Using dental imaging to identify heart disease risks
Official title: Automated Characterization of Arterial Calcification in Dental Cone Beam Computed Tomography as Predictors of Cardiovascular Disease
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11139829 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new tool that uses special dental scans to find signs of heart disease, helping dentists spot potential problems early so patients can get the right care sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $150,989 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE033489-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139829 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are dental patients who undergo cone beam computed tomography and may be at risk for cardiovascular disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not undergo dental imaging or those without risk factors for cardiovascular disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on utilizing cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), a dental imaging technique, to detect arterial calcifications that may indicate cardiovascular disease (CVD). By developing an automated tool to analyze these images, the study aims to improve the identification of vascular calcifications that are often overlooked by dental professionals. Early detection of these calcifications can lead to timely referrals for medical evaluation, potentially reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events. The approach combines advanced imaging technology with algorithmic analysis to enhance patient care in dentistry and cardiology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of cardiovascular disease, improving patient outcomes and reducing the incidence of heart attacks and strokes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to identify cardiovascular risks, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mahdian, Mina — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Mahdian, Mina
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.