Doctor-Papas
Meet Your Dentist

Dr. Athena Papas Is Changing the Future of Dental Care

Athena Papas, DMD, PhD, FACD, J67 began her dental career when she graduated from Jackson College in 1967. She then earned a PhD in oral biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1971 and a DMD from Harvard University in 1974. That same year, Dr. Papas joined the faculty at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM), marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the institution.

Tufts University honored Dr. Papas with the prestigious title of Distinguished Professor. This recognition, established in 1985, celebrates senior professors who have made exceptional contributions to their disciplines, students, and the university. These professors embody the finest of Tufts’ traditions through outstanding teaching, mentoring, discovery, and service.

Dr. Papas has risen through the ranks at TUSDM, culminating in her appointment as the Dr. Erling Johansen, D49, Professor in Dental Research in 2000. She was the first TUSDM faculty member to receive an endowed professorship. Her influence extends beyond dentistry, as she also teaches at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. This showcases her interdisciplinary approach to health sciences.

As a scientist with over four decades of experience at Tufts, Dr. Papas has established herself as an expert in oral healthcare for diverse patient groups. Her research focuses on the elderly, medically compromised individuals, and those with conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome, cancer, and bone marrow transplants. Her prolific career includes leading more than 65 clinical trials and securing over $20 million in research grants.

Dr. Papas’ work has led to groundbreaking developments in patient care. She pioneered treatments for Sjögren’s syndrome patients and developed innovative approaches for those with complex medical issues affecting oral health. Her discoveries include a rinse that heals mouth sores in bone marrow transplant and radiation therapy patients, and a drug that stimulates saliva production in Sjögren’s patients suffering from extreme dry mouth. These innovations have significantly improved the quality of life for many individuals.

In 2014, Dr. Papas achieved another significant milestone with the accreditation of TUSDM’s Oral Medicine Residency (OMR) program by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This full-time, two-year certificate program, with an optional third-year Master of Science track, is one of only seven accredited oral medicine programs in the nation. Under Dr. Papas’ guidance, Tufts has become a leader in oral medicine, a field that epitomizes the intersection of dentistry and medicine.

Dr. Papas’ distinguished career exemplifies the finest traditions of Tufts University. Her work combines exceptional research, innovative clinical practice, and dedicated education to advance the field of dental medicine. As she continues to shape the future of oral healthcare, her impact resonates through the lives of her patients, students, and colleagues. She is truly a pioneer in her field.