There’s always something happening around the UAB School of Dentistry, and this fall has been no exception. From international connections to longstanding school traditions, here are a few highlights from the term so far.
From Birmingham to Japan
UAB dental students have opportunities to broaden their education through international exchanges that introduce them to different approaches to dentistry, education and patient care.
This fall, students and faculty from Meikai University and Asahi University in Japan visited Birmingham as part of an ongoing exchange with the School of Dentistry. During their time at UAB, they connected with dental students and faculty, compared educational experiences and learned more about dental education in the United States.
This spring, the exchange will take UAB fourth-year D.M.D. students and faculty to Japan, where they’ll have the opportunity to experience another country’s approach to dental education and build relationships with their international counterparts.
EXCEL takes on what’s ahead
Twice a year, the School of Dentistry brings faculty and staff together EXCEL, a professional development conference focused on the work happening across the school and the opportunities and challenges ahead.
This fall’s program covered community clinics, the upcoming launch of the Epic electronic health record, research, accreditation and medical emergencies. The sessions gave employees a chance to learn about initiatives beyond their own areas and connect with colleagues from across the school.
One session also brought an unexpected connection to light. When Drs. Matthew Litz and Chad Taylor were teamed up to lead medical emergencies training, faculty and staff learned that the two shared a history. Both began their careers as nurses before becoming dentists, and their paths had crossed through UAB and organized dentistry long before they became School of Dentistry colleagues this fall.
Continuing Perng Ru Liu’s legacy
Continuing education brings dental professionals back to the classroom throughout their careers to explore new techniques, emerging research and advances in patient care.
This fall, the fourth annual Dr. Perng Ru Liu Memorial Lecture drew 179 registrants for two days of continuing dental education. The program featured presentations by Drs. Mia Geisinger, Marinder Kaur and Alejandro Treviño, along with UAB Prosthodontic residents.
The lecture honors the late Dr. Perng Ru Liu, D.M.D., D.D.S., M.S., who spent more than three decades at UAB as an educator, mentor and leader. His roles included founding chair of Comprehensive Dentistry, chair of Prosthodontics and Restorative Sciences, and associate dean of Clinical Affairs. The annual program continues his dedication to dental education and lifelong learning.
A day of care with TeamSmile
Nearly 200 children received free dental care this fall through the School of Dentistry’s annual partnership with TeamSmile, an organization that brings dental professionals and community volunteers together to help children access oral health care.
UAB faculty, staff, students, residents and alumni joined other dental professionals and volunteers to provide care throughout the day. For students and residents, the event also offered an opportunity to work alongside experienced dental professionals while providing care to children who might otherwise face barriers to receiving it.
A little Blazer spirit
Homecoming is a chance for students, faculty and staff to celebrate their connection to UAB, and the School of Dentistry joined in the festivities this fall.
Dental students participated in window and banner decorating, while the SOD Staff Council represented the school in the UAB Homecoming Parade and sponsored themed dress-up days throughout the week.
Decorations, donuts and pizza added to the celebration.