Implants, Crowns, TMJ Studies

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is conducting the following studies in TMJ, post Jaw Surgery, Molars and Tooth Replacement. See details below.

Sensory Study

We are looking for females age 18 to 34 years old to participate in a three year research study being conducted in the Department of Dental Research. This study involves approximately 4 hours of your time annually. You will receive $300 for completion of this study. If you are interested in learning more about our Sensory Study, please continue reading.


If you are between the ages of 13 and 50 and are scheduled to have surgery on your lower jaw / chin, you could be a part of this research project. Qualifying participants will receive a total of $390 if they complete all the data collection visits. To qualify you must be generally healthy and be willing to come for a total of 6 visits over about two and a half years. You may participate in this study if your oral and maxillofacial surgeon is Dr. Frost, Kendall, or Sacco in Durham or Chapel Hill, NC, Dr. Tucker in Charlotte NC, or is on staff at the UNC School of Dentistry.

Third Molar Study

If you are between the ages of 14 and 45 and still have your wisdom teeth, you could be part of this research project. Qualifying individuals will receive $25 and a free dental cleaning at each annual recall visit. To qualify, you must have all four wisdom teeth present (erupted or impacted), be willing to retain them for at least five years and meet dental and health conditions.

TMJ Study

If you are bothered by TMJ pain or frequently complain of sore facial muscles and/or joints, you may be eligible for our study! We are interested in the relationships between mood, blood pressure and sensory perception in people with facial pain of at least 6 months duration. Eligible participants will earn up to $100. For details, please call 919-966-1060.

Tooth Replacement Study

If you are between the ages of 18 and 75 and are missing 2 or more back teeth for a period of no less than two months, you could be part of this research project. Qualifying individuals will receive implant treatment and restorative crowns at reduced rates as well as complete dental exam and follow-up limited clinical evaluations for a period of 3 years.