Changing Lives by Improving Oral HealthAs a general dentist, my fulfillment comes from improving the function and cosmetics of my patient’s smile by utilizing problem-solving and technical skills. There is nothing more rewarding to me than bringing a patient from a state of disharmony — pain, lack of function, self-conscious of their smile — to a state of comfort and balance. A person’s reaction when we’ve finished treatment is invaluable. Their change of attitude — the excitement and genuine happiness — makes dentistry worth all the studying and hard work it took to get here!When I was young, I grew up with dental issues and can relate to the pain, frustration, and disruption these difficulties cause in a person’s­ life. Over time, your perception changes and you become used to dealing with these issues on a day-to-day basis. You don’t realize the impact on your life until the problem is resolved.From limited eating to low self-esteem, these behaviors have an impact on your physical and mental well-being. It is very important to me to get to know my patients on both a clinical as well as a personal level, so that I fully understand their desires and needs to formulate an individualized treatment.I attend local, regional, and national conferences, lectures, and hands-on seminars. I also participate in the Seattle Study Club and avidly read oral healthcare journals.Personal LifeI was born on Cape Cod, in Harwich Port, Massachusetts, and grew up in Palm Beach, Florida. I recently moved from Florida to Baltimore, where my wife is currently pursuing a four-year OB/GYN residency at Sinai Hospital. My wife was my high-school sweetheart, and we recently married in December 2014.My favorite ways to spend time away from work involve being outdoors and traveling. I love hiking, fishing, scuba diving, and especially surfing. On each vacation I take, my wife and I are constantly thinking of where on the map we can travel next.