Texas A & M College of Dentistry
Constructing the Face
Texas A & M College of Dentistry symposium convened experts in craniofacial medicine
by LaDawn Brock
T raditional dentistry focuses on the teeth and the mouth . However , there is much more to the profession . Texas A & M College of Dentistry is the home to the Center for Craniofacial Research and Diagnosis , which connects clinical dentistry with the broader concept of craniofacial medicine .
On February 20 , nationally and internationally known clinicians , scientists and other scholars converged at Texas A & M College of Dentistry for a symposium on advances in craniofacial medicine and research .
“ An Interdisciplinary Approach to Craniofacial Medicine ” explored the history of the “ authentic face ” in the context of nose jobs and face transplants , introduced craniofacial form and function from a surgical perspective , examined the role of epigenetics and small molecules in craniofacial development and future patient care , and illustrated prosthetic approaches toward the rehabilitation of craniofacial deformities . Speakers provided examples for the multidisciplinary complexity of craniofacial care , and shared with the audience what they consider the fascinating world of craniofacial biology .
The first holder of the chair , Dr . Thomas Diekwisch , professor and department head in periodontics and director of the CCRD , was announced at the conclusion of the symposium .
Dr . Bernhard Gottlieb
The symposium included a presentation about Dr . Bernhard Gottlieb — considered the father of oral biology — whose work laid the intellectual foundation for today ’ s craniofacial science . Gottlieb spent the final 10 years of his career as a faculty member at Texas A & M College of Dentistry ( then Baylor University College of Dentistry ), and an endowed chair has been established in his honor .
Texas A & M College of Dentistry ( formerly Baylor College of Dentistry ) in Dallas is a part of Texas A & M University and the Texas A & M Health Science Center . Founded in 1905 , the College of Dentistry is a nationally recognized center for oral health sciences education , research , specialized patient care and continuing dental education .
LaDawn Brock is marketing , web and media relations manager at Texas A & M College of Dentistry in Dallas . A 1991 mass communications ( public relations ) graduate of Texas Woman ’ s University , she has worked in communications for 25 years .
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