CU Anschutz School of Dental Medicine

From classroom to clinic, University of Colorado Anschutz Dental alumna Vidhi Shah, DDS (ISP '24), is putting her training into practice and sharing what she’s learned along the way. In her article for the American Dental Association, “From dental school to private practice: What I wish I knew,” she reflects on the transition from dental school to private practice, highlighting the importance of empathy, communication, mentorship and lifelong learning in delivering patient-centered care.

See her insights: https://ow.ly/AsA450Z93MT

From dental school to private practice: What I wish I knew The transition from dental school to private practice is one of the most rewarding phases of a dental career. Dental school provides a strong clinical foundation, discipline and an evidence-based a…

Congratulations to our Graduate Periodontics Residency Graduates, Dr. Daniel Mora-Plata and Dr. Keaton Nicholson! Dr. Mora-Plata will be working in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Dr. Nicholson will be working in Boise, Idaho.

Microplastics have emerged as a global health concern, and because the oral cavity is a primary gateway for exposure, dentistry is increasingly part of the conversation.

Dr. Bruce Dye, Professor and Chair of the Department of Community Dentistry and Population Health, and Dr. Devatha Nair, Associate Professor in the Department of Craniofacial, Oral and Materials Sciences, published an article in the Journal of the American Dental Association highlighting these concerns and calling for safer materials and reduced plastic use: https://ow.ly/SZf150Z93KS

Advanced Standing International Student Priyanka Sharma’s dedication to thorough, compassionate care is making a lasting difference, one smile at a time. From detailed exams to personalized follow-ups, she goes above and beyond to ensure every patient feels heard and cared for.
Have you had a great visit at the CU Anschutz Dental Clinics? We’d love to hear about it – Leave us a review: https://ow.ly/C59Y50Z9Hky

⭐ 300 Google reviews—and counting! We are incredibly grateful to every patient who has trusted us with their care. Your feedback and support mean the world to us. This milestone is also a reflection of our outstanding students, faculty and staff whose commitment to compassionate care shines through in every visit.
If you’ve visited us recently, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please consider leaving a Google review: https://ow.ly/um3V50Z6HUj

Dr. Elizabeth Ramos spoke on a panel at the American Dental Hygienists' Association's Integrated Care Summit in May. She was featured on the Hygiene Rising podcast, speaking about how whole-person care depends on strong collaboration and integration across healthcare disciplines. She said, "With current and growing evidence connecting periodontal inflammation and systemic health, the oral healthcare team plays a key role in prevention, patient education, and improving overall health outcomes."
Listen to the podcast (Dr. Ramos begins at 15:18): https://ow.ly/zYGh50Z7ncR

Celebrating three years of the Rural Oral Health Track at CU Anschutz Dental!
This program represents a powerful commitment to expanding access to care by preparing future dentists to serve rural communities. Thank you to the students, faculty, and mentors who have helped grow this initiative and advance our mission to improve oral health for all.
Learn more about the Rural Oral Health Track and how to become a mentor: https://ow.ly/9g0P50Z6HPc

Stress can change more than your mood — it can affect your teeth, jaw and gums too.
During Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re highlighting how anxiety and chronic stress can lead to:
• Teeth grinding and clenching
• Jaw pain and TMJ disorders
• Dry mouth and cavities
• Canker sores
The good news? Small steps — like stress management, regular dental visits and open conversations with your care team — can make a big difference.
Taking care of your mental health helps support your oral health, and vice versa. Learn how stress affects oral health and what you can do about it: https://ow.ly/Plwb50Z19EW