The fact that many people don't like going to the dentist is well known, but when kids leave wanting to give you a hug or draw you a picture for each visit, it lets you know that you are making a difference. I have several patients who have gone into the dental field because of their experiences in our office. Many of our patients don't want to go to the "real" dentist when they are 21, and that lets me know we're doing something right.

Education

Before becoming a pediatric dentist, I attained the following certificates:

• Undergraduate Degree, Transylvania University
• Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of Kentucky
• Pediatric Residency, Children's Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio

Continuing Education

In order to provide your children with the highest level of care, the doctors here always strive to stay abreast of the most recent developments in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. I attend numerous courses and seminars throughout each year in order to keep up with current methods and technologies. As a part of my continuing education, I am an active member of these professional organizations:

• American Dental Association
• Florida Dental Association
• Northeast District Dental Association
• Clay County Dental Society
• American Society of Dentistry for Children
• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
• Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry
• Florida Society of Pediatric Dentistry
• American Orthodontic Society
• Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

In the Office

I knew I wanted to be a dentist when I was ten years old. I wanted to help people and make their teeth healthy and clean. I started working in a dental office when I was 16 and I can't think of anything else I would want to do. Working with kids makes for a wonderful profession because our patients are always so honest and fun to work with. They will tell you if something is wrong, and their smiles always brighten my day!

In our office we found that the kids really like the TVs in the ceiling. If they choose, they can watch TV and forget that they are even at the dentist. Our whole team loves kids, and being around them every day keeps things fresh and new. There are plenty of practical jokesters in here, which makes the days go by fast.

Family Life

My wife and I live in Orange Park with our two children. We are grateful for such a wonderful community to raise our children. I have been a member of Orange Park Presbyterian Church since 1986, and am currently an Elder there. In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf and tinkering around the house with my tools. I love University of Kentucky sports, especially their basketball team! I have been a Jacksonville Jaguars fan since 1995, when the team began.