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Building Relationships and Improving Lives

Being a dentist is a privilege and honor. I get to work at a job I love, work with the greatest team, and build strong relationships with a variety of fascinating people. It is personally rewarding to help people. Whether I’m getting them out of pain, rebuilding a damaged smile, or supporting them to overcome their fears to get through their first dental cleaning in years, I’m making a difference for people I care about.

The interactions with my patients are what excite me and keep me going. I started in this practice in 2005. At that time I didn’t have children and was just settling into the community. My patients have become my friends and supported and celebrated with me as my children have come along. At the same time, I’ve watched their children grow up into remarkable adults. Over the years, connections have grown and each patient’s visits are a time where we share stories and catch up on the other’s life.

My greatest satisfaction comes from helping people with dental-related anxieties. My team and I work closely with those patients, listening to their worries without judgment and encouraging them to trust us. As time goes on, those patients learn to let go of their fears and eventually they come for a visit and they’re smiling and at ease.

Making those transitions happen is important to me: I deal with dental anxieties myself. I had some bad experiences when I was a child and those memories still affect me today. I understand what these people have been through and I am here to help them.

Education and Continuing Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University
  • Doctorate of Dental Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
  • General Practice Residency, St. Elizabeth Health Center, Ohio
  • Advanced General Practice Residency, Chief Resident, St. Elizabeth Health Center, Ohio

Because of my science background, I’m a believer in evidence-based dentistry. I like to understand the science and research behind a new product or technique before incorporating it into the practice. In today’s world, advancements in dentistry are constantly being made and new products and approaches being introduced. By actively pursuing continuing education, I understand the newest options and that allows me to provide the best care for my patients.

I’m involved with several dental study clubs. Additionally, I’ve taken extensive continuing education in pediatric and geriatric dentistry, dental implants, Endodontics and Periodontics, oral cancer, management of trauma, and cosmetic dentistry.

In 2008, I was honored with a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. The Fellowship is awarded for superior postgraduate education. Less than 10% of dentists, nationwide, have achieved this designation.

After completing my residency at the St. Elizabeth Health Center, I accepted a position as a core faculty member. I was honored to spend the next five years teaching advanced dental techniques to graduate dentists. Today, I hold a guest faculty position with the Center and still enjoy my teaching time.

Professional Memberships

  • Fellowship, Academy of General Dentistry
  • American Dental Association
  • Pennsylvania Academy of General Dentistry
  • Pennsylvania Dental Association
  • Dental Society of Western Pennsylvania

Personal Life

Born and raised in the Pittsburgh area, I’ve called the Zelienople area home for more than ten years. I’m happily married; my wife and I have two active boys. When I’m not working, I’m usually with my family at one of the boys’ activities. I help coach their sports teams and work with their Cub Scout den.

I love playing and watching sports. I passionately follow all the local teams, especially the Steelers and Penguins. My other interests include working in the yard and reading. I’m particularly interested in American history during the Colonial and Revolutionary War eras.