Our Research Areas.
Older Adults and Oral Health
Oral health is a critical component of overall well-being, especially in aging populations. Research suggests a strong link between periodontal disease and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, indicating that poor oral health may contribute to cognitive decline. At the Yang Lab, we investigate the biological mechanisms underlying this oral-brain connection, with the goal of identifying pathways for earlier diagnosis and intervention in dementia.
​
Beyond biological factors, access to dental care remains a major challenge for older adults. Barriers such as polypharmacy, mobility limitations, and the lack of comprehensive dental coverage under Medicare make it difficult for many to maintain proper oral health. The Yang Lab also examines these structural challenges, with a focus on expanding access to dental care for older adults in long-term care facilities and other vulnerable settings.
Maternal Oral Health
Pregnancy presents unique challenges to oral health due to hormonal changes, increased nausea and vomiting, and shifts in dietary habits. Studies have shown a strong link between poor oral health—especially periodontal disease—and adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. However, the biological mechanisms underlying this connection remain unclear.
​
At the Yang Lab, we investigate the role of the oral microbiome in periodontal disease and its interaction with inflammatory pathways to better understand how these factors may influence birth outcomes. Uncovering the underlying pathological mechanisms could pave the way for targeted interventions to improve both maternal and infant health.
​
Additionally, significant disparities in maternal oral health persist, particularly among pregnant women on Medicaid in Georgia. Despite having dental coverage, many struggle to access care due to a lack of providers who accept Medicaid, facing systemic barriers to treatment. In collaboration with maternal health organizations, our research aims to improve access to dental care for pregnant individuals and address structural inequities in oral health services.
Vaping and Oral Health
While the harmful effects of smoking on oral and systemic health are well-documented, much less is known about the impact of vaping. The Yang Lab explores how vaping affects oral health, with a particular focus on changes in the oral microbiome—the key driver of the two most common oral diseases worldwide: cavities and gum disease.
​
By examining how vaping alters the microbiome and its interactions with host inflammation, we aim to clarify potential risks and broader health implications. Understanding these effects is crucial for assessing vaping’s long-term impact and its potential connection to systemic diseases.