The Center for Translational and Clinical Biophotonics

The laser program in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a multidisciplinary effort involving general dentists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, endodontists, periodontists and basic scientists. It encompasses clinical and laboratory research, patient care and education at all levels from undergraduate through continuing education programs. Program facilities at the School of Dental Medicine include a clinical laser surgery unit as well as research laboratories.

The faculty at the School of Dental Medicine, in collaboration with faculty at both regional and national hospitals and universities, provide a broad base for the research and educational activities coordinated by a full-time research director.

Current areas of research concentration include, but are not limited to:

• Autofluorescence imaging and spectroscopic detection of tissue alterations in malignant transformation of oral tissues.
• The study of mechanisms of photodynamic inactivation of microbial biofilms.
• Investigations of dose dependent variables in the use of Low-Level Laser Therapy for the treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia and Myofascial pain

The LLRC works in close collaboration with the UB Biomaterials Graduate Program. Multi-center meetings are held regularly to disseminate information and foster joint research projects. Students and residents have regularly presented their research findings at national and international meetings. Several received national recognition in the form of research recognition awards from professional organization and corporations.