Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Fairfield?
I was born and raised in Stamford, CT and moved to Fairfield, Connecticut in 1996. My wife Gabby and I have been Fairfield residents for over 19 years and we love it here. I opened my practice, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Dentistry located in the Brickwalk, in 1996.
Tell us about your Family!
We have three children. Sophia is 15, Devon is 13, and Michael is 10. Our newest family member is a Labradoodle named Bode Miller. Our family loves to ski so the name was an easy pick.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
While attending The University of Connecticut (UCONN) medical and dental school I was able to make several volunteer trips to countries were dentistry is in great need. I visited Sri Lanka, India, Africa, Brazil, and Jamaica. I was able to help several thousand people throughout many different communities. It was very fulfilling to help people from around the world improve their dental health. Sri Lanka was one of my favorite places to visit.
One thing you wish someone would have told you about fatherhood?
No one told me how much I would learn from my children as they grew. Their actions and our conversations, from simple to deep, and their love for life have made me a better person, son, husband and father. I love every minute of being their dad.
What’s your favorite thing about raising a family in Fairfield?
Fairfield is a great town to call home, it checks all of the boxes. My favorite thing about Fairfield is the community of people. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and the community really seems to enjoy everything the town has to offer. We have access to great schools, beaches, restaurants, family activities, and so much more. The newcomers who have moved here since COVID will love it here, hopefully as much we do.
Best dad hack that makes your life easier?
Always be ready to take your children out for ice cream. This is a go-to for getting your kids to open up while having some fun together. Even though I am a dentist, I believe in balance so spending quality time together far outweighs anything else, even a little extra sugar.
Tell us about your practice, Cosmetic Reconstructive & Dentistry, and when & why you decided to open your own business.
My practice specializes in general, pediatric, family, and cosmetic dentistry. I believe that a healthy smile is a key component to overall health and also a cornerstone of self-confidence. I decided to open my business in 1996 to provide patients with a blend of preventative and aesthetic dentistry. It’s been a terrific experience and I look forward to many more years of working with patients in Fairfield and Fairfield County.
What do you love about your business?
I love and value the relationships I’ve built with my patients while giving them healthy, beautiful smiles. My goal is to treat my patients like family and include them in the maintenance of their dental health. There is nothing more rewarding than a satisfied patient who loves his or her smile. This is what drives me to work hard each and every day.
What are some of the COVID pivots you are seeing with your patients?
I am seeing a sizeable increase in patients interested in cosmetic dental procedures. Now that the CDC has changed the mask mandate, many patients are coming in for teeth whitening, Invisalign, Veneers, and other cosmetic procedures. People are ready to socialize again and want their smile to look their best.
We know that you are very active in the Fairfield community. Tell us more about the organizations you work with and why they are such a passion to you.
I am proud to be an active member of our community and it brings me great joy to help others. In this past year alone I’ve participated in COVID relief efforts, recognizing front line health care workers, the Norma Pfriem Breast Care Center, Al’s Angels, holiday toy drives, supporting the Fairfield Police and Fire Departments, Fairfield Youth Football, and supporting numerous youth and high school teams. I am passionate about the town of Fairfield, helping others reach their potential, and recognizing people who work hard on behalf of others.
If you weren’t working in this industry, what do you think you would be doing today?
I have an unwavering passion for medicine and helping people so this is a difficult question to answer. I would most likely be affiliated with an organization that focuses on these goals.
Best advice for dads who experience the inevitable guilt handling a career and helping support a family?
Never feel pressure or guilt with juggling a career and family. The smiles on your children’s faces will always remind you why you work hard for them along with their continued development and personal achievements. Most importantly, always make time and memories with your family.
Who has most influenced you to be the father that you are today?
That is easy, my parents and grandparents. They always found the time to support me and my goals. My dad is my biggest fan and is still always available to guide me in life and fatherhood.
What advice would you share with a new dad or other dads?
Remember why you decided to venture into fatherhood and how important it is to spend time with your children and to grow with them. I was once told, “You really only have 16 summers until the college years” and how true.
We love supporting local businesses – favorite places in Fairfield to…
Have Dinner with Family: Sinclair, Molto, BRYC, & Colony Grill
Grab a Drink with Friends: The Local & The Horseshoe
Have a Date Night: The Grey Goose
Spend time together as a Family: Penfield Beach
Outside Activities: Sailing on the Long Island Sound, enjoying my children’s athletic activities, and golf
Grab coffee: Shearwater Coffee