U of IL College of Dentistry's Dr. Aram Kim Wins ACP Sharry Research Award

CHICAGO - March 26, 2015 - PRLog -- Dr. Aram Kim, Clinical Assistant Professor, Restorative Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, was the first place winner of the John J. Sharry Research Competition of the American College of Prosthodontics (ACP).

         Dr. Kim won for her research, “Abutment Material Effect on Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Color and Perceived Esthetics.”

         “We, as clinicians, always strive for the best treatment for our patients,” Dr. Kim explained. “To be able to provide patient-centered care, I felt that we needed a better understanding of patients' perception and satisfaction of dental treatment. In my study, I compared perception and satisfaction between patients and clinicians on dental implant soft tissue esthetics by different abutment material choices.”

“The core finding from my study was that patients’ satisfaction did not differ among different materials used although measurable color difference was noted with a sophisticated spectrophotometer,” she added.

         The Sharry Competition is held to stimulate and acknowledge original research in prosthodontics. It was named for ACP Past President Dr. John J. Sharry. The award has been presented since 1976.

         “The John J. Sharry Award is the most competitive national award in Prosthodontics,” Dr. Kim said, noting that her winning it “brings widespread recognition to the UIC College of Dentistry as a premiere clinical research institution at the national level.

         “Over the years, the College and the Department of Restorative Dentistry have established a culture of clinical science that has led to many innovative discoveries and advancements,” she added. “I am so glad that I was able to represent the UIC College of Dentistry at a national level and showcase what our College stands for and all of the wonderful things we are doing.”

         Dr. Kim received her award at the 44th annual session of the ACP held in New Orleans.

         “I am truly honored to be recognized by the American College of Prosthodontists,” said Dr. Kim. “The Sharry Award is the single highest honor given to a recent graduate from an Advanced Prosthodontic Program by the specialty and ACP. This recognition will go a long way in my prosthodontics career.

         “Research is always a team effort,” she added. “I was fortunate to work with a group of wonderful faculty in the Department of Restorative Dentistry, helping me with the many aspects of my study.

“Special thanks to my mentors Drs. Stephen Campbell and Kent Knoernschild for their unwavering support in the design and analysis for the study. Also thanks to Drs. Lee Jameson and Farhad Fayz for their selflessness in helping with the data collection. Dr. Jameson was the recipient of the same award in 1977, also in New Orleans. The history re-lives and the legacy continues,” Dr. Kim concluded.