Arany receives dental laser research award

UB researcher Praveen Arany has received the T. H. Maiman Award for Excellence in Dental Laser Research from the Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD).

The award, presented at ALD’s annual conference in April, recognizes his role in clinical translational research efforts in lasers in dentistry, especially with photobiomodulation, a form of light therapy. Clinical translational research brings scientific discoveries regarding human health to the clinical setting in the form of evidence-based treatments that promote human health.

“I am grateful to my colleagues at the Academy of Laser Dentistry for the honor of recognizing our research groups’ research efforts in lasers in dentistry, especially with photobiomodulation,” says Arany, associate professor of oral biology, School of Dental Medicine. “The tremendous progress in this field is poised to change our fundamental approach to clinical dentistry with an emphasis on precision, individualized care.”

Arany received his doctorate in biological sciences in dental medicine from Harvard University and has since focused on clinical translation of biological mechanisms for wound healing and tissue regeneration. In recognizing his extensive research, the ALD noted that Arany has served as an assistant clinical investigator at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, which is part of the National Institutes of Health. He has more than 150 scientific publications, include his recent work with NIH’s National Institute on Aging. He has also served as an officer in many organizations, including past president of the World and the North American Associations for Photobiomodulation Therapy.

“It is a truly exciting time to be involved with lasers in dentistry, as several policy and regulation changes are recognizing the significant utility of the field,” Arany says.