Adriana Modesto-Vieira , DDS , DMD , MS , PhD
Dr . Vieira is Vice Chair of PDA ’ s DEIC , a pediatric dentist and the First Assistant Dean for Diversity , Inclusion and Social Justice at the University of Pittsburgh .
What do you consider as your best career accomplishment so far ?
Participation in outreach community programs with perinatal and infant oral health care to prevent oral diseases among underrepresented minorities .
Where do you aspire to be in five years ? Successful in obtaining financial support to reduce inequities and disparities in oral health care .
Who has been your biggest inspiration and why ? My mother . Because she has taught me so much about kindness , respect , acceptance , hope and positivity .
What advice do you have for dental students and new dentists ?
Always treat your patients with respect and compassion . Walk in your patient ’ s shoes and think how you can make an impact in their oral and systemic health . Look for and / or create learning opportunities for yourselves and others . Be an instrument of change in dentistry .
What is the biggest challenge that is facing dentistry as a field , diverse dentists , PA dentists ?
Lack of a dental workforce to meet the needs of underserved communities and no support from insurance companies to allow dentists to provide patients with a personalized plan to meet their oral health needs .