Contour® is the only news source dedicated to sharing the dental-student narrative and addressing their holistic needs as they prepare to enter the workforce as dental professionals. ASDA members receive Contour 10 times a year, with combined issues in June/July and November/December.
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September 2026 — Prevention in Dentistry
You’re likely starting to feel the physical effects of dentistry, whether it’s a tight neck or a sore lower back. The September issue of Contour® looks at prevention in many forms, from noticing signs of abuse in patients to strategies dental students can use today to ensure they’re staying healthy across the span of their careers. “Prevention is one of the foundations of our profession,” shares Editor in Chief Esther Yu (Columbia ’27), “but we don’t always apply the mindset to ourselves.”
Bhavi Patel (Georgia ’27 ) uses her gym-girl expertise to explain how weightlifting, particularly for women, can contribute to improved physical health over time and help manage the physical demands of dentistry, while Jenny Shulkin (Pennsylvania ’28) shares the range of benefits that run clubs provide.
Amy Kwon (Nova Southeastern ’27) examines pediatric dentistry’s role in spotting symptoms of systemic disease, and Madalyn Phan (UCSF ’28) explores how dentists are uniquely positioned to identify signs of intimate partner violence in patients.
Check out this issue of Contour® to discover how food nourishes more than our bodies, shaping our identities, relationships, and shared experiences.