28 September 2023

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Welcome Kent L. Knoernschild, New Chair of Department of Preventive and Restorative Dental Sciences

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Kent L. Knoernschild, D.M.D., M.S., F.A.C.P will assume the role of chair of the Department of Preventive and Restorative Dental Sciences on October 2, 2023.

Kent has been the Thomas P. Hinman Endowed Chair and Professor for the Department of Restorative Sciences at the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. A prosthodontist by training, he has held chair, committee, and other leadership roles with numerous organizations, including the American College of Prosthodontists, the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and the International and American Associations for Dental Research (IADR/AADR). He has served on the Executive Council of the Academy of Prosthodontics for six years and is slated to become that organization’s president in 2026. Prior to the Dental College of Georgia, Kent spent 22 years as faculty in the Department of Restorative Dentistry at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry where he was the director of the advanced education program in prosthodontics and conducted a private practice.

Kent is looking forward to the next stage of his career. “UCSF is a well-respected institution and I’m excited to join the family. I will apply my experiences as a clinician, academician, and administrator to support the school’s vision, mission, and agendas, while encouraging the evolution of a collaborative, state-of-the-art department.” He intends to start by confirming philosophies of care and supporting technological advances.

Kent believes that working together is the best way to achieve common goals. “We want faculty to be successful in their positions—which arises from understanding and providing the support required for success.” He is eager connect with faculty and staff to hear their thoughts. “I like talking to people and I’ve been told I’m a good listener. I believe in communication, collaboration, and transparency.”

The allure of the Bay Area excites Kent and his wife, Karen. “I’ve been here many times over the years and I always feel that the energy here is different than I’ve felt in other places. I like that energy. We’re looking forward to exploring. Karen is already looking at things that are happening and she’s excited to see shows. I’m looking forward to that, as well.”

Source: https://dentistry.ucsf.edu/about/news/Welcome_Kent_Knoernschild