Dr. Josh Landers, chair of biomedical sciences at the Lyon CollegeSchoolofDentalMedicine, has published a new case report calling on dentists to play a proactive role in identifying potential stroke risk factors through panoramic radiographs.

The article, co-authored with Dr. Burke Soffe, founding dean of LCSDM, and Dr. John Teed, assistant professor at LCSDM, and published April 9, 2025, in International Clinical Medical Case Reports Journal, examines a case of Eagle syndrome — a rare condition involving ossification of the stylohyoid ligament — and its association with carotid artery plaque.

“Dentists are uniquely positioned to detect early signs of Eagle syndrome and collaborate with medical professionals to prevent serious outcomes. This study shines a light on the importance of dentists reviewing every panoramic radiograph for signs of stylohyoid ligament ossification,” Dr. Landers said.

The publication emphasizes LCSDM’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and public health education, aligning with Lyon College’s goal of preparing practice-ready dentists who can engage with broader healthcare concerns.

“Dentists are reviewing panoramic radiographs on a daily basis and can play a pivotal role in identifying potential risk factors. This work reinforces the idea that dentists are frontline healthcare providers.” Dr. Soffe said. “Our students are trained not only to restore teeth but to recognize systemic conditions that may appear in the oral and maxillofacial region. Research like this is exactly the kind of scholarship that supports a more integrated approach to patient health.”

The article, titled “Ossified Stylohyoid Ligament Associated with Carotid Artery Plaque and a Call to Action for Dentists – A Case Report," is available asopen access through the journal’s April 2025 issue.

Earlier this month, Dr. Landers published original research from a randomized controlled human trial, revealing that participants performing blood flow restriction exercise exhibited markedly higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein critical to slowing age-related cognitive decline, when compared to work-matched controls.

Building on those findings, he has just received acceptance for a systematic review that synthesizes emerging evidence of blood flow restriction exercise training to neuroprotective benefits across multiple studies.

Dr. Landers now looks forward to engaging LCSDM students in exploring how the mouth-body connection extends to overall health, reinforcing the school's commitment to whole-patient care.