Dr. Stephen Abel

Biography

Dr. Stephen Abel has a distinguished career in the field of oral health and currently serves as a faculty member at the Center for Integrative Global Oral Health, holding the position of Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from New York University and completed a dental residency program at Eastman Dental Center. His expertise further expanded with a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) and specialized training in periodontics from the University of Minnesota. Before joining Penn Dental Medicine in 2023, Dr. Abel held significant academic positions, including Associate Dean for Students and Community Professional Initiatives at the State University of New York, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine from 2013 to 2021, and Professor of Periodontics and Associate Dean for Extramural Affairs at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine from 2005 to 2013. His work primarily focuses on addressing oral health disparities and developing dental programs for underserved communities, including individuals with disabilities and victims of intimate partner violence. Dr. Abel is a prolific author with numerous publications and training materials centered on oral health management for medically complex patients and the integration of medical screenings in dental settings. Additionally, he has been involved in advocacy and policy, serving on the President’s Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS during the Clinton Administration and currently as a member of the Santa Fe Group, which is dedicated to improving oral health.

Research Interests

Experience