English

Chairperson

Reyland, Mary Elaine, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Craniofacial Biology
School of Dental Medicine
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Aurora, CO 80045

Members

Abranches, Jacqueline, Ph.D.
Tenured Associate Professor
Department of Oral Biology
College of Dentistry
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32610

Contact NIDCR

Health Information

For information about dental, oral, and craniofacial health, or if you need information in a language other than English, please contact NIDCR’s National Oral Health Information Center at:

Telephone: 1-866-232-4528
Email: nidcrinfo@mail.nih.gov

Information specialists are available to respond to phone inquiries Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST.

NIDCR Leadership

Fast Facts

Who We Are

Established in 1948 by the signing of the National Dental Research Act, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is the federal government's lead agency for scientific research on dental, oral, and craniofacial health and disease. NIDCR is one of the 27 institutes and centers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Explore an interactive timeline of NIDCR’s history.

Does NIDCR provide dental care?

No, NIDCR does not provide dental care or financial assistance for care. We are a research institution. Learn more about NIDCR.

Where can I find low-cost dental care?

Dental Schools & Dental Hygiene Schools

Dental schools often have clinics that allow dental students to gain experience treating patients while providing care at a reduced cost. Experienced, licensed dentists closely supervise the students.

Clinical Trials

Media Blocks Examples

Data & Statistics

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Versión en español
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It's typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. In advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to sore, bleeding gums; painful chewing problems; and even tooth loss.