How long have you been with Babylon Dental Care?
I’ve worked at BDC for more than 30 years. I can’t believe it’s been so long! Do I get a trophy?
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Queens originally, and then I moved out to South Huntington. I actually went to a local Orthodontist in Huntington who inspired me to go into my career.
What do you love about being an orthodontist?
I love changing people’s smiles, boosting their self-esteem, and really making a difference in how they see themselves. I do a lot of early intervention in young patients, which means a lot to me so that people can avoid what I went through. My wife Silvia and I don’t have the best genes for teeth, so we both had to go through a lot of correction to get our teeth straight and healthy. I was able to let my kids avoid all of that because I could intervene early, and I love when I can do that for my patients as well. If I can intervene early with my patients, I can make their experience in braces so much easier.
How do you put your patients at ease?
I always try to make my appointments a fun and relaxed atmosphere! I joke around, and I make sure to explain what I’m doing in layman’s terms, so that it’s not confusing. I always get to know my patients as people, not just as a patient I’m working on. If Silvia is in the room, she’ll joke around too. I want it to be as fun as possible.
When did you know you wanted to be an orthodontist?
I first knew I wanted to be an orthodontist back when I had braces, I was about 13. My mouth was a complete train wreck, I needed so much work! I was amazed at what an orthodontist can do and how much of an impact they can have. You have to go to dental school first, and you have to get to the top of your class to go on to become an orthodontist. I did, and I received the Operative Award, and the Long Island Odontology award, which is given to the best dentist from each school in Long Island. I also got the Omicron Kappa Upsclion Fraternity Award which is given to the top 10% of the class. All these dental awards, and I wanted to be an orthodontist – they were very disappointed! But I knew it was what I was passionate about, and I love what I do.
What are your hobbies?
I’m a fisherman, a boater, and I raise tropical fish! So I raise these beautiful tropical fish, I nurture them and take care of all their needs… and then I go out and catch some wild fish! I’ve gone fishing once or twice a week ever since I was a kid.
