Master in oral biology program: A path to addressing the need for future dental educators.

In dental education, the anatomical sciences, which include gross anatomy, histology, embryology, and neuroanatomy, encompass an important component of the basic science curriculum. At Creighton University School of Dentistry, strength in anatomic science education has been coupled with a solid applicant pool to develop a novel Master of Science in Oral Biology, Anatomic Sciences track degree program. The program provides a heavy emphasis on developing teaching skills in predoctoral students as well as exposure to research processes to encourage the cohort to pursuing a career in academic dentistry.

Unique origin of the inferior alveolar artery.

The inferior alveolar artery is the major blood supply to the mandible and mandibular teeth. This artery has a very consistent path, originating from the maxillary artery and passing inferiorly until it enters the mandibular foramen, accompanied by the inferior alveolar nerve and vein. During routine dissection of a 90-year-old female cadaver, a unique origin of the inferior alveolar artery was observed on the left side.

Paresthesia associated with endodontic treatment of mandibular premolars.

The objective of this retrospective study was to determine how often paresthesia occurs and to examine the role of the anatomy of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). The study took the form of a review of the records of the endodontic department at the Creighton University School of Dentistry, a literature review, and cadaver dissections. The result showed that of 6313 teeth treated during a 7-yr period, 832 were mandibular premolar teeth.