Paediatric and Restorative Dentistry

Paediatric and Restorative Dentistry is an academic department within the University of the Witwatersrand, a public research university in Johannesburg, South Africa, established in 1922. The department forms part of the School of Oral Health Sciences and focuses on clinical training, community engagement, and translational dental research addressing regional and global oral health needs.

Its research spans special care dentistry, geriatric oral health, prosthodontic rehabilitation, and regenerative endodontics. Work on caregivers of children with special health care needs and oral healthcare for frail elders highlights a commitment to vulnerable populations and equitable service delivery in resource constrained settings.

Technical strengths are evident in studies on removable partial denture design, maxillofacial rehabilitation, and dental pulp tissue regeneration, reflecting integration of clinical expertise with biomaterials and tissue engineering. Contributions advance restorative practice, improve functional outcomes, and support policy informed approaches to community oral health.