David Mahler papers

Collection

Identifier: 2020-003

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The David Mahler papers include records of Dr. Mahler's achievements and recognitions in the field of dental biomaterials. Records in this collection include degrees, certificates, and awards, as well as assorted photographs of Mahler and colleagues. Of likely the most interest is an extensive scrapbook of letters, presented at his retirement celebration, that provide evidence of his contributions to the profession and the high esteem he was held in by colleagues.

Dates

1944 - 2010
Majority of material found within 1950 - 1988

Creator

Mahler, David B. (1923-2017) (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access. This collection is open to the public.

Conditions Governing Use

OHSU Historical Collections & Archives (HC&A) is the owner of the original materials and digitized images in our collections, however, the collection may contain materials for which copyright is not held. Patrons are responsible for determining the appropriate use or reuse of materials. Consult with HC&A to determine if we can provide permission for use.

Biographical Note

David B. Mahler, Ph.D. (3 February 1923 – 2 August 2017) was a dental biomaterials scientist who was internationally recognized as the preeminent expert in dental amalgam. A specialist in dental biomaterials, Dr. Mahler was a professor emeritus in the Division of Biomaterials and Biomechanics in the Department of Restorative Dentistry in the School of Dentistry at Oregon Health & Science University. His groundbreaking research into dental amalgam led to amalgam formulas that are being used throughout the world today.

Mahler, a native of Yonkers, NY, came from a family that had emigrated from Russia in 1916 to escape persecution against the Jewish community there. Mahler pursued studies in aeronautical engineering at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. When World War II broke out, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a lieutenant (junior grade) and was sent to a Carrier Aircraft Services Unit at Livermore Airport in California, where he was involved in aircraft maintenance.

After the war, he completed his studies at the University of Michigan, earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in aeronautical engineering. While working on his doctorate, he learned of a research position opening in the Department of Dental Materials Science and Engineering Mechanics at the university's School of Dentistry. He applied and was accepted into the doctoral program in dental biomaterials at Michigan.

After earning his doctorate, he was offered an opportunity to establish a department in dental materials science at the University of Oregon Dental School (later OHSU School of Dentistry) where he set up a laboratory to do clinical research into dental amalgam. Over a period of 50 years, Mahler led clinical research into dental amalgam and taught courses in biomaterials. In recognition of his achievements over his long career, Dr. Mahler was awarded the Souder Award, the Hollenbeck Memorial Prize, and the Japanese Fauchard Award.

Adapted from the obituary published in The Oregonian in August 2017.

Extent

0.5 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

David B. Mahler, Ph.D. (3 February 1923 – 2 August 2017) was a dental biomaterials scientist who was internationally recognized as the preeminent expert in dental amalgam. His papers include records of achievements and recognitions, as well as letters attesting to his contributions and high regard.

Custodial History

These records were accumulated by David Mahler throughout his life, and were donated to OHSU by his son, Russ Mahler, in 2020.

Existence and Location of Copies

Some awards and plaques were digitally imaged and are available in the Digital Archives. Contact HC&A for access.

Deaccessions

Duplicates from OHSU collections removed/or materials transferred to University Archives collections: Employee Recognition Awards, 2002; Service Awards, 1976 Caementum, 1988 February, Vol. 12, No. 1 CampusGram, 1988 February 22, Vol. 27, No. 34; 1989 May 17 Dental Angles, 1966, Vol. 7, No. 2