Deborah Studen-Pavlovich

Dr. Deborah Studen-Pavlovich is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She also serves as Residency Program Director and has held leadership roles in national organizations such as the American Dental Education Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Her research focuses on adolescent oral health, particularly eating disorders and preventive care. She has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award (2003) and the Distinguished Alumna Award (2010).

Education:

• BS, Butler University, 1976
• DMD, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, 1980
• Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, 1983

Research Interests: Dr. Studen-Pavlovich’s work emphasizes adolescent dental health, including the oral manifestations of eating disorders and improving access to care. She advocates for interdisciplinary approaches to address systemic health issues in pediatric and adolescent populations.

Awards:

• Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award (2003)
• Enid A. Neidle Scholar-in-Residence (1997)
• Fellowships in Omicron Kappa Upsilon, American College of Dentists, and others
• Distinguished Alumna Award (2010)

Advising & Leadership: She mentors students through her role as Faculty Advisor for the AAPD Student Chapter and oversees the Give Kids A Smile program. Her leadership includes test-consulting roles for dental board examinations and accreditation reviews.

Labs/Teams: Active in clinical and educational initiatives within the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, contributing to curriculum development and residency training programs.