Dr. Michael Korch
Dr. Michael Korch
Tenth Trustee Region
Did you always know you wanted to be a dentist? If not, what did you want to be when you were growing up? I had relatives in the field when I was growing up so I was exposed to dentistry at a young age. When I was in 10th grade, my sister was a 4th year dental student and I got to spend my spring break visiting her. She introduced me to life as a dental student and I followed her footsteps.
When and where did you attend dental school? I attended Richland High School in Johnstown( class of 1996). University of Pittsburgh, BA / BS 2000. University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine from 2000-2004.
Where do you currently practice? Pittsburgh Endodontics, my private practice in Monroeville. I am also an adjunct clinical instructor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
What motivated you to become involved in organized dentistry? I am proud and honored to be a part of the dental profession and feel it is my obligation and duty to continue to make our profession continue to be great. When I took that oath to become a dentist, I assumed it was part of my duty to volunteer to try to always continue to help our profession, and the only way I know is to be active and continue to help educate others that follow.
What do you believe is the most challenging issue facing dentistry as a profession? Dentists learning from the internet and not each other and their mentors.
What do you believe is the most challenging issue facing organized dentistry? Not being the leading and go to voice for our profession.
Dr. Korch’ s personal story
He grew up in Johnstown and is the youngest of four. His oldest sibling, his sister Susan, is an orthodontist in Hershey. He also has a sister, Karen, and a brother, John.
Dr. Korch has been married to his wife, Megan, for 19 years. They have three kids, Mila, 11; Cecilia, 6; Michel 6( They are modern mimical twins).
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time( hobbies)? Dentistry is a hobby! But always, family first. My family is my life and I would not be who I am without them. My three modern miracles keep me busy with sports, school, church events, and whatever else their lives throw at me. Like I tell everyone, I used to be fun!
Name some fun / interesting things about yourself that others would be surprised to learn.
• All my schooling was at the great University of Pittsburgh.
• I was a restorative dentist for 12 years before returning to specialize in Endodontics.
• I am the only driver if I am in an automobile.
• One of my prized possessions is my 1989 Trans Am, a car I wanted when I was 16 and got a few years later!
Who was your greatest role model? My father, who taught me a strong work ethic and how to figure out what life throws at you.
What famous person would you most like to spend a day with? Loaded question... G. V Black. At this point in my life I could care less and would spend that time with my family!
MARCH / APRIL 2026 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 23