Tufts University School of Dental Medicine

Too many good memories not to share. 🎓 Tap to celebrate the brilliant new dentists of TUSDM!

You did it, '26. 🎓🦷💙

You showed up for your patients, your classmates, and yourselves — and now you’re stepping into the future of dentistry with the skills, compassion, and confidence to make a real impact.

The clinic hours, long nights, and hard work led here. ✨

Congratulations, future dentists! 🐘

From identifying victims of disasters to helping solve decades-old cold cases, forensic dentistry is where clinical expertise meets public service.

Tufts University School of Dental Medicine is proud to welcome Dr. Melissa Newman, D08, as the Joan Viantha Qureshi, D85, Professor in Forensic Dentistry. Through teaching, research, and hands-on forensic work, Dr. Newman is helping shape the next generation of dental professionals while bringing comfort and answers to families in need.

Her journey from dental hygienist to dentist, educator, and forensic odontologist reflects the power of lifelong learning — and the impact dentistry can have far beyond the clinic.

🔗 Read more: https://now.tufts.edu/2026/05/07/when-clues-unknown-identity-are-hidden-inside-mouth

Proud to see leaders from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine standing in front of the new Tufts Dental Care Center billboard — a celebration of the care, collaboration, and community that make this work possible every day. 💙

We see you, Hakeem! 🦷✨

D4 student Hakeem Alhady repping Tufts Dental Care Center in downtown Boston —because the work happening here doesn’t stay within our walls.

Every patient served, every smile restored; it all reflects TUSDM’s mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable oral health care while training the next generation of dentists.

Celebrating global impact in dental research 🌍

Pamela Yelick, Ph.D., of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine recently served as President of the International Association for Dental Research, leading its 104th General Session in San Diego.

The event brought together more than 4,300 researchers from 88 countries to share the latest discoveries in dental, oral, and craniofacial science—including work from Tufts students and faculty.

During her term, Dr. Yelick represented the organization at major international meetings around the world, helping to advance research and collaboration on a global scale.

A remarkable achievement and a proud moment for the Tufts community!

Smiles that go beyond the clinic 😊🦷

At this year’s Give Kids A Smile, a national initiative of the American Dental Association Foundation, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine students partnered with the Pediatric Department and faculty to provide free dental care to children across the Boston area.

From preventive checkups to restorative treatments, students also shared oral health education with children, parents, and caregivers, helping build habits that last a lifetime.

Not every dentist’s patient roars 🐅

Steven Spitz, D94, followed an unexpected path—from aspiring veterinarian to prosthodontist to consulting dentist for Zoo New England. Today, he applies his expertise to care for animals ranging from primates to big cats, treating everything from tooth fractures to complex oral disease.

His work is a powerful reminder that dentistry—and a Tufts University School of Dental Medicine education—can open doors far beyond the traditional clinic. Whether restoring a tiger’s tooth or collaborating with veterinary teams, Spitz’s career reflects a deep commitment to care, creativity, and collaboration across disciplines.

Driven by a belief in tikkun olam—repairing the world—Spitz shows how following your passions can lead to impact in the most unexpected places.

🔗 Read more: https://now.tufts.edu/2026/04/24/one-dentists-wild-life-zoo-volunteer

Help Advance Life-Saving Wound Care! 🩺✨

Are you a healthy adult aged 21-35 or 45-70? Join the Tufts School of Dental Medicine in our mission to develop better treatments for pressure ulcers! By providing blood and skin samples over just two visits, you can help us test innovative 'micromist' technology designed for deep tissue healing.

Perks for participating:
🎁 $100 Target Gift Card upon completion
🚗 Parking costs covered
📍 Visits take place at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.
📞 Interested? Call Dr. Garlick’s team today at 617-636-3931 to see if you qualify!

Versa Dental was honored to sponsor the Fun Run 5K hosted by Mi Gente Run Club in Revere on April 5th.

Dr. Venegas, a North Shore general dentist and faculty member at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, provided dental hygiene kits to all participants, with support from Tufts School of Dental Medicine.

The event was a meaningful and inspiring opportunity to witness the Latino community come together in celebration of wellness, physical activity, and oral health awareness.