As the Pittsburgh Steelers Team Dentist, EIOH Alum Remembers Advice from Faculty
As the team dentist for the Pittsburgh Steelers and consultant for the University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department, Eastman Institute alum Dr. Rick Gottlieb draws on his advanced dental training in ...
EIOH's Center of Excellence for Digital Dentistry
As digital technology continues to gain momentum in dentistry, Eastman Institute for Oral Health has been working diligently to establish a Center of Excellence in this area.
NIH’s Dr. Larry Tabak Shares Insight, Advice with EIOH Faculty and Residents
Before being honored with the prestigious George Eastman Medal, Dr. Tabak spent the day at URMC meeting with students and faculty and presented two talks. Dr. Tabak was the first dentist-scientist to ...
Celebrating Diversity at Eastman Institute with Cultural Foods
It’s an event held by Specialty Care a few times a year that new EIOH residents especially enjoy and faculty and staff always look forward to. Everyone brings a dish to pass representing their native ...
Study Shows Dental Residents Find Virtual Learning Positive and Effective
While most dental residents found virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic to be effective and have significant potential for continued use, most faculty did not, according to a new study ...
NIH's Dr. Larry Tabak to Present Two Talks Sept. 13
Lawrence A. Tabak, DDS, PhD, the principal deputy director of the National Institutes of Health, will participate in a science symposium and present a lecture, both open to the University community ...
New Clinical Practice Statements Now Available to Help Cancer Patients' Oral Health
Seven Clinical Practice Statements about managing various oral complications resulting from cancer therapies are now available and can be viewed for free until September 5, 2024, and available by ...
Dr. David Appelbaum Remembered
Dr. E. David Appelbaum, a devoted member of EIOH part-time faculty, has passed away. He was 86.
EIOH Intern Spotlight - Kelly-Anais Torres Ballester
Meet Kelly-Anais Torres Ballester, an Industrial Microbiology student at the University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo, and an intern with the University’s Summer Scholars Program. Check out how her intern ...
Jin Xiao's Leadership Recognized Nationally
Jin Xiao, DDS, PhD, Eastman Institute for Oral Health associate professor, was selected for the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM), the prestigious program in North America that ...
EIOH Periodontics Chair Dr. Jack Caton Stepping Down
After more than 50 years of visionary and dedicated leadership, Jack G. Caton, DDS, MS, (Perio ’73, MS ‘73) will step down as chair of the Eastman Institute for Oral Health Periodontics Department on ...
Eastman Institute Studies Present New Data about Clear Aligner Therapy Outcomes
Several clinical studies conducted by experts at Eastman Institute can help direct providers to improve treatment for patients undergoing or seeking clear aligner therapy.
Eastman Institute Celebrates Class of 2024
“What sets you apart, as an Eastman Institute for Oral Health graduate, is that you are uniquely prepared to treat patients without compromise.” EIOH Director Dr. Eli Eliav told the EIOH Class of ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Zain Ahmed
Dr. Zain Ahmed was selected among all U.S. Dental Public Health residents to receive a prestigious award from the American Association of Public Health Dentistry for his project.
Resident Spotlight – Dr. Vikranth Ravipati
Dr. Vikranth Ravipati (OFP ’24, MS ’24) has been actively involved in research during his time at EIOH, publishing 3 papers and 1 book chapter, with 2 more papers in progress. He also gave an oral ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Harold Nii-Aponsah
For Dr. Harold Nii-Aponsah (DPH ’24), coming to EIOH was a dream come true after hearing all about the Institute from alumni in his hometown of Accra, Ghana.
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Amer Basmaji
Dr. Amer Basmaji (GenDen ’24), from Syria, says he chose Eastman Institute for Oral Health because of its stellar reputation in surgeries and implants, expert faculty, multidisciplinary teaching, and ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Christopher Burns
Not only was Dr. Christopher Burns (Ortho ’24, MS ‘24) selected to present his research at the American Association of Orthodontists meeting in May, but he won first place for the College of ...
EIOH Leaders Renew MOU and Lecture in Three Chinese Cities
While lecturing in China, EIOH Director Dr. Eli Eliav and Dr. YanFang Ren reconnected with alumni who were recently appointed leadership positions.
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Alexandra Makara
Dr. Alexandra Makara (Peds ’24), a native of Long Island, NY, plans to return home after graduation to work as a Clinical Assistant Professor.
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Ruqaya Lilo
Originally from Baghdad, Iraq, Dr. Ruqaya Lilo (OFP ’24, MS ’24) has many great memories from her time at Eastman Institute, including meeting expert speakers, sharing cultural and religious ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Lucy Marie Johnson
You might not expect a dentist to have a sweet tooth, but Dr. Lucy Marie Johnson (Perio ’24) cannot imagine a life without Peeps marshmallow chicks, her all-time favorite food!
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Jack Bansbach
During his residency, Dr. Jack Bansbach (GPR ’24), of Brighton, NY, received multiple recognitions for excellence in patient care.
EIOH Resident Profile - Dr. Abdallah Michail
"Orthodontics is not just about enhancing smiles. It is a thinking game that challenges me," says Dr. Michail, a resident in the EIOH orthodontics program.
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Livia Barros
Dr. Livia Barros (GenDen ’24) has been actively involved in research throughout her time at EIOH and has given presentations at eight different conferences. She received an award for her poster at ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Mahshid Torabi Ardakani
Dr. Mahshid (Prostho ’24) grew up in Shiraz, Iran and attended dental school in Tehran. After graduating, she and her family immigrated to Canada in 2015, where she graduated dental school at the ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Alexis Lundin
Dr. Alexis Lundin's (Peds ’24) sister, Dr. Lisa Kulig (Peds ’20), inspired her to specialize in pediatric dentistry. They are from Minot, ND.
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Cintia Lantmann Guimares Echel
A native of Porto Alegre in the South of Brazil, Dr. Cintia Lantmann Guimaraes Echel (GenDen ’24) has been involved in numerous research projects, studying genetic markers for dry mouth, cosmetic ...
EIOH Resident Spotlight – Dr. Leah Baldinger
A native of Orchard Park, NY, Dr. Leah Baldinger (Perio ’24) is looking forward to settling down there after graduation.
EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Rebeca Keegan
Dr. Rebeca Vasconcelos Keegan gained a wide range of experience during her two-year AEGD program and Urgent Care fellowship. She co-authored five publications, and four of her nine poster ...
Digital Workflows Save Time without Compromise
Using digital dentistry, clinical procedures can be simplified and treatment time can be significantly reduced with the same accurate results. Eastman Institute for Oral Health's Dr. Konstantinos ...
Patients with Special Needs and Complex Conditions: Addressing the Need and Provider Shortage
How Eastman Institute for Oral Health and other New York state institutions are training the next generation of dentists and dental specialists to competently and confidently treat the increasing ...
Study Shows a Little Support at the Dentist Office Can Go a Long Way for Smoking Cessation
Despite the fact that tobacco use can have detrimental effects on oral health, patients revealed in a recent study that while their providers often ask about tobacco use, they are unlikely to provide ...
EIOH’s Dr. Jin Xiao Tapped for ADA Council on Scientific Affairs
The American Dental Association has appointed EIOH Associate Professor Jin Xiao, DDS, PhD (GenDen ’13, GPR ’14) to its Council on Scientific Affairs. The prestigious Council assists the ADA in ...
Faculty Promoted in EIOH’s Pediatric Dentistry Department
Associate Professors Erin Shope, DMD, MSM, MSEd (MSEd ’21, MSM ’15, Peds ’12) and Isamar Rivera-Ramos, DMD, PhD (Peds ’16, PhD ’15, GenDen ’14, MS ‘09) have been promoted.
High Doses of Medication Led to Rampant Tooth Decay and Depression for Local Man
Because of medications, Joe Ferrari's teeth were broken and decayed, seriously impacting his ability to chew. He became isolated and depressed. Not wanting to lose his teeth, he found Dr. Thakkar at ...
ROC Pointe Endodontics Donates Operating Microscope to Eastman Institute for Oral Health
Eastman Institute for Oral Health part-time faculty members Dr. Michael Grassi and Dr. Alf Bunes have donated a Global Dental Operating Microscope to the General Dentistry Department.
EIOH Resident Profile: Dr. Shalom Benzquen
Dr. Shalom Benzaquen's role models are his parents, who instilled in him the importance of never taking anything for granted, working hard and appreciating what you have in life.
EIOH Resident Profile: Dr. Pablo Acuna
Dr. Pablo Acuna traveled from Spain to advance his training at Eastman Institute for Oral Health, but dentistry wasn't the only career he was considering.
EIOH Associate Professor Honored with Prestigious Research Award
Likely the youngest to receive this major recognition, Dr. Konstantinos Chochlidakis (Prostho ’13, MS ’13) was honored with the American College of Prosthodontists 2023 Distinguished Researcher ...