Rate Professor Mihiri Silva

Professional Summary: Professor Mihiri Silva

Professor Mihiri Silva is a distinguished academic and clinician affiliated with the University of Melbourne, Australia. With a focus on pediatric dentistry and public health, she has made significant contributions to understanding the intersections of oral health, child development, and broader health outcomes. Her multidisciplinary approach bridges clinical practice with research to address critical issues in child health.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Silva holds advanced qualifications in dentistry and public health, reflecting her dual expertise in clinical and research domains. Specific details of her degrees include:

• Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc), University of Melbourne
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of Melbourne, focusing on pediatric oral health and epidemiology
• Specialist training in Pediatric Dentistry

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Silva’s research primarily centers on pediatric dentistry, with a strong emphasis on the social determinants of oral health, early childhood caries, and the links between oral health and systemic conditions such as obesity and developmental disorders. Her work often explores longitudinal health data to inform public health interventions and policy.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Silva has held several key positions at the University of Melbourne and associated research institutes. Her career trajectory includes:

• Associate Professor, Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne
• Senior Research Fellow, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute
• Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Silva has been recognized for her contributions to dental research and public health. Notable accolades include:

• National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Fellowships and Grants for research in child health
• Awards from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) for contributions to pediatric dentistry research

Key Publications

Professor Silva has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals, focusing on pediatric oral health and epidemiology. Some of her key publications include:

• Silva, M.J., et al. (2019). 'The impact of early childhood caries on general health and well-being.' Journal of Dental Research.
• Silva, M.J., et al. (2021). 'Social determinants of oral health in children: A longitudinal study.' Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology.
• Silva, M.J., et al. (2016). 'Oral health and obesity in children: Exploring the links.' Pediatric Obesity.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Silva’s research has had a profound impact on the field of pediatric dentistry and public health, particularly in shaping policies and interventions aimed at reducing oral health disparities in children. Her work with longitudinal cohorts has provided critical evidence on the long-term effects of early oral health issues, influencing clinical guidelines and public health strategies both in Australia and internationally.

Public Lectures, Committee Roles, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Silva is actively involved in the academic community through various roles and contributions, including:

• Invited speaker at international conferences on pediatric dentistry and child health
• Member of research committees at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute
• Editorial board member and reviewer for leading dental and public health journals