Dental students in New Orleans are eying a different kind of crown these days.
The LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry’s Principles of Occlusion class is proud to present the 2026 Art Cast Contest, a project breaking the mold when it comes to traditional learning.
They are coupling curriculum with creativity, crafting works of art out of the dental casts.
“We teach them how to make these dental casts,” said Dr. Jorge Palavicini. “And as they’re making these dental casts, they, well, they end up with a whole bunch of them. So, at the end of the year, instead of throwing them away, I make them turn it into an art piece.”
From the grinning Cheshire Cat to Mount “Brushmore,” even a wedding cake you can really sink your teeth into, students certainly drill into the assignment.
“It’s awesome. It’s a good chance and a good break from just all of the studying and all the exams and practicals that we do for our first year,” said Becca Simar.
Three out of every four dentists or dental hygienists practicing in Louisiana are graduates of the school.
Palavicini started the contest 7 years ago, and since then, it’s become a unique and beloved tradition, garnering many smiles.
“Because of the New Orleans vibe, because of the New Orleans environment, I think this is great,” said Palavicini. “And we can see them display the other, even the other year’s, projects. We have them in the library here.”
While the winner may not get a plaque, per se, the experience plus bragging rights really leaves a lasting impression.
“Dentistry is a large aspect creativity. So, it’s really cool to see them learn some of the first skills that they learned this year and take it and make these beautiful projects,” said Ethan Redlich.
READ MORE:LSU dental students hoping to leave lasting ‘impression’ with their end-of-year art project
