Dental caries, more commonly known as tooth decay, is the most prevalent chronic condition affecting children in the United States, surpassing even asthma and hay fever in its reach. When left untreated, this condition can cause significant pain and infection, lead to school absences, and result in long-term health complications. The impact is particularly severe in communities where poverty and limited access to healthcare are prevalent.
There are currently fewer than 10,000 pediatric dentists in practice across the nation, with many rural and low-income regions facing a severe shortage or complete lack of specialized care. The disparities in dental care access point to a critical need for enhanced training programs aimed at equipping new clinicians to effectively serve these underserved areas.
The University of Michigan is addressing these healthcare challenges through a $2.1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration. This initiative builds on nearly a century of partnership between the School of Dentistry and the School of Public Health, aligning with the Look to Michigan strategic vision’s Human Health & Well-Being impact area.
This grant will enable every pediatric dentistry resident to earn a Certificate in Social Epidemiology throughout their 30-month residency program.
The collaboration exemplifies the interdisciplinary approach championed by the University of Michigan’s schools and broader community, as it connects future clinicians with public health researchers to bridge the gaps between science, practice, and policy.
Building on a legacy of collaboration
The partnership between the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry and the School of Public Health dates back to the 1930s and 1940s, a period marked by Dr. Kenneth Easlick’s efforts in pioneering pediatric dentistry and dental public health as recognized disciplines. His approach laid the groundwork for U-M’s leadership in oral health education and research nationwide.
In subsequent years, figures like Dave Striffler, Brian Burt, and Stephen Eklund expanded these initiatives through collaborative research, dual-degree programs, and shared faculty positions, leaving a significant mark on global education and care.
Currently, the Department of Epidemiology offers the David Striffler Fund Scholarship, supporting students focused on dental public health, highlighting this ongoing collaboration.
Integrating public health into clinical training
The Certificate in Social Epidemiology, introduced by the Center for Social Epidemiology and Population Health in 2021, has become a highly sought-after program within the School of Public Health.
The 12-credit curriculum begins with fundamental epidemiologic methods and progresses to focus on social determinants of health and equity.
Through this program, residents acquire skills in identifying health disparities, interpreting public health data, and crafting strategies to serve underserved communities effectively. By collaborating with public health graduate students, they contribute valuable clinical insights, enriching the learning experience for all involved.
The interdisciplinary setting enhances education by linking public health theories with practical care, broadening students’ perspectives.
Developing leaders through community immersion
Leadership development is a core aspect of this enhanced residency program. An immersive clinical rotation at Mott Children’s Health Center (MCHC) in Flint forms a key part of the experience, offering pediatric services to children from qualifying low-income families.
During a year-long stay at MCHC, residents provide direct dental care to children, confronting the challenges of delivering care in communities affected by health disparities. This experience underscores the importance of culturally aware and family-focused care approaches.
Residents gain firsthand knowledge of how social factors influence children’s dental health, particularly in underserved areas, preparing them to become leaders who enhance care and advocate for change.
Through participation in the Social Epidemiology Certificate Program and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams at MCHC, residents amass the knowledge and practical experiences necessary to lead oral health programs, influence public health initiatives, and drive systemic improvements in care delivery.
Graduates emerge ready to provide patient care, champion policies, and implement programs that promote child health on a larger scale.
Tackling disparities, training leaders
The leadership focus of this program continues the tradition initiated by pioneers such as Dr. Easlick, solidifying U-M’s position as a leader in both pediatric dentistry and dental public health. This grant-funded initiative enables the continuation of that legacy, preparing new pediatric dentists to tackle social and structural factors impacting oral health inequities.
Training pediatric dentists to consider the broader community context, beyond individual patients, advances health equity. The University’s commitment to addressing oral health disparities in Michigan creates a model for best practices nationwide.
As a public institution, the University of Michigan holds the privilege and duty to expand access to cutting-edge resources and train future leaders to shape the future of oral health. This grant marks a significant step in fulfilling that mission, honoring our history of collaboration and equipping graduates for the challenges ahead.
