The University of Texas Health San Antonio School of Dentistry has appointed Micaela Gibbs, DDS, as its first chief dental officer.
The school said Oct. 13 that Dr. Gibbs also may be the first chief dental officer in an academic dental practice in the U.S.
In her new role, Dr. Gibbs will work to strengthen the school's relationships between its clinical practices and research programs. She also will enhance the school's partnerships with medical practices to integrate oral care and healthcare to promote overall patient wellness.
Dr. Gibbs, who is also an associate professor at the Texas school, was previously a faculty member and chair of the department of community dentistry and behavioral science at the University of Florida in Gainesville. She also previously served as director of the school's division of community-based programs and was director of global service learning. She has experience working in public health and private practice.
Dr. Gibbs earned her dental degree at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colo.