The UI College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics is a global leader in oral science and dental and craniofacial research

Dental Research with a lasting impact

At the forefront of innovation, the College of Dentistry is advancing oral health research with a mission to address both foundational and emerging challenges in dental science. Our research spans a wide range of topics, from improving patient outcomes and developing new technologies to tackling the underlying causes of oral diseases. Each study, whether in the lab or clinic, reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities around the world.

Since 2019, the UI College of Dentistry has more than doubled its external research funding from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), vaulting from 24th in the nation and $2.2M in 2019 to 12th overall and $4.6M in the latest rankings.

Research News

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Iowa Dentistry faculty and students lead at National Oral Health Conference

Wednesday, April 16, 2025
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics was prominently represented at the National Oral Health Conference, held April 7-9 in Orlando, Florida, with a delegation of fifteen faculty members, residents, and students attending.
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University of Iowa Department of Orthodontics Joins the AAOF Legacy Collection Project

Monday, March 24, 2025
The University of Iowa Orthodontics Department, led by Dr. Emma Mueldener, has received a $20,000 grant to digitize the Iowa Growth Study collection for the AAOF Legacy Project. This initiative preserves decades of orthodontic research—including X-rays, dental casts, and measurements—making them globally accessible. The project, set for completion in 2027, will advance education, research, and patient care worldwide.

Research Faculty

Our faculty, who are affiliated with the Iowa Institute for Oral Health Research, make a difference in basic science, translational, and clinical research.

Aline Petrin conducting research

Research Support

The UI College of Dentistry has many resources available to support researchers. The Biostatistics and Computational Biology team is integral to our exponential growth in external research funding.

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Funding Opportunities

Reseachers at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry have a large selection of funding opportunities from collegiate programs, university programs and resources, foundation opportunities, industry opportunities, and national agencies.

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Contact us

Contact Iowa's dental research team.

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Dental Student Research

Bringing research and education together.

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Graduate Studies

Programs in eleven dental specialties and in oral science.