Larson becomes Developmental and Surgical Sciences Interim Chair

Brent Larson, DDS, MS, is the Interim Chair of the Department of Developmental and Surgical Sciences, effective Monday, June 20.

Larson takes over for Daniel Skaar, DDS, MS, MBA, who served in the role since 2016.

“Dr. Skaar has graciously and competently held this role since 2016,” reflected Dean Keith Mays, DDS, MS, PhD, in a message to the School of Dentistry community about the change. “His contributions and leadership to the department and to the school are truly appreciated.”

Skaar will remain in his role as director of the Division of Periodontics and continue to pursue his research, teaching and clinical care. His research interests include dental service utilization by elderly people and the impact of drug therapies on dental service utilization.

Larson, who steps into the role on June 20, has been a member of the School of Dentistry faculty since 2004. He graduated from the School of Dentistry with his DDS, completed a general practice residency in the US Air Force and a Master of Science and certificate in orthodontics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He will continue his roles as Assistant Dean for Advanced Education and director of the Division of Orthodontics in addition to serving as Interim Chair of the Department of Developmental and Surgical Sciences.

“Dr. Larson will utilize his extensive clinical and patient care experience, as well as his teaching and research experience, to lead this department,” said Mays. “Please join me in extending a grateful thank you to Dr. Skaar for his many contributions and a warm welcome to Dr. Larson.”

A search for a Chair of the department, and more information regarding that search, will be forthcoming.