The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry (UKCD) held its 9th Annual Dental Implant Symposium on Friday, September 15, 2023, at the Gatton Student Center. This year's symposium welcomed 177 attendees, consisting of a diverse spectrum of participants from UK, private practitioners, specialists, and esteemed organizations.  

This year’s discussions focused on “Current Challenges with Dental Implants.” The speakers included keynote speaker, Dr. Yair Whiteman, as well as Drs. Ahmad Kutkut, Celin Arce, Amanda Piche, David Brock, Karah Brown, Aditi Desai, and Octavio Gonzalez.  

In addition to the various speakers, UKCD dental students and graduate students showcased poster presentations and two residents gave oral presentations.  

Dr. Ahmad Kutkut, UKCD Division Chief of Prosthodontics and Director of the Predoctoral Implant Program, shared, “I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Gonzalez and our esteemed judges for their meticulous evaluation of the presentations and their insightful questions, which contributed to the students' research endeavors. My heartfelt congratulations go out to all the participants, with special recognition for our deserving awardees. I eagerly anticipate the upcoming year and will ensure everyone stays informed, as the conference date may vary slightly from year to year. Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to the success of our Annual Dental Implant Symposium.”  

2023 Awards:  

Graduate Students/Residents 

1st Place – Dr. Renato Casarin, Poster presentation title: “Peri-implant microbiological shift preceding peri-implantitis diagnosis: a split-mouth, longitudinal study.” 

2nd Place – Dr. Aditi Desai, Oral presentation title: “The Light At The End of The Tunnel – Nd:Yag Laser treatment for Peri-implantitis.” 

Dental Students 

1st Place – Justin Sperlein, Poster presentation title: “Restoration of a Posterior Tooth in the Esthetic Zone.” 

2nd Place – James Cameron Brown, Poster presentation title: “Factors Associated with Decay or Change in Crown Status Next to Restored Implants, A Retrospective Radiographic Study.”