I love dentistry. For the past 30-plus years, this has been a profession that allows me to change lives one smile at a time. Through my work, I help give people smiles they are pleased with that function perfectly and improve their quality of life.

My personal philosophy is that if you do something, you should do it right. This directly affects my work as a dentist because I believe in providing care that truly helps my patients. I genuinely care for my patients and consider them family.

I received my dental degree in 1981 from Georgetown University School of Dentistry with Magna Cum Laude honors. I also received a Master of Science degree from Long Island University and a Bachelor of Science degree from St. Bonaventure University. I practiced as a commissioned officer in the US Public Health Service until 1983 when I joined this practice.

I believe strongly in improving my knowledge and offering the most current technologies and procedures to all my patients. I am absolutely committed to offering the best treatments, and I believe that continuing education courses and communication with other professionals are the best way to do this.

I take numerous classes and attend seminars every year. My focus is on general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. I have lectured on the local and state levels and am directly involved with many professional organizations, where Ive taken on leadership roles when I can.

I grew up in Long Island, New York. I moved to beautiful Bradenton after finishing dental school. I served in the US Public Health Service as a commissioned officer for two years. The amazing weather and community made a lasting impression, and I made the easy decision to settle down here. I am happily married to my wonderful wife, Sue. I have two daughters, a granddaughter, a dog, and a cat.

I love living here; it continues to be a great home for my family and me. I am involved in giving back to the community in many ways, including volunteering with Remote Area Medical and as a member of the Manatee Riverside Rotary Club. In my free time, I enjoy sailing, racing, and cruising. I also really like outdoor sports, especially biking and playing tennis.

I knew I wanted to be a dentist when I was a junior in high school. I was very fortunate that the dentist I started seeing at age 12 always made everything so comfortable for me. He was compassionate, truly enjoyed his work, and was excellent technically. I knew that was the kind of dentist I wanted to become.

What excites me as a dentist is the opportunity to help improve the lives of my patients. When a patient tells me I love my new smile, my mouth has never felt better, or that was the easiest dental experience I have ever had, it is always a great feeling!

I received my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree with honors, (Omicron Kappa Upsilon) in 1981 from the University of Iowa, where I completed my undergraduate and graduate training. I maintained a successful dental practice in Iowa for six years before moving to Florida and joining this practice in 1987.

With my commitment to continuing education, I have received my Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry. I have served as president of the Manatee Dental Society and as a board member for more than 20 years, and am a Fellow in the American College of Dentists.

I was born and raised in Iowa and practiced there for six years before I moved to Bradenton in 1987 and joined Drs. Zamikoff and Klement. I have been blessed with a wonderful wife, Donna, three children Adam, Bridget, Elise and one grandchild, Ellie.

I feel it is important to give back to the community and have been involved with Bradenton Kiwanis, Give Back a Smile, and Give Kids a Smile, and I volunteer for the Bill GalvanoOne Stop Center and Turning Points and Remote Area Medical (RAM) in Bradenton.

Sometimes I am asked what I would have pursued for a career if not dentistry. It definitely would have revolved around music. I enjoy playing classical piano, which is a great way to relax and enhance dexterity and a gentle touch while providing dental care.

It is my goal to provide excellent dentistry in a caring and compassionate manner and to create an environment that is as pleasant as possible for my patients. I feel it is important to take time to listen to determine the best path of treatment for each individual patient.