Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology

The science of oral and maxillofacial radiology is based on principles of physics, chemistry, and biology. An understanding of the function and applications of diagnostic imaging modalities used in dentistry and other health care professions is fundamental to the specialty. The primary goals of our Section are excellence in education, research, and patient care.

Chair:

Dr. Sanjay Mallya, Associate Professor

Full-time Faculty:

Dr. Sanjay Mallya with students reviewing CT scans

Teaching

Predoctoral Programs educate dental students about the principles and applications of ionizing radiation in the diagnosis of oral-facial disease. This includes ensuring that the students have an appreciation for radiation physics, the biologic hazards attendant to the use of ionizing radiation, as well as the use of a systematic radiographic approach to the identification of normal anatomy and pathologic conditions.

Postdoctoral Program is a two-year, full-time postgraduate certificate program designed to train specialists in Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology. Students may also elect to pursue an MS or PhD degree in Oral Biology in conjunction with this certificate program.

 

Research

The research programs in the Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology range from basic bone biology to oral cancer pathogenesis to clinical research.

The bone biology program, led by Dr. Sotirios Tetradis (PubMed listing), investigates the effects of growth factors, hormones and cytokines on the function of bone cells, as well as the cellular and molecular mechanisms of bisphosphonate–related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) pathophysiology.

The carcinogenesis program, led by Dr. Sanjay Mallya (PubMed listing), investigates cell cycle regulators and hormonal factors on development of oral cancer.

In our clinical research, led by Drs. Tetradis and Mallya, we study applications of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to various facets of clinical dentistry.

Patient Care

The Oral Radiology Clinic makes radiographs (X-rays) of the teeth, jaws, skull, temporomandibular joints, and maxillary sinuses using digital intraoral and extra-oral and advanced Cone-Beam CT imaging modalities. We also make orthodontic photographs and tracings of cephalometric views. Board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology faculty review all advanced imaging examinations and provide written reports. Our faculty also provide radiographic consultation services for patients referred from within UCLA or the surrounding dental communities.

Contact Us

Kristina Etchison, Academic Division Administrator
Phone: (310) 825-3241
ketchison@dentistry.ucla.edu

For patient inquiries
Phone: (310) 825-5634