GET TO KNOW YOUR PDA Board of Trustees
Charles Dombrowski , DMD SEVENTH DISTRICT
We need more members willing to serve organized dentistry . A group of determined people dedicated to enhancing our profession is a power to move mountains .
Did you always know you wanted to be a dentist when you were younger ? If not , what did you want to be when you grew up ? I was not interested in Dentistry . Goal was physician until I worked during college as a nurse ’ s aide in a hospital , which I did not like .
What motivated you to pursue a career in organized dentistry ? My motivation for serving organized dentistry results from my Franciscan education in High School to commit to community .
When and where did you attend dental school ? University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine 1985 .
Where do you currently practice ? Have practiced since graduation in Altoona , Pa . general dentistry , including dental sleep medicine .
DR . DOMBROWSKI ’ S PERSONAL STORY
He grew up in Yardley , Pa . outside of Philadelphia . He has three brothers George , Michael and Mark . He is married to wife Marty for 38 years . They have three children , Elyse , Ethan and Joseph , and a granddaughter Lucy “ who refers to me as ‘ Favorite .’”
Dr . Dombrowski ’ s hobbies include a love for cycling . Seasonally , fly-fish , hunt and ski . Dedicated to yoga . He is involved in fund raising for diabetes research and advocacy .
Name some fun / interesting things about yourself that others would be surprised to learn . He spent summers in High School backpacking Appalachian trail ; family manufactures Widdy dartboards ; worked nights through college and dental school as a chemist .
What do you believe is the most challenging issue facing dentistry as a profession ? Hands down , insurance manipulation of dental fees , bundling codes and non covered service clauses have crippled dentists ’ ability to invest in themselves and practice . Organized dentistry needs to push back , which is why we need financial support for ADPAC and PADPAC .
What do you believe is the most challenging issue facing organized dentistry ? We need more members willing to serve organized dentistry . A group of determined people dedicated to enhancing our profession is a power to move mountains . Please volunteer !
Who was your greatest role model ? Been fortunate to have many mentors and teachers , who I have thanked and promised to pay forward .
What famous person would you most like to spend a day with ? Happy to spend every day with genuine people .
Dr . Dombrowski said , “ It ’ s an honor and privilege to serve with the PDA family .”
18 JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL