DentalUM Spring/Summer 2012

DentalUM magazine is published twice a year by the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

Send comments and updates to: [email protected] or Director of Communications, School of Dentistry, Room 1218, 1011 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078

Dean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peter PolveriniDirector of Communications . . . . . . Sharon Grayden Writer & Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerry MasteyDesigner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chris Jung

Editorial Review Board: Member publicationDennis Lopatin - Chair of the AmericanRichard Fetchiet Association ofErica Hanss Dental EditorsLynn JohnsonSharon Grayden - ex officio

The Regents of the University: Julia Donovan Darlow, Laurence B. Deitch, Denise Ilitch, Olivia P. Maynard, Andrea Fischer Newman, Andrew C. Richner, S. Martin Taylor, Katherine E. White, Mary Sue Coleman, ex officio

University of Michigan School of DentistryAlumni Society Board of Governors:

Terms Expire 2012:Metodi C. Pogoncheff, ’76 DDS, Lansing, MIWayne Olsen (Chair), ’81 DDS, Traverse City, MISheree Duff (Secretary), ’80 BSDH, Grand Blanc, MIDavid O. Cramer, ’93 DDS, Grand Rapids, MIScott Schulz, ’96 DDS, ‘03 MS, Traverse City, MI

Student Representative: Anh Pham (D4)

Terms Expire 2013:Kathleen Early, ‘77 DH, Lakeland, MIKerry Kaysserian, ‘81 DDS, Traverse City, MIJeff Smith, ‘82 DDS, ‘85 MS, Grand Rapids, MIJerry Booth, ‘61 DDS, ‘64 MS, Jackson, MIJanis Chmura Duski, ‘89 DDS, Gaylord, MI

Terms Expire 2014:Frank Alley, ’81 DDS, Portage, MIMichael Cerminaro, ’86 DDS, Muskegon, MISondra Moore Gunn, ’78 DDS, ’80 MS, Ann Arbor, MIM.H. “Reggie” VanderVeen, ’76 DDS, Grand Rapids, MIJackie Solberg, ’86 DH, Grand Rapids

Ex Officio Members:Peter Polverini, DeanJanet Souder Wilson, ‘73 DH, Northville, MIAlumni Association LiaisonSteve C. Grafton , Executive Director, Alumni Assoc.Richard R. Fetchiet, Director of Alumni Relations, Development, and Continuing Dental Education

The University of Michigan, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University of Michigan is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. Inquiries or complaints may be addressed to the Senior Director for Institutional Equity, and Title IX/Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Office of Institutional Equity, 2072 Administrative Services Building, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1432, (734) 763-0235, TTY (734) 647-1388. For other University of Michigan information call (734) 764-1817.

Copyright © 2012 The Regents of the University of Michigan

This is a special time of the year for me with graduation just past and our new students about to arrive. It is a time to reflect on our many accomplishments and to set strategic goals for the future. From my vantage point I get to see the scope of the School’s collective accomplishments and successes. There is much to celebrate and

be proud of and I hope this issue of DentalUM will give you a glimpse into the many amazing things we experience daily, weekly, monthly as we set the course and define the future for the great profession of dentistry. While DentalUM is the way we connect with all of you via print media twice a year, the electronic resources and social media tools you have access to on our Web site allow us to provide an up-to-the-minute means to share news, events, and images with you via our RSS News Feed, Facebook, our blog, and Flickr. I think you will enjoy the Social Media feature highlighting the many tools available to students, faculty, staff as well as to our alumni and friends. The School of Dentistry Web site hosts a wealth of information and we encourage you to “tune in” with frequent visits. You’ll want to take note of the cover story highlighting our new Global Oral Health Initiative. Last fall, U-M President Mary Sue Coleman unveiled the University’s Third Century Initiative to develop innovative ideas about global challenges and opportunities. Components of the Initiative include immersive learning, service to society, sustainable practices and collaboration, all in a global setting. Led by Dr. Yvonne Kapila, our initiative is designed to build on international relationships we have been fostering for a number of years. It is about sharing our outstanding clinical experience and expertise with colleagues in dental schools around the world as well as providing opportunities for student and faculty exchanges to learn, first hand, the issues each group faces. And please don’t miss the news and notes about the many student and faculty activities. In March we announced Dr. William Giannobile as the new chair of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. I am pleased to introduce Dr. Giannobile to you in his new leadership role. I also wish to express my most sincere thanks and gratitude to Dr. Laurie McCauley who held that post for the last ten years. Her leadership and vision were remarkable. Laurie is truly one of U-M’s leaders and best. We are a school with a long history of excellence and leadership among all of our constituents – alumni, students, faculty and staff. I know that you share my pride in our great school, the accomplishments, your contributions, and all this means to our profession.

Sincerely,

Peter J. Polverini, Dean

Spring & Summer 2012 Volume 28, Number 1

D E A N ’ S M E S S A G E

AWARDS Grand PrizeADA DENTSPLY AwardAlexandra Forest (D2, Mentor: Russell Taichman)Targeting the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Niche in Bone-Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Clinical Application and TechniqueFirst PrizeAshley Copus and Julia Johnson (DH4, Mentor: Marita Inglehart)Professional Appearance and Dental Patients’ Perceptions of Their Providers: An ExplorationSecond PrizeWilliam Shin (D3, Mentor: Marita Inglehart)Health Literacy and Dental Fear – Exploring Parents’ ResponsesThird PrizeSarah Dhuhair (MS Certificate, Mentor: Giselle Neiva)Clinical Evaluation of pH Challenge in Subjects with/without Erosion Basic Science and ResearchFirst PrizeAlexandra Plonka (D3 Mentors: William Giannobile, Peter Ma)Nanosphere-released Tetracyclines Inhibit MMP Activity of Human Gingival FibroblastsSecond PrizeDaniela Garcia (MS Certificate, Mentor: Peter Yaman)Polymerization Shrinkage and Hardness of Three Bulk Fill Flowable ResinsThird PrizeRobert Schneider (MS Certificate, Mentor: Tatiana Botero)Effect of White Mineral Trioxide Aggregate on the Migration of Stem Cells from the Apical Papilla Dental HygieneFirst PrizeKaitie Gilbertson and Cassie Pawloski (DH4, Mentor: Janet Kinney)Dental Hygiene Student Perceptions of Prophylaxis AnglesSecond PrizeFelecia Billings and Jessica Humfleet (DH4, Mentor: Susan Taichman)Dental Hygienists Knowledge of Breast Cancer Treatments on Oral HealthThird PrizeJenna Sherwood and Elyse Corley (DH4, Mentor: Wendy Kerschbaum) Patient’s Perceptions of Oral Cancer Screenings PhD/Postdoctoral Fellow/StaffFirst PrizeJames Corson (Postdoctoral Fellow, Mentor: Robert Bradley)Biophysical, Morphological, and Synaptic Properties of Intramedullary Projection Neurons in the Rostral Nucleus of the Solitary TractSecond PrizeChristopher Wilson (Postdoctoral Fellow, Mentor: Renny Franceschi)Patterning the Expression of Regenerative Transgenes with Focused UltrasoundThird PrizeSara Corson (Postdoctoral Fellow, Mentor: Charlotte Mistretta)Neuropilin 1, Neuropilin 2 and Calbindin Expression in the Developing Rat Solitary Tract and Rostral Nucleus of the Solitary Tract Audience Choice AwardKathryn Selby and Janet Zulacha (DH4, Mentor: Darlene Jones)Capuchin Soup Kitchen

NIDCR’s Somerman Returns to School of Dentistry

“It’s an honor to be back at the School of Dentistry,” said Dr. Martha Somerman as she began her keynote presentation during the School’s annual Research Day in February. Now director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research/NIH, Somerman was a faculty member at the School from 1991 to 2002. She was professor and chair of the Department of Periodontics, Prevention, and Geriatrics and also held an appointment as professor of pharmacology at the Medical School. Citing advances in technology and the sequencing of the human genome, Somerman said, “the time has never been better to move discoveries from the laboratory to the patient.” However, she noted that it takes about 14 years, on average, for that to happen. That’s one reason, she said, the National Institutes of Health created the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS). Working with the public and private sectors, the Center is focused on creating and speeding up the delivery of new medicines and medical and dental equipment that help promote human health. Noting that classroom and clinical education and research will continue to be cornerstones of dental education, Somerman told students, “There are many opportunities available to you.” Somerman also mentioned public health challenges including investigations into chronic pain. “Pain affects at least 116 million Americans and costs society between $560 and $635 billion annually,” she said. “This is an area where comprehensive interdisciplinary approaches are needed to help the public.” Oral health disparities research has also progressed, Somerman said, “but more needs to be done so the benefits of that research reach everyone.”

FEATURES

1 New Frontiers in Dentistry The School of Dentistry’s Global Oral Health Initiative

7 Faculty Profile Yvonne Kapila

11 AlumnusProfile Wayne Olsen

13 Dr.JamesR. Hayward 1920 - 2012

15 HomecomingWeekend201119 SearchforNewDeanBegins Peter Polverini to step down

21 SocialMedia Using “old” and “new” technologies

27 WendyKerschbaumRetiring DH director leaving in December

DEPARTMENTS9 Faculty 11 Alumni25 Students27 Dental Hygiene29 Research

C O N T E N T S :For more stories and the latest news go to Current News on our Web site: w w w. d e n t . u m i c h . e d u

HEAR MORE ON THE WEB

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Aboutthecover: Against the backdrop of a Kenyan savannah stands a sculpture of a Maasai woman created by a local artisan. The entire sculpture is made of recycled materials that includes scrap metal for the head, limbs and gourd, and cowhorn for the body. This creativity helps provide a living and using recycled materials sustains earth-friendly art and culture.

DentalUM SPRING & SUMMER 201211

“When you’re at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, our expectation is that you will do great things,” says Dr. Yvonne Kapila. “Now, we are raising the bar. We will challenge our students and faculty to do greater things, not just in classrooms, clinics, and research laboratories here, but around the world.” Named by Dean Peter Polverini as the new director of the School’s Global Oral Health Initiative last fall, Kapila has been collaborating, virtually nonstop since then, with many throughout the School and with others across U-M. Following numerous meetings and conversations, three core elements of the program have been established.

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Core Guidelines “First and foremost, our students and faculty will participate in oral health care related activities in other parts of the world only if similar activities are unavailable at the University or elsewhere in this country,” Kapila emphasizes. “Second, the program builds on existing relationships that either the School or the University has with a similar institution,” she adds. “Finally, any exchange with another institution in another part of the world must be sustainable.” Kapila’s background has been helpful developing the program. “I’ve been doing a lot of research,” she says with a smile, “seeking information, reviewing and evaluating it, and talking to others here and elsewhere who have been involved with international programs.”

As she conducts her not-in-the-laboratory research, Kapila is also considering how to meld the program’s goals and objectives with Polverini’s vision of having the School’s faculty and students become more engaged globally.

U-M’s Global Plans The School’s new program is being crafted to parallel U-M President Mary Sue Coleman’s Third Century Initiative that seeks to develop new avenues of learning and immerse students in experiences beyond the classroom. The campus initiative will use $50 million in existing funds over five years to develop innovative, multidisciplinary teaching and learning programs that will include international experiences for faculty and students. Announcing the initiative last fall Coleman said, “the University will be aggressive in developing new approaches to teaching and research and fresh ideas that will improve people’s lives.” She emphasized “our graduates must be able to work effectively with others who are different from themselves and in settings that are much different than anything they have experienced.”

“More Vital Than Ever” Globalization was also highlighted during U-M’s reaccreditation in 2010. “Our students are entering a world in which international connections are the norm. …It is imperative that the University help our students, whether they are residents or nonresidents, domestic or international, to prepare for lives of significant international engagement,” the University noted in a document to the Higher Learning Commission, an independent corporation that holds membership in the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. NCA is one of six regional agencies that provide institutional accreditation on a geographical basis. The document continued, “To live, lead, and thrive in tomorrow’s world, it is more vital than ever for our students


to have ample and robust opportunities to expand their international horizons, and to experience an education commensurate with those horizons.”

Building on a FoundationKapila says the School’s efforts “will be sharply focused,

not broad based” and will build on relationships already established in Ghana, Kenya, and Brazil. “It’s important to continue what’s been started and return to countries where a foundation is already in place and build on those personal and professional relationships,” she said.

U-M has had longstanding relationships in Ghana that date to the 1980s. Dr. Lynn Johnson, the School’s assistant dean for Informatics and Innovation, has built upon those relationships. [See page 5.]

Last summer, a group of dental students and faculty helped in a Kenyan village. [See page 6.]

Two U-M dental students, Saroj Saha and An Nguyen, traveled to Brazil last year to observe different models of oral health care delivery. Four Brazilian dental students from Bauru came to U-M to attend classes and lectures, review research projects, and observe patient care provided in student and faculty clinics including periodontics, prosthodontics, operative dentistry, oral medicine, and orthodontics.

In a blog, Saha described his experiences as “amazing.” He wrote, “I was able to experience the value of our Michigan education. In my short time in Brazil, I was able to see the work of several of our professors being cited in their lectures.”

Dental School “Adds Value”The director of the U-M Center for Global Health

(CGH), Dr. Sofia Merajver, agrees with the approach the School is taking.

“Yvonne worked with CGH last year to help the School of Dentistry with its Kenya Summer Research Program,” she said. “Yvonne is committed to building a foundation of mutual respect and trust that can lead to establishing long-term programs that address pressing oral health problems, not only in Kenya, but other parts of the world.”

Merajver, a professor of internal medicine at the Medical School who has been in the health profession for thirty years, said, “I know the importance of systemic health and how important good oral health is to a person’s quality of life. The School of Dentistry is uniquely

positioned to add value to the University’s efforts, as we move forward to, indeed, be in the lead.”

Curriculum ConsiderationsWhat effect will the Global Oral Health Initiative have

on students and the curriculum?Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, associate dean for

Academic Affairs, says, “We are working to ensure a rich learning experience with clearly defined outcomes for students who participate.” Several factors, she says, must be considered.

One is a student’s academic record. “Students considering such an experience need to be in good academic standing,” she says. In addition, the length of time a student is away from U-M and what is taught during the time he or she is away are other factors to be considered.

Nonetheless, Murdoch-Kinch says the new program “demonstrates the School’s commitment to preparing our students to perform effectively in a global community.

Dr. Yvonne Kapila and Jami Ballantine,D3, with Ballantine’s Kenya Summer Research Program poster presented at the annual Student Global Health Day sponsored by the U-M Center for Global Health.

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The U-M Center for Global Health - A Valuable Ally -

As she develops the School’s Global Oral Health Initiative, Dr. Yvonne Kapila has an ally in Dr. Sofia Merajver, director of the U-M Center for Global Health. Established in the fall of 2009, the Center, which reports to the Provost, builds on the University’s nearly 200-year legacy of education and research by creating and nurturing partnerships with colleges, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations worldwide. “Today’s world is increasingly globally connected, and our graduates need to know the world,” said Provost Philip Hanlon during an international affairs forum at U-M last fall. Merajver, a professor of internal medicine at the Medical School, has been the Center’s director since January 2010. “The University of Michigan name and its history of excellence open doors that allow the Center for Global Health to be engaged with others around the world,” she said. Merajver said no assumptions are made when the Center begins collaboration in other parts of the world. “We always ask, ‘What is your biggest problem and how can we help you’?” Because of that approach, she said, U-M faculty and students “often work outside of their comfort zone, which is wonderful, because that’s the path that leads to discovery. In effect, we are pioneers because we’re creating a road map others can follow.” Merajver said more than 300 U-M students and faculty are now involved in projects worldwide under the Center’s auspices.

The program also aligns our vision with the new curriculum that has been designed to prepare our students for leadership roles in the dental profession in Michigan, the U.S., and worldwide.

Funding The Global Oral Health Initiative is funded from sources that include the School of Dentistry, the U-M Center for Global Health, the Medical School’s MCRiT program, the International College of Dentists, and private foundations, including the Dr. Dale Williams Family Foundation. L ast summer, for example, funding from the International College of Dentists helped the School send two dental students to Brazil. “I’m always looking for ways we can fund our efforts in global programs, including approaching nonprofit organizations and applying for grants,” Kapila says. “This program will always be a work in progress. That’s as it should be because change is constant, especially in today’s world.”

Dental students Ashley Green (left) and Jami Ballantine (center) help children at the Kithoka Primary School in Meru, Kenya learn how to use computers that were refurbished by the School of Dentistry. In the background is Dr. Yvonne Kapila.

The School’s Global Family

The School of Dentistry is truly cosmopolitan. Of its more than 1,160 students, faculty and staff, 166 are from 36 countries ranging from Algeria to Venezuela. One hundred seventeen are full-time faculty and staff. Forty-nine are students in predoctoral, dental hygiene, and graduate programs. According to the School’s Department of Human Resources and the Office of Academic Affairs, 33 faculty and staff are from China, 18 from Canada, 14 from Korea, 12 from India, and 11 each from Brazil and Japan. The predoctoral program has 16 international students: 6 from Korea, 4 from Canada, 4 from India, 1 from Columbia, and 1 from Iran. Graduate programs have 30 international students: Saudi Arabia, 8; Canada, 6; Greece, 3; India, Kuwait, Taiwan, and Venezuela, 2 each; and Chile, China, Germany, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates, 1 each. The dental hygiene program, with 82 students in three classes, includes a student from Canada, India, and Pakistan.


Building CapacityDr. Lynn Johnson, assistant dean for Informatics and

Innovation at the School of Dentistry, has gained some valuable insights during her six visits to Ghana since 2007 that are helping the new Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi develop its program. Her trips also build upon U-M President Mary Sue Coleman’s initiatives designed to broaden existing collaborations with several universities and forge new relationships in Ghana and South Africa.

Talking about the relationships she has cultivated and nurtured at KNUST, Johnson said, “It’s constant collaboration. Our discussions always focus on how we can work together so everyone benefits. You listen a lot, speak little, and observe everything.”

Johnson said there have been some noticeable changes in just five years.

In the past, most dentists were educated abroad and often would remain in the country they were trained. “Initially, the focus of dental education in Ghana was educating dentists who remain and practice in Ghana,” she said. “But now, we are helping the Ghana dental graduates to become dental faculty

and fill the faculty positions both at KNUST and the University of Ghana dental schools. That’s an important change.” The University of Ghana’s dental school was established about 15 years ago. The first dental students from KNUST will graduate in August. The dentistry initiative builds on the work of Dr. Timothy Johnson, professor and chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the U-M Medical School who first visited Ghana in 1986. He has returned many times since and “always emphasizes how important it is for all of us to view each meeting and each conversation with everyone we talk to as important steppingstones in building long-term relationships with officials, educators, students, and the people in the country,” Lynn Johnson said.

Ghana Dental Students at U-M Last fall, three KNUST dental students spent four weeks at the School of Dentistry auditing classes and interacting with students, faculty, and staff. The students – Sabina Parry, Esther Danquah, and Martin Tetteh – said they were surprised how dentistry is taught at U-M, interactions in classrooms and clinics between students

Dr. Lynn Johnson helped three dental students from Ghana (left to right) Esther Danquah, Martin Tetteh, and Sabina Parry learn more about dental education last fall at the School of Dentistry.

“Listen a Lot, Speak Little, Observe Everything”


Dental Students, Faculty, Join U-MColleagues in Kenya

A team of School of Dentistry faculty members and students joined colleagues from other U-M schools and colleges last summer in a shared effort to make a difference in the lives of residents in a small town in Kenya. The University-wide initiative, the Kenya Summer Research Program, was centered in the village of Meru, only five miles north of the equator and about 110 miles northeast of Nairobi. Dental students said their experiences in Kenya gave them an opportunity to assess oral health care needs in another country, learn more about another culture, and use their knowledge and clinical skills to contribute to a community in need. Ashley Green said, “I became more culturally aware of the health disparities that exist internationally. I plan to use my experiences in Kenya as a steppingstone for my future endeavors in international oral health care service.” Dental student Aaron Ruhlig said he “enjoyed the opportunity to work with classmates and faculty outside of the traditional classroom experience.” Dr. Yvonne Kapila said the Kenya Summer Research Program “is a shared U-M effort that is designed to be ongoing.”

and faculty, and how technology is used in education and patient care. They were surprised to see every dental student at Michigan having access to computers in clinics and using them to obtain patient information. “We have only about 250 dentists to help more than 25 million people in Ghana,” Danquah said. “Since we are pioneers at our dental school, we’re trying to learn as much as we can at Michigan to see if there might be ways we can use what we have learned here to help the people of our country.” Tetteh and Parry said they were impressed with the Grand Rounds program that links basic science and clinical science, helps develop critical thinking skills, and uses evidence-based decision making to enhance patient treatment. However, the three dental students from Ghana said the benefits of coming to U-M were not limited to classrooms or clinics. Parry said while she was in Ann Arbor, “I attended my first jazz concert at Hill Auditorium. It was great,” she said with a smile.

Dental student Ashley Green talks to students at Gichunge Primary School about the importance of good oral health.


FACULTYFACULTY

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P R O F I L E

riven . Adaptab le. Successfu l .Those are the three words that best describe Dr. Yvonne Kapila, a professor of dentistry in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine and the School’s new director of Global Oral Health Initiative. Listening to her

talk about growing up in California, her desire to get a higher education, and her professional career, Kapila seems to have a knack for turning almost any situation into an opportunity for personal and professional growth Her mother and father, both farmers in Mexico, moved to Los Angeles in the 1940s. There, her father was a car mechanic and carpenter; her mother a housewife. In the late 1960s, when she was three or four, Kapila said she, an older sister, and two older brothers moved with their parents to San Francisco.

Noticing Health Disparities at an Early Age “Growing up in a Mexican barrio ghetto,” she said, “I saw health differences in children my age and the migrant farmers, and asked myself, ‘why is that’? But I didn’t have the answers.” Since her family could not afford dental care, Kapila said she was 10 or 11 when she saw a dentist for the first time at a community clinic. “That dentist made a big difference in my smile and in my life,” Kapila said. “Although I don’t remember her name, I do remember that she was a Michigan graduate. That may have been the spark that got me to thinking about dentistry as a possible career.” A straight-A student in high school and president of her senior class, Kapila worked weekends as a bank teller and microfilm clerk. When she applied to the University of California-Berkeley and Stanford, she was offered scholarships at both universities. Kapila said when she turned down a four-year scholarship at UC-Berkeley to attend Stanford, “I did not know then that I would endure some financial hardships and others, including not having enough money to eat at times,” she said. “One semester I worked several part-time jobs to make ends meet.” At one job she worked in a neuropathology research laboratory at the VA hospital in Palo Alto. “When I was hired, I washed the laboratory glassware. During my third year, I was awarded an undergraduate research opportunities grant to conduct my own research,” she said. “That experience was a formative part of my career.”

After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in human biology from Stanford in 1986, Kapila pursued both a Bachelor of Science degree and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at UC-San Francisco.

A Growing Interest in Research At UCSF she also worked in a research laboratory which gave her an added dimension to the career in dentistry she was aggressively pursuing. “I thought research would be a great opportunity, not just to earn some spending money, but to broaden my horizons beyond clinic work,” she said. It did. After earning both a BS and DDS in 1990, Kapila began working for her PhD at UCSF. There, she met her husband, Sunil, who chairs the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry at the U-M School of Dentistry. She also pursued a certificate of specialization in periodontology. “There was no dual-degree type of program then, so working with an advisor, we created one,” she said. Kapila received her periodontolgy certificate in 1994. But 1997 was a banner year. In addition to receiving her PhD in oral biology, Kapila received a Hatton Award for her research from the American


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Association for Dental Research, and was also a first-place winner in the American Academy of Periodontology’s Bailant Orban Research Competition. That summer she began her postdoctoral work in cell biology, and was named an assistant adjunct professor of stomatology in the periodontology department at UCSF.

A Father’s Pride “Those achievements helped me realize how determined I was and also helped me realize that I could successfully handle multiple projects simultaneously,” Kapila said. Her success also affected her parents. “I remember my dad, before he died, carrying my PhD thesis and showing it to his friends and others he met,” she said with a smile. “My mother didn’t

understand why he was doing that or what my work was about, but she was very proud of me.” Kapila said she would have been happy to continue teaching and conducting research at UCSF and practicing part time. But in 2004, her husband, Sunil, received a phone call from the U-M School of Dentistry asking him if he might be interested in being considered as chair of the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry to succeed the retiring Dr. Lysle Johnston. “When Sunil told me about the call, he was excited,” she said. “But I wasn’t. I told him that I wasn’t anxious to move

because my family, career, and our home were in California. But he urged me to keep an open mind and come with him to Michigan.”

The Michigan Difference W hen she first visited U-M, Kapila said she was surprised. “The environment was more welcoming than I expected. I was impressed with the warmth among the faculty and staff, the camaraderie, and the collaborative environment here. I also thought the periodontics department, under the direction of Dr. Laurie McCauley, was especially strong and a place I’d like to continue my career.” In addition to teaching periodontics in classrooms and clinics since arriving in Ann Arbor in 2004, Kapila is a cell and

molecular biologist whose laboratory focuses on the process of cell death and how, in some circumstances, cancer cells defy this normal process and become more aggressive, ultimately leading to metastases. Her lab is trying to identify key markers in this process with the hopes of developing new therapies that target aggressive tumorigenesis. “This is one of the aggressive properties of cancer that contributes to the poor survival rates of oral cancer patients,” she said. Another research initiative seeks to determine if certain biomarkers can be used to predict the likelihood of

periodontal disease before it occurs. During periodontal disease progression, there is both a loss of periodontal connective tissues and cell death in the periodontium that exacerbate the disease. “Procedures we now use, such as radiographs or clinical measurements, tell us what has already happened. We’re looking beyond that. What we want to do is try to predict possible disease progression,” Kapila said.

Looking back, she says that growing up in California has affected her life in other ways.

“As fortunate as we have been, we are always looking for opportunities to help those less fortunate in other parts of the world,” Kapila said. “I think that was one of the long-term results of my experiences at an AIDS clinic in Kenya in

1987 when I was working on my dental degree.”

As she travels to India, Central America, and other parts of the world, Kapila says she sees how oral health care is provided. “But I keep asking myself, ‘how can I make a difference in the lives of these people?’ That reminds me of the questions I asked myself growing up in California.”

As the School of Dentistry’s new director of Global Oral Health Initiative program, Kapila is determined to make a difference. Based on her achievements and ability to adapt, there is no doubt she will succeed.

“ I remember my dad, before he died,

carrying my PhD thesis and showing

it to his fr iends and others he met.”


FACULTYFACULTY

NEWS

Giannobile New POM Chair

Dr. William Giannobile is the new chair of the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. His appointment, effective March 1, was announced in February by Dean Peter Polverini. Giannobile, the William K. and Mary Anne Najjar Professor of Dentistry, has been director of the Michigan Center for Oral Health Research since 2003 and is also a professor of biomedical engineering at the College of Engineering. He earned his DDS and a master’s degree in oral biology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1991and a certificate in periodontology and Doctor of Medical Science from Harvard in 1996. He has been at the U-M School of Dentistry since 1998. An internationally recognized expert in using novel methods to stimulate periodontal tissue repair, Giannobile has been acknowledged for his work. Last fall, he was installed as the new president of the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation for a one-year term that expires in November. Since April 2010, he has been editor-in-chief of the Journal of Dental Research, a monthly scientific journal of the International Association for Dental Research, an organization with nearly 11,000 members worldwide. “Dr. Giannobile brings a wealth of experience to this position and is ideally suited to lead and further expand the department’s unique strengths in research, education, and clinical care,” Polverini noted in his announcement. The department of more than 180 faculty, staff, and graduate students has been chaired by Dr. Laurie McCauley since March 2002.

Lantz New MICHR Associate Director

Dr. Marilyn Lantz, professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, became the new associate director for education, career development, and mentoring at the Michigan Institute for Clinical Health and Research (MICHR) in February. As associate director, Lantz oversees transdisciplinary clinical and translational training programs at undergraduate graduate, postdoctoral, faculty and staff levels. She is also responsible for planning and implementing new activities ranging from workshops and courses to certificate and degree programs. MICHR’s mission is to increase the quality, quantity, and impact of clinical and translational research produced by teams from engineering and the Institute for Social Research, as well as the health sciences including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, public health, and kinesiology. The Education and Career Development Core supports more than 50 clinical research trainees at master’s and postdoctoral levels. “I’m excited to join MICHR’s talented and experienced leadership team,” Lantz said. “Supporting the development of high quality, new educational experiences for clinical and translational researchers at all levels across the University is work that will be deeply rewarding for me.”


Krebsbach ElectedAAAS Fellow

D r . P a u l K r e b s b a c h , chair of the D e p a r t m e n t o f B i o l o g i c and Materials S c i e n c e s and the Roy R o b e r t s Professor of

Dentistry, was one of 13 U-M faculty members, and one of 539 faculty nationwide, recently elected a Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Krebsbach, department chair since 2005, has been with the School of Dentistry since 1996. Prior to joining U-M, he was with the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research as a senior staff fellow. His research focuses on the cell and molecular biology of mineralized tissues with an emphasis on gene therapy-directed osteogenesis and bone marrow stromal cell biology. A major emphasis in the Krebsbach lab is understanding cellular and molecular determinants of stem cells that allow them to either remain a stem cell or direct them to become specialized cells. Krebsbach said his lab studies these processes in both human adult stem cells and pluripotent stem cells. “Members of AAAS represent an incredibly broad scope of science and science education. I have enjoyed participating in AAAS sponsored activities, and it’s an honor to be recognized by peers in this scientific association,” Krebsbach said.

U-M Prosthodontists Win First Place Award

Two residents in the School of Dentistry’s graduate prosthodontics program won a first place award for their poster presentation during the American College of Prosthodontics meeting last fall. Drs. Dimitrios Chronaios and Lisa Kane, both third-year residents, won the top award for their work that focuses on ways that may be more economical to fabricate porcelain fused to metal crowns using a cobalt-chrome alloy and a CAD/CAM milling process. The implications of their research could ultimately affect the cost to dental patients and practitioners. Cobalt-chrome alloys have a long history and clinical track record, according to Dr. Michael Razzoog, director of the School’s graduate prosthodontics program. However, these particular alloys are difficult to cast and contain nickel, a metal many patients are sensitive to. “To cast a cobalt-chrome alloy, trace elements are included which have been known to cause a reaction in some patients,” Razzoog said. He added, though, that a milled cobalt-chrome alloy does not need to have these elements included, and that CAD/CAM milled alloys do not contain nickel or other metals for strength or function.

Dean Peter Polverini is welcomed into the Institute of Medicine by Dr. Harvey Fineberg, IOM president.

Polverini Inductedinto IOM

Dr. Peter Polverini, professor and dean of the School of Dentistry, was formally inducted into the Institute of Medicine during the organization’s annual meeting last October. Membership in IOM is a milestone of professional achievement and service. “The induction ceremony was a remarkable event,” Polverini said. “It was an honor to be in the presence of so many outstanding individuals who have given so much to advance the health and welfare of the citizens of this nation.” Established in 1970 as the health unit of the National Academy of Sciences, IOM is an independent, nonprofit organization that works outside of government to provide unbiased and authoritative information and advice to decision makers and the public. In its role, IOM advises Congress, Congressional staff, and agency leaders on important health care issues, including oral health. Membership in IOM is offered to 65 individuals each year. They are selected from a range of health care professions, including oral health, based on their record of achievement and willingness to actively participate in IOM’s work.

Drs. Dimitrios Chronaios and Lisa Kane.


ALUMNI RELATIONSALUMNI RELATIONS

’m impressed with the caliber of dental students from the U-M School of Dentistry. Their knowledge, professionalism, and openness to new ideas and ways of doing things is greater than it was when I was a dental

student,” said Dr. Wayne Olsen. “And that’s as it should be, because, from my experiences, you always want to be advancing, both professionally and personally.” With the cost of his education paid for by the U.S. Army, Olsen earned his dental degree from U-M in 1981 and then spent seven years as a general dentist and 18 years as an oral surgeon in the military. During that time he completed his general practice residency in 1982 at Moncrief Army Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina, and his residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery in 1993 at the Eisenhower Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia. During his 25-year military career, Olsen also held multiple clinical and academic posts, including department chair and director of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program at the Madigan Army Center in Tacoma, Washington, from 1999 to 2002. After retiring from the Army, Olsen joined a practice in Traverse City and later, in Alpena and Cadillac. “A year before I retired, I met Drs. Royce Beers and Dave Howard and rediscovered how beautiful Traverse City is and the great people working and living there,” he said. In addition to running the three offices, Olsen is a member of the Munson Medical Center’s facial trauma team that is on call 24/7 and covers the northern half of lower Michigan and all of the Upper Peninsula.

Michigan Roots Born in Whitehall, Michigan, Olsen said his family moved frequently because his father was an executive with well-known retailer J.C. Penney. “Growing up, I recall visiting Traverse City often and later thought that one day it might be a nice place to live,” he said. “But because of my dad’s job, we moved about every three years — Michigan, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania. Looking back, that was great preparation for my career in the Army because I was transferred fifteen times before I retired,” he said with a laugh. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Toledo, Olsen said he considered four career options – law, medicine, dentistry, or a PhD in chemistry. “I chose dentistry because I remembered my family dentist telling me how much he enjoyed helping people. I thought that would be both gratifying and challenging,” Olsen said.

“Compared to when I

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Eisenhower Medical Center. “It was a very demanding program,” he said, “but it led to further professional growth that allowed me to help my patients even more than what I could as a general dentist.” That drive for professional and personal growth is something Olsen said he constantly emphasizes to U-M dental students who travel to the Traverse

City area to participate in the School’s outreach program. “The outreach program in this area has expanded into a year-round program that involves the entire community,” Olsen said. Dr. Bill Piskorowski, director of the School’s community outreach program, “is a natural leader who worked with everyone – area dentists, local health agencies, and other groups – and got them excited about the possibilities of what we could do, working together, to enhance access to care in the Traverse City area,” Olsen said. “Because the expanded program benefits students and local practitioners, the community is better off because of it.” Last May, U-M dental students began spending three days a month in the Traverse City area working alongside

During his days as a dental student at Michigan, Olsen said he always enjoyed the classes taught by Dr. Jack Gobetti. “You knew the moment you set foot in his classes Jack was passionate about dentistry and teaching. He cared about his students. He cared about his patients. He was a great role model,” Olsen said. The two maintain frequent

contact. “I still talk to Jack at least once a week to let him know how I’m doing and to get his ideas and opinions on cases I’m handling.”

Army Dentistry As he was completing his dental studies at Michigan, Olsen said Drs. Andy Koran and Lee Pratt urged him to enter the graduate prosthodontics program. “But I couldn’t,” Olsen said. “I was an Army scholarship student, so I was required to repay the loans for my education with a four-year stint in the military.” Olsen said that as a general practice dentist in the Army, he became interested in oral surgery. So he enrolled in and completed his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at the

12 local dentists as a part of the School’s community outreach program. During their rotations, dental students work one day in Olsen’s office and two days in the office of Dr. Ronald Chao providing care to low income, uninsured adults.

Giving Back Mentoring dental students is one way Olsen said he enjoys giving back to the School of Dentistry for his education. Especially gratifying, Olsen said, is when dental students he mentors follow up with an e-mail or telephone call to let him know about something going on in a classroom or clinic they think might be of interest. “I was thrilled to receive an e-mail from a dental student who blogged about his experiences during the summer in the Traverse City area,” he said. Another is serving on the School’s Alumni Society Board of Governors and participating in organized dentistry at local, state, and national levels. “I’ve been involved in organized dentistry, including eight years as a Michigan Dental Association delegate, but being on the Board of Governors is a great opportunity to learn, first hand, what is going on at the School and to talk to the students and be their advocate,” he said. “This is an exciting time to be a dentist and to study dentistry at the University of Michigan,” Olsen said. “I know there’s a lot of gloom and doom in the media, but, from my perspective, I think it’s just the opposite. Compared to when I was a student, there are many great opportunities for dental students after graduation, especially in private practice. They should be excited,” he continued, “because there’s not a better career than dentistry, and not a better place to practice than Michigan.”

Dr. Wayne Olsen, second from left, mentors U-M dental students during their rotation at the Traverse Health Clinic.


World renowned oral surgeon Dr. James Rogers Hayward died May 20 in Naples, Florida. He was 91.

During a distinguished career at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and the Medical School, Dr. Hayward trained 83 residents in oral surgery and was known as an extraordinarily gifted surgeon who demanded knowledge, preparation, and excellence in clinics and classrooms.

The son of a dentist, Dr. Roy G. Hayward (Class of 1911), James R. Hayward earned his DDS from the U-M School of Dentistry in 1944 and a master’s degree in oral surgery three years later. In 1943, he married Dr. Jane Slocum, a U-M dental graduate.

A clinical instructor as a graduate student, Dr. Hayward was later an assistant professor who taught at the School of Dentistry while maintaining a private practice in Detroit. During the Korean War, he headed oral surgery and assisted in the facial restoration of wounded soldiers with the U.S. Army Dental Corps in Colorado Springs.

Following the death of Dr. John Kemper, the School’s chair of the Department of Oral Surgery, Dr. Hayward was invited to become department chair in 1952. Four years later, he became a professor of dentistry and in 1963, a professor of dentistry in surgery at the Medical School. He directed oral and maxillofacial surgery in the Department of Hospital Dentistry at the University Hospitals and the Cleft Palate Project.

Throughout his career, Dr. Hayward helped develop oral surgery training standards and served as president of various oral surgery academies, associations, and boards. He published more than 175 journal articles, book chapters, and a textbook.

Dr. Hayward retired in 1982 but continued working part time as an oral surgeon with his former resident, Dr. Peter Mestnik, in Marquette, Michigan during the summer and at the VA Hospital in Ft. Myers, Florida during the winter. He also participated in medical mission trips to perform cleft lip surgeries to help children. His last visit to U-M was in June


1920-2012DDS 1944 - MS Oral Surgery 1947

2009 as graduation speaker for the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Hayward was married for 67 years to Jane Louise Slocum (DDS 1943) prior to her death in January 2011. He is survived by his son, James S. Hayward (DDS 1973) who directed the Marquette County Health Department’s dental clinics in Marquette, Michigan; daughter Martha Hayward Sparks (DH 1973) of Edisto Island, South Carolina; a son, Ralph, of Whitmore Lake, Michigan; 7 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren. The family requests that any memorials be made to the Hayward Professorship Fund at the U-M School of Dentistry. Please make checks payable to the University of Michigan and mail to the Office of Development, 540 E. Liberty, Suite 204, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Please note “Hayward Professorship” on the check memo line. Dr. James S. Hayward said, “I would like to thank all his professional colleagues and friends at the School and the community for their concern and especially their friendship and support that meant so much to dad over these many years.”

Dr. James R. Hayward

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Mark Marunick (DDS 1975, MS 1980) has published the third edition of his textbook, Maxillofacial Rehabilitation: Prosthodontic and Surgical Management of Cancer-Related, Acquired, and Congenital Defects of the Head and Neck. The textbook is used in prosthodontic graduate training programs worldwide.

Howard Belkin (DDS 1980) of Birmingham, Michigan, has been appointed to the attending medical staff of William Beaumont Hospital in Troy, Michigan.

Steven Sulfaro (DDS 1985) of Holly, Michigan, and a past president of the Genesee District Dental Society, was inducted into the International College of Dentists during the ADA’s annual session in Las Vegas last fall.

Dental school graduates Lt. Brett Walcott (DDS 2007) and Capt. Donald Worm (DDS 1988) (above) had something to cheer about when the University of Michigan football team beat Virginia Tech 23-20 in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans in early January. The two are stationed in Afghanistan helping that country’s medical providers create a healthcare system for the country’s military. The new U-M fan, in the center, is Dr. Abdul Sultani with that country’s national army.

Adam Garfinkle (DDS 2011) is one of the first new residents in the general practice residency program at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital in Pontiac, Michigan. The director of the program is Dr. Craig Spangler (DDS 1979). Clinical director is Dr. Nisha Kapoor Yusaf (DDS 2000). After having closed in 1988, the facility’s dental clinic opened last summer to provide a full range of dental services to needy children, uninsured adults, and people with disabilities.

NEWSIn Memoriam

’46 Dr. Robert Lathrop June 8, 2011 Anchorage, Alaska

’51 Dr. William L. Easley April 15, 2011 Grand Rapids, Michigan

’51 Dr. Doyle Hendricks November 20, 2011 Adrian, Michigan

’52 Dr. Bruce D. Jones September 13, 2011 Grosse Ile, Michigan

’53 Dr. Vince Greeson April 21, 2012 West Stockbridge, Massachusetts

’73 Dr. Stephen Beeker October 21, 2011 Traverse City, Michigan

Dr. Kazumasa Kaya (DDS 1958, MS 1965) “He was an instant friend to everyone he met. He had a twinkle in his eye and a giggle that was unforgettable,” said one about Dr. Kazumasa Kaya, who died April 10, 2012 in Ann Arbor. He was 80 years old. An adjunct faculty member who assisted in the School’s Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, Dr. Kaya was named director of the predoctoral oral and maxillofacial surgery teaching program in 1982. In 1988, graduating dental students presented him with the Paul Gibbons Award for outstanding teaching. In 1993, he was selected by third-year dental students as the Outstanding Instructor of the Year.



Dental, Dental Hygiene Classes of ’61 Reunite Graduates of the Dental and Dental Hygiene Classes of 1961 returned to Ann Arbor last fall for three days of Homecoming Weekend activities at the School of Dentistry and elsewhere on the U-M campus. On Thursday, October 27, 40 dental and 15 dental hygiene graduates received an emeritus medallion and pin marking the golden anniversary of their graduation from the School of Dentistry. The widows of three DDS alumni – Mrs. Joseph Cohen, Mrs. James Cox, and Mrs. Alan Welty – were invited by the Class of 1961 to receive the medallion and pin on behalf of their deceased husbands. Dr. Jerry Booth, a Class of ’61 honoree and member of the School’s Alumni Society Board of Governors, said, “the three were excited to be included in the ceremony.” Afterwards, there was a tour of the School’s preclinical laboratories, class photos were taken, and all participated in the Hall of Honor and Alumni Awards Luncheon and Induction Ceremony. Friday’s Morawa Lecture on infection control practices was presented by Dr. John Molinari. That evening, more than 250 graduates and spouses from dental and dental hygiene classes who graduated in years ending in 1 and 6 attended the Homecoming Gala at the Michigan League.

“We Create What Others Will Discover” In his remarks, Dean Peter Polverini recalled a student asking him why he should attend U-M instead of another dental school. Polverini told the crowd what he told the student: “You could attend another dental school and discover what others have created. Or, you can attend Michigan where we create what others will discover.” Dr. Scott Schulz (DDS 1996, MS 2003), said “having the gala at the Michigan League, remarks from the dean, and songs from the Friars singing group, all added to the collegiate atmosphere of Homecoming and made the evening extra special.” The weekend was capped off for many alumni who were at the Big House to see the Wolverines beat Purdue 36-14 Saturday afternoon.

Weekend 2011Dental Hygiene Class of 1961

The U-M Singing Friars

Dr. Yvonne Kochanczyk said even though she was the only female in the Dental Class of 1961, “the guys were very pleasant to me when I was a student. I’m happy to see them again.”

School of Dentistry alumni and guests rise to their feet as they sing The Victors in the Grand Ballroom at the Michigan League.

All photos Scott Soderberg


Dr. L. George UptonInducted into Hall of Honor

“I don’t know anyone who loved his work more than dad. He never complained about his workload, nor did he ever have a longing to retire. I think that’s because the School of Dentistry was intellectually stimulating and was also his extended family that gave him a sense of community,” said Steven Upton as he reflected on the life of his father, Dr. L. George Upton, who was posthumously inducted into the School’s Hall of Honor. A faculty member in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Hospital Dentistry for 40 years, Dr. Upton died in June 2010 at age 69 following a battle with lymphoma. Dr. Joseph Helman, department chair who presented Upton for induction, said, “in addition to his professional achievements, George was recognized by everyone as an incredible gentleman. He joins Dr. Chalmers Lyons and Dr. John Kemper from our department who all deserve to be members of this prestigious group.”

Distinguished ServiceAward to Dr. Joseph Kolling

Dr. Josef Kolling, an adjunct clinical associate professor of dentistry and a past president of the Michigan Dental Association, received the Distinguished Service Award from the School’s Alumni Society Board of Governors. Kolling, who earned his dental degree in 1981 and a master’s degree in restorative dentistry three years later, was the first School of Dentistry faculty member in nearly a quarter century to become president of the MDA in May 2005. MDA President Dr. Connie Verhagen (DDS 1986, MS 1988), said, “if there’s one word that describes Joe, it’s this – leadership,” citing his participation in organized dentistry at local, state, and national levels. “Joe loves the profession of dentistry and working with students to help them become the dentists of tomorrow,” she said. Saying he was “shocked and surprised” when he learned he would receive the award, Kolling said, “I had a lot of support among colleagues and mentors at the School of Dentistry, in my practice, and among those in my family that enabled me to participate in organized dentistry as much as I have.”

Dr. Connie Verhagen, president of the Michigan Dental Association and School of Dentistry alumna, presented the Distinguished Service Award to Dr. Joe Kolling.

Steven Upton (right) received a replica of the plaque now on the School’s Hall of Honor that acknowledges the work of his father, the late Dr. L. George Upton, from Dr. Joseph Helman.

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Joshua Van Horn, D4Hometown: Traverse City, Michigan“I have been so humbled and honored by the generosity of the donors. It has made me realize just how lucky I am to be a part of the U of M School of Dentistry community. This extraordinary gift has inspired me to one day give back to the School and students.”

Megan Gipson, D4Hometown: Linden, Michigan“I will be forever grateful for the generosity that has been shown to me. This scholarship has made me a better student. Because some of my financial burdens have been lifted, I am able to focus more time and energy on my studies so that I can become a better dentist.”

Leslie McGarvey, D2Hometown: Southampton, Pennsylvania“Receiving the scholarship has eased the transition from having a steady income to being a full-time student. It also means Michigan values me as a non-traditional student. The scholarship has also validated my decision to leave the auto industry, where I conducted environmental audits worldwide for a well-known automaker for five years, to pursue a dental career.”

Laura Lungu, D2Hometown: Marysville, Michigan“After our family emigrated from Romania to the U.S. in search of a better life, my parents sacrificed immensely so I could have opportunities, such as a higher education, that they did not have. In addition to easing financial burdens, this scholarship reflects my dedication to academic success and that my community service is recognized and appreciated.”

Miran Ho, D4Hometown: Provo, Utah“The scholarship has helped ease my financial burdens so I can focus on learning dentistry and raising a family.”

Taylor Usitalo, D2Hometown: Lake Linden, Michigan“With the stress of daunting debt looming over my head, it’s nice to know the Roberts family is caring and generous in helping me to relieve that stress so I can be more focused on my schoolwork and patients.”

That’s the feeling ex-pressed by School of Den-tistry dental students who have received scholarships from the Roberts Family Foundation. All say the annual awards, whose amounts range from $1,500 to $10,000, are easing their financial concerns and, in turn, allowing them to bet-ter focus on their educa-tion. Since 2007, the need-based scholarships have been awarded to dental students with preference given to permanent State of Michigan residents, according to Dr. Marilyn Woolfolk, assistant dean for Student Services. Created from the es-tate of Dr. Roy (DDS 1932) and Mrs. Natalie Roberts, the Roberts Family Foun-dation is a major U-M benefactor and significant donor to the School of Dentistry. During each of the past two years, the Foundation has awarded more than $100,000 to dental stu-dents, based on financial need, from its Endowed and Expendable Scholar-ship Funds.

Profound gratitude...


Delta Dental Foundation

Scholarships

Since 1990, Delta Dental Foundation has awarded scholarships to U-M dental students to help them defray some of the costs of their education. The $1,000 scholarships are awarded annually to two students in each dental class, for a total of eight scholarships. U-M recipients must be residents of the state. Preference is given to one student in each class who is a member of a population group that is underrepresented in the dental profession. Appearing in the photo above are: (front row, left to right): Janelle Cooper (D1), Steve Feddick (D1), Andres Setaputri (D2), and Rachel Zurek (D2); (back row), Nicholas Ritzema (D4) and Kamille Brown (D4). Not pictured are two other recipients, Kevin Knust and Claire Fedore.

Bryton Mansfield, D2Hometown: Adrian, Michigan“Any support while in dental school is uplifting and encouraging. The Roberts Scholarship has helped to eliminate some of my concerns about my finances while I’m in school so I can better focus on my studies.”

Mariya Volvovsky, D2Hometown: Farmington Hills, Michigan“The scholarship has helped me finance my dental education. It gives me constant motivation to do my best and apply myself.”

Elena Petrova, D2Hometown: New York, New York“I’m honored to receive the Roberts Scholarship. It has given me a great opportunity to work with Drs. Marita Inglehart and (Ninna) Maria Regina Estrella and treat children with special health care needs.”

Kyle Gies, D4Hometown: Au Gres, Michigan“The scholarship has allowed me to focus on academics and not worry about the mountain of debt I am accumulating. I’m extremely fortunate to receive this scholarship and proud that it was awarded to me as a resident of a one-stoplight town with less than 500 people.”

Jocelyn Carroll, D1Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan“I’m honored to be awarded a Roberts Scholarship. It is a blessing to have the opportunity to become a part of the dental community and to receive their support.”

Brandon Larkin, D2Hometown: Flint, Michigan“I greatly appreciate receiving the Roberts Scholarship. It has significantly helped me meet some of my dental school expenses, including books, equipment, and scrubs.”

Daniel Hammaker, D4Hometown: Bloomfield Hills, Michigan“The Roberts Scholarship has allowed me to worry less about groceries, gas, and other things which, in turn, has relieved me of some stress during a very stressful two years.

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Dr. Sharon Brooks (DDS 1973), who retired in 2010 following an illustrious 37-year career in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine at the School of Dentistry, has established a new fellowship. The Brooks Fellowship, established with $100,000, will support graduate students in oral pathology, oral medicine, and oral radiology.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my career at the School of Dentistry, accepting many challenges and responsibilities. I feel I made a contribution to my students, patients, and colleagues,” she said before retiring. “My greatest satisfaction came from addressing a problem and, in the process, trying to provide an enriching experience for students, especially in diagnostics where they learn the most by doing.”

For many years, Brooks was the only oral and maxillofacial radiologist in charge of radiology education for dental and dental hygiene students. “If I didn’t know how to do something, I found out how and then did it. That included going back to school to get a degree in radiation protection (health physics),” she said. “I made myself an expert in my field and feel that I have been rewarded over and over again.”

“Special Fund”Dr. Laurie McCauley, former chair of the Department of

Periodontics and Oral Medicine, said, “This special fund will support graduate students in oral pathology, oral medicine, and/or oral radiology and provide them with opportunities to engage in professional organizations, attend meetings, and offset the expenses of their graduate education.”

Reflecting on Brooks’ career at the School of Dentistry, McCauley added, “Dr. Brooks has given so much to this institution and to the students she has worked with during her 37 plus years on the faculty. This fund will continue to provide valuable experiences for students while honoring her dedication and commitment to our profession.”

School of Dentistry alumni can enhance the new fellowship with a gift to the Periodontal Fund for Excellence and specifying their gift be applied to the Sharon Brooks Endowed Fellowship.

New Dr. Sharon Brooks Fellowship

Dean Search

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In January, Dean Peter Polverini announced he would not seek a third term as dean when his term expires in August 2013. He then plans to take a one-year sabbatical leave. In his message to the School, Polverini thanked everyone for their work “in a community that shares a dedication to world-changing research and scholarship and outstanding education focused on exceptional patient care. Serving as dean has been a great honor and privilege for me.” U-M Provost Phil Hanlon said of Dean Polverini’s tenure, “he has been a champion for the scientific foundation of dental practice and education, leading the School to achieve an impressive record of research funding.” The School ranked first among dental schools nationwide in grants awarded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, $11.27 million. Hanlon has named a 14-member committee to search for Dean Polverini’s successor. The search committee – which includes tenure and clinical track faculty, staff, a student, and alumni — will be chaired by Dr. Jacques Nör, Donald A. Kerr Collegiate Professor of Dentistry, Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences, and Endodontics; professor of biomedical engineering at the College of Engineering; and professor of otolaryngology at the School of Medicine. A full list of the search committee and other search committee updates can be found via a Dean’s Search button on the School’s home page – www.dent.umich.edu. Hanlon has asked the group “to conduct a broad search and present an unranked slate of recommended candidates” by the start of the Winter Term that begins January 7, 2013. “We look forward to the selection of a new dean who will seek to further enhance the School’s research, educational, and outreach activities,” he said.


Dr.MichaelCrete (DDS 1986) served on the Board of Governors (1996-1998). Involved at all levels of organized dentistry, including the ADA’s Commission of Young Professionals, he holds memberships in AGA, AGD, and AACD. An alumnus of the LD Pankey Institute, Dr. Crete has mentored many U-M dental students. He practices restorative and cosmetic dentistry in Grandville.

ShereeDuff* RDH, MS, is a 1980 graduate of the U-M dental hygiene program and worked 15 years in a periodontal practice. She established two dental hygiene programs and two dental assisting programs at Baker College where she is Associate Dean of Dental Sciences. A past vice-president of the St. Clair County Dental Hygiene Society and current president of the Michigan Dental Hygiene Educator’s Association, Ms. Duff is also a member of ADHA, MDHA, and OCDHA and the recipient of the national Sunstar Award of Excellence in 2010.

Dr.JoeErdman(DDS 1982) is a member of WMDDS, MDA, and ADA. He has been involved in the Russell W. Bunting Periodontal Study Club, American Association of Cosmetic Dentists, the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, and the American Association of Dental Editors.

Dr.WayneOlsen* (DDS 1981), served in the U.S. Army for 25 years with worldwide clinical and academic assignments as an oral surgeon and dental educator. A past president and current MDA delegate for the Resort District Dental Society, Dr. Olsen is also an executive committee member with the Michigan Oral Surgery Association and an adjunct professor of oral surgery at U-M. He practices in Traverse City, Cadillac, and Alpena.

Dr.CarlPogoncheff (DDS 2009; MS 2012) has a private practice in Lansing and is a faculty member at the School of Dentistry. A member of the MDA, ADA, Academy of Sports Dentistry and American College of Prosthodontists, Dr. Pogoncheff recently served a three-year term as regional representative for the ACP resident/fellows committee.

Dr.MichaelPalaszek (DDS 1982) has served on the Peer Review Committee of the West Michigan District Dental Society and currently serves secretary for the Kent County Dental Society. He is also on the Board of the West Michigan Dental Foundation.

Dr.ScottSchulz* (DDS 1996) served four years in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps before returning to U-M to receive a master’s in orthodontics in 2003. A board certified orthodontist with offices in Traverse City and Charlevoix, Dr. Schulz is an active member of the ADA, MDA and the AAO. He was an officer with the Resort District Dental Society for seven years and board member of the Great Lakes Association of Orthodontics for three years. He is a Specialty Examiner for the Michigan Board of Dentistry.

*Incumbent

Envelope with your ballot must be postmarked by August 1, 2012. Please mail your ballot to:

University of MichiganSchool of Dentistry540 E. Liberty, Suite 204Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2210

BALLOTVote for 4 dentists:

Dr. Michael Crete

Dr. Joe Erdman

Dr. Wayne Olsen *

Dr. Carl Pogoncheff

Dr. Michael Palaszek

Dr. Scott Schulz *

Vote for 1 hygienist:

Sheree Duff *

*Incumbent

Alumni Society Board of Governors ElectionPlease take a moment to vote for candidates who will serve on the School of Dentistry’s Alumni Society Board of Governors. Choose four dentists and one dental hygienist who will serve a three-year term beginning September 1, 2012. Then clip and mail your ballot to the School of Dentistry at the address on the ballot. Envelopes with your ballot must be postmarked by August 1, 2012.


“third wave” of communication innovation is taking place at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Students, faculty, and staff are affected as are patients, prospective students, and alumni. The new wave, which appears as though it will continue well into the future, builds on earlier efforts.

Here’s how the evolution has occurred. The “first wave” involved…and still involves…the use of printed material, such as magazines, books, and newspapers, and electronic media including television, videotapes, and radio to transmit information. These vehicles, however, have typically featured little or minimal interaction between the recipient (audience) and those who create and disseminate the content. The “second wave” began taking shape in the early to mid 1980s as personal computers, the Internet, and e-mail appeared, evolved, and became increasingly popular in businesses, schools, and homes. With these tools, communication became more frequent with users passing along information, often within moments of receiving it. The “third wave” involves the use of what’s called “social media.” It includes applications like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Flickr, and Picasa, as well as tools like blogging and texting. Social media builds upon the cornerstones of the first and second waves. Over time, social media may become the primary form of communication used by individuals and organizations.

Advancing at the School of Dentistry

Social Media

Hillary Mendillo


Social Media – What it Is Social media applications allow for interactive communication or social networking. It thrives on constant engagement and feedback among those who share similar interests. In a nutshell, social networking is all about “being connected.” Social media options give individuals who use Web-based mobile technologies (iPhones and Android smartphones, iPads and Android tablets, and other portable devices) new opportunities for peer-to-peer communications. Those with desktop computers also use social media. The use of mobile technologies has skyrocketed in recent years allowing almost everyone to be connected. Another recent survey published by the Pew Research Center revealed 65% of all U.S. adults use social networking sites compared to just 5% in 2005. Young adults, ages 18 to 29, consistently use the sites. However, use of social networking sites by users 65 and older has grown the fastest, 150% between 2009 and 2011. During this time, use by those ages 50 to 64 doubled, from 25% to 51%. The increases are significant. Millions can create content – text, photos, videos, music, and music videos – and use the Internet to share what they have created on message boards, blogs, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, or Flickr. Anyone using a social media application can be a writer, blogger, photographer, or videographer and can share with “friends and followers” topics of common interest, where they are, what they are doing, or what they have seen. The other person can be in another room or on the other side of the world. Social media allows unlimited outlets for sharing creativity. Last spring, for example, a group of U-M

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Umichdent

Flickr:www.flickr.com/photos/umdent/

Blog:www.WolverineBites.org

iTunesU:www.dent.umich.edu/media/itunes/index.html

UmichDent YouTube:www.youtube.com/user/umichdent

Web: http://dent.umich.edu/academicaffairs/

dental students produced a video, “Composite,” a dental parody set to the tune of a popular music video, “Dynamite.” After creating their video, the dental students posted it on YouTube where it has been viewed more than 12,000 times.

School of Dentistry Embracing Social Media The U-M School of Dentistry has been immersed in social media waters for several years. One of its earliest initiatives enabled students to use their portable listening devices to access lectures, podcasts, and course materials on iTunes anywhere and at any time. A public site, Open Dentistry, followed and allows visitors access to community, educational, and historical media. The School’s YouTube channel is informative and popular with more than 8,000 subscribers. Visited approximately 9,000 times daily by individuals at dental schools, medical schools, and private practice dentists worldwide. Nearly 900 digital videos have been viewed more than 8 million times. Originally in analog format, the videos were produced in the School’s television studios in the 1960s and

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70s and still provide meaningful content to the dental and medical communities.

The School’s use of social media has expanded to include a presence on Facebook with nearly 2,500 fans and a Flickr site with School-related photos. Dental and dental hygiene students have been blogging regularly for two years at Wolverine Bites where they describe daily life at the School of Dentistry and events inside and outside the classroom.

School BloggersAccording to Celia Alcumbrack-

McDaniel, editor of Wolverine Bites in the Office of Student Services, both dental and dental hygiene students were asked to volunteer to write blogs about their experiences for Wolverine Bites. [See p. 24]

A “blog,” which combines the words “Web” and “log,” is a contemporary version of a personal diary. Blogs i n c l u d e a p e r s o n ’s t h o u g h t s , ideas, opinions, observations, and commentar y on a wide range of subjects, issues, and events and often include photos, videos, and links to other posts and Web sites. School of Dentistry bloggers have written about subjects ranging from their experiences in the classroom and clinic to participating in outreach. They also have offered advice for prospective dental students, including how to prepare for interviews. “Blogging is a way for students to reach out and tell friends, other students , prospective students , parents, alumni, and even prospective employers about their experiences as a dental or dental hygiene student, what

it’s like to be in a particular class, some of the challenges they face, or anything they choose to comment on,” she said. Currently, four dental students and two dental hygiene students are blogging for the School. Since it was launched in late 2010, Alcumbrack-McDaniel said the Wolverine Bites Web site was visited more than 14,000 times. Of the 50 or so blogs posted, the most popular are those describing what it’s like to be a dental student. “Blogging and other social media are new and exciting opportunities for students and the dental school,” she

said. “I don’t think anyone knows at this time what the ultimate potential of these new forms of communication will be. But it’s important the School of Dentistry use social media more.”

Social Media and Confidential Information Given social media’s ubiquity, the School of Dentistry has issued guidelines to ensure that faculty, students, and staff comply with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) rules concerning patient confidentiality. According to Dr. Stephen Stefanac, associate dean for Patient Services, those guidelines include never posting names, addresses, or other unique information that identifies a patient and never discussing individual patient care or treatments on blogs, Facebook,

“Blogging and other social and exciting opportunities the dental school.”


For some dental and dental hygiene students at the School of Dentistry, blogging is a new experience…and one they say they enjoy. “I haven’t blogged before, nor did I ever imagine myself as a blogger, but this seemed like an amazing opportunity to be a voice of the dental school for prospective students,” said fourth-year dental student Steve Davis who said he volunteered because he wanted to “give insights about what life is like as a dental student.” His sentiments were shared by Barbara Zickgraf, a third-year dental student. “I thought it would be a good experience for me to step out of my comfort zone and try something new,” she said. “I think the blog is a great way for potential students to really see what the School of Dentistry is about from a student’s perspective.” Several students said blogging offers an opportunity to reflect on their classroom and clinical experiences. “Self-reflection is a large benefit of blogging,” said second-year dental student Nate Poel. “Blogging not only allows me to share my experiences, but has become a checkpoint that allows me to reflect, evaluate, and proceed in a new direction, if necessary.” Poel said blogging can become even more valuable “if prospective students contact the bloggers and ask questions about what they have read.” Jeannette Young (D3) said she has received comments from family and friends about her blogs. “Their interest in what I’m doing and their feedback was heartwarming,” she said. “I love that we can share our thoughts almost immediately, and that social media offers opportunities for anyone to participate.” Because blogging is a new experience for some students, writing about a topic takes some thought and time. Hillary Mendillo (D4) said the process can take one to two hours, from start to finish. “Before starting dental school, I wrote and enjoyed it. I saw blogging as an opportunity to continue writing and give prospective students an opportunity to gain a better perspective of what it’s like to be a dental student at Michigan.” Fourth-year dental hygiene student Elizabeth Easter said blogging was a new experience for her. In one blog about mentoring a group of Ypsilanti High School students on Saturday mornings, she said she hopes her blogs “will make others, such as these high school students, aware of possible careers in oral health care.”

Twitter, and other social media sites. “This includes discussions between you and your patient,” he said. Sharon Grayden, communications director, said social media tools “are great resources that make it possible for us to connect and interact with individuals in ways we were not able to in the past.” She said that as more users adopt these tools, “there is the expectation the School of Dentistry will respond. Our challenge,” she continued, “is to manage our social presence to meet those expectations knowing we will have to invest to support the technology.” Managing the School’s social presence will also include constant monitoring of Facebook posts and responding, when necessary; updating blogs and creating new ones; and posting new photos relevant to particular topics.

media are newfor students and

Nate Poel

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STUDENTSSTUDENTS

A dental student who urged a patient to see a physician for high blood pressure before having a routine dental cleaning in a School of Dentistry clinic has given the patient a new lease on life. “No question about it, dental student Steve Nichols, saved my life,” patient, Glen Toadvine declared. His wife, Sandy, agreed. “Glen’s supposed to be dead,” she said. “But coming home on Christmas Day, three days after having quadruple bypass surgery, was the best Christmas present ever.” For more than two years, Toadvine has been traveling from the Jackson area to the School of Dentistry for care. He met Nichols for the first time last October and returned a month later, November 22, to the 3-Blue Clinic for what both Nichols and Toadvine thought would be a routine visit. It was anything but. “Before doing any work on Glen, I took his blood pressure,” Nichols said. But the reading, 196/102, was high, so I told him I would do a re-take in 15 minutes. His numbers were high the second time, 202/100.” A third check, about 20 minutes later, revealed Toadvine’s blood pressure was 206/104, slightly higher than the first two readings. Given that important information, Nichols knew he should not proceed with the teeth cleaning and expressed his concerns to Dr. Alexandra Jaquery, an adjunct clinical faculty member. “She listened to my concerns and we discussed the options,” Nichols said.

“Contact Your Physician” Nichols wanted to check Toadvine’s blood pressure one more time. “His numbers were the same the fourth time, 206/104, so I told him, ‘You have more important issues you first need to address before I clean your teeth. You should contact your physician when you get home’.” Toadvine said he was impressed with Nichols ’ compassionate, yet business-like demeanor. “Steve apologized profusely for not being able to do the work that day, but said

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I had some pressing medical matters that needed attention. I took his suggestion to heart and made an appointment with my physician in Adrian.” Sandy, his wife, thought the physician visit was overdue. “I suspected something was wrong for some time,” she said. “Glen wasn’t the same the entire summer. He wasn’t doing the outdoor work he enjoyed doing, and he seemed to tire rather easily.” A business broker who travels extensively across Michigan, Glen enjoyed working outdoors frequently to exercise and relieve stress.

Stress Test, Catheterization, and More The December 7 examination by the family physician led to an appointment with a cardiologist who scheduled a stress test for Toadvine. He failed the test the following week. The cardiologist told Toadvine he would have to undergo heart catheterization to clear his blocked arteries. But when Toadvine checked in at a Toledo hospital on December 21, he was told the blockage couldn’t be cleared. Toadvine had only one option left: heart bypass surgery. “ Taking the stress test didn’t bother me. The catheterization didn’t bother me either because I knew something was wrong,” Toadvine said. “But when I learned I was going to be cracked open to undergo triple-bypass surgery, well, I wasn’t the happiest guy around.”

BP Check by Dental Student Gives Patient N e w L e a s e o n L i feThe advice from dental student Steve Nichols to his patient gave Glen Toadvine a chance to reassess his life.


Time was not on Toadvine’s side. His father died when he was 47. His father’s father (grandfather) died at age 54. “Bad genes run in my family,” he said. “I’m 56 and was running about two miles every other day until three years ago to try and stay healthy and manage stress.” Toadvine said he hoped the bypass surgery could have been performed at U-M Hospital. But since his physician and cardiologist are in the same network, he didn’t have the luxury of more time to go through getting more referrals and scheduling additional appointments.

A Surprise During Surgery On December 22, exactly one month after his scheduled appointment at the School of Dentistry, Toadvine had open heart surgery in Toledo. It was supposed to be a triple bypass operation. Instead, it was quadruple bypass surgery. Three days later, Christmas Day, Toadvine came home. “My physician told me that without exercising and having a strong heart, I wouldn’t have made it,” Toadvine said. “I know that I have to make some much-needed changes to my lifestyle.” One of those is giving up smoking cigars. The other is changing his eating habits.

RicardoLugo,1stPlaceAwardRicardo Lugo (D4) won a first place award in the scientific competition for his clinical research that examined the evolving connection of type 2 diabetes and glycemic (blood sugar) levels. His study focused on a low-income population in San Diego and examined the effect of certain dental procedures that included prophylaxis, scaling and root planning, root canals, and extractions had on a patient’s glycemic control. The two-and-a-half year retrospective study (January 2006 to May 2008) focused on 127 different patients.

U-M Hispanic Dental Students Win Awards

“What happened made me realize that I couldn’t continue to keep putting fatty substances into my body and expect to live a long life,” he said. “I have been blessed to have had a fortunate recovery, a wonderful wife, and am thankful Steve made the decision he did and encouraged me to see my physician.” As he talked about his decision in the School’s dental clinic, Nichols said, “I don’t feel like a hero. But if I had not taken Glen’s blood pressure and cleaned his teeth as I was scheduled to, he probably would not have seen his physician and the outcome may have been totally different.” Nichols said he hopes to return to Mesa, Arizona to practice general dentistry when he graduates next year. However, his initial career path was not dentistry. He was a loan officer in Arizona and was working on a business degree at Arizona State University but changed his plans after two years of study. “A friend who was in pre-dentistry was telling me about how much fun he was having helping others, so I thought I’d give the pre-dent program a try. I’m glad I did.” Glen Toadvine is glad too. By the way, he returned to the School of Dentistry to get his teeth cleaned on Valentine’s Day.

Members of the University of Michigan’s Hispanic Dental Association received first- and second-place awards during the HDA’s recent annual program in San Diego.

D4 Ricardo Lugo (R) and Dr. Kenneth May, U-M Hispanic Student Dental Association advisor. 2ndPlace

The U-M HSDA received a second-place award during the Orgullo poster competition which showcased the community service efforts of the local chapter. Presenters included Edward Heath (D2), Jacqueline Mendoza (D2), and Diana Maldonado (D3).


ongevity is not important. Impact is. The dental hygiene program is in great shape because of the great people here. That gives me confidence to retire now. It’s time to move on,” said Prof. Wendy Kerschbaum who will step down as program director at the end of the year.

She’s only the third dental hygiene director since the program was created in the 1920s. Dorothy Hard was the first director for 44 years (1924-1968); Pauline Steele, the second, for 20 years (1968-1988). Kerschbaum began her career at the School of Dentistry as a part-time clinical instructor after earning her bachelor’s degree from U-M in 1970. She also worked part time at a dental practice in Ann Arbor. “I’ve had so many great opportunities to work with so many wonderful people including five deans and five or six department chairs,” she said with a smile. “Their support and the support I have received from the faculty, and staff is something I will always remember.”

Major Achievements Cited Talking about her career Kerschbaum said she “is proud to see the dental hygiene program has established itself in three important areas — education, community service, and research. But those successes were a team effort,

DENTAL HYGIENE

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Wendy Kerschbaum Retiring

not an individual one. Because of the continuous progress the dental hygiene program has made, we are nicely positioned to meet the current and future trends in oral health and education.” She cited the degree completion and graduate programs as examples. “Since they are now offered in an online format, dental hygienists can advance their education without needing to relocate or give up employment.” She also cited the involvement of entry-level students in research and community service activities. “These are taking place at unprecedented levels and receiving local and national attention and awards for projects and publications,” Kerschbaum said. A committee is searching for a successor. Dr. Paul Edwards, clinical associate professor in the Depar tment of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, chairs the search committee. Other members are Anne Gwozdek, Karen Ridley, Lisa Dodge, Jean Klark, and Drs. Berna Saglik, Nikki Sweier, and Hector Rios. Kerschbaum said she hopes that a new program director is named before the start of the academic year later this summer. “That’s always a busy time of year. Having a new person on board would allow for a smooth transition,” she said. “But I still will be here teaching until the end of the year and will help, if asked.” A s k e d a b o u t h e r f u t u r e , Kerschbaum said she’s not making any big plans or moving from the Ann Arbor area. “It will be nice to see members of my family and my husband’s family, work on my vegetable and f lower gardens and, yes, even mow the lawn,” she said with a smile.


A new online learning program leading to a Master of Science degree in dental hygiene will be offered by the University of Michigan beginning in September. The program, offered by the Rackham School of Graduate Studies in conjunction with the School of Dentistry, will be a two-year, six-semester program totaling 36 credit hours. Prof. Wendy Kerschbaum, director of the dental hygiene curriculum, said the new online master’s degree program builds on the success of the School’s E-Learning bachelor’s degree completion program launched in January 2008. “The online bachelor’s program gave us a solid foundation that helped us to develop the master’s program,” she said. “In addition, the online master’s program is consistent with U-M President Mary Sue Coleman’s challenge to us as educators to be innovative in our approach to education.”

Critical Need Cited The new online program will help prepare students for careers in dental hygiene education as a growing number of dental hygiene faculty retire. In a 2004 study published in the Journal of Dental Education, 68 percent of responding dental hygiene program directors cited a need to replace faculty primarily due to retirement. Kerschbaum said the U-M online learning program will fulfill another need. “Many who already have a bachelor’s degree have expressed an interest in pursuing coursework leading to a master’s degree, but are reluctant to give up their jobs, move, and be on campus for two years,” she said. “The online program will offer these students the best of both worlds – an opportunity for a quality education without having to relocate.” Kerschbaum emphasized the quality of the online master’s program will equal that of the on-campus program which has been offered for more than 40 years.

Karen Ridley, an assistant professor of dental hygiene and director of the online master’s program, said, “today’s students are looking for new, non-traditional ways of advancing themselves personally and professionally. This program offers the same content as our on-campus program. But how that information is delivered to students will be different.” Students will register for six contiguous semesters and take six credit hours of courses each semester. The online program will begin with a three-day on-campus orientation in July. “Students will meet our dental hygiene faculty members who will teach the 12 courses and also meet their colleagues,” Kerschbaum said. “Meeting their online colleagues face to face is an important part of developing a sense of community.” Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, associate dean for academic affairs, said, “The new online master’s program, which was rigorously reviewed by the Rackham Graduate School, shows how creative and innovative our dental hygiene faculty are in developing new ways of learning and reaching potential students.” She added the new program “will provide opportunities for qualified candidates to receive a University of Michigan education that will prepare them to become future leaders in dental hygiene education.” For additional information about the Master of Science degree in dental hygiene online program, contact program director Karen Ridley: [email protected].

New Online Master’s DegreeDental Hygiene Program Offered

Dental hygiene faculty members who will teach the online master’s degree are (front row, left to right): Anne Gwozdek, Janet Kinney, and Susan Taichman and (back row) Karen Ridley and Wendy Kerschbaum.

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RESEARCHRESEARCH

ou never know where a new idea that could help dental patients will come from. Just ask Dr. Jeanne Nervina, an assistant professor of dentistry in the School’s Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. “I was reading a story on a University of Michigan Web site about

millimeter-scale computing, which many believe will be the new frontier in electronics,” she said. “The story captured my attention. But the photo did too.” The photo above accompanied the story and showed a microprocessor on top of a U.S. penny. The length and width of the microprocessor were virtually identical to the dimensions of the letter “N” in the word “ONE,” approximately one by two millimeters. “I thought, ‘This could be it, a way to help cleft lip and palate patients’.” If her idea becomes reality, Nervina’s initiative could help cleft palate patients in ways that might make conventional methods of treatment obsolete.

Why This Would be Different Children with cleft lip and palate have deficient palates and upper jaws as a consequence of the original defect or multiple surgeries. Orthodontic and surgical treatments help mold the palate to the correct size and shape so these patients have a more normal appearance and can eat and speak better. A palatal expander is used to help achieve these objectives.

Millimeter microprocessors like the one above may

lead to the development of a “smart” palatal

expander that would enable orthodontists to gather patient-specific information about the

magnitude and direction of forces that affect palatal development of children with cleft lip and palate.

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H e l p i n g C l e f t L i p & P a l a t e P a t i e n t s w i t h T e c h n o l o gyH e l p i n g C l e f t L i p & P a l a t e P a t i e n t s w i t h T e c h n o l o gy


Using a microprocessor to develop a “smart” palatal expander would represent a colossal shift in treatment because expanders that have long been used to help cleft palate patients develop the palate in only one direction – left to right. The microprocessor Nervina envisions would measure data about the forces affecting palatal development in all directions: left and right, up and down, and backwards and forwards. Nervina received funding from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to conduct pioneering research that could ultimately lead to the development of a device where low power circuits sense the magnitude and direction of forces and transmit patient-specific data to orthodontists. “The biology of each child is different, so you would get very individualized results from each child who would have one of these implanted,” she said.

Funding to Pursue the Idea T h e n o v e l i d e a o f u s i n g microtechnolog y to help solve a problem in cleft palate patients led to Nervina becoming one of three individuals from the University of Michigan, and one of 40 nationwide, to receive FDA funding. Last fall, she and the two others from U-M were awarded a two-year, $2.2 million grant to pursue their initiatives. N e r v i n a e n v i s i o n s t h e microprocessor being implanted and wireless. “The palatal expander wi l l have pressure sensors and wireless data relay capability that will enable orthodontists to monitor changes in real time.” She envisions orthodontists using a hand-held device to place it near a patient’s mouth and downloading signals from

The U-M School of Dentistry is once again ranked first among dental schools nationwide in grants awarded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research during the federal government’s 2011 fiscal year (Oct. 2010 through Sept. 2011). The School was awarded $11.27 million for the 12-month period by NIDCR. The amount continues the School’s long-term history of being among the top five in the country receiving NIDCR funding. (See chart.) Dean Peter Polverini said “funding to support research and discovery at the School of Dentistry is an imperative. Our ongoing leadership in dentistry and dental education is reflected in the confidence NIDCR has in us, our scientists, and the work they do to advance the science of dentistry and promote discoveries to improve oral and general health.”

inside the device. “That would enable an orthodontist to measure the degree of stresses, where they occur, and then adjust the expander to create the best possible result,” she said. As principal investigator for the cleft palate technology project, Ner vina will work with the U-M Medical Innovation Center and the Pediatric Device Medical Institute in Roanoke, Virginia. The Institute is a consortium of children’s hospitals that includes U-M’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.

Time and Smiles There are two other important reasons Nervina is working to make the device a reality – time and smiles. “When they’re not in a hospital undergoing surgery, children born with a cleft lip and palate spend their childhood and teens going from one doctor’s appointment to another,” Nervina said. “For children who don’t live close to a medical center, their families often spend hours traveling long distances for appointments, including orthodontic treatments, sometimes once every two weeks,” she added. “It’s all very time consuming since this routine for cleft lip and palate patients begins when they are between seven and nine years old and continues until they are in their late teens or early twenties.” Nervina said because cleft palate children “are often self-conscious, they don’t smile very often. I can’t imagine going through life not smiling. I want to do anything I can to help them regain their smile and feel better about themselves.”

#1 in NIDCR Grants

2007 20092008 2010 2011

$9M $8M $10M $8M $11M

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RESEARCHRESEARCH

Oral Cancer/Prostate Cancer Connection?

Is there a connection between oral cancers and prostate cancer? Perhaps. Research to get an answer to that question resulted in second-year dental student Alexandra Forest winning the Grand Prize at this year’s Research Day.

Mentored by Dr. Russell Taichman and Yusuke Shiozawa in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, and collaborating with Dr. Kenneth Pienta at the Medical School, Forest investigated how metastatic prostate cancer competes with other cells for “space,” especially in bones in the jaw. Occasionally, metastases in the oral region are the first sign of malignancy.

Since chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, dormant prostate cancer frequently “hides” until chemotherapy ceases. When that happens, men treated for localized prostate cancer with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy are often believed to be cancer free. However, several years later it’s not uncommon for them to learn the cancer is still there but now incurable.

Prostate cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in U.S. men after lung cancer, is the most common type of cancer in men over 50, according to the National Cancer Institute. In 2008, the last year for which statistics are available, 186,000 new cases were reported and 28,600 deaths.

Since prostate cancer cells seem to develop in bones, Forest has been researching a strategy that coaxes tumor cells out of the marrow. Initial results of her research showed the strategy, when used in mice, caused cancer cells to move out of bone marrow so they could be targeted by chemotherapy. “We hope this strategy interferes with how tumor and stem cells migrate into the bone so the cancer cells then become more susceptible to chemotherapy and ultimately lead to the eradication of the prostate cancer cells,” she said.

Clinical trials using this strategy are now being explored.

Searching for Possible Head, Neck Cancer Markers in Saliva

A research team at the School of Dentistry and the Medical School has won the H. Dean Millard Award for the best paper in oral medicine published in the journal Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology and Endodontology in 2011. Led by Dr. Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch, associate dean and clinical professor of dentistry, and Dr. Nisha D’Silva, associate professor of dentistry and associate professor of pathology at the Medical School, the team investigated the quality of saliva from patients recovering from radiation therapy for head and neck cancers to determine if the saliva contained measurable amounts of proteins. D’Silva said these results “provide the first step in identifying salivary markers that detect oral cancer. Additional research will be necessary before dentists or physicians are able to use this as a tool to help their patients.” Having an easily accessible salivary test, she added, “offers a patient a less expensive approach for monitoring cancer recurrence by decreasing the frequency of more expensive imaging studies.” Using a patient’s saliva to detect recurrence of head and neck cancers has not yet been developed since conventional radiation therapy usually destroys the salivary glands. But during the past decade, radiation techniques have been developed at U-M and elsewhere which help preserve salivary function. “Until now, the quality of recovered saliva has never been assessed,” Murdoch-Kinch said. “Our research was designed to determine if proteins that are present in small amounts could be detected in saliva.” The results of the study, she added, showed that “recovered saliva” following radiation treatment “contains salivary gland proteins, so it may be possible to use saliva for diagnosis, once a suitable marker for cancer is identified.”

School of Dentistry

recipients of the H. Dean Millard

Award (L-R): Drs. Nisha D’Silva,

Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch,

and Nickole Russo, graduate student research

assistant.

Alexandra Forest, D2,

Grand Prize winner, with

her poster.

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DentalUM magazine is published twice a year by the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

Send comments and updates to: [email protected] or Director of Communications, School of Dentistry, Room 1218, 1011 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1078

Dean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peter PolveriniDirector of Communications . . . . . . Sharon Grayden Writer & Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerry MasteyDesigner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chris Jung

Editorial Review Board: Member publicationDennis Lopatin - Chair of the AmericanRichard Fetchiet Association ofErica Hanss Dental EditorsLynn JohnsonSharon Grayden - ex officio

The Regents of the University: Julia Donovan Darlow, Laurence B. Deitch, Denise Ilitch, Olivia P. Maynard, Andrea Fischer Newman, Andrew C. Richner, S. Martin Taylor, Katherine E. White, Mary Sue Coleman, ex officio

University of Michigan School of DentistryAlumni Society Board of Governors:

Terms Expire 2012:Metodi C. Pogoncheff, ’76 DDS, Lansing, MIWayne Olsen (Chair), ’81 DDS, Traverse City, MISheree Duff (Secretary), ’80 BSDH, Grand Blanc, MIDavid O. Cramer, ’93 DDS, Grand Rapids, MIScott Schulz, ’96 DDS, ‘03 MS, Traverse City, MI

Student Representative: Anh Pham (D4)

Terms Expire 2013:Kathleen Early, ‘77 DH, Lakeland, MIKerry Kaysserian, ‘81 DDS, Traverse City, MIJeff Smith, ‘82 DDS, ‘85 MS, Grand Rapids, MIJerry Booth, ‘61 DDS, ‘64 MS, Jackson, MIJanis Chmura Duski, ‘89 DDS, Gaylord, MI

Terms Expire 2014:Frank Alley, ’81 DDS, Portage, MIMichael Cerminaro, ’86 DDS, Muskegon, MISondra Moore Gunn, ’78 DDS, ’80 MS, Ann Arbor, MIM.H. “Reggie” VanderVeen, ’76 DDS, Grand Rapids, MIJackie Solberg, ’86 DH, Grand Rapids

Ex Officio Members:Peter Polverini, DeanJanet Souder Wilson, ‘73 DH, Northville, MIAlumni Association LiaisonSteve C. Grafton , Executive Director, Alumni Assoc.Richard R. Fetchiet, Director of Alumni Relations, Development, and Continuing Dental Education

The University of Michigan, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University of Michigan is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. Inquiries or complaints may be addressed to the Senior Director for Institutional Equity, and Title IX/Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Office of Institutional Equity, 2072 Administrative Services Building, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1432, (734) 763-0235, TTY (734) 647-1388. For other University of Michigan information call (734) 764-1817.

Copyright © 2012 The Regents of the University of Michigan

This is a special time of the year for me with graduation just past and our new students about to arrive. It is a time to reflect on our many accomplishments and to set strategic goals for the future. From my vantage point I get to see the scope of the School’s collective accomplishments and successes. There is much to celebrate and

be proud of and I hope this issue of DentalUM will give you a glimpse into the many amazing things we experience daily, weekly, monthly as we set the course and define the future for the great profession of dentistry. While DentalUM is the way we connect with all of you via print media twice a year, the electronic resources and social media tools you have access to on our Web site allow us to provide an up-to-the-minute means to share news, events, and images with you via our RSS News Feed, Facebook, our blog, and Flickr. I think you will enjoy the Social Media feature highlighting the many tools available to students, faculty, staff as well as to our alumni and friends. The School of Dentistry Web site hosts a wealth of information and we encourage you to “tune in” with frequent visits. You’ll want to take note of the cover story highlighting our new Global Oral Health Initiative. Last fall, U-M President Mary Sue Coleman unveiled the University’s Third Century Initiative to develop innovative ideas about global challenges and opportunities. Components of the Initiative include immersive learning, service to society, sustainable practices and collaboration, all in a global setting. Led by Dr. Yvonne Kapila, our initiative is designed to build on international relationships we have been fostering for a number of years. It is about sharing our outstanding clinical experience and expertise with colleagues in dental schools around the world as well as providing opportunities for student and faculty exchanges to learn, first hand, the issues each group faces. And please don’t miss the news and notes about the many student and faculty activities. In March we announced Dr. William Giannobile as the new chair of Periodontics and Oral Medicine. I am pleased to introduce Dr. Giannobile to you in his new leadership role. I also wish to express my most sincere thanks and gratitude to Dr. Laurie McCauley who held that post for the last ten years. Her leadership and vision were remarkable. Laurie is truly one of U-M’s leaders and best. We are a school with a long history of excellence and leadership among all of our constituents – alumni, students, faculty and staff. I know that you share my pride in our great school, the accomplishments, your contributions, and all this means to our profession.

Sincerely,

Peter J. Polverini, Dean

Spring & Summer 2012 Volume 28, Number 1

D E A N ’ S M E S S A G E

AWARDS Grand PrizeADA DENTSPLY AwardAlexandra Forest (D2, Mentor: Russell Taichman)Targeting the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Niche in Bone-Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Clinical Application and TechniqueFirst PrizeAshley Copus and Julia Johnson (DH4, Mentor: Marita Inglehart)Professional Appearance and Dental Patients’ Perceptions of Their Providers: An ExplorationSecond PrizeWilliam Shin (D3, Mentor: Marita Inglehart)Health Literacy and Dental Fear – Exploring Parents’ ResponsesThird PrizeSarah Dhuhair (MS Certificate, Mentor: Giselle Neiva)Clinical Evaluation of pH Challenge in Subjects with/without Erosion Basic Science and ResearchFirst PrizeAlexandra Plonka (D3 Mentors: William Giannobile, Peter Ma)Nanosphere-released Tetracyclines Inhibit MMP Activity of Human Gingival FibroblastsSecond PrizeDaniela Garcia (MS Certificate, Mentor: Peter Yaman)Polymerization Shrinkage and Hardness of Three Bulk Fill Flowable ResinsThird PrizeRobert Schneider (MS Certificate, Mentor: Tatiana Botero)Effect of White Mineral Trioxide Aggregate on the Migration of Stem Cells from the Apical Papilla Dental HygieneFirst PrizeKaitie Gilbertson and Cassie Pawloski (DH4, Mentor: Janet Kinney)Dental Hygiene Student Perceptions of Prophylaxis AnglesSecond PrizeFelecia Billings and Jessica Humfleet (DH4, Mentor: Susan Taichman)Dental Hygienists Knowledge of Breast Cancer Treatments on Oral HealthThird PrizeJenna Sherwood and Elyse Corley (DH4, Mentor: Wendy Kerschbaum) Patient’s Perceptions of Oral Cancer Screenings PhD/Postdoctoral Fellow/StaffFirst PrizeJames Corson (Postdoctoral Fellow, Mentor: Robert Bradley)Biophysical, Morphological, and Synaptic Properties of Intramedullary Projection Neurons in the Rostral Nucleus of the Solitary TractSecond PrizeChristopher Wilson (Postdoctoral Fellow, Mentor: Renny Franceschi)Patterning the Expression of Regenerative Transgenes with Focused UltrasoundThird PrizeSara Corson (Postdoctoral Fellow, Mentor: Charlotte Mistretta)Neuropilin 1, Neuropilin 2 and Calbindin Expression in the Developing Rat Solitary Tract and Rostral Nucleus of the Solitary Tract Audience Choice AwardKathryn Selby and Janet Zulacha (DH4, Mentor: Darlene Jones)Capuchin Soup Kitchen

NIDCR’s Somerman Returns to School of Dentistry

“It’s an honor to be back at the School of Dentistry,” said Dr. Martha Somerman as she began her keynote presentation during the School’s annual Research Day in February. Now director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research/NIH, Somerman was a faculty member at the School from 1991 to 2002. She was professor and chair of the Department of Periodontics, Prevention, and Geriatrics and also held an appointment as professor of pharmacology at the Medical School. Citing advances in technology and the sequencing of the human genome, Somerman said, “the time has never been better to move discoveries from the laboratory to the patient.” However, she noted that it takes about 14 years, on average, for that to happen. That’s one reason, she said, the National Institutes of Health created the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS). Working with the public and private sectors, the Center is focused on creating and speeding up the delivery of new medicines and medical and dental equipment that help promote human health. Noting that classroom and clinical education and research will continue to be cornerstones of dental education, Somerman told students, “There are many opportunities available to you.” Somerman also mentioned public health challenges including investigations into chronic pain. “Pain affects at least 116 million Americans and costs society between $560 and $635 billion annually,” she said. “This is an area where comprehensive interdisciplinary approaches are needed to help the public.” Oral health disparities research has also progressed, Somerman said, “but more needs to be done so the benefits of that research reach everyone.”

DentalUM Spring/Summer 2012

Documents

Transcript of DentalUM Spring/Summer 2012