1) Your name, program, mentor name.

Name: Amber Ather

Program: Endodontics Certificate with M.S. in Dental Science

Mentor name: Dr. Anibal Diogenes

2) Tell me the story of when you realized you were passionate about science.

I was exposed to science at an early age. As my entire family is involved in healthcare, there were numerous interactions and discussions at home about field of medicine. I can easily say that my desire to be a part of these discussions laid the foundation for my interest in science. This passion has only grown stronger with time.

3) Please tell me about yourself, why did you pick UT Health San Antonio, and your program.

After completing my dental school and endodontic training in India, I moved to the U.S. to pursue my D.D.S. After working as a general dentist for almost two years, I decided to pursue an advanced training in endodontics. UT Health San Antonio Endodontics program was a no brainer for me, as this program is known worldwide for its research and distinguished faculty. It is indeed an honor to learn from such an accomplished group of mentors and be a part of the program.

4) Tell me about your research. Why are you passionate about your research topic?

My research is titled “Anti-inflammatory and pro-mineralization effect of dexamethasone in vital pulp therapies.” I am really excited about this topic as we are attempting to explore the possibility of reversing inflammation in the pulp of tooth and thereby avoiding or delaying the need for a root canal treatment.

5) What do you want the public to know about your research? Why is your topic important?

With my research project, I look forward to re-investigate a treatment option known as pulpotomy with a new medication with the goal of keeping a tooth alive and possibly reversing the need for a root canal treatment.  This procedure would not only reduce the need for a root canal treatment but is also cost effective, quicker and helps to keep the immune system of the tooth intact.

6) Have you won any awards or are you apart of any organizations/student clubs that you are passionate about?

I was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) society, a national dental honor society during my dental school.

7) What do you like most about being at UT Health San Antonio or your program?

I love the fact that faculty in the endodontic program are actively involved in research. It almost feels like a melting pot of research ideas. They inspire and motivate each one of us and are very supportive of our ideas. Also, it is reassuring to us as clinicians that our patient care is always backed up by scientific evidence.

8) What do you like to do outside of graduate school?

Besides school, I enjoy photography, cooking and spending time with my family.

9) What’s next?

I see myself as an academician, doing both research and providing patient care in addition to teaching.