Meet Dr. Pawlak
Being an orthodontist has provided me with a unique, rewarding opportunity: I am able to touch and positively change so many lives!
I love getting to know each patient, learning their personal stories and journeys. Orthodontics allows me one-on-one time with patients: I love when a person comes out of their shell and starts sharing their personality with me and our team. It is always exciting to see someone move from being withdrawn and self-conscious about their teeth to being full of confidence, with a smile they want to share!
I feel fortunate to serve our community and love that my days are filled with smiles and laughter!
Education and Experience
- Bachelor of Science in Biology – Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (1987)
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine – University of Louisville School of Dentistry (1996)
- Orthodontic Residency and certificate – University of Louisville School of Dentistry (1998)
I was initially drawn to the dental field as a way of helping others, and quickly fell in love with the orthodontic specialty while in the early stages of training.
I opened Pawlak Orthodontics in August 1998 and am thrilled now to be creating smiles for the children of many of my initial patients.
One of the most exciting aspects of orthodontics, to me, is the ongoing research that leads to new techniques, materials, and technologies. I stay current on these advances through continuing education classes, participation in study groups, and attendance at meetings, lectures, and seminars.
In addition to being part of the Damon® Study Group, I have completed numerous courses on Invisalign®, Damon® System, emerging technologies, and ways to improve the patient experience.
I am an active member of the American Association of Orthodontics, as well as the American Dental Association. These organizations offer many continuing educational opportunities, during which I learn from leaders in the specialty and from my peers. The organizations also provide many journals and other publications that discuss the latest research and new methodologies.
Beyond the Office
I grew up in Portage, IN, and have lived in Madison since 1998. My husband, Geno Pawlak, is a Podiatrist in town. We have been married since 1991 and have two children, Gabby and Nate.
I love spending my free time with my family. We especially enjoy traveling and exploring the United States. We also love going to baseball games. Being that we are originally from the Chicago area, we are Cubs fans, but we always root for the Reds when they’re not playing the Cubs!
In the Community
My husband and I have always volunteered to coach at the Parks Department in Madison. As our children have grown, we have concentrated our efforts on coaching at the junior high and high school levels. I also enjoy various other volunteer activities, including working at our local food banks and raising donations for these organizations.