Why He Was Nominated

An instructor at Harvard School of Dental Medicine and author of a textbook on periodontal disease, Dr. Coleman brings superior expertise to students and patients alike.

Favorite Aspect of Dentistry

Dr. Coleman feels most comfortable in the role of educator with his patients, his students and anyone who studies his textbook, Non-Surgical Control of Periodontal Diseases. “The word doctor has its origin from the Latin word docere, which means ‘to teach,’ ” he says. “Teaching patients how to maintain their dental health or instructing them about periodontal issues is the most important, rewarding part of my day.”

Tool He Can't Live Without

CBCT scanner for implant treatment planning. “With 3D anatomic information, we’re able to safely and effectively plan ideal treatment for our patients.”

Most Memorable Patient

In dental school, Dr. Coleman treated a woman who asked him to save a tooth that others said needed to be extracted. “She had a terminal disease, and it was important to her to keep her tooth for the remainder of her life,” he recalls. “We kept the tooth. After she passed away, out of the blue
I received a letter from her family telling me she had named me in her will, and she included a note thanking me for all I did for her. I will always remember her and that gesture to remind me of the impact we can have on our patients’ lives.”