Mark W. Beatty

Mark W. Beatty is a Professor in the Department of Adult Restorative Dentistry at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Dentistry. He leads Dr. Beatty's Lab, focusing on biomaterials research for facial prosthetics and dental restorations. His expertise includes developing durable maxillofacial prosthetics, characterizing dental material properties, and studying temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc mechanics.

Education:

• BS in Biology, Purdue University (1974)
• DDS in Dentistry, University of Iowa (1981)
• MSE in Engineering, Purdue University (1987)
• MS in Dental Biomaterials, Indiana University (1991)
• MSD in Operative Dentistry, Indiana University (1991)
• NIH Dentist Scientist Program (1985–1990)

Research Interests: Dr. Beatty’s work emphasizes improving the longevity and stability of facial prosthetics, particularly addressing challenges like color fading and material deterioration. His lab employs advanced testing techniques (e.g., 3D microscopes, dynamic mechanical analyzers) to evaluate biomaterials for dental and maxillofacial applications. Key focuses include prosthetic material durability, TMJ disc biomechanics, and the integration of biomaterials with human tissues.

Teaching & Grants: He teaches courses such as ARD 326 Dental Materials for Dental Hygiene and OBIO 851 Advanced Dental Biomaterials. His grants likely support research into biomaterials for facial reconstruction, though specific grants are not listed. The lab collaborates on projects involving osteogenic proteins, stem cell therapy, and polymer durability.

Labs & Resources: His lab utilizes specialized equipment, including servohydraulic testing machines for dynamic material analysis, environmental chambers for thermal/humidity testing, and UV radiation boxes to simulate outdoor aging. The lab also focuses on surface characterization via microhardness testers and tribotesting for friction/wear evaluation.