Student researchers present oral health findings at annual competition
Whether it was about remineralization, obstructive sleep apnea or barriers to dental care, West Virginia University School of Dentistry’s Class of 2024 students confidently took to the podium to share their findings at the 55th annual dental school alumni association research competition.
The Student Competition for Advancing Dental Research and its Application competition, also sponsored by AADOCR/Dentsply, included 11 presentations on Thursday, April 13.
Dean Stephen Pachuta told the third-year DDS students it is important to be able to critically analyze literature even if they aren’t on a career path to research.
“When you walk out our door in a year, you are going to get inundated with information coming across your computer and in the mail claiming this is the best way to do dentistry. Try this material. This is the best technique. Don’t do that. You are going to need the ability to sort out and critically review literature. We do research in our predoctoral program so you will be exposed to the process of what goes into research and literature. You need to be able to critically read an article or manufacturer’s claim and make an educated and informed decision. Research experience provides insight into what went into that article,” Dr. Pachuta said.
- Will Vakay
Capacity of Remineralization of Common Household Products
PI: C Waters; Co-I: Dr. Wiener IRB protocol: 2208634355
- Brent Smith, Laura Burrows, Shelby Groves, Hillary Hainer
Obstructive sleep apnea: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of WV dentists
PI: Dr. Ngan; Co-I’s: Dr. Hnat; Dr. Wiener IRB Protocol: 2210665324
- Zachary Lynn
Barriers to Dental Care in the Comprehensive Cancer Plan in WV
PI: Professor Puette; IRB Protocol: 2111455731
Judges included Dr. Jerry Bouquot, Dr. Valerie Perrine and Dr. Lakshmi Garladinne.
Click to see all topics presented.
Click to see photos from presentations.
Supporters include Dr. and Mrs. James Caveney and Family Dental Table Clinic Award with a $600 scholarship award toward the tuition of the first prize winners and the School of Dentistry Alumni Association Award for honoring the second and third place winners financially.
Vakay will proceed to the national AADOCR/DENTSPLY SCADA competition in New Orleans, LA March 13-16, 2024.