Dr. Vargas holds degrees in dentistry, epidemiology, and medical sociology. Dr. Vargas’ research focuses on socio-economic inequalities in children’s oral health, an area in which she has published numerous scientific articles. She has strong interest in oral health improvement at the community level. She is the faculty advisor for several dental student organizations that emphasize community service and currently leads the oral health aspects of a community-school based funded programs. She was a member of the Institute of Medicine committee that wrote the report “Advancing Oral Health in America.”