Dentistry Commons^™

Comparison Of Artificial Intelligence Vs Human Observer For Periapical Radiolucency Detection, Adam J. Pink

Theses and Dissertations

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the performance of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) program (OverJet AI) with that of experienced endodontic residents, endodontists, a radiologist, and dental students in detecting periapical radiolucencies using radiographic images.

Methods: One hundred and fifty periapical radiographic images were analyzed using the OverJet AI software to determine the presence/absence of a periapical radiolucency as well as the size (small 1-3mm, medium 4-6mm, and large 6+mm). The unaltered images were also evaluated by two endodontic residents, two practicing endodontists, an oral radiologist and two 4th year dental students.

Results: Agreement between the AI …

Aadej Comm 12 1 2026

AADEJ - The Communicator

The Communicator is the official publication of the American Association of Dental Editors & Journalists (AADEJ), promoting awareness of the association’s activities and offering valuable insights for dental editors and journalists to enhance their publications. It is published quarterly, distributed digitally via email to members, and posted on the Association’s website at aadej.org, with archives on ADA Commons. Regular contributions from the Editor-in-Chief, Executive Director, President, and Associate Editor cover various topics.

This issue provides practical strategies for journal growth, such as building sustainable author pipelines and using digital analytics to increase content reach. Features include articles addressing ethical, …

Eight Tips For Securing Authors And Articles That Will Enhance Your Dental Journal Quality And Reach, Lindsay A. Robinson Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

This feature article offers eight practical tips to help dental editors attract high-quality manuscripts and a diverse range of authors. Key strategies include building pipelines with dental schools, mining material from professional meetings, and specifically encouraging the dental student voice. The author recommends using themed issues with guest editors and leveraging digital media like LinkedIn to discover new contributors. Additionally, the article emphasizes supporting authors through mentorship, utilizing website analytics to guide content selection, and maintaining ethical standards regarding the disclosure of Generative AI. These combined efforts aim to bridge research with practical clinical guidance.

Addressing Author Misconduct, Christopher J. Smiley

AADEJ - The Communicator

This feature article addresses the growing need for clear editorial policies on author misconduct, especially with the rise of Generative AI (GAI). Editors are vital gatekeepers who ensure the accuracy and transparency of dental literature, thereby protecting patient safety. The author distinguishes between unintentional misconduct, such as inadvertent plagiarism, and intentional misconduct, like data fabrication or deliberate non-disclosure of AI use. Remedial measures emphasize author education for honest mistakes, while severe violations require zero-tolerance actions such as formal retraction and institutional notification. Implementing these protocols is vital for maintaining reader trust and upholding professional integrity.

Ditch Those Resolutions! Make A Strategic Plan Instead!, Edward M. Feinberg Dmd

AADEJ - The Communicator

This feature article advocates for using strategic planning as a more effective and sustainable alternative to vague New Year’s resolutions for dental practices and organizations. Strategic planning is explained as a proactive process that involves setting direction, allocating resources, and measuring progress through mission and vision statements. The author introduces the SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and the GOST system (Goals, Objectives, Strategies, Tactics) as key frameworks. As President-elect, the author shares his efforts to conduct a Zoom strategic planning session to gather member input and develop a clear, documented plan for the future of the AADEJ.

A Style Unlike Any Other, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

Regular feature from the immediate past president of AADEJ, Dr. Christopher Smiley, with the key insights impacting the field.

2025 First Place Gies Award Recipient: I’M Mr. Brightside: Optimistic Dentistry Can Maintain Its Leadership Role In Dentist- Patient Decision-Making, Chester Gary Dds, Jd

AADEJ - The Communicator

Since 1958, the William J. Gies Editorial Award has been presented yearly to the authors of the most valuable editorials published in a dental journal or periodical. Recognizing the ADEAGies Editorial Award winner has been the joint privilege of the American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists (AADEJ) and the William J. Gies Foundation for the Advancement of Dentistry (ADEAGies Foundation).

This award-winning article was also first published in the New York State Dental Journal and can be found at: https://commons.ada.org/nysdj/vol90/iss6/2/

Data Presentation For Dental Authors And Editors: The Convergence Of Message, Audience, Medium, Armamentarium, And Style, Benjamin Chaffee

AADEJ - The Communicator

Tables, figures, and other visuals convey information in ways that are not possible with words alone. When done well, these communication tools make data engaging, make complex ideas accessible, and make idea exchange efficient by sharing information in less printed space and requiring less reading time than standard written text. Poorly done, however, tables and figures can confuse and frustrate readers, distracting them from otherwise sound scholarship. Despite their impact on the reader experience, figures and tables are sometimes afterthoughts in the writing process, including in formal author guidelines and scientific writing courses. Authors and editors can elevate the effectiveness …

Maximizing Networking At The Dental Editor University, Cathy Hung Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

Regular feature from the editor-in-chief of AADEJ, Dr. Cathy Hung, with the current news from AADEJ.

Team Orientation Is Core To Success, Denise Maihofer

AADEJ - The Communicator

Regular feature from the executive director of AADEJ, Denise Maihofer with the latest news and happenings from AADEJ.

Plain Language: Is This Style To Be Or Not To Be In Your Journal?, Mali Schantz-Feld Ma, Cde

AADEJ - The Communicator

Regular feature from the associate editor of AADEJ, Mali Schantz-Feld, with useful tools for AADEJ members.

N Y State Dent J January 2026

The New York State Dental Journal

In the January 2026 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• No Need to Travel the Road to Licensure Renewal Alone
• IPS Subperiosteal Implant for the Maxilla and Mandible
• Amyloidoma of the Palate
• Titanium Hypersensitivity as Possible Cause of Dental Implant Failures

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the New York membership including editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, component news, continuing education opportunities, and classifieds.

Peer Assisted Mentoring As A Catalyst For Academic Success In Final-Year Dental Students: An Action Research Approach, Manovijay Balagangadharan, Babyjohn John, Saranyan Ravi, Sabitha Gokulraj, D.N. Shrienitha

Health Professions Education

Purpose Peer-assisted mentoring (PAM) is increasingly recognized as an effective educational strategy in health professions education. It fosters collaborative learning, where mentors and mentees engage in knowledge exchange, critical thinking, and skill development. This study aimed to explore the influence of peer-assisted mentoring on the academic performance of final-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students, in comparison to their non-mentored counterparts, while also assessing its broader educational benefits.

Methodology An action research study was conducted during the 2023–2024 academic year at Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Salem, Tamil Nadu, and India. High-achieving dental interns were selected and trained to serve …

Core Standards For Leadership In Oral Healthcare, Sir Nairn H.F. Wilson Cbe Dsc(H.C.) Ddent(H.C.) Phd Msc Bds Fcgdent Fds Rcs Edin, Eng(Hon) & Rcps Glasg(Hon) Ffd Rcsi(Hon) Fcdshk(Hon) Fracds(Hon) Drd Fhea Facd Ficd Fadm Fpfa Frsm Fkc

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This article introduces the American College of Dentists’ core standards for leadership in oral healthcare, grounded in well-established ethical principles and in response to ever-increasing expectations for patient-first care. It is suggested that the new standards must be consistently upheld to maintain patient trust and professional credibility. Effective leadership, in contrast to management, improves patient engagement and outcomes, team performance, and resilience. The article calls for more leadership training in dentistry, beginning in dental schools, and highlights the need for effective leadership in oral healthcare to strengthen the profession’s standing and status.

Standards For Leadership In Oral Health Care. A Project Of The Board Of Regents Of The American College Of Dentists, Robert A. Faiella Dmd, Mmsc., Mba, Teresa A. Dolan Dds, Mph, Facd, N. Karl Haden Phd, Facd, Sreenivas Koka Dds, Ms, Phd, Mba, Mas, Facd, Sir Nairn H.F. Wilson Cbe Dsc(H.C.) Ddent(H.C.) Phd Msc Bds Fcgdent Fds Rcs Edin, Eng(Hon) & Rcps Glasg(Hon) Ffd Rcsi(Hon) Fcdshk(Hon) Fracds(Hon) Drd Fhea Facd Ficd Fadm Fpfa Frsm Fkc

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This section of the Journal of the American College of Dentists presents professional conference proceedings and/or published guidelines relevant to dentistry, ethics, education, leadership, policy, or clinical care. Conference proceedings may also include documents from affiliate organizations in dentistry.

Practicing Dentistry And The Piano: Reflections On Coaching, Feedback, And The Humanities In Dental Education, Sarah E. Grafton Dmd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Dentistry is often described as both art and science, yet its pedagogy still leans heavily on technical instruction. Drawing on the author’s personal experience as a lifelong piano student, this paper explores the parallels between learning a musical instrument and developing clinical skills in dental education. Both domains require the integration of mind and hand, repeated practice, and feedback that transform mistakes into growth. Piano training illustrates that mastery emerges not from innate talent but from deliberate practice and the willingness to accept critique. This orientation provides a framework for understanding dental education as coaching rather than didactic instruction. Dental …

The History Of Dr. Suess And European Dentists From The Past: Relevant Lessons In Bioethics For Today, Howard A. Israel Dds, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The works of the author-illustrator Dr. Seuss evoke images of children’s books with moral themes, such as Yertle the Turtle and Horton Hears a Who. The life story of another Dr. Suess has remained relatively unknown. Walter Suess was an extremely talented dentist and musician in Austria. Brilliant and courageous, he became a victim of a morally depraved authoritarian regime and the absence of biomedical ethics during the reign of the Third Reich. The serendipitous discovery of the true story of Dr. Seuss and European dentists from this era offers lessons in bioethics relevant to today.

Digital Impression Workflows And Mucosal Considerations In Removable Complete Dentures, Fu-Chuan Tsai, Hsin-Hua Chou, Takashi Saito, Wei-Chun Lin

Journal of Dental Sciences

No abstract provided.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography For Endodontics: Incidental Findings And Respective Significance

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Background: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence, distribution, and follow-up recommendations of incidental findings in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans acquired for endodontic treatment.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of limited field-of-view (FOV) CBCT images for endodontic evaluation obtained at the Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine between 2018 and 2022. All scans were reviewed by 1 oral and maxillofacial radiology (OMR) resident and all incidental findings were corroborated with the radiology report approved by 1 of 2 board-certified OMRs. Data extracted for each case included age, gender, and reason for scan; and …

Evaluating Artificial Intelligence Large Language Mocdels In Dental Education: A Cross-Sectional Survey On Usage, Perceptions, And Integration At A U.S. Dental Scho

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Introduction: The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education presents opportunities and challenges for dental education. This study explores the use of Large Language Model (LLM) based AI tools, including ChatGPT and Grammarly AI, among faculty and students at the UTHealth School of Dentistry in Houston (UTSDH). This research assessed usage patterns, perceived benefits and concerns, and AI training demand.

Methods: A piloted, cross-sectional survey was administered via email. The survey included Likert-scale, multiple-choice, and open-ended questions. Respondents provided demographics and rated their LLM-based AI tools for use and perceptions in educational, clinical, and research contexts. Data was analyzed …

Examining The Association Of Maternal Oral Health Experiences With Adverse Birth Outcomes: Findings From Virginia's Prams Survey, May Salama, Abdullah Al-Taiar, Denise C. Mckinney, Li-Wu Chen, Anwar T. Merchant

Epidemiology, Biostatistics, & Environmental Health Faculty Publications

Background

Preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW) are significant public health challenges globally, contributing to neonatal morbidity, mortality, and long-term complications. Maternal oral health has been increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to PTB and LBW, yet there is inconclusive evidence about the effectiveness of dental cleaning in preventing PTB and LBW. This study examined the association between dental cleaning during pregnancy and the prevalence of PTB and LBW using data from the Virginia Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS).

Methods

We analyzed data from Virginia PRAMS Phases 7 and 8, spanning a 10-year period from 2012 to …

Using Laughter As A Tool In Pediatric Dentistry, Stephen Ghezzi Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the physiological and psychological benefits of humor in pediatric settings. Laughter counteracts the "fight or flight" response by releasing dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which reduce stress hormones and muscle tension. It also triggers oxytocin, fostering trust between patients, caregivers, and staff. The author encourages practitioners to use lightheartedness, such as "dad jokes," to mitigate the anxiety often associated with procedures like restorations or extractions. By shifting the body into "rest and digest" mode, laughter improves the overall well-being of the dental team and patients alike.

Pediatric Dentists’ Best Practices When Treating Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A National Survey, Samita Gumber Bds, Mds, James R. Boynton Dds, Ms, Larry B. Salzmann Dds, Rodney J. Vergotine Bchd, Msc(Dent), Faapd, Fiadt, Fabpd, Ficd, Marita R. Inglehart Dipl. Psych., Dr. Phil., Dr. Phil. Habil

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This national survey evaluates how pediatric dentists manage patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While most practitioners collect data on oral hygiene and verbal communication, fewer assess social interaction or sensitivity-related characteristics. The study suggests using supplemental intake forms to plan appointments based on individual needs and functioning levels. Key accommodations reported include behavior guidance, modified appointment times, and operatory adjustments. Results indicate that increased professional experience with ASD correlates with more comprehensive data collection and a higher perceived value of that information. Ultimately, partnering with parents is vital for creating successful dental encounters for children with ASD.

Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization: Diagnosis, Management, And Treatment, Giovana Anovazzi Medeiros Dds, Msc, Phd, Bahareh Enghiad Dmd, James R. Boynton Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a qualitative developmental enamel defect affecting at least one permanent first molar. Characterized by high porosity and reduced mineral content, MIH leads to hypersensitivity, post-eruptive breakdown, and increased caries susceptibility. The etiology is multifactorial, typically occurring between birth and four years of age. Management depends on severity, ranging from topical fluorides and sealants for mild cases to stainless-steel crowns or extractions for severe instances. Because porous enamel facilitates bacterial penetration and pulpal inflammation, achieving effective local anesthesia is often difficult, necessitating individualized behavioral management and early intervention to preserve tooth structure.

Life Membership Status Awarded To 61 Members, Mda Membership Department Staff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) recently awarded life membership to 61 members for their long-term commitment, requiring either 30 consecutive or 40 total years of membership. This status includes active life members, who still practice, and retired life members, who are exempt from dues. These individuals contribute to the profession through mentoring, teaching, and legislative outreach, as well as volunteering in local clinics. The article lists new life members across various Michigan districts, including Central, Detroit, and West Michigan. This recognition honors their decades of dedication to organized dentistry and their ongoing impact on both the association and their local …

Humanities And The Moral Vision Of Dentistry, Toni M. Roucka Rn, Dds, Ma, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The Editorial is a feature in each issue of the JACD. It includes commentary on issue content, relevant topics, or other items of interest to the fellowship.

Empathy And Human-Centered Leadership In Community Health Center Dental Clinics, Pamela S. Alston Dds, Mpp, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

A person-centered approach, with empathy toward patients, can improve satisfaction among both patients and dental health professionals. A dental director with a human-centered leadership style can improve the well-being of oral health team members. This article describes the role that empathy, a core value of humanism and professionalism, plays in accomplishing these improvements in community health center dental clinics. This article also describes the risks of empathy, as experienced by the author in her role as a dental director and practitioner, as well as documented in the literature. It further focuses on dental directors’ human-centered approaches to supporting oral health …

The Personal, Professional, And Practice: Integrating Health Humanities Into Dental Education, Margie Hodges Shaw Jd, Ma, Phd, Michael Yunker Dds, Nicholas Mercado Drph, Ms

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Dentistry’s evolution as a profession reflects both scientific progress and enduring tensions between commercial and service-oriented models of care. Despite long-standing commitments to ethical education, dental training continues to privilege technical mastery over professional identity formation, leaving some future practitioners underprepared for the ethical and relational complexities of clinical practice. This paper situates these challenges within the historical separation of dentistry and medicine and argues that integrating the health humanities into dental education can strengthen professional identity formation and clinical ethics competency. Using a case study, we demonstrate how biases, professional obligations, and patient trust intersect in practice. We introduce …

Dental Professionalism In A Changing World: Challenges & Opportunities, Robert P. Iovino, Dds, Ma Dds, Ma

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This manuscript examines the erosion of traditional dental professionalism amid rising educational costs, declining membership in professional associations, and the growing influence of corporate ownership and private equity in dentistry. Drawing perspectives from economics, sociology, philosophy, law, and ethics, it traces the historical development of professional licensure and its role in safeguarding clinical autonomy, ethical integrity, and public trust. The analysis highlights how deregulation and profit-driven practice models challenge the profession’s social contract. The manuscript argues that preserving strong civic institutions, restrictive licensure standards, and humanities-informed education is essential to sustaining dentistry as a learned profession rather than a commodified …

Lessons On Generative Artificial Intelligence From The American Association Of Dental Editors And Journalists (Aadej), Christopher J. Smiley

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists (AADEJ) recently released "Guidance for Authors, Editors and Publishers on the Use of Generative AI". Developed by an 11-member stakeholder panel, this guidance paper serves a dual purpose: It provides practical strategies for mitigating the risks that generative artificial intelligence (GAI) poses to professional writing and explains how GAI creates these risks. Understanding both the underlying vulnerabilities of GAI and how to address them is critical for users at all levels, from authors and reviewers to editors, publishers, and general users, to maintain the validity and reliability of their written work. This …