Liang Hong, DDS, PhD

Biography

Dr. Hong currently serves as Professor and Head of Department of Public Health Sciences. Dr. Hong is a nationally recognized specialist in dental public health, holding both DDS and PhD degrees. He became certified by the American Board of Dental Public Health in 2010 and embarked on his academic career in dentistry in 2005, achieving the rank of full professor with tenure in 2017. From 2010 to 2021, he served as Director of the Division of Community Oral Health at the UTHSC College of Dentistry. Dr. Hong's primary focus has been on promoting oral health and preventing disease. His research centers on dental caries epidemiology, risk assessment, management, and prevention, particularly through the application of fluoride. Dr. Hong has authored 45 peer-reviewed scientific papers, 43 research abstracts, and 6 other research reports. He has secured over $1.5 million in extramural funding, two patents, and has received numerous honors for his research achievements. Dr. Hong has mentored and trained 27 pre-doctoral DDS students in the Dental Students Research Program, 8 graduate students/residents in Master's/PhD programs, and 4 post-doctoral fellows. He plays a pivotal role as faculty lead in community outreach efforts and is recognized for his service through extensive involvement in college and university committees, professional organizations, and federal agencies such as NIH and NSF.