Geerten-Has Tjakkes

Dr. Geerten-Has Tjakkes is a periodontist, dentist, and lecturer at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Groningen (UMCG). He serves as the chair of the periodontology expertise group CTM and maintains a private practice as owner of 'De Parodontoloog'.

• 1997-2002: Dentistry at University of Groningen
• 2010: PhD in 'Diagnostic assessment of orofacial pain' (MKA UMCG)
• 2011: MSc in Periodontology and implantology (ACTA en CTM-UMCG)

Dr. Tjakkes' research focuses on the intersection of periodontology with systemic health conditions. His work prominently explores the relationship between oral health and diabetes, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and nutritional status. He has made significant contributions to understanding how periodontal disease relates to systemic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and mortality risk. His research employs diverse methodologies including cross-sectional analyses, longitudinal studies, and clinical risk modeling.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward investigating the oral-systemic connection, particularly how periodontal health affects and is affected by chronic conditions like diabetes and cognitive impairment. His work increasingly incorporates biomarker analysis and explores the mediating roles of inflammation and oxidative stress in these relationships. Tjakkes also maintains clinical interests in periodontal treatment techniques, implantology, and root resection procedures.

Dr. Tjakkes actively contributes to knowledge translation through clinical risk models for diabetes screening in dental settings and educational articles about medical-odontological interactions. His research portfolio demonstrates a commitment to advancing both clinical practice and scientific understanding in periodontology.

As chair of the periodontology expertise group CTM since 2015, Dr. Tjakkes plays a leadership role in shaping periodontal education and practice guidelines. His research has attracted significant attention, with multiple publications receiving high citation counts, particularly those examining the relationship between periodontitis and cognitive impairment.

Dr. Tjakkes maintains an active clinical practice while conducting research that bridges dental and medical fields, emphasizing the importance of oral health in overall systemic wellness. His work contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing.