2024-2025
Development of an artificial saliva with engineered antimicrobial peptides – An innovative approach to preventing oral mucosal infections
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: College of Dentistry, University of SaskatchewanTeam Lead: Eduardo Moffa DDS, MSc, PhD - Assistant Professor, Prosthodontics
Description:
Objective: Using a reconstructed human oral epithelium model, the research team will comprehensively characterize the effect of antimicrobial engineered peptides in protecting the oral epithelium against C. albicans biofilm.
Members
Walter Siqueira DDS, MBA, PhD, FICD, FCAHS - Dean and Professor, College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan
Jessica Sheldon MSc, PhD, HBSc - Assistant Professor, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan
Raphael De Souza DDS, MSc - Professor, Faculté de médecine dentaire, Université Laval
Diego Ardenghi DDS, MA(Educ), MSc, DipProsth, FRCD(C) - Associate Professor, University of British Columbia
Theresa Donald RDA - Instructor, Academic Director, Dental Assisting Program, University of Saskatchewan
2024-2025
Elucidating material-specific host-material interactions to collagen-based barrier membranes for guided tissue regeneration
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie UniversityTeam Lead: Zeeshan Sheikh DipDh, BDS, MSc, M.Perio, PhD, FRCD(C), Dip-ABP - Clinical Scientist in Periodontics. Assistant Professor Biomaterials & Applied Oral Sciences and Dental Clinical Sciences
Description:
Objective(s): The team hypothesizes that collagen-based barrier membranes enhance immune and regenerative responses through the synergy of their physiochemical properties with immune cells. This is explored through three related aims: Aim-1: Compare bi-interface surface properties of collagen-based membrane products. Aim-2: Correlate membrane surface properties with human innate immune cell phenotypes. Aim-3: Associate the membrane characteristics with microenvironmental cues and immune/epithelial cell communication.
Members
co-PI - Locke Davenport Huyer BSc in Eng., PhD - Assistant Professor, Department of Biomaterials & Applied Oral Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry and School of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine
Michael Glogauer DDS, PhD - Professor, University of Toronto, Dentist in Chief, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto
Boyang Zhang BSc, PhD - Assistant Professor, McMaster University
Umer Daood BDS, MSc, PhD - Associate Professor, International Medical University, Malaysia
2024-2025
Rare Diseases and Oral Health Access and Barriers
Details:
Theme: Barriers and gaps in oral health care, from access limitations to health equityHost Institution: Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université LavalTeam Lead: Silvana Papagerakis MD, PhD - Professor and Senior Clinical Researcher
Description:
Objective: The study will provide the much-needed foundational knowledge to improve quality of life (QofL) for patients with rare diseases.
Members
Jessica Lieffers RD - Associate Professor, University of Saskatchewan
Paolo Landa BSc, MSc, PhD - Assistant Professor, University of Laval
Mario Brondani DDS, MSc, MPH, PhD - Professor, University of British Columbia
Cynthia Gagnon PhD - Professor, University of Sherbrooke
2024-2025
Systematic Integration of Craniofacial and Dental Assessments to Increase Diagnostic Yield of Rare Disorders
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of British ColumbiaTeam Lead: Daniel Graf PhD - Professor and Director Research Cluster on Craniofacial, Oral, Dental Disorders, Department of Oral Biological & Medical Sciences
Description:
Objectives: The novel approach in this application is to expand deep phenotyping which will aid genomic target prioritization and increase diagnostic yield. The inclusion of craniofacial/dental analysis would contribute to syndrome identification and delineation given the heterogeneity in expression. Craniofacial/oral/dental assessment is currently not routinely provided and must be done by a clinical expert such as a pediatric dentist or orthodontist.
Members
co-PI - Randa Soussou BDS, MSc, FRCDC, DipABPD - Assistant Professor, Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia
Alison M. Elliott PhD, MS, CGC - Associate Professor, Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia and BC Children’s Hospital
Benedikt Hallgrimsson, PhD - Professor, Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, University of Calgary & Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute
Sid Vora BDS, MSD, PhD - Associate Professor, Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia
Joy Richman DMD, MDentSci, PHD, Cert. Ped. Dent. - Professor, Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia and BC Children’s Hospital
Salima Alibhai RDH, BS, MPH - Assistant Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia
2024-2025
The Impact of a Novel Probiotic on Non-Surgical Treatment Outcomes in Peri-Implant Diseases: A Multi-Center Randomized Clinical Trial
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health treatmentsHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie UniversityTeam Lead: Anjali Bhagirath BDS, MSc, PhD, FRCDC - Assistant Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The primary objective of this study is to assess the clinical effectiveness of Salivaricin-10 (Sali-10TM, containing 1 billion live cells/dose) as an adjunct to non-surgical therapy and the secondary objective is to investigate the impact of Sali-10TM on microbiota around implants in peri-implant diseases.
Members
co-PI - Violet D'Souza PhD, MS, MSc, BDS - Assistant Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie University
Michael Glogauer DDS, PhD - Professor, University of Toronto, Dentist in Chief, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto
Chrysi Stavropoulou DDS, MDent(Perio), FRCD(C) - Assistant Professor, University of Manitoba
Aditya Patel HBSc, DDS, MPerio, FRCD(C) - Clinical Instructor, Dalhousie University
Anum Haider BDS, MSc, FRCDC - Assistant Clinical Professor, University of Alberta
Andrew Gibb DDS, MSc, FRCDC - Clinical Instructor, University of Alberta
2023-2024
3D printed titanium scaffolds coated with a resorbable calcium phosphate (brushite) for oral & maxillofacial cancer patients undergoing maxillectomy
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and Excellence Host Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie UniversityTeam Lead: Zeeshan Sheikh, DipDh, BDS, MSc, PhD, M.Perio, FRCDC, Diplomate of American Board of Periodontology (ABP), Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Oral Sciences & Dental Clinical Sciences
Description:
Objective(s):
Fabrication of porous Ti-6Al-4V scaffolds with moderate surface roughness of (1-2μm).
Coat the fabricated scaffolds with brushite biomaterial with three different viscosities by varying the powder to liquid ratio.
To characterize the physico-chemical properties of the scaffolds coated with brushite.
To assess the binding, stability, and ionic release of the brushite coating on the porous scaffolds.
Members
Paul Bishop - Professor, Mechanical Engineering, Dalhousie University
Pierre-Luc Michaud - Maxillofacial-Prosthodontist, Professor, Dalhousie University
Mark Filliagi - Professor, Applied Oral Sciences, Dalhousie University
Michael Glogauer - Dentist in Chief, Dental Oncology and Maxillofacial Prosthetics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto
Marc D. Grynpas - Senior Scientist, Sinai Health, Toronto
Umer Daood - Associate Professor, IMU, Malaysia
Melanie MacLean - Dental Assistant-Scheduling Coordinator, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University
2023-2024
Cannabis and Oral Health: Intersectionality in 2SLGBTQI+ Youth
Details:
Theme: Barriers and gaps in oral health care, from access limitations to health equityHost Institution: Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western OntarioTeam Lead: Abbas Jessani, Assistant Professor
Description:
Objective(s): 1) To explore the individual and psychosocial factors related to 2SLGBTQI+ youth, their oral health, and their self-described cannabis perceptions and consumption; 2) To explore the self-described experiences of cannabis use and perceived oral health needs
Members
Herenia P. Lawrence - Associate Professor, Dental Public Health Discipline, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto
Mario A Brondani - Professor, Chair, Division of Dental Public Health Coordinator, Community & Educational Research Cluster, University of British Columbia
2023-2024
Cannabis use among breastfeeding women: Effect on the oral health of newborns
Details:
Theme: Determinants of oral health and diseases Host Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Laval UniversityTeam Lead: Abdelhabib Semlali PhD, Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The main aim of this study is to analyze the biochemical composition of breast milk collected from nursing women using cannabis and to assess the potential negative effects on the oral health and well-being of their babies.
Members
Florina Maldovan - Dental Faculty, Université de Montréal
Lionel Loubaki - Héma-Québec
Robert Durant - Dental Faculty, Université de Montréal
Christine Nadeau - Dental Faculty, Laval University
Radu Popescu - CHUL, Quebec City
2023-2024
Decoding epigenetic shifts associated with predictive and prognostic factors in Human Papillomavirus (HPV) head and neck cancer (HNC)
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and ExcellenceHost Institution: Lady Davis Institute - Jewish General HospitalTeam Lead: Dr. Sabrina Wurzba, DDS, MSc, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. McGill University; Project Director, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research - Segal Cancer Center
Description:
Objective(s): The goal of this research proposal is to assess the clinical relevance of specific strains of HPV-driven aberrant DNAm patterns can serve as reliable early indicators of HPV+HNC recurrence or metastasis. There are three specific aims for the one-year project:
1. Characterize DNAm patterns associated with distinct prognostic outcomes in HPV+HNC (n=50).
Members
Dr. Hier - Jewish General Hospital, Montreal
Dr. Mascarella - McGill University Health Centre and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal
Dr Mlynarek - CIUSSS-Montreal, Montreal
Dr. Landais - Centre hospitalier universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal
Dr. Semlali - Faculty of Dentistry - Laval University, Quebec City
Dr. Alaoui-Jamali - Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montreal
Dr. Nicolau - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal
2023-2024
Development of CARBODENT: a tool to calculate the carbon footprint of oral health clinics and measure the impact of dental care on the climate
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and Excellence Host Institution: Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill UniversityTeam Lead: Christophe Bedos DDS, PhD - Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The objective of this project is to create CARBODENT, a computer application calculating the carbon footprint of dental clinics in Canada. This application will allow them to quantify their carbon emissions and thus develop personalized eco-responsible strategies. This application will first be developed for Quebec and will be called CARBODENT-QC, before being adapted to other provinces and available in CARBODENT-ON for Ontario, CARBODENT-AB for Alberta, etc.
Members
Sabrina Gravel PhD - Institut Robert Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail
Brett Duane DDS, PhD - Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
Jean-Noël Vergnes DDS, PhD - University Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
Paul Sabatier - Toulouse, France
Aimée Dawson DDS, MSc - University Laval
Belinda Nicolau DDS, PhD - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Wendy Somerville MSc - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Zovinar der Khatchadourian - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
2023-2024
Suicide risk among individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer in Canada, 1992-2017: A population-based cohort study
Details:
Theme: Oral health and disease, and links with other non-communicable diseasesHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Université de MontréalTeam Lead: Claudie Laprise, Assistant Professor
Description:
Objective(s): a) To describe the suicide mortality rates among head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors in Canada during 1992-2017; b) To compare the risk of death by suicide among HNC survivors with the Canadian general population; c) To describe the risk factors associated with suicide deaths among HNC survivors.
Members
Sreenath Madathil - Assistant Professor, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Belinda Nicolau - Professor, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Denise Laronde - Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia
Leigha Rock - Director of School of Dental Hygiene, Assistant Professor, Dalhousie University
Firoozeh Samim - Assistant Professor, McGill University
Nicholas M. Makhoul - Assistant Professor, McGill University and Department head, Dentistry and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, McGill University Health Center
2022-2023
Comprehensive characterization of the symbiotic dental biofilm fluid by state-of-the-art multi-OMICS approaches
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: College of Dentistry, University of SaskatchewanTeam Lead: Lina Marin, DDS, MSc, PhD, Assistant Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The research team will comprehensively characterize the symbiotic dental biofilm fluid using state-of-the-art multi- OMICS approaches, with the following specific aims: (1) Identify and characterize the proteome and peptidome of the dental biofilm fluid. (2) Explore the relationship between the biochemical composition of biofilm fluid and microbial composition of the symbiotic dental biofilm.
Summary Report:
Pending project completion.
Members
co-PI - Dennis Cvitkovitch - Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto
co-PI - Peter Doig - Assistant Dean Clinics, Assistant Professor, College of Dentistry, USask
co-PI - Leigha Rock - Assistant Professor, School of Dental Hygiene, Dalhousie University
2022-2023
Development of a bioresorbable calcium phosphate-bone anabolic conjugate biomaterial complex to regenerate bone in peri-implant defects
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie UniversityTeam Lead: Zeeshan Sheikh, DipDh, BDS, MSc, PhD, M.Perio, FRCDC, Diplomate of American Board of Periodontology (ABP), Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Oral Sciences & Dental Clinical Sciences
Description:
Objective(s): new bone formation in the critical sized peri-implant defects.
Summary Report:
Pending project completion.
Members
Haider Al-Waeli - Clinician & Assistant Professor, Department of Dental Clinical Sciences, Dalhousie University
Vahid Adibnia - Assistant Professor, Applied Oral Sciences, Dalhousie University
Robert N. Young - Professor, Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University
Michael Glogauer - Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto
Marc D. Grynpas - Senior Scientist, Research Institute of Sinai Health
Angela D Nowe - Clinical Instructor, Dental Clinical Sciences-Periodontics, Dalhousie University
Melanie MacLean - Scheduling Coordinator, Family Medicine, Dalhousie University
Haider Razzaq Hussain - Periodontics Specialty Program Resident, Year 2, Dalhousie University
2022-2023
Development of an in vitro hyperglycemic system to explore periodontal inflammation
Details:
Theme: Oral health and disease, and links with other non-communicable diseasesHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Université LavalTeam Lead: Vanessa Houde, Assistant Professor
Description:
Objectives: The research question that arises is: How hyperglycemia affects the periodontal inflammatory response? To answer this question, we hypothesize that a hyperglycemic microenvironment can modulate the regulation of the inflammatory response during periodontitis. The objectives of this research project are: 1) Investigate the influence of hyperglycemia on the transcriptome and on the secretion of cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases by a cell coculture model following the stimulation of periodontal inflammation with an infectious biofilm; and 2) Study the impacts of commensal bacteria on infectious biofilm-induced periodontal inflammation in a hyperglycemic microenvironment.
Summary Report:
A summary report detailing the background and relevancy, methodology, results, and perspectives was prepared by Dr. Vanessa Houde (PI) in June 2025.
View the summary report by clicking the link .
Members
Céline Lévesque - Full Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto
Robert Durand - Periodontist and Full Professor, Faculty of Dentistry, Université de Montréal
Fernando Forato Anhê - Assistant Professor, Université Laval; Early-Career Researcher, Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire de cardiologie et pneumologie de Québec (CRIUCPQ)
Arnaud Droit - Full Professor, Université Laval
Fatiha Chandad - Full Professor, Université Laval
Christiane Maltais - Dental Hygienist, Université Laval
Victor Brouillette - Masters Student, Université Laval
2022-2023
Evaluation of the Tolerance and Benefits of Mandibular Advanced Device (MAD) for Snoring and Sleep Apnea in Patients with Oropharyngeal Cancer (OPC): Mixed Design Study
Details:
Theme: Oral health and disease, and links with other non-communicable diseasesHost Institution: Le Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM)Team Lead: Gilles Lavigne DMD, PhD, FRCD (Oral medicine)
Description:
Objective(s): Conduct a pilot study, with a mixed quantitative and qualitative design, to reduce snoring or sleep apnea using an MAD, and improve the quality of life and sleep.
Summary Report:
Pending project completion.
Members
co-PI - Pascaline Kengne Talla PhD - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
co-PI - Nelly Huynh PhD - U Montréal
co-PI - Gilles Lavigne DMD, PhD, FRCD (Oral medicine) - U Montréal
M Schmittbuhl DMD, PhD - U Montréal
É Dufresne DMD, MSc - U Montréal
C Dal Fabbro DDS, PhD - U Montréal
P Mayer MD - U Montréal
P Rompré MSc - U Montréal
V Belanger - U Montréal
M Gemme - U Montréal
E Emami PhD - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
EJ Cohen-Lévy PhD - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
A Idrissi PhD - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
F Nguyen MD - CHUM
Houda Bahig MD PhD - CHUM
Edith Filion MD - CHUM
2020-2021
Deciphering the molecular links between periodontitis and ischemic cardiovascular disease
Details:
Theme: Role of the oral microbiome, saliva and/or oral in systemic diseasesHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of British ColumbiaTeam Lead: Hugh Kim DMD, Dip Perio, MSc, PhD, FRCD(C), Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The aim of this grant proposal is to determine precisely how platelets transduce the biochemical signals from periodontal pathogens, and whether the inhibition of specific platelet signaling pathways can mitigate the pro-thrombotic effects of periodontal infection. The project will also measure, using human patient-based blood samples, precisely how periodontal infection affects systemic platelet activity.
Members
Sid Vora - University of British Columbia
Michael Glogauer - University of Toronto
Edward Pryzdial - Canadian Blood Services
Manoj Paul - University of British Columbia
Zul Kanji - University of British Columbia
Denise Laronde - University of British Columbia
2020-2021
Carrageenan for the prevention of oral HPV infection: a feasibility randomized clinical trial
Details:
Theme: Role of the oral microbiome, saliva and/or oral in systemic diseasesHost Institution: Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill UniversityTeam Lead: Belinda Nicolau DDS, MSc, PhD, Full Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The research will evaluate the possibility of testing a novel Carrageenan mouthwash –specifically formulated for this study – as a new, affordable, effective, and on-demand alternative preventive strategy against oral HPV infection.
Members
Eduardo Franco - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Francois Coutlée - University of Montreal
Mirabelle Kelly - Granby Hospital
Nicholas Makhoul - Montreal General Hospital
Sreenath Madathil - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Babatunde All - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Hilina Hitimana - Dental Hygienist
Dean Fresonke - CarraShield Labs
2020-2021
Development and Application of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery in the Oral Environment
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: College of Dentistry, University of ManitobaTeam Lead: Rodrigo França DDS, MS, PhD, Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The main objective of the proposed research is to develop superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) as transporters of therapeutic agents (polyphenols), to prevent collagen degradation in the dental structure (dentin and cementum).
Members
Asmaa Haimeur - College of Dentistry, University of Manitoba
Anuradha Prakki - Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto
Edward Sacher - PolyMTL, Université de Montréal
Ana Carla Fernandes - College of Dentistry, University of Manitoba
2020-2021
Development of an intelligent clinical decision support system to reduce periodontal risks
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: University of Alberta, School of DentistryTeam Lead: Hollis Lai PhD, MBA, MEd, BSc, Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s): With an emerging focus on analytics and machine learning approaches affecting all health professions, there is great potential for a new focus of research on dental analytics in Canada. With independent dental practitioners, it is important for dental schools to lead in how data can be used on an individual clinic basis. This study will initiate a new focus for dental researchers in Canada on how AI/ML can be applied to inform clinical decisions in periodontal diseases, provide an opportunity to demonstrate how expertise can be integrated with AI/ML projects through cognitive modeling in dentistry, and provide initial insights on the limitations of AI/ML applications in dental analytic.
Members
Monica Gibson - University of Alberta
Ava Chow - University of Alberta
University of Alberta - Dalhousie University
Amarpreet Sabharwal - Western University
Harvey Goldberg - Western University
Nazila Ameli - University of Alberta
2020-2021
Synthesizing a new library of PAC analogues and assessing their potential preclinical application for oral cancer therapy.
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health care access and treatmentsHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Université LavalTeam Lead: Abdelhabib Semlali PhD, Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The overall objective of the project is to develop new PAC analogues for clinical applications in cancer treatment. Specifically, the research will: (a) elaborate a new bioactive library of PAC analogues; (b) evaluate their physicochemical properties and bioactivities; (c) study the mechanisms by which these preferentially kill oral cancer cells, and (d) study in vivo using immunosuppression oral cancer mouse model.
Members
Adam Daich - Le Havre University (France)
Saed Ghavami - Manitoba University
Robert Durant - Université de Montreal
Linda Desfossés - CÉGEP Edouard-Montpetit
2019-2020
Exploring the diversity in the microbiome of high-risk oral epithelial dysplasia as a predictor of malignant progression
Details:
Theme: Role of the oral microbiome, saliva and/or oral in systemic diseasesHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie UniversityTeam Lead: Leigha Rock BDSc, PhD, Associate Professor & Director, School of Dental Hygiene
Description:
Objective(s): A growing body of research associates the oral microbiome and oral cancer. Well-characterized clinical samples with outcome data are required to establish relevant associations between the microbiota and disease. The objective of this study was to characterize the community variations and the functional implications of the microbiome in low-grade oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing from annotated archival swabs in progressing (P) and non-progressing (NP) OED.
Members
Denise Laronde - Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia
Wan Lam - British Columbia Cancer Research Centre
Morgan Langille - Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University
2019-2020
Identification de la signature génétique spécifique pour concevoir un traitement ciblé du cancer buccal chez des patients Autochtones Canadiennes
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health care access and treatmentsHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, Laval UniversityTeam Lead: Abdelhabib Semlali PhD, Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s):
Members
Mahmoud Rouabhia - Faculty of Dentistry, Laval U
Silvana Papagerakis - Laboratory of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer, U of Saskatchewan
Nancy Mouradian - Faculty of Dentistry, Laval U
Belinda Nicolau - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill U
Aimée Dawson - Faculty of Dentistry, Laval U
Abdelilah Soussi Gounni - Faculty of Medicine, U of Manitoba
2019-2020
Mechanobiology of the basement membrane at the nanoscale in progressing oral cancer lesion
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health care access and treatmentsHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of TorontoTeam Lead: Laurent Bozec BSc, PhD, Full Professor
Description:
Objective(s):
(1) Nanoscale mechanobiology of the basement membrane – This objective aims to develop a novel in‐vitro collagen‐Matrigel bilayer system to study the effect of proteolytic
(2) Nanoscale mechanobiology of the basement membrane – The aim of this objective is to extend the nanoscale mechanical and structural fingerprints of the BM as defined in Objective 1 to selected existing clinical cases.
Members
Marco Magalhaes - University of Toronto
Martin Hyrcza - Foothills Medical Center
2019-2020
Oral Health and Oral Care after Stroke: a Mixed Methods Study
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health care access and treatmentsHost Institution: Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of OttawaTeam Lead: Heather Flowers PhD, Associate Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The objective of the mixed-methods study is to better understand post-stroke oral care behaviours in Canadian hospitals. The research questions are:
1. What is the relationship between health care professionals’ background on oral health and their oral care practices in acute stroke and rehabilitation contexts?
Members
Hillel Finestone - University of Ottawa
Michael Wiseman - Private Practice Dentistry/McGill University
Katrine Sauvé-Schenk - University of Ottawa
Nalia Gurgel-Juarez - University of Ottawa
Brooke Benton - St. Joseph's Health Care/Lawson Health Research Institute
Karen Mallet - The Ottawa Hospital
Dylan Blacquière - The Ottawa Hospital
2019-2020
Understanding the Role of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Inducing Different Patterns of Immune Response During Oral Cancer Progression
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: Faculty of Medicine, McGill UniversityTeam Lead: Dr. Sabrina Wurzba, DDS, MSc, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. McGill University; Project Director, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research - Segal Cancer Center
Description:
Objective(s):
Members
Belinda Nicolau - Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University
Moulay Alaoui-Jamali - Lady Davis Institute
Michael Hier - Jewish General Hospital
Alex Mlynarek - Jewish General Hospital
Nader Sadeghi - McGill University Health Centre
Guillaume Bourgue - Genome Quebec Innovation Centre
2018-2019
A multi-centred stepped wedge cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the de- adoption of oral chlorhexidine prophylaxis and implementation of an oral care bundle for mechanically ventilated critically ill patients (The CHORAL Study)
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health care access and treatmentsHost Institution: University of Toronto/Sunnybrook Research InstituteTeam Lead: Craig Dale RN, PhD, CNCC(C), Associate Scientist
Description:
Objective(s): The objective of the study is to conduct a multi-centered stepped wedge cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the de-adoption of oral chlorhexidine prophylaxis and implementation of an oral care bundle for ventilated critically ill patients.
Summary Report:
A summary report detailing the background, methods, findings, and implications, as well as the study’s alignment with CIHR and NCOHR priorities, timeline adherence, knowledge translation activities, and budget update, was prepared by Dr. Craig Dale (PI) at the beginning of 2020. View the summary report by clicking the link .
Members
Brian Cuthbertson
Carlos Quiñonez
Louise Rose
2018-2019
Monetite biomaterial grafts loaded with a novel bone anabolic conjugate C3 conjugate drug to achieve more predictable and greater bone regeneration.
Details:
Theme: Novel research avenues with a strong potential for innovation and excellenceHost Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of TorontoTeam Lead: Michael Glogauer DDS, PhD, Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The primary objective of this proposed research is to investigate whether the novel conjugate drug released via the matrix of the bioresorbable cement grafts has the potential to achieve rapid, enhanced and clinically significant bone regeneration in the vertical bone augmentation model and that the newly formed bone is physiologically active. The long-term objective is to bring a product to the market which will ultimately benefit millions of patients undergoing maxillofacial reconstruction and alveolar bone augmentation prior to dental implant placement.
Summary Report:
A report on research outcomes and future plans was prepared by Dr. Michael Glogauer (PI) in June 2019. View the summary report by clicking the link .
Members
Mohamed Nur Abdallah
Marc Grynpas
Nader Hamdan
Zeeshan Sheikh
Robert Young
2018-2019
Pilot Validation of a New Canadian Pediatric Caries Risk Assessment Tool (CANA-P) for Preschool Children
Details:
Theme: Improving oral health care access and treatmentsHost Institution: University of Manitoba/Children’s Hospital Research Institute of ManitobaTeam Lead: Robert J. Schroth DDM, MSc, PhD, Professor & Clinician- Scientist
Description:
Objective(s): The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the sensitivity and specificity of CANA-P to predict caries development in a cohort of children followed in community-based dental clinics.
Members
Mary Bertone
Mario Brondani
2018-2019
TNFα, inflammatory bowel disease, and periodontal disease in the elderly
Details:
Theme: Aging and the inception/progression of degenerative and chronic diseases that affect the body, including the mouthHost Institution: University of AlbertaTeam Lead: Daniel Graf PhD, Professor
Description:
Objective(s): The objective of the study is to explore whether the increased incidence of periodontal disease in IBD patients is a biological consequence of the chronic inflammatory IBD condition, or whether it is the result of decreased oral hygiene adherence due to the oral mucosal manifestations.
Summary Report:
A report on research outcomes and future plans was prepared by Dr. Daniel Graf (PI) in May 2021. View the summary report by clicking the link .
Members
Monica Gibson
Pallavi Parashar
Sharon Compton
Sharon Compton
Eytan Wine - University of Alberta
Nader Hamdan - Dalhousie University
Hannu Larjava - University of British Columbia
Knowledge Transfer Activities
Publication - Clin Exp Dent Res. 2022 Oct; 8(5): 1028–1034. — Find out more
2024
The Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) data user workshop: Spotlight on oral health
Details:
Host Institution: Statistics CanadaTraining Program: The Oral Health Data User Workshop was presented by Statistics Canada as part of the Canadian Oral Health Summit 2024.
The workshop intended to: a) show users where to find and how to navigate sources of information about the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS), b) help users understand what, why and how various aspects of the survey design need to considered and incorporated when analyzing the data c) provide users with best practices when analyzing the data and d) provide an overview of the oral health component, past and present, including hands-on examples of analyzing the oral health data.
2024
University of Montreal Scientific Day
Details:
Team Lead: Antonio Nanci, Vice-Dean for Research, Innovation and Technology Transfer; Vice-Dean for Research, Innovation and Technology Transfer team
Description:
Theme: Animals and humans: when medicine comes together
Timing/Location: Thursday, January 18, 2024, from 8:20 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in amphitheatre E-310 and in the Hall d’honneur of Pavillon Roger-Gaudry.
Attendees : International speakers and Université de Montréal faulty and students.
Updates
News and full program
2023/24
University of Alberta, Department of Dentistry Student Research Group
Details:
Team Lead: Parisa Bayat, President, Research Intensive Graduate Program Representative
Description:
In the 2023/2024 academic year, the Department of Dentistry Student Research Group embarked on its journey by electing new members in September 2023. Our primary goal for the year was to build a research culture among undergraduate students and provide networking opportunities for graduate students.
We organized Fall and Winter Research Mixers, offering valuable opportunities for undergraduate students to connect with their peers and faculty. At these events, supervisors showcased their projects for the Undergraduate Research Initiative and led discussions on their research topics.
We also organized the annual Day of Dentistry Poster Session, a major event for both undergraduate and graduate students to showcase their research projects. During the 2-hour event, 52 posters were presented, and 13 judges selected the top presentations.
A notable achievement was the successful hosting of a two-day Graduate Research Day event, featuring the Geoffrey H. Sperber lecture as the keynote presentation by Dr. Michael Glogauer (see poster ). Despite initial challenges posed by the high volume of presentations, both events were highly successful. The Graduate Research Day showcased 42 presentations from first and second-year graduate students, with the top presenters chosen by our judges.
We concluded the year with an end-of-year mixer and a welcoming event for the new academic year, which saw active participation from both undergraduate research initiative and graduate students.
This year, we were honored with the best Graduate Student Group Award from GSA. Additionally, we managed to secure over twice the funding from the previous year, allowing us to host higherquality events and achieve record-breaking attendance across all SRG activities.
Members
Michelle Bey - Vice President, Graduate Students’ Association Council Representative
Zanib Kiani - Treasurer, FMOD Council Representative
Rojin Adabdokht - Secretary, Graduate Studies Committee Representative
Carlos Alberto Figueredo - Clinically Intensive Graduate Programs Representative
Karla Carpio - Post-doctoral Fellows Representative
Nishant Kharidehal - DDS Program Representative
Lina Al-Baghdadi - DH Program Representative
Yash Modha - Member at Large
Dr. Reid Friesen - Faculty Advisor
Updates
2023/24 Department of Dentistry SRG Annual Report
2024
Applied AI in Oral Health Summer Institute
Details:
Host Institution: School of Dentistry, University of AlbertaTeam Lead: Hollis Lai, Associate Professor
Description:
The School of Dentistry at the University of Alberta organized a Summer Institute on Applied AI in Oral Health Research during the last week of July. The Summer Institute offered applied and methodological AI training through examples and applications of coding techniques to solve challenges in dental research.
This program was designed for interested dental researchers and students with no previous experience in AI who wish to pursue this area of research and covered:
– Understand the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning as they apply to dentistry.
The four-day institute had 25 participants representing the University of Alberta, the University of Montreal, Dalhousie University, the University of Saskatchewan, and the University of Sao Paulo, along with other universities and private practice.
Please see the summary report prepared by Dr. Hollis Lai.
2018
McGill Summer Institute in Innovative Methodologies
Details:
Host Institution: Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill UniversityTeam Lead: Belinda Nicolau, Professor
Description:
Dr. Belinda Nicolau headed a team of 12 investigators (senior, mid-career and junior) and trainees that organized and taught the 2018 McGill Summer Institute in Innovative Methodologies. Held in July 2018 at the McGill University Faculty of Dentistry, the event combined four courses that addressed specific methodological needs to tackle complex research problems. These one-week courses, two well-established and two newly developed, were designed and taught by researchers recognized nationally and internationally in these fields.
The event brought together professors and students from across Canada and other countries (Brazil, Bangladesh, Portugal, Puerto Rico).
Using a solid and previously established infrastructure, the Summer Institute introduced junior and mid-career oral health researchers to mixed methods, life course epidemiology, meta-analysis of clinical and basic science research, and qualitative health research with children and youth. This diverse offering of practical methodological courses capitalized on our teaching and administrative expertise, research databases and experience in the organization of events, which made the experience enjoyable for attendees.
With NCOHR funding, we offered 23 NCOHR members from across Canada free registrations for 31 courses and travel support. We also provided all 34 participants (taking 42 courses) with course materials (textbooks, software licenses, online workspaces), certificates, on-site breakfast, lunch and snacks, and a restaurant dinner.
The organizing team employed several learning tools to accommodate a variety of learning styles. The main Summer Institute teaching philosophy is that trainees learn well by solving problems, by having opportunities to reflect on their own practice, and through work with peers. As part of this participatory approach, attendees often collaborated in teams that reported their results to the group for comparison and feedback. Practical examples from the instructors’ clinical and research experience made the complex subject matter more readily understandable and relevant to participants and allowed them to address concrete problems. Attendees also shared useful experiences and insights. Finally, each course used innovative and rigorous approaches to assessment to improve future courses. The professors and students participating in these courses highlighted their enthusiasm with regards to the experience, the usefulness of the research approaches taught, and the skills they learned. In addition, because the Summer Institute annually attracts increasing numbers of participants from several countries, they provide all involved with many new international networking opportunities. As with previous editions, the organizing team has already capitalized on new contacts to initiate project collaborations and publications (e.g., Nicolau et al, 2017, https://doi.org/10.1177/2380084417705823 ).
Building on the success of this ambitious program, Dr. Nicolau and colleagues continue to organize and offer summer institutes. More information is available at: www.mcgill.ca/dentistry/research-and-graduate-students/events/summer-institute
2016
Life Course Approach to Oral Health Research
Details:
Host Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of British ColumbiaTeam Lead: Mario Brondani, Professor
Description:
Drs. Brondani, Amin, Nicolau and Poon organized and hosted a three-day interdisciplinary and multi-sectorial workshop in August 2016 at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia.
The institute covered the foundational ideas about population health and epidemiology as applicable to life course research in oral health. The Institute brought together local and national perspectives from junior and senior research trainees and academics. Participants were encouraged to brainstorm ways to better utilize the life course approach in oral health research.
The workshop had 21 participants representing Laval University, McGill University, University of Saskatchewan, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia (Faculty of Dentistry and the School of Population ad Public Health), University of Montreal, University of Alberta, University of Indiana (U.S.A), and the Canadian Dental Hygienist Association (Ottawa, Ontario).
Summer Research Institute – Life Course Approach to Oral Health Research
2015
Applied Mixed Methods in Oral Health Research
Details:
Host Institution: Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill UniversityTeam Lead: Belinda Nicolau, Professor
Description:
In late August 2015, Drs. Nicolau, Levine, Castonguay and Pluye organized and taught the 1st McGill Summer Institute in Applied Mixed Methods in Oral Health Research.
In the last decade, there has been a steady increase in the use of mixed methods in health research, including dentistry. This growth in popularity can be seen as a response to the increasing complexity of research problems relating to human health and wellbeing. However, the plurality of mixed methods designs is often difficult to cope with for novice researchers.
The event brought together professors and students from seven Canadian dental schools (UBC, Dalhousie, U Toronto, U Laval, U Montreal, U McGill, U Alberta), as well as from Brazilian and Mexican universities. The evaluations of over twenty participants (22) were very enthusiastic and the group produced a journal article for JDR Clinical & Translational Research.
Summer Research Institute – Applied Mixed Methods in Oral Health Research
Knowledge Transfer Activities
2015
Systematic Review Methodology Workshop
Details:
Host Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of AlbertaTeam Lead: Carlos Flores Mir, Professor
Description:
In July 2015, the Network for Canadian Oral Health Research sponsored a one-week systematic review methodology workshop at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Alberta.
The workshop had two goals:
to broaden the knowledge of oral health providers in Canadian dental schools about evidence-based practice principles through hands-on activities
to provide workshop participants with hands-on experience in designing, conducting, writing and critiquing health care systematic reviews (SRs)
The workshop had 12 participants representing 4 dental schools (University of Manitoba, McGill University, Laval University and University of Alberta). Feedback from participants was very positive.
Attendees gained skills in conducting efficient searches and in the evaluation and knowledge translation of published evidence. Additionally, attendees developed core competencies in preparing a systematic review manuscript for consideration in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
Knowledge Transfer Activities
2014
Thinking Interdisciplinarity in Oral Health Research Symposium
Details:
Host Institution: Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill UniversityTeam Lead: Belinda Nicolau, Professor
Description:
In September 2014, the Network for Canadian Oral Health Research sponsored a three-day symposium on interdisciplinary research methods at the Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University. The purpose of the symposium was to bring together early and mid-career Oral Health researchers from across Canada to explore the theory, philosophy and practicality of engaging in interdisciplinary oral health research.
The symposium had 20 participants representing 7 dental schools (Laval U, Dalhousie U, Western U, U of Saskatchewan, U of Toronto, U of British Columbia, McGill U) and the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (Ottawa, Ontario). Feedback from participants was very positive. A major outcome of the symposium is that four (4) interdisciplinary teams intend to continue working together in the future
Summer Research Institute – Thinking Interdisciplinarity in Oral Health Research Symposium
2014
Advanced Imaging Methods for Craniofacial and Oral Health Research
Details:
Host Institution: Faculty of Dentistry, University of British ColumbiaTeam Lead: Nancy Ford, Associate Professor
Description:
In July 2014, the Centre for High-Throughput Phenogenomics (UBC Faculty of Dentistry) hosted a 1-week summer institute. The institute provided information on new and innovative imaging methods and how these techniques can be integrated to support oral and craniofacial basic science research.
For more details about this summer research institute, view the program .
Summer Research Institute – Advanced Imaging Methods for Craniofacial and Oral Health Research
2024-2025
Establishing a new team to investigate material degradation on dental implantology
Details:
Host Institution: Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Western UniversityTeam Lead: Les Kalman BSc (Hon), DDS Assistant Professor, Restorative Dentistry
Description:
Objective(s): A two-day team building workshop for a new research group which aims to establish Canada’s first dental implant retrieval program.
Summary Report:
Summary Report
Members
Rodrigo Franca DDS, PhD - University of Manitoba
DePhoung (Jessica) Tran - Western University
Marisa Ann Azad MD, PhD - Ottawa Hospital
Ali Tassi DDS, MClD, FRCD(C) - Western University
Brent Lanting MD, FRCSC - Western University
Matthew Morrison DMD, MD, FRCD(C) - Private Practice, London, Ontario
Matthew Teeter PhD - Western University
Santiago Cobos Cobos DDS, PhD, OMFR - Western University
Saman Nikpour PhD Candidate - Western University
Peter Slovensky PhD - Western University
Teresa Huynh Undergraduate Student - Western University
Knowledge Transfer Activities
