Dr. Alireza Sadr of the Department of Restorative Dentistry has been appointed as the first-ever UW School of Dentistry Director of Digital Dentistry and Innovation, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
The landscape of dentistry, like nearly every other field, is becoming increasingly digital. State-of-the-art technology and instruction are essential for educating world-class clinicians with the skills they need to practice effectively after graduation, as well as for providing patients with the utmost dental care they deserve.
As director, Dr. Sadr will steward the UWSOD’s digital dentistry efforts and propel the School toward a future that ensures our students and patients enjoy the many benefits that digital dentistry offers.
“Dr. Sadr is the ideal colleague to lead this effort,” said Dean André Ritter. “He has the necessary knowledge of technology and its various applications, connections with industry partners and, perhaps most importantly, an understanding that digital dentistry is simply a tool that should be used following humanistic values and evidence-based principles in the education of our students, our research efforts and in caring for our patients.”
In his role, Dr. Sadr will collaborate closely with Department Chairs and other units (IT, Academic Affairs, etc.) to ensure the School is aligned and successful. In doing so, he will:
- Ensure coordination with the School’s strategic priorities and optimize resources through thoughtful adoption of digital tools.
- Lead the creation of a roadmap for digital dentistry across didactic, preclinical and clinical education.
- Position the UWSOD as a leader in digital innovation through collaboration with peers and industry partners.
- Guide the ethical and effective integration of emerging technologies, including AI, into education and patient care.
“I am delighted to welcome Dr. Sadr into this new role that will strengthen our School’s commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care, education and research, and I look forward to his leadership as we continue to shape the future of digital dentistry together,” said Dean Ritter.