From collaborative research to exceptional patient care and education, 2025 was a year of innovation and impact at the University of Colorado Anschutz School of Dental Medicine. Our faculty, students and staff shared expertise, advanced science and strengthened community connections. Here’s a look at some of the top stories and themes that illuminated our year.
Clinical Excellence and Patient Care
Our clinical teams continued to deliver exceptional care with a focus on outcomes that truly matter to patients. Students, residents and faculty worked together to devise innovative treatment plans, like life-changing implants using digital dentistry, demonstrating the expertise and critical thinking behind complex cases.
More patient stories that reflect the personal touch in our work include the couple who got Invisalign for their Taylor Swift themed wedding, and “What It’s Like to Get Dentures at a Dental School”. These narratives remind us that dentistry is about more than teeth; it’s about improving lives.
Oral Health Education and Wellness
Providing clear, accessible patient education was a focus throughout the year, offering practical, evidence-based resources to support healthier smiles and informed choices. Articles on fluoride, flossing and teeth clenching provided practical, evidence-based guidance for everyday care. Seasonal features such as ”Hydration and Oral Health” offered timely tips for choosing the best beverages during summer months. Our most-read article of 2025 was “Swelling Near Your Ear or Jaw?” which encouraged a dental visit if the answer was yes.
We also tackled broader health connections. “The Mouth-Body Connection” explained why gum health matters for systemic wellness, while “The Impact of Stress and Mental Health on Oral Health” explored how emotional well-being influences oral health outcomes and vice versa. These pieces reflect our holistic approach to prevention and care.
Advancing Dental Science and Technology
Innovation led the way in 2025, with stories that showcased how technology and research are driving transformative progress within the dental profession. We explored the growing role of artifical intelligence in diagnostics, treatment planning and patient education, as a tool — not a replacement — to aid dental professionals. Similarly, “Promising New Research Shows Potential to Cure Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections” highlighted interdisciplinary breakthroughs in biomaterials, using a nanogel-based drug delivery method that originated from CU Dental researchers. The school’s 40th Research Day showcased 3D printed dentures, craniofacial discoveries and more.
We also examined how technology is transforming education. The annual Golden Hands Haptics Competition was again successful in helping students use tactile simulation tools that enhance skill development, creating safer and more immersive learning environments. This reflects the school's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into both clinical practice and academic training.
Celebrating Our Community
2025 was a year of milestones for the people who make the School of Dental Medicine exceptional. We celebrated student success through highlighting our Doctor of Dental Surgery graduates, International Student Program graduates and White Coat Ceremony honorees, marking pivotal moments in our students' educational careers. The School of Dental Medicine Excellence Awards recognized academic achievement and leadership among students, faculty and staff.
Staff spotlights enriched our celebration of community and excellence. Features such as “Agueda Garcia Paredes Found Her Calling Helping Patients Save their Teeth” and “Behind the Scenes of Your Dental X-Rays: Meet Taylor Hedman” highlighted the dedication and contributions of team members. These stories remind us that progress is powered by people.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, we’ll continue advancing research, expanding access to care and sharing stories that inspire. Thank you to our faculty, students, staff, alumni and community partners for making 2025 a year of progress and purpose. Together, we’re shaping the future of oral health here in Colorado and around the world.
