Clinical Research

At HSDM, we leverage our scientific and clinical resources, along with strong connections to Harvard Medical School and the T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Our goal is to advance basic, translational, and global health research by fostering collaboration across disciplines. By focusing on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, we aim to push dentistry beyond traditional practices, embedding it firmly in modern biology.

Our clinical and translational research initiatives span a wide range of fields, including infectious disease, genomics, craniofacial biology, stem cell and regenerative medicine, immunology, and bioinformatics. These diverse programs offer opportunities to innovate in areas such as tissue engineering, vaccine development, and oral health, helping redefine the future of dental medicine.

Collaborative Clinical Practice-based REsearch Program for DENTal Schools (H-CREDENT)

HSDM received $4.4 million from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) to establish the Collaborative Clinical Practice-based REsearch Program for DENTal Schools (H-CREDENT). This initiative will train future clinician-scientists by connecting students with community health centers and academic partners, providing opportunities for clinical research, specialized coursework, and mentorship. H-CREDENT will strengthen HSDM’s curriculum and foster interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing dental education and research.

Learn more about the H-CREDENT program

patient in a clinical setting. The students are wearing blue surgical gowns, masks, and gloves, while the instructor supervises closely.

360° Chat-TMD

360° Chat-TMD is a $13.4 million initiative funded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) focused on advancing the understanding and treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Developed through a multi-institutional collaboration, the program brings together thought leaders, clinicians, and patients to accelerate discovery and translate research into real-world clinical practice.

Drs. Fernando Guastaldi and Shruti Handa, assistant professors of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at HSDM and MGH, serve as co–principal investigators on the U54 grant.

Visit the 360° Chat-TMD website

woman in pain holding the side of her face

Interdisciplinary Pain and Headache Rounds

The Harvard Interdisciplinary Pain and Headache Rounds offer a complimentary lecture series fostering evidence-based learning and collaboration on pain, headache, and related topics.

View the 2025–2026 schedule

X-ray of a man's head on blue background. Jaw joint is highlighted by yellow red color

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