William P. Leavitt, associate professor in residence for clinical science, joined UNLV School of Dental Medicine during 2009 and teaches advanced partial removable prosthodontics and laser dentistry to third year dental students. He also supervises second, third, and fourth year students providing patient clinical care.

Dr. Leavitt has written a DVD tutorial about diode laser use for numerous dental procedures. He also has written a short chair-side edition, which guides dentist through diode laser settings for several procedures, their respective billing codes, and post-operative patient care needs. His laser course for certifying licensees in laser proficiency has been approved by the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners.

In addition to his teaching role, Dr. Leavitt serves as laser safety officer for UNLV’s Shadow Lane Campus, as a senior senator in the university’s Faculty Senate, and as chair of the Public Safety Advisory Committee. He has served as chair of the dental school’s Health and Safety committee, and has been a member of the Bylaws, Student Progress, Information Technology, Faculty Sabbatical, and ad hoc committees.

Dr. Leavitt earned his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University, his master of public administration from the University of Southern California, and his doctor of dental surgery from the University of the Pacific Dental School.

Dr. Leavitt is a member of the American Dental Educators Association and serves as chair of its Lasers in Dentistry Special Interest Group.