Discovery, Innovation And Wellness

Forsyth is the world's leading independent organization dedicated to scientific research and education in oral health and related biomedical science. The Institute's goal is to lead the discovery, communication and application of breakthroughs in oral health and disease prevention that will significantly improve the health and well-being of our nation and the world.

Originally named The Forsyth Dental Infirmary for Children, Forsyth, founded in 1910, focused primarily on the oral health needs of Boston’s disadvantaged children. Forsyth embarked on its first scientific research program in the early 1930’s, and in the 1950’s was a pioneer in discovering the first connections between dental decay and fluoride, nutrition and bacteria.  With the realization that the need for dental care far exceeded Forsyth’s capacity, the organization expanded its mission in the 1960s to include scientific research. Today, Forsyth is dedicated to advancing human health and well-being through scientific discovery, investigation, education and public health outreach programming.

Through its ForsythKids School-Based Cavity Prevention Program, the Institute provides underserved elementary school children with oral health education, dental exams, cleanings and preventive care. For children enrolled in the program, two rounds of treatment prevents new tooth decay.  In the year ahead, 20,000 children will receive care through the ForsythKids Program.

Key areas of scientific investigation include:  

• regenerative medicine, which has the potential to fight the effects of cancer, birth defects and injury;
  
• mimnimally invasive diagnostics/treatment to fight diseases such as oral cancer, diabetes and gum disease;and
  
• immunology, which includes work to develop vaccines to prevent tooth decay and tuberculosis.
  
  

Please visit our Web site to learn more and read the latest news. www.forsyth.org