Kathryn M. Pawlak, DDS

Media Releases

Promoting Dental Health Champions Nationally as the Founder and President of Planet Smilez

Dr. Kathryn M. Pawlak, DDS, a distinguished board certified pediatric dentist, is an integral part of the esteemed team of dental professionals at UPD Dental Associates, where she serves the Buffalo region in New York with exceptional care and expertise. Dr. Pawlak also serves as a valued member of the Dean’s Faculty at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, where she specializes in Pediatric Dentistry and leads community outreach initiatives in the Baltimore community involving dental and dental hygiene students. Furthermore, she contributes her teaching expertise as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry at NYU College of Dentistry, showcasing her dedication to education, mentorship, and community engagement.

Motivated by a childhood experience that highlighted the disparities in dental healthcare access, Dr. Pawlak founded the non-profit organization Planet Smilez. Serving as the President and Founder, she has led international dental service trips and established the Planet Smilez Discovering Dentistry Symposium and Discovering Dentistry Camp to inspire the next generation of dental professionals. She has a strong focus on working with youth from educationally and economically disadvantaged backgrounds through her Planet Smilez programming efforts. She has taken great pride in mentoring pre-dental students, dental students and pediatric dental residents. 

With a keen interest in various aspects of pediatric dentistry, Dr. Pawlak focuses on the development of pathways programs for pre-dental students, the pediatric dentist’s crucial role in managing hematology/oncology patients, and maternal infant oral health. 

Dr. Pawlak’s journey in dental education began with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. She then earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, where she was nationally recognized for her dedication to community engagement by the American Dental Education Association, the Hispanic Dental Association, the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation, and the Delta Dental Foundation. Dr. Pawlak furthered her expertise by completing specialized training in pediatric dentistry at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital. During her residency, she received the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Resident Recognition Award, honoring her exceptional commitment to dental education and outreach.

Board certified, Dr. Pawlak continues to excel in her field, exemplified by her receipt of the Pugh Scholars Award for scoring in the top 3% of all candidates taking the written portion of the pediatric board exam by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She is also an active member of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Education Association, and the American Association for Women Dentists.

Dr. Pawlak is being inducted as a Fellow into the International College of Dentists for her remarkable professional accomplishments, distinguished service, and unwavering commitment to advancing dentistry for the betterment of humanity.

Dr. Pawlak attributes her success to her ability to connect with her community and the invaluable mentorship she has received, and she remains dedicated to advancing her field through both her practice and professional involvement.

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