Matthew Mauck, DDS ’11, says it’s funny that he’s a dentist. Back when he played professional football, he thought wearing a mouthguard was annoying. Now the former NFL and MLB player spends his days encouraging athletes of all ages to protect their heads and faces by wearing a mouthguard.
Research Patient Care Faculty Students
When dental student Summer Booth expressed interest to her professor about starting a research project, he mentioned a substance in chocolate, theobromine, could have cavity-preventing properties—and she was sold.
Innovation Patient Care Students Clinics
Bruce Jackson, a retired Microsoft engineer and patient at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine’s (CU SDM) Senior & Special Care Clinic, is battling a progressive neuromuscular disease that has completely changed his life. He’s convinced it all started with a cracked tooth.
Have you ever wondered if some Halloween candy is better or worse for your teeth? The answer is a resounding “yes.” Whether you’re choosing what kind of sweets to hand out at home or curious if some candies should mysteriously disappear from your child’s trick-or-treat bag, here’s a basic run-down of what to avoid and some better options.
When dental student Mohita Sharma, BDS, (ISP ’23), noticed her patient’s heart rate was higher than usual, neither of them expected it would save his life.
When Lise Gresock, 88, came to the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine (CU SDM), she was hesitant and nervous. For decades, she had not had a great experience going to the dentist. While Gresock liked her previous dentist, she wanted a more conservative treatment option. When she met the CU Dental team of Sarah Dirks, DDS, and Elena Ciobanu, DDS (ISP ’22), BDS, Gresock was immediately at ease.
Innovation Patient Care Education Students Clinics
“You don't realize how important your back teeth are until they’re not there,” said fourth-year dental student Minh-Tom Van (DDS '23) as he reflected on a recent case. His patient had been experiencing pain in his back molars, unable to chew or eat properly for eight months. While this is not an unusual situation, Van was inspired by a faculty member to present an exceptional idea for treatment.
Ronnie Chavez, a Navy veteran and former Douglas County sheriff’s deputy, has had dental problems his entire life. Even as a child, he was ridiculed for his teeth. “Kids can be ruthless,” he said. Not only that, but his childhood dentist was stern and unfriendly.
A visit to the dentist can leave you with a case of sensory overload, but the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine is calming patients’ fears with the help of a new dental therapy dog. Lucy, a five-year-old golden retriever, roams the clinic halls—easing patient’s anxiety and providing them comfort during routine cleanings and procedures.
CU Denver News
April 07, 2024
University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus are once again being recognized as a Military Friendly® School. Together, we are the only universities in Colorado to rank in the tier 2 research category, moving up to the no. 6 spot nationwide. We have been included in these rankings for over 10 years.
Metro Denver Dental Society
March 20, 2024
Susan Somerset, DMD, Pharm D, MS
Assistant Professor (C/T), Director, Senior & Special Care Clinic
University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
You are a first-generation college graduate—what influenced your decision to pursue multiple advanced degrees?
My parents. I always had a desire to pursue a professional degree in healthcare. My mother suggested an undergraduate degree in pharmacy because it is usually on of the most challenging classes in healthcare education. She also figured I would be able to work while pursuing other degrees. It was great advice. My pharmacy education really taught me how to adjust for and to be comfortable managing medications in unconventional situations.
Metro Denver Dental Society
March 13, 2024
Self-reflection can be one of the most meaningful components of continuous improvement as a dentist, and it starts in school. The American Dental Association (ADA) states in the accreditation standards for predoctoral dental education programs that becoming a competent professional involves "reflection in daily practice for the benefit of the individuals and communities served."
Colorado Dental Association
January 26, 2024
Volunteering offers opportunities to build skills that you may not necessarily learn just by going to dental school. It also provides something to think about besides yourself, according to CU dental students: Riley Spillar and Zach Zylstra.
Both Spillar and Zylstra volunteer for the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine.
Carie Behounek
