The Office of Clinical Research
The Office of Clinical Research (OCR) was established in 1998 with
the goal to develop a first class clinical research infrastructure
at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. The OCR’s
objective is to support and conduct state-of-the-art clinical projects
in dental and craniofacial research. Support resources include design
and management of clinical trials, IRB submissions, subject recruitment,
examiner calibration, and data management and analysis. Investigators
who collaborate with the OCR are researchers with expertise in clinical
studies of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), tooth decay
(caries), tooth stain, plaque, and dentin hypersensitivity (pain).
They have performed clinical trials on antibiotics, dentifrices, mouthwashes,
and toothbrushes. Also, they have been involved in the development
and testing of diagnostic and therapeutic methods and procedures.
A core of well-trained dedicated staff, such as a study coordinator,
dental hygienists, recorders, and clerical personnel assists OCR investigators.
The facilities at the College of Dentistry permit the conduct of
a great variety of studies, including Phase I, II, and III clinical
trials. Such research is carried out in dedicated research clinics
and laboratories. Being part of the most comprehensive health sciences
center in America, the OCR can offer a wide spectrum of research tools.
They may include medical and dental examinations, clinical laboratory
tests, and surveys.
The OCR is maintaining a subject database for subject recruitment.
Interesting panels for the study of a variety of oral diseases can
be constructed in short time. In the near future, a Web-based research
network will permit OCR researchers to broaden their investigations
and include research centers in private practices. This exciting option
will allow enrolling more and a greater diversity of subjects into
studies in an even shorter period of time.
In summary, resources of the OCR include:
Facilities and Equipment
- Dedicated clinical research facilties
- Dental radiography
- Clinical photography
- Medical laboratories
People
- Dedicated study coordinator
- Knowledgeable staff
- Experienced investigators
- Calibrated examiners
Database
- Subject database
- Data entry, management, and analysis
- Secure and confidential product and data storage
IRB on campus
