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Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges

Overview

Hemifacial microsomia is a condition in which one side of the face is smaller or underdeveloped or has parts that are missing. While the hallmark is unevenness (asymmetry) of the face, one or both sides may be affected. It is the second most common facial birth defect after cleft lip and palate. It happens more often in males than in females.

Scientists Identify Mechanism That May Influence Infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 Variants

NIDCR scientists found that a process in cells may limit infectivity of SARS-CoV-2, and that mutations in the alpha and delta variants overcome this effect, potentially boosting the virus’s ability to spread.

Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune-Albright Syndrome

Overview

Grant Programs

Webster-Cyriaque Selected as Deputy Director, NIDCR

Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque, DDS, PhD, brings a wealth of expertise to the institute, having served in leadership and mentoring roles in academia, clinical service, and research.

Developing a Smart Mask to Surveil Coronavirus

NIDCR-funded researchers are developing a color-changing “smart” mask to detect viruses like SARS-CoV-2 in wearers’ saliva or breath. The device could one day help with monitoring infection and preventing outbreaks.

NIDCR Funded Winners of 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine

The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet awarded David Julius, Ph.D., and Ardem Patapoutian, Ph.D., with the Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine. Both scientists received NIDCR funding in support of their winning research.

Fever Blisters & Canker Sores

Overview

Both fever blisters and canker sores are common across all ages and can be painful. However, they are separate conditions with different causes. Read further to learn how to tell them apart and find out which treatments might help ease the pain.

Fever Blisters (also known as cold sores) are painful fluid-filled sores that form on the outside of the mouth around the lips. Fever blisters are very contagious.

NIDCR Launches New Dental Public Health Research Training Program

The full-time, three-year fellowship is designed to equip dental professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to initiate and conduct community- and population-level oral health research.