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We are thrilled to share that Kaleb C. Esplin, DDS, MS, a 2024 graduate from the periodontics residency program, was awarded 1st place in the Southwest Society of Periodontists’ 2024 John F. Prichard Graduate Research Competition for his research titled: “Peri-implantitis induction and resolution around zirconia versus titanium implants.” This achievement is a testament to his dedication and the quality of his research, which was conducted under the mentorship of Georgios A. Kotsakis, DDS.

The Prichard competition, held during the society’s 2024 Winter Meeting, showcased the exceptional research being conducted by residents across the Southwest region.  Nine judges from residency programs and clinical backgrounds rigorously evaluated the abstracts, of which four were then selected for oral presentations on January 26, 2024. The following day, Esplin was announced as the winner, bringing the Prichard award back to UT Health Science Center San Antonio School of Dentistry. 

This achievement marks the eighth time in the last nine years that our program has claimed this prestigious award. Such consistent success underscores the strength of our periodontics residency program and the extraordinary efforts of our residents and faculty members. We are immensely proud of Esplin and all our residents who continue to push the boundaries of dental research.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Esplin and celebrating the continued excellence of our periodontics residency program research.