Welcome to Issue 33 of Dent-AL, our dedicated publication for alumni of the Melbourne Dental School.
This year, we are launching a fully online edition of Dent-AL. In it, we highlight exciting changes to the Dental curriculum, showcase some of our early career researchers and share how a team from the Melbourne Dental School is leading the charge to improve dental outcomes for First Nations people through a culturally safe curriculum.
You can also find out how to get involved with the Dental School through mentoring, continuing professional development and supporting students.
We hope you enjoy browsing this edition of DentAL!
EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION
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A Message from the Head of School
As I write this, I am coming to the end of my third year as Head of the Melbourne Dental School, and all I can think to say is, “what a roller coaster journey it has been!”
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Improving Dental Outcomes for First Nations Peoples
A new national curriculum will ensure dental students develop the knowledge and skills to provide culturally safe oral healthcare.
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Finding New Ways Forward
From uncovering how specific rainforest compounds can accelerate wound healing to better managing the dental care of people with special needs, the research undertaken within Melbourne Dental School is diverse and impactful.
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Celebrating the breadth and depth of oral health research
In September 2022, the Melbourne Dental School hosted the 61st Annual Scientific Meeting of the International Association for Dental Research, Australia & New Zealand Division.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
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Committed to the Country
Since graduating, Madeleine Allan (DDS 2021) has been living and working in Yarrawonga after being recruited by fellow Melbourne Dental School graduate, Paul Hwin (BDSc 2013).
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A Life of Balance
Dr Samuel Loh (BSc 2012, DDS 2016) is part of a successful family practice in Singapore, where he balances his working life with a passion for water polo.
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Focusing on Aboriginal Oral Health
When Eliza Collins (BOralHlth (2017), BOralHlth (Hons) 2022) witnessed the oral health disparities that exist for First Nations people in Australia, she decided to work within those communities.
STAYING CONNECTED
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Easing the way to Clinical Practice
The Dental Clinical Mentoring Program builds students’ clinical skills in their final year of study and first year of clinical practice.
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Words of Wisdom
The MDHS Mentoring Program helps the next generation of dentists learn from those in the industry.
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2022 Dental School Reunions
On Saturday 19 November, alumni from the classes of 1982, 1992, 2002, 2012 and 50+ years gathered to celebrate milestone reunions. View some of the photos here.
BUILDING A LEGACY
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Researching a Legacy
The Brian (BDSc 1949) and Ann Dooley bequest enhances teaching and learning facilities and supports students and early-career researchers. Here, we showcase how the generous bequest is having real impacts.
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Learning in the shadow of greatness and compassion
The generosity of Dr Robert Cook (BDSc 1952, MDSc 1958) supports future leaders in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
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Meet Geoff Cumming
Meet the donor whose gift of $250 million to the University of Melbourne – the largest philanthropic donation to Australian medical research – will establish the new Cumming Global Centre for Pandemic Therapeutics (CGCPT) within the Doherty Institute.