Class of 2026: Jillian Faber finds her path in the emerging field of oral medicine

By Vernon Freeman
School of Dentistry

In a profession built on precision and care, Jillian Faber found her calling in one of its most specialized corners - oral medicine.

After graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry next month with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, she will head to Philadelphia to begin an oral medicine residency at the University of Pennsylvania, one of the nation's leading programs.

While oral medicine has long served as the bridge between dentistry and medicine, it is one of the most recently recognized American Dental Association specialties. It focuses on the diagnosis and non-surgical management of medically related diseases of the oral and maxillofacial region, providing specialized care for complex conditions.

Faber says it was a single moment of clarity during a lecture in her third year of dental school that set her on an uncommon and exciting path.

"I was drawn to pathology and radiology, but I still wanted meaningful patient interaction and the chance to use my hand skills," Faber said. "I didn't see myself behind a computer or a microscope all day. I was looking for something in between. When I took Dr. Alexandra Howell's course in my third year, it clicked. I realized this was exactly what I wanted to pursue."

Faber's mentor, Alexandra Howell, D.M.D., assistant professor and oral medicine specialist at the VCU School of Dentistry, is one of only two oral medicine specialists in the state of Virginia. Faber says her decision was solidified the first day she shadowed Howell in the oral medicine clinic.

"Just watching her talk to patients, seeing her hand skills and how quickly and effectively she can do a biopsy," Faber said. "She's just a great clinician and I know that's how I want to be in the future."

Faber says the emerging nature of oral medicine is what excites her most. "I'm excited to grow with the field," she says. "There's a significant need for it, with long waitlists of patients seeking care. It's an area where both physicians and dentists don't always have clear answers, so it's incredibly rewarding to help fill that gap, especially at a time when the field is still developing in the U.S. It's intellectually stimulating and has tremendous potential for growth."

Howell says it's been a true joy to watch Faber's growth at VCU, and she is thrilled to welcome Faber as a future colleague in the oral medicine community.

"Jillian is the kind of student who makes me excited to teach," said Howell. "What sets her apart is a unique quiet confidence and a level of maturity that allows her to remain calm and collected, even when navigating the most complex clinical cases. Her motivation stems from a genuine, deep-seated passion for the field of oral medicine and for education in general. She approaches every task with both empathy and critical thinking."

As one of the rarest dental specialties, oral medicine is pursued by only a select group of trainees each year through only five Commission on Dental Accreditation-recognized programs in North America.

Faber matched to four of the five programs, but she had her sights set on a particular program that held a special place in her heart.

"I can't describe the feeling when I matched with Penn, I immediately burst into tears," she said. "My mom graduated from Penn, so this means a lot. I'm incredibly excited and grateful. With so few spots in each program, it really makes you feel like they want you specifically."

Faber says she is most looking forward to being part of a team that is fired up about oral medicine. "Everyone that's there is very excited and very motivated to work on those highly complex, specific and niche problems," she said. "I'm excited about problem-solving."

Before she starts an exciting new chapter, Faber is reflective on her time at VCU.

"Dental school has been one of the hardest things I've ever done, but it's also been the most rewarding," she said. "It has instilled a strong sense of confidence in me - not just as a clinician, but as an individual. What has meant the most is having professors who have supported my personal and professional growth, encouraging me to continually improve and challenge myself."

Faber specifically recognized the Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences which consists of radiology, pathology, oral medicine and orofacial pain specialists.

"They're truly exceptional, hardworking, deeply knowledgeable and incredibly generous with their time. We're very fortunate to have them," she said.

Faber says she is excited about new opportunities in oral medicine that are coming to VCU. For the first time, beginning in the fall, the School of Dentistry will have clinical rotations in oral medicine for both third- and fourth-year dental students. Fourth-year students who are interested in oral medicine will also have the opportunity to take a course where they can gain in-depth experience and hands-on clinical exposure to complex cases in the oral medicine clinic.

For Faber, the future of oral medicine is full of possibilities. Whether she pursues private practice or follows in Howell's footsteps as a clinician-educator, she's eager to make a meaningful impact, both for her patients and for the future of continuing education in the field.

This story was originally published on the School of Dentistry website.