"Skull Shortage Threatens Teaching and Learning"
by Dr. Ernest W. April and Jeremy M. Zuniga (CDM 2010)

Embargoes and restrictions on the exportation of skeletal material is having a negative impact on dental education in this country. Not too long ago, dental students were required or encouraged to purchase a skull for their own study. Now, skulls have nearly become museum pieces. When available in shops such as Maxilla & Mandible in New York City, basic "student quality" skulls sell for prices in excess of $1500.00. Not only are such prices far beyond what a student can be expected to pay, but realistically beyond what the CDM can expend for student use. Plastic models are of insufficient detail to provide a learning experience of any value.

Skulls purchased by former dental students may sit in a display case or tucked away in a closet or attic. Alumni of the College of Dental Medicine might consider recycling a real-bone skull to enhance the quality of dental education at Columbia and enjoy a tax deduction for the donation.

For information, please contact Melissa Welsh at 212-305-6881 or mmw7@columbia.edu.