Visiting researcher exploring restorative strategies for vulnerable teeth

Our new visiting Scientist, Rania Al-Mahdi, will do research on silver fluoride and bonding in healthy and hypomineralised dentin.

Rania Al-Mahdi has joined NIOM as a visiting researcher for a four month research stay. She is an Associate Professor at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Department of Clinical Dentistry in Tromsø.

Her academic background combines dentistry and molecular biology. Her main research interest is the role of human genes in relation to dental caries and other diseases. During her stay at NIOM, she is expanding her expertise into restorative dentistry and dental materials research, while contributing to Nordic research collaboration.

At NIOM, Al-Mahdi is investigating how silver fluoride with potassium iodide pretreatment affects the shear bond strength of composite restorations in both healthy dentin and dentin affected by Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation. The project explores how different pretreatment strategies may influence adhesion and durability, particularly in compromised tooth structures.

She collaborates closely with NIOM researchers Aida Mulic, Frode Staxrud and Amela Tulek. Together, they aim to generate knowledge that can support clinicians across the Nordic region in choosing treatment strategies for both healthy and hypomineralised teeth.

“This work has the potential to guide clinicians in optimizing treatment strategies for both healthy and MIH affected teeth, while also contributing to the longevity and durability of restorations in compromised tooth structures,” says Al-Mahdi.

For Al-Mahdi, NIOM’s role extends beyond the laboratory.

“NIOM plays a pivotal role in fostering Nordic research collaboration by serving as a hub for interdisciplinary dental and biomaterial research, facilitating knowledge exchange, and supporting Nordic researchers through joint projects and expertise sharing.”

She highlights the value of working in a shared Nordic research environment where expertise in clinical dentistry and biomaterials meets.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work in such a collaborative and inspiring environment at NIOM. It is a great research facility where one can develop new research ideas, surrounded by talented and supportive colleagues who foster innovation and growth.”

Through this project and its visiting scientist programme, NIOM continues to strengthen its role as a Nordic hub for research, collaboration and knowledge exchange in dental materials and clinical dentistry.