Orthodontic educators produce remarkable achievements every day as they prepare the next generation of orthodontists, conduct research, engage and volunteer with the specialty, and present lectures worldwide. In appreciation of his outstanding work as an orthodontic educator, the AAO Society of Educators recognizes Dr. Sumit Yadav in this quarter’s Educator Spotlight.
Dr. Yadav is the Henry & Anne Cech Professor and Chairman of Growth and Development at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. He completed his dental and orthodontic training in India before pursuing his PhD at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) under the mentorship of Drs. Eugene Roberts and Jie Chen.
Upon completing his doctorate, Dr. Yadav joined the UConn (University of Connecticut) Health Division of Orthodontics faculty while simultaneously enrolled in the orthodontic residency program. There, under the guidance of Dr. Ravindra Nanda, Dr. Yadav received exceptional mentorship that profoundly shaped his academic development and leadership trajectory.
Now a distinguished clinician scholar and leader in clinical orthodontics, Dr. Yadav has had more than 170 peer-reviewed publications and substantial research funding as principal investigator on multiple projects funded by the National Institutes of Health/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH/NIDCR) and the AAO Foundation (AAOF).
Dr. Yadav’s primary research interests include orthodontic tooth movement, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) degeneration and regeneration, artificial intelligence and big data applications in orthodontics, and long-term retention stability.
Profoundly dedicated to shaping the next generation of orthodontic leaders and advancing the orthodontic specialty, Dr. Yadav has been instrumental in developing forward-thinking models of specialty care delivery that integrate cutting-edge technologies, team-based practice, and value-based outcomes. His work helps ensure that orthodontic education and clinical service remain at the vanguard of modern healthcare. His trainees have secured NIH funding and have ascended to prominent leadership positions as program directors and department chairs.
Dr. Yadav’s Students Share His Impact on Their Development
From Dr. Joy Chang, Craniofacial Orthodontist at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health Dr. Sumit Yadav exemplifies the qualities of an extraordinary mentor: dedicated, insightful, and deeply invested in the success and growth of his trainees. From the very beginning of my orthodontic training, he has been a guiding force, shaping not only my understanding of orthodontics but also my development as a clinician, researcher, and academician.
As my primary research advisor at the University of Connecticut, Dr. Yadav played a pivotal role in sparking my passion for orthodontic research. His mentorship was instrumental in helping me secure competitive funding through the AAO Foundation as well as the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists. His unwavering support and scientific rigor guided me through every stage of my project.
Under his mentorship, this work culminated in receiving the AAO’s prestigious Harry Sicher Research Award, an achievement that reflects not only the strength of the project but also the tremendous impact of his mentorship.
What truly sets Dr. Yadav apart is his ability to nurture each mentee’s unique potential. He understands that mentorship is not simply about imparting knowledge, but about fostering curiosity, confidence, and independence. He challenges his students to think critically, innovate boldly, and pursue excellence with integrity. His ability to tailor guidance to individual goals has continually helped me refine my research focus, develop my academic voice, and grow into the orthodontist I am today.
Even beyond my training at UConn, Dr. Yadav has remained a steadfast mentor, someone I continue to turn to for insight, encouragement, and perspective. His influence has extended into every phase of my professional development, including my current role as a craniofacial orthodontist at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. His belief in my potential and his ongoing investment in my growth has been a continual source of inspiration, shaping how I approach patient care, research, and mentorship in my own career.
Dr. Yadav’s commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence has left a lasting mark on our orthodontic community. Through his leadership, scholarship, and mentorship, he has cultivated a legacy that elevates everyone around him and will continue to influence the future of orthodontic education and research for years to come.
From Dr. Shivam Mehta, Program Director at Texas A&M University
Dr. Yadav has been an extraordinary mentor whose influence shaped my development as both a clinician and a researcher. His teaching seamlessly bridged basic science, clinical orthodontics, and CBCT, and he consistently guided me with clarity, patience, and genuine dedication.
What I value most is his ability to tailor his mentorship to my goals, challenging me when needed, supporting my research and publications, and always encouraging me to think deeper and aim higher. Beyond his expertise, he has been a steady source of encouragement and a friend I could rely on. Dr. Yadav’s commitment to excellence and his passion for education have left a lasting mark on all who train under him. I am truly grateful for the role he has played in shaping my professional journey and the values he has instilled in me.
Dr. Sarah Abu Arqub, Assistant Professor at University of Florida
During my time at the University of Connecticut, I had the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Sumit Yadav, whose guidance had a profound impact on my development as a clinician–scientist. Dr. Yadav’s mentorship extended far beyond routine supervision; he invested significant time and effort in shaping my research foundation, critical thinking, and scientific writing.
Under his guidance, I was able to refine my skills in clinical orthodontics, deepen my understanding of biomechanics, and strengthen the methodological rigor that continues to define my scholarly work today. His encouragement and commitment to academic excellence played an instrumental role in helping me build the research portfolio that later contributed to my publications, grants, and leadership roles in orthodontics. I remain deeply grateful for his mentorship and the opportunities he provided during my formative years at UConn.
