925 Magazine Issue 1

U S C

9 2 5 The Voice of the Student Body of the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry Spring 2017

Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Natalie Inoue Editor of Photography Tan Khuu

Associated Student Body President Karen Sierra

Letter from the Editor

Vice President of Internal Affairs Natalie Inoue

Dear Students of the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC,

Vice President of Financial Affairs Rachna Shenoy

I are so excited to share with all of you the recent activities and accomplishments of our student body in this first issue of the year. I hope this magazine helps to update the student body on the most recent events put on by the schools’ clubs and organizations. From traveling to Cambodia to provide free dental care to those in need to organizing a Shabbat dinner with classmates, our students have been very busy this spring outside the walls of the dental school. In addition, from private practice to residency programs, I am very proud to display the destinations of our Class of 2017.

Secretary Leora Sheily

Class of 2018 President Ambika Parti Vice President Rachna Shenoy Secretary Monika kunder Treasurer Brock Hyder

Class of 2019 President moji ghalambor Vice President corey nasoff Secretary iriff ulep Treasurer josh helmstadter

Class of 2020 President sai patadia Vice President angelica chaghouri Secretary hailey logan Treasurer mark park

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful and talented contributors whom this issue would be nothing without. And to anyone who has an interest in submitting an article for the next issue, please contact me at nataliei@usc.edu.

Your ASB has been working hard to organize events for our fellow student body and cannot wait to see you all at Wellness Week.

Best, Natalie Inoue ‘18 Editor-in-Chief of the 925 Magazine

By: Robert Pierre Lacrampe ‘18 - - - - - - - - -

The dental humanitarian

outreach project

By: Katarina Calilung ‘18 - - - - - - - - -

Alpha omega's

shabbat social

By: Rebecca lim ‘18 - - - - - - - - -

spea's

ethical throwdown

By: alexaundrea smith ‘19 - - - - - - - - -

faculty spotlight:

dr. keselbrener

By: bernadette leoncio ‘17 - - - - - - - - -

trimester

class of 2017

in review

destinations

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1 3 5 7 9

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i n s i d e t h i s i ss u e

Paging Dr. sTAT

Paging:

Dr. STAT By: Robert- pierre Lacrampe

I

n life there are moments when we plunge into the unknown, taking a leap of faith into unfamiliar territory—these captivating and exhilarating moments define much of what dental school represents. Despite all the preparations, studying, and practicing we do, when it comes down to performing an actual procedure, there is still a certain amount of fear. That is not to say that our dental education is lacking, but it is simply the volume and scope of everything that we are expected to know that we often fear. For most of us the first true leap of faith occurs during our first experience administering anesthesia to our fellow classmates, inflicting the fear and pain that is associated with our profession. We study landmarks, needle gauges, depths of penetration, and yet the first time feels as if we are dropping into the abyss. To assist us with this step off the edge is the Dr. STAT/IV Team: a collection of third- and fourth-year dental students that have volunteered and have been

trained to teach anesthesia as well as provide a system of emergency response within our school.

Dr. STAT was assembled in 1973 by the celebrated Dr. Stanley Malamed as a mini anesthesia residency for students interested in expanding their skill set and pursuing a specialty in dental anesthesiology.

Throughout the years Dr. STAT’s scope has expanded to not only enrich patient care but also to provide a more interactive approach towards learning anesthesia. Currently, members of the team must complete training in advanced cardiac life support and pediatric advanced life support. Although it is considered a selective within dental school for anesthesia, it is by no means comprised of only those wishing to pursue dental anesthesia. Within this group is a strong and notable alumni support system compromised of general practitioners and various specialists. One such alumni and former pupil of Dr. Malamed is Dr. James Tom. A graduate of the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC and Ohio State University’s anesthesiology program, he is the program director that challenges the STAT team to constantly apply knowledge both in emergency situations and in the classroom.

In addition to instructing local anesthesia, nitrous Top Row: Dr. James Tom, Abdul Ghadiali, Caitlin Waters, Robert Lacrampe, Matthew Yekikian, oxide administration, Kaitlin McClure, Erik Nariyoshi. and providing emergenBottom Row: Whitney Schaff, Christine Lemon, Katarina Calilung, Grace Lin, Jennifer Garcia, cy response, the Dr. STAT Natalie Inoue 1

team travel on a week-long rotation observing general anesthesia dentistry in a clinical setting. Sharing this space are residents on rotation from the NYU Lutheran Dental Anesthesia Program and their associated attendings. Among their ranks and within the faculty are several USC graduates, many of whom have been a part of the Dr. STAT/IV Team themselves. These anesthesiologists and anesthesia residents practice on patients ranging from those with severe intellectual and physical disabilities to those that have significant dental anxiety.

The experiences gained from these exposures to this aspect of dentistry and anesthesia is incredibly enriching.

Many of the patients that are treated are non-verbal and seemingly long forgotten by society with most having rampant caries that can be attributed to a variety of physiological and environmental factors. Yet through general anesthesia they are able to receive extensive, comprehensive dental care that would have otherwise been impossible to achieve.

Through Dr. STAT, participating members are able to encounter experiences that increase the scope of their knowledge as well as facilitate the passing of this knowledge down to fellow classmates. As evidenced by the track record of Dr. STAT, this passing of knowledge and experience continues beyond the walls of USC and encourages constant learning and growth. Because of this, we know there is always someone there to help make that leap of faith not so perilous.

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The Dental Humanitarian Outreach Project By: Katarina Calilung

T

he Dental Humanitarian Outreach Program (DHOP) is a student-run organization at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry whose passion and mission is to deliver USC’s unprecedented standard of quality of dentistry to underserved communities globally. Previous DHOP trips have brought dental care to the communities of Columbia, Kenya, Jamaica, Philippines, Belize, and most recently Cambodia. This past December, the DHOP team of 49 students and 7 faculty members traveled with all necessary dental supplies and equipment to a small community within Siem Reap, Cambodia.

DHOP was able to collaborate with a local non-profit organization called the Future of Khmer Children— an organization that provides free education and primary health care education to children up to 20 years of age in addition to supporting families in the rural area with food supplies and health care.

patients received 904 dental treatments that equated to $160,000 in dental care. The energy of the clinic throughout the week radiated with passion and a desire to do good for others in need. Our team members were not the only volunteers at the clinic. English teachers from the school and local monks served as translators—a crucial aspect to our clinic. Having local volunteers made the clinic week truly feel like a community effort.

While the members of DHOP dedicated their time and efforts to serving others, we all received so much more in return. At the end of the clinic week, the patients and hosts held a surprise performance for DHOP. The children of the community performed a traditional Khmer dance and sang songs in appreciation for the care that they received. It was an emotional end to a long week of clinic as both the patients and DHOP members were not ready to part ways. Every DHOP One of the challenges that DHOP faces every year member would avidly agree that the clinic in Siem is the ability to turn any location—whether it be a Reap was a once in a lifetime experience. It was an exschool, church, or a parking lot—into a full function- perience that has made a lasting impact on the type of ing dental clinic where high quality dental care can be providers that we aspire to be, and will always serve provided. This year proved to be no exception, as the as a reminder of our passion for the dental profession. team transformed a local school with minimal access to electricity and other necessary resources into an operational outdoor clinic. Despite these barriers, the team was able to set up a clinic that was comprised of areas dedicated to registration, triage, radiology, treatment, and post-operation instructions and oral hygiene instructions. Every patient who registered in our clinic received oral hygiene instruction and materials, a comprehensive treatment plan, hygiene treatment, and if needed, restorative treatment along with pre- and post-operative radiographs.

Another challenge that DHOP faces is overcoming any language barriers that are present between the host, patients, and local community members. Knowing that the official language of Cambodia is Khmer, DHOP came prepared with oral hygiene instructions, post-operative instruction, medication instructions, and common dental phrases both translated and printed to minimize any miscommunication between the provider and the patient.

The DHOP team had very hardworking and passionate individuals who were able to provide dental care for five straight days of clinic with up to 16-hour work days. Over the course of the week, a total of 530

Top Row: Kobie Gordon, Michael Keredian, Robert Lacrampe, Brock Hyder, Scott Karr Middle Row: Nikki Restrepo, Jennifer Garcia, Katie Denney, Kaitlin McClure, Katarina Calilung, Allie Hussar Bottom Row: Nermine Batniji, Ambika Parti

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Alpha Omega’s

Shabbat Social By: rebecca lim

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“

“

The AO Shabbat Social is just that; a time to be together as a ‘family’ and share the warmth and friendship that is fostered during one’s time as a dental student.

- Dr. Paul Selski

“S

habbat Shalom!”

Each year, the Alpha Omega (AO) Dental Fraternity’s USC Tau Chapter members come together for their annual Shabbat Social. This year was no exception, and students, faculty, and alumni gathered on Friday, January 3, 2017 to celebrate Shabbat. This highly anticipated event is a highlight for many AO members because it is an opportunity to take time out of their busy schedules to reflect and share quality time as a family.

In the Jewish tradition, Shabbat is typically observed as a day of rest where one takes a step back from the rigors of the week and refrains from work activities. It is a day of tranquility where one sets aside time to contemplate the spiritual aspects of life and spend time with each other.

“The AO Shabbat Social is just that; a time to be together as a ‘family’ and share the warmth and friendship that is fostered during one’s time as a dental student,” Dr. Paul Selski, an Associate Clinical Professor at USC, said.

While Alpha Omega is based on its three tenets of professionalism, fraternalism, and commitment to Judaic values, it is an inclusive organization that welcomes people from all cultural backgrounds.

The Shabbat Social is a great representation of this commitment to embrace such diversity without discrimination while teaching the customs of this day to others.

Dr. Selski stated, “For me, one of the most beautiful aspects of the evening is during the moment when the Shabbat day is sanctified by lighting candles and reciting blessings over the wine and bread. As one looks around, there is a moment of tranquility that overcomes the room. Faces from every religion and culture, from near and far, all are enveloped in the spirit of peace, which is the Essence of Shabbat.”

Students similarly felt this sense of togetherness as they donned yamakas and broke bread that evening.

“From the moment I joined Alpha Omega I felt like I was welcomed into a new family of individuals who share the same passion and goals as I do in becoming a dentist,” Farid Farahnik said. “I see our Shabbat dinners as an event that brings this multicultural family together so we can enjoy each other’s company over a ceremonial dinner.”

Keeping with the warmth and inviting environment fostered by the Shabbat Social, this year’s event was hosted at the Naziri household in Beverly Hills. Judith Naziri, a current second year dental student and the Academic Chair, said she felt comfortable opening up her own home to celebrate Shabbat with her AO family because it is something she does every week with her own family.

Naziri went on to describe, “The AO Shabbat hosted at my parent’s house was a standard Shabbat at the Naziri house,

with the addition of more people, and more food! It was such a surreal experience to see so many of my classmates, both Jewish and non-Jewish, learn about the culture and engage in the festivities.

It was pleasantly surprising to hear how my AO peers enjoyed the night and the culture around Shabbat.”

While students stepped out their cubicles and scrubs for Shabbat, AO faculty and alumni also took a break from their work schedules and lab coats to show their support.

Daniel Adelpour, the Philanthropy Officer, stated, “I think the best part of AO is the fact that the students are able to speak with our faculty outside of a school setting. It reminds us that our faculty aren’t just the people who grade our exams but are also kindhearted people who truly care about their students. Being able to interact with our faculty is definitely something that sets AO apart from all other fraternities.”

The success of the 2017 Shabbat Social proves that Alpha Omega is more than just a dental club, but an organization with a larger mission—to enhance the dental profession by promoting and supporting ideals of global oral health, education, and the bonds of fraternity.

“This event helps demonstrate the unique values of unity and togetherness that Shabbat stands for,” Daniel Kohanchi, the AO Secretary, said. “These are the same core values that Alpha Omega strives to teach.”

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SPEA's

Ethical Throwdown

T

he Student Professionalism and Ethics Association (SPEA) in dentistry is a national, student-driven association established to promote and support students’ lifelong commitments to ethical behavior in order to benefit the patients they serve and to further the dental profession.

Founded here at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, SPEA continues to hold meetings and events tailored to fostering an environment where ethical and professional issues can be addressed in an open, unbiased forum.

On January 30, 2017, class presidents Mishaun Sahebi ‘17, Ambika Parti ‘18, Moji Ghalambor ‘19, and Sai Patadia ‘20, took the lead in the Ethical Showdown, discussing how they would respond in four different situations that could present ethical dilemmas in the dental office. The first to lead the discussion were Ghalambor and Patadia – their topic: what to do when a pregnant adolescent wants to keep her pregnancy confidential, but you, as the practitioner, are very close to the parents and family.

Patadia believed the pregnancy should be disclosed to the mother while Ghalambor would have advised the young woman to tell her parents herself. This scenario sparked conversation amongst those in attendance

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By: alexaundrea smith

based on operating within legal limits and how to communicate with parents.

Next was Sahebi and Parti, and their topic was on how to communicate with a patient to stop smoking when the doctor himself is a smoker. Both class presidents emphasized the importance of being honest with their patients and offering the best advice on how to quit using a cessation program. Sahebi won the crowd over with his speech on empathy, permitting the audience to hear an example of a doctor admitting his habit and offering to participate in the program alongside his patient.

The subsequent scenario had to do with a patient claiming, “I want the whitest teeth,” and the practitioner deciding whether to go ahead with treatment or refuse to treat. Parti and Ghalambor both mentioned the importance of showing the patient a shade guide, explaining what looks best, and ultimately, giving the patient the final decision - one does not have to refuse treatment. The audience chimed in and suggested the best thing to do was to have the patient sign an esthetics consent form and to take detailed notes of patient-provider discussions.

The final scenario addressed overtreatment prescribed by a doctor who was suspected to be experiencing financial loss and thus trying to compensate. Patadia suggested that communication between the doctors was key to understanding why the treatment was prescribed. He believed one should respect another doctor’s treatment plan. Speaking as a more seasoned practitioner himself, Sahebi suggested that when discussing with the patient, it is best to refrain from commenting on another doctor’s treatment plan. One can inform the patient that while not familiar with the previous plan, what he has laid out were his own findings; he believed it was ultimately best to withhold any opinions on a previous treatment plan.

If faced with these decisions, what might you do? The discussion led by the class presidents aimed to help further the ethics education of students at USC in hopes of contributing to ethical and professional behavior that will accompany students throughout their professional careers.

There is no right or wrong answer, but it is important to consider how various scenarios may play out and have a discussion.

Class Presidents Sai Patadia ‘20, Moji Ghalambor ‘19, Ambika Parti ‘18, and Mishaun Sahebi ‘17 discussing ethical situations.

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Faculty Spotlight:

Dr. Keselbrener A

t a young age, Dr. Boris Keselbrener’s deft hands were always complemented by his family and peers. Having a dental laboratory technician for a father as well as an aunt and brother who were dentists, you could say he was not only around dentistry but grew up often preferring to watch his father carve teeth rather than watching cartoons.

With a father who also worked as a faculty member at the Moscow Medical Stomatological Institute, you could also say Dr. Keselbrener was exposed to quite a diverse range of divisions within the dental field at a very young age.

By: bernadette leoncio

dental school program at the same institution where his father worked.

After dental school, he then worked as a faculty in the prosthodontics department for his alma mater. In 1990, Dr. Keselbrener immigrated to Baltimore, Maryland where his first job was as a truck driver for a pharmaceutical company. He also worked part time as a dental assistant for a periodontist but his dental expertise from Moscow soon landed him a full time job with duties that included research and management of the office.

Initially, financial constraints held him back from going to a dental school in Baltimore, but when he moved to California and estabStraight from graduating high lished his own cellular manufacturschool, he was accepted to a five-year ing company, he could finally afford

Dr. Keselbrener instructing first-year dental student Chantelle Aabedi during his Adhesive and CADCAM Restorations course.

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to attend the International Student Program (ISP) at USC. He graduated in 2000 and was immediately offered to teach part time by Dr. Gary Miller, the then ISP Program Director.

Thirteen years and counting, Dr. Keselbrener currently works as a full time faculty member. He takes great honor in seeing his students learn, grow, mature, and achieve their goals knowing he played a vital part in their success in school and life after school. He hopes that his teaching strategies and training equip his students to become exemplary oral health provider who can make a lasting impact in both the dental profession and in their community.

Cognizant of the value of lifelong learning, he is excited to utilize emerging technologies in dental practice through teaching his students about computer-aided design/ computer-aided manufacturing.

Students who have worked with and learned from him would attest to his passionate commitment towards education and towards improving the standard of care.

Trimester in Review February 17, 2017 Friends of Dentistry Scholarship Dinner

March 6, 2017 Part 1 Boards Celebration

April 5, 2017 Research Day and Vendor Fair

April 24, 2017 ASPID 2019 Orientation

May 12, 2017 Class of 2017 Commencement 10 10

C l a s s o f 2017 California Aaron Kahen Ali Salehpour - OMFS Arielle Jones Bernadette Leoncio Billy Arnold - Pedo Breanna Wong - GPR Brenda Lee - GPR Catherine Motoyasu Daniel Matatiaho Danielle Goodman - Pedo Dylan Warner Emil Abner Giuliana Di Piazza - AEGD Heather Simpson Heba Shammout Hemant Sachdeva

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Isha Mayall - AEGD Jamie Yeo Janice Lee - Ortho Jonathan Huang Jonathan Nguyen Juhi Mehta Jun Gyu Park Kaitlin Marsh - Ortho Kaity Zech - GPR Katie Schwartz - Ortho Kory Golchert Laurel Henderson - Ororfacial Pain Linda Lee Lorena Ramos Mikaela Benlulu - GPR Patricia Anne Reyes Preston Beck Raymond Cheung - GPR Ryan Mott Shabnam Pedram Teddy Dong Thanh Le Tigran Gyokchyan Zachary Elamir

Destinations Arizona

Louisiana

Oklahoma

Alexander Lee - AEGD Allison Davis - Pedo Cody Caffall Michele Ghassemlou - AEGD

Michael Abdelmalik - OMFS Mishaun Sahebi - OMFS Teejay Sijuwade

Austin Brown - AEGD Janet Myung - AEGD

Connecticut Massachusetts Raunak Singh

Florida Lily Cubero - AEGD Nikki Darbani - Pedo

Georgia Lina Warda

Hawaii Valerie Velasco - AEGD

Illinois Charlotte Jakkula Jyothi Deena Dayalu Naidu

Ankit Jain Jacqueline Lucero Pingke Fang Trushar Patel

Michigan Anshita Agarwal

Nevada Davis Do Leilani Friesen - Pedo Rachelle Davidowitz - Pedo

New York Audrey Wang - GPR Christine Lemon - Anesthesia Erik Nariyoshi - Anesthesia

Ohio Gina Dowdy - Anesthesia

Texas Berit Kaesler Ek Gustavo Arrechea Maherin Momin Radhika Mistry Ramin Foroughi Zach Reynolds - Endo

Utah Dillon Jensen - GPR Trevor White

Washington Katie Padilla Lily Du Ryan O’Donnell

Wisconsin Himabindu Vuddaraju Pratik Gupta

Vancouver, Canada Lara Perel-Panar

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