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The Orthodontic Graduate Program at the University of Alberta is uniquely positioned to become a leader in orthodontic research. The McIntyre Memorial Research Fund provides for ongoing financial support and clinical revenue provides for PhD student stipends.

Three areas of research will be established and developed into Centres of Excellence. Strategic alliances with industry and collaboration with researchers at the University of Alberta and beyond will enrich research opportunities.

A “Research Advisory Council” has been established to plan long-term strategy and assist in developing specific projects consistent with the overall research program. The Director of the Orthodontic Graduate Program chairs this committee and is responsible for implementation.

Research Focus

Three areas of research will be developed building on current opportunities and internal strengths.

The 3D Assessment of Craniofacial Form

• Understanding and measuring three-dimensional deviations from normal in craniofacial growth and development.
  
• Investigation of the factors influencing craniofacial growth and development such as muscle function, respiratory issues, dentoalveolar development, TMD, swallowing, enzymes and hormones.
  
• Research into outcomes of orthodontic treatment in support of evidence-based approaches, critical thinking and accountability. Outcomes may include issues relating to stability, function, periodontics, and long-term consequences of care such as respiratory function.
  
• Research and development of advanced macro and micro imaging systems for craniofacial applications. This would include new types of imaging technologies and innovative applications of new technologies (i.e. to assess biochemistry and tooth surface factors). It is recommended that an initial competitive intelligence study be conducted on the feasibility of portable imaging systems. In the longer term this goal would include research using nanotechnologies for the development of non-invasive micro-imaging systems.

• For the short term this could include development of appropriate needs assessment tools, research relating to prevalence in native versus non-native populations and epidemiological determinants such as genetics, environmental and cultural factors. This could also include issues associated with access to care (barriers and drivers of care) such as distance and motivation factors.
  
• For the longer term this research could become an element of a broader goal involving multi-disciplinary research teams for “Investigation of oral health needs and craniofacial development in the Prairie Provinces and Northern Territories of Canada for the long-term improvement of public health.”

• The development of a bio-model to understand bio-interfaces (3D force measurement using micro-technology, biochemistry, surface chemistry, and fluid mechanics)
  
• Research focused on factors that reduce frictional forces in orthodontic treatment (saliva, lubricants, metals)

The McIntyre Memorial Research Fund is a subset of the Fund For Dentistry, designated specifically for orthodontic research at the University of Alberta. The Director of the Orthodontic Graduate Program is responsible for establishing spending priorities within the terms of reference of the fund.
Current reserves from the McIntyre Memorial Research Fund will be utilized to establish an appropriate research laboratory and to fund projects. The Fund provides annual income of $95,000, which will be budgeted to provide appropriate technical and administrative support. It will also be budgeted to support new research initiatives.

External funding through competitive granting agencies, industry and donations will also be pursued.