The Department of Operative Dentistry had a strong presence at the 54th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Operative Dentistry, held in Chicago from Feb. 18–20, 2026. Faculty, residents, students, alumni, and collaborators represented the University of Iowa through leadership roles, research presentations, and professional engagement.

Dr. Sandra Guzman-Armstrong was elected president-elect of the Academy of Operative Dentistry. During the meeting, Guzman-Armstrong led the Clinic Briefings session, where Dr. Ahmad Alkhazaleh presented “Systematic Approach to Enhance Shade Matching and Shade Replication Using Resin Composite.”

Dr. Noor Asfar presented “Effects of Desensitizing Agents on Eroded Cervical Dentin: Surface Chemistry and Microtensile Bond Strength” as a Philips Student Research Award recipient. Asfar was mentored by Dr. Ariene Leme-Kraus.

Results from a five-year clinical trial conducted jointly by the Department of Operative Dentistry and the Department of Family Dentistry were presented by Dr. Erica Teixeira, adjunct professor in the Department of Operative Dentistry. The study compared the clinical performance of single-shade resin composites with traditional multi-shade composites in anterior restorations.

The department also hosted its annual Iowa Operative Alumni and Friends Gathering on Feb. 18, bringing together residents, faculty, staff, alumni, collaborators, and colleagues for an evening of connection during the national meeting.

Guzman-Armstrong met with advanced education program directors from across the country to advance ongoing efforts related to accreditation standards through the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The Advanced Operative Educators Alliance (AOEA) continues to lead national efforts on the proposed Accreditation Standards for Advanced Dental Education Programs in Operative Dentistry, Cariology, and Biomaterials. The standards have been approved by CODA for public review and comment, with final consideration expected at CODA’s summer 2026 meeting.