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Skull may be proof of ancient nose amputation
Here's a real skeleton story as we begin Halloween celebrations. Dr. Qian Wang, professor in biomedical sciences at Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas, identified what he and other researchers believe is likely one of the first examples of an ancient nose amputation. The skull of a woman who lived in central China about 700 years ago could be tangible evidence of what ancient legal documents describe as nose amputations. Wang said such punishments, along with limb amputations, were forms of criminal punishment for those convicted of stealing horses and cattle or for repeat offenses of lesser crimes. Other punishments included decapitation, facial inking/tattooing and castration, and they were used during the Yuan Dynasty, which ran from about 1271 to 1368.
Showcasing future dentists as artists
Texas A&M College of Dentistry's talent shows have long served as opportunities for students to show off some of their artistic talents. The frequent events often include various forms of artwork. But students desired more, and they recently formed TAMCOD Studio Student Art Society to host workshops, socials and, most importantly, provide busy students another opportunity to showcase their creative talents. "Being in dental school, it can be hard to find time and motivation to create art ...," said fourth-year dental student Julie Truong, founder and president. "I recruited some classmates who are as passionate as I am, and we started the process last fall. More than 20 students have created art using both paper marbling and faux stained-glass techniques.
Texas remained a top draw for dentists in 2025
Everything is bigger in Texas, even the number of dentists. A record 16,761 professionally active dentists called Texas home in 2025, according to data recently released by the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute. The Lone Star State’s roster of dentists grew by more than 2,200 since 2016, more than the current total of dentists working in Alaska, Delaware, Maine and North Dakota combined. Only California, with more than 30,000 dentists, topped Texas.
Expanded coverage: Texas A&M’s Plemons named 2026 Texas Dentist of the Year
Sometimes a small act of generosity can make a tremendous impression, especially on a 7-year-old. For Dr. Jacqueline Plemons, it’s what led her to become a dentist. “My mother had a toothache and, as a single mother with two children, had no means of getting help,” she said. “After visiting a few offices with no success, a kind dentist agreed to treat her at no charge. I was incredibly grateful and grew up wanting to be just like him – being able to care for people who sometimes desperately need our help.” Plemons accomplished her goal. Not only is she Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s new director of external affairs, but she’s also approaching 40 years in dentistry. Plemons also is a full-time clinical professor in periodontics and director of the Stomatology Center, where she helps diagnose and manage complex oral medicine conditions while educating future generations of dental professionals.
Program expands to add protecting senior smiles
When Dr. Amal Noureldin, clinical professor and director of the predoctoral program in public health sciences, at Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas, envisioned the Empowering Smiles Oral Health Initiative, it was to provide long-needed oral healthcare and education to children and teens in a few underserved schools in Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District. What she and her dental and dental hygiene students saw was heartbreaking. “We saw second grade-schoolers with decay so bad that the teeth were gone, only gums were left,” she said. “These are preventable conditions that no child should have to experience, which is why what we offer is so important – access to knowledge and care and the hope that early prevention can make a difference.” Supported by more than $330,000 in total funding from partner agency Metrocrest Hospital Authority, the initiative provided oral health education and care to 782 students in 13 elementary schools and middle schools in the last two years. More schools than planned. There’s more work to do.
It’s all in the rinse
Mouthwash, also called mouthrinse, can be a good boost to a daily oral healthcare routine. While it never replaces daily brushing and flossing, rinsing does reach areas difficult for a toothbrush. But do you really need mouthwash? Maybe not, said Dr. John Safar, clinical faculty in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas. “Those with excellent oral health don’t necessarily need a mouthwash if plaque is well controlled and they have no other oral health issues,” he said. “But some rinses can help re-mineralize enamel and protect against cavities.” If you are unsure, ask your dentist.