Dr. Mark Shaw is an accomplished dentist with a strong foundation in biology and general dentistry. He began his academic journey at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown as a Biology major before transferring to the main campus to complete his Bachelor of Science in Biology. Driven by a passion for dentistry, he pursued his doctoral education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine where he distinguished himself as an outstanding student. During his time in dental school, Dr. Shaw was elected class president and earned multiple awards in recognition of his dedication and excellence in the field. He was inducted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society and was honored with the American College of Dentists Award, the Pierre Fauchard Academy Award, and the Norman Stern Scholarship.
Following the completion of his dental degree, Dr. Shaw furthered his education by completing two years of residency in general dentistry at Montefiore Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He first served as a resident and then took on greater responsibilities as a chief resident, gaining advanced clinical experience and leadership skill. His exceptional performance in this role enhanced his reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable dental professional. Dr. Shaw was then invited to serve as the interim director of the general practice residency program in its final year as the space was to be transitioned to a maxillofacial prosthetics program. In this capacity, he was honored to play a pivotal role by sharing his expertise to guide the final-year residents through their advanced training. It is with this appointment that Dr. Shaw joined the faculty at the School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Shaw continued his career within the University Dental Health Services (UDHS) providing his clinical services as a general dentist for three years before transitioning into private practice. He joined Dental Select, a combined oral and maxillofacial surgery and general dentistry practice within Jefferson Memorial Hospital in West Mifflin, PA in 2002, he took the next step in his professional journey by establishing his own sole-ownership practice in Pleasant Hills, PA where he has been dedicated to patient care ever since. Serving private practice four days per week, Dr. Shaw has remained committed to serving as part time clinical instructor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine for the past 25 years. He has played a vital role in mentoring first year pre-clinical students as they are just beginning their careers as well as instructing third and fourth year students as they begin to provide direct, live patient care within the clinic. He is able to bring practical and applied approaches to the students while demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the advancement of dentistry.