Education
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder. I received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery, Masters Degree, and Specialty Training in Periodontics from the University of Colorado Denver School of Dental Medicine. I continued my education at the University of Colorado Denver, finishing with an additional certificate as a Fellow in Implantology after residency. Shortly thereafter I obtained my board certification status as a diplomate with the American Board of Periodontology.
Research | Grants | Awards:
I’d like to describe myself primarily as a clinician… However, I’d be a liar if I said I didn’t get a strange sense of satisfaction out of answering research questions that occur in my everyday practice of periodontics. In October of 2012, I received the 2012 Student Research Grant Award (from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry Research Foundation) to support an inflammatory cytokine study around different implant abutment designs. At the time we were studying the ability for specific surface topographies of abutments to promote gingival fibroblast attachment. During my residency I tackled three independent research studies related to bone grafting after extractions, cement remnants around implant crowns, and the effects of extraction and ridge preservation on the sinus floor topography. In February of 2016 I was awarded the John F. Prichard Graduate Periodontal Research Award for my research on the effect of extractions and bone grafting on sinus pneumatization. In 2019 I published my first book titled “Impossibly Perfect Implants: Your guide to a healthy smile” which was developed to educate patients on the complexities of implant dentistry along with strategies to mitigate less than ideal final outcomes. In 2022 my second book titled “Implants Done Right” which I co-authored with Dr Richard Miron, will be published by Quintessence Publishing Company in June.
Teaching | Education
While I technically practice full time as a Periodontist in my organization, Dental Specialists of North Florida, I remain very active as an educator in the field of Periodontics. I maintain a position at the University of Colorado Denver School of Dental Medicine as an Assistant Professor for the Postgraduate Department of Periodontics. I own, operate, and teach as an instructor in the DSNF Dental University, an organization designed to keep our dental community up to date on the latest and greatest techniques and innovations associated with all aspects of dental implant treatments. I co-own and operate Dental Practice Masters, an online educational platform designed to help dentists and their teams navigate the complexities of private practice. I lecture around the United States (and Internationally) on topics related to complex bone and soft tissue augmentation procedures, complex full mouth implant rehabilitation solutions, laser applications in surgical dentistry, as well as proper diagnosis and prevention techniques for oral and systemic diseases related to the oral environment.
Leadership | Organized Dentistry
In 2019 I was accepted into the American Academy of Periodontology L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Engagement, Action and Development) Program. In 2020 I was inducted into the board for the Florida Association of Periodontics where I currently hold a position on the executive council. I maintain active memberships in the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, Florida Association of Periodontists, Southern Academy of Periodontology, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the International Team for Implantology.
Clinical | Surgical Skill-set
I love periodontics. I live and breathe it. This passion really allows me a unique ability to offer a wide range of surgical options to my patients. I provide a complete spectrum of periodontal therapies, including minimally invasive microsurgical approaches for the treatment of periodontal diseases, dental implants, bone grafting, gingival grafting, full-mouth rehabilitation with implant supported prosthetics, dental laser treatment, periodontal plastic surgery, IV sedation, and a little bit of dental humor. All crummy jokes aside, I am devoted to providing only the most incredible and reliable results to my patients.
Life | Extracurricular
I’m married to my wonderful wife Jenni. I don’t know how I fooled her into this relationship but she has stuck it out with me this far! Jenni and I moved to St. Augustine Florida back in January of 2016. It’s a cool place to live I’ll tell you that! The people have treated us well and the rich history combined with a laid back beach vibe have kept us entertained. I am a novice surfer, an avid outdoors enthusiast and a rock climber. I co-own and operate both Stone Climbing Company and Drifters Beach and Bike Rentals. These companies align perfectly with my core values that bring happiness and heathy living to the communities of Northeast Florida.