Dorota Kopycka-Kedzierawski is a Professor of Dentistry and the Director for the Clinical and Translational Research Core at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH), University of Rochester Medical Center. Since 2012, She has been actively involved in the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network, initially as the Northeast Region Assistant Director and currently as the Northeast Region Director. She is the Principal Investigator of a phase II randomized double-blind controlled trial funded by the NIDCR, which aims to assess the efficacy of 10% Povidone Iodine in reducing relapse in preschool children treated for severe Early Childhood Caries (ECC) in the operating room.
Please briefly describe your background and research interests.
I am a general dentist with training in public health and epidemiology. My passion is to diminish or eliminate the oral disease burden in the youngest and most vulnerable children. I am interested in various aspects of oral epidemiology, teledentistry, prevention and risk factors for ECC, and Practice-Based Research.
What has been the most valuable benefit of AADOCR membership to you?
Networking, learning about new research initiatives and projects, and attending scientific meetings, seminars, and webinars have been the most valuable benefits of my AADOCR membership.
Did you attend the 2025 AADOCR Annual Meeting in New York? If so, which parts were the most memorable for you?
Yes, I attended the 2025 AADOCR meeting in New York. The most memorable parts were attending scientific sessions, meeting with colleagues, and co-chairing a scientific symposium that went extremely well. Being recognized as an exemplary reviewer for JDR-CTR was a great surprise!
What is the best way for other members to become more involved in AADOCR?
The best way for other members to become more involved in AADOCR is to actively participate in the organization's various activities and opportunities. This includes attending annual meetings, scientific sessions, and webinars, as well as joining special interest groups and committees. Members can also contribute by submitting abstracts, presenting their research, and volunteering for leadership roles within the organization. Networking with colleagues and engaging in collaborative projects can further enhance involvement and professional growth within AADOCR.
What advice would you give someone who is just starting off in the field of dental, oral, and craniofacial research?
Finding a good mentor is key. It takes time to build a mentee-mentor relationship, but it is critical to have someone who can advise, guide, and support your efforts, especially at the beginning of your career.
