Although research is organized into several major programs, a strength of the Dows Institute has been the consistent level of interaction and collaboration among individuals and across program boundaries. Many projects transcend areas of specialization and are strengthened by shared expertise. Further vitality is added by close ties between researcher and clinician in the College of Dentistry. Each Dows faculty researcher holds an appointment in a clinical department of the College and participates in departmental work on a regular basis. Clinical faculty, in turn, collaborate on research projects centered in the Dows laboratories. Although Dows faculty devote the majority of their time to research, they share teaching and patient care responsibilities with clinical faculty.
The Cariology/Microbiology Program
Research on dental caries in the Dows Institute explores factors
responsible for destruction of tooth enamel as well as methods for
preventing the disease. Changes in the demographic structure of our
society and the increasing number of individuals who
retain their teeth into old age has increased the importance of studies of
lesions occurring on root surfaces exposed by recession of gingival
tissues. Investigations are under way to characterize bacteriological and
immunological factors important in caries development. The use of fluoride
to prevent lesion development or to remineralize existing lesions continues
to be explored as well as the use of fluoride restorative materials.
Biomaterials and Biomineralization Program
The replacement of tissues and organs with synthetic materials has
become an increasingly important therapeutic modality, raising important
questions about tissue response to a variety of substances. In dentistry,
the clinical use of dental implants has
intensified interest in the factors and Biomineralization Research Program
addresses these fundamental questions and, in particular, examines changes
in implant surfaces that may affect the attachment of soft tissue to
implant surfaces or facilitate integration of a prosthesis with bone.
The Oral Soft Tissue Program
The response of the lining of the mouth and associated skin to
environmental factors, to local and systemic disease, to the aging process,
and to traumatic injury is not well understood. Nevertheless, such
responses have important implications for preventing or treating
periodontal disease, oral cancer, and other soft tissue diseases. Basic
investigation on the chemical composition, structure, and permeability of
this system of tissues will lead to a better understanding of the barrier
function of these tissues as a defense against microorganisms and
carcinogens. Studies of the action of tobacco components and alcohol on
the mouth lining embody an effort to better define the etiology of oral
cancer and the ways in which tobacco use may contribute to periodontal
disease.