My love of pediatric dentistry started as a child. It seemed like every time I went to the dentist, I needed dental work even though my siblings were consistently in the clear. I spent a lot of time as a child in the dental chair and had a great experience; it really helped form the way I want kids to feel in a dental chair. I know too well what it’s like to be that kid on the other side of the chair!

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. I then graduated with my DMD from Case Western College of Dentistry. After dental school, when I told my mother that I was going to continue on with more school to do exclusively pediatric dentistry she said, “can’t you just get a job already!” My mom was a kindergarten teacher and seeing how much she loved what she did really had the lasting affect that I too should follow what I love doing. She understood! So I continued on to a pediatric residency at Nationwide Children’s hospital while also obtaining a Master of Science degree from The Ohio State University. I completed my pediatric dentistry training as Chief Resident of Dental Services, which served as the perfect training ground for my day-to-day work with kids.

I am a board-certified pediatric dentist and a diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. I am a member of the American Dental Association, The Ohio Dental Association, and The Columbus Dental Association.

My favorite part of being a pediatric dentist is seeing the pride and joy in a parents’ face when their child does something they didn’t think they could do; as well as that visit when a child ‘turns the corner’ and does a great job for the first time.

When I am not doing pediatric dentistry I enjoy spending time with my wife, Stephanie and my two children, Thomas and Evelyn. I can often be found at home re-watching the same movies with my family that has been playing for 8 hours a day at work and saying the lines right before they happen. To this day, it is believed that I have the world record for the number of times I have seen the first Frozen movie.

I grew up in a rowdy home, the second of six kids, in a suburb between Dayton and Cincinnati. I attribute my ability to block out noise and focus on the task at hand, two very important skills for a pediatric dentist, to being raised in that bustling home! Although a Buckeye through and through, after high school graduation I headed south to attend college at the University of Kentucky. While in Lexington, I earned my undergraduate degree, a master’s degree and lifelong status as a member of Big Blue Nation!

Before long, I returned to my Buckeye roots to attend dental school at The Ohio State University. It was there, while in my third year of dental school, I had a conversation that changed the course of my career. Following a rotation in the pediatric dental clinic, one of the faculty held me after to ask me “my story.” This particular faculty happened to be one of the most respected and beloved pediatric dentists in the field, and he had my absolute attention. He suggested I think about specializing in pediatrics, which was something I had never really considered, but made perfect sense to me as he and I spoke that day. I felt a wave of excitement and possibility I had not experienced in my dental education to that point. I vividly remember him saying with all the conviction you can imagine, “it’s the greatest profession in the world!” From where I stand today, I assure you I agree! I was very fortunate to stay in Columbus to complete my two years of pediatric specialty training at Nationwide Children’s Hospital as well as an additional master’s degree from The Ohio State University.

Pediatric dentistry is unique. The hardest part isn’t always the dentistry itself. The bigger challenge is helping kiddos allow you to deliver the care they need in a safe, gentle, positive and hopefully even fun way! The kids will never let you down. They keep every day new and fresh with their perspective and innocence. I love earning their trust, and celebrating their accomplishments. I love sharing their pride when they overcome fears or apprehensions. I love to laugh with them and offer encouragement along the way. It really is the greatest profession ever!

Outside of work, I am an avid homebody, but I do like to venture out with my family for walks and occasionally a run! I wholeheartedly enjoy pizza, cheering for the Buckeyes, dark chocolate, and attending family functions for my 18 nieces and nephews.

Professional Affiliations:

• Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
• Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
• Member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, and Columbus Dental Association