My profession is my life. Being able to restore a person’s confidence with a smile is one of the most rewarding things I do. Equally as fulfilling, professionally and personally, is helping people overcome dental anxiety. I can relate to those fears: I was a scared dental patient as a child and understand how prior experiences, or preset beliefs, can lead to a person feeling unsettled in the dental environment.
My team and I are nonjudgmental and meet each patient where they are. We listen, encourage, educate, and respect individual wants and needs. All of us want our patient family to feel safe and trusting in our care and make sure everyone has an exemplary experience.
Background, Education, and Experience
Born in New Jersey, I grew up there and in Rhode Island, before moving to Ohio for college and dental school. I graduated from Miami University in Oxford, OH, with a Bachelor of Science and obtained my Doctorate of Dental Surgery at The Ohio State University School of Dentistry in 1983.
Following dental school, I moved to Tampa. Here, I completed two years of advanced training in comprehensive dentistry at the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 1986.
In 1988, I established my private practice, Genninger Dental, located in Tampa’s Carrolwood neighborhood. My desire was to provide a welcoming and supportive space where I cared for individuals, not “patients.” Toward that goal I have assembled an amazing team which shares my professionalism, dedication to ethical dentistry, and passion for helping people achieve and enjoy lifetimes of healthy smiles. In fact, we donate services and routinely partner in events that provide free dental care to our community. I work with a local mission, Mission Smiles, that helps homeless, indigent, and victims of human trafficking.
Every day at the office has been a joy: over the years I have met so many amazing people and had the pleasure of building trusting relationships with generations of families. Enjoying all aspects of dentistry, I especially find pleasure in helping individuals develop and keep smiles that are functional, natural-looking, and beautiful. Seeing a person move from feeling self-conscious about their teeth to loving their smile, and watching how that strengthens their confidence and happiness, still thrills me.
Professional Affiliations and Constant Learning
I am an active member of the:
- American Dental Association
- West Coast Dental Association
- Hillsborough County Dental Association
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon, National Dental Honor Society
Through these organizations, and others, I have taken thousands of hours of continuing education. I have completed post-doctorate courses and trainings in dental implants and restorations, cosmetic dentistry, endodontics, orthodontics, and digital radiography. My focus is on constantly expanding my knowledge in order to best meet each person’s needs and to deliver the best experience and results.
Beyond the Practice
I have enjoyed raising our two children in Tampa. Our daughter, Jessica, is a physician in Philadelphia, and our son Jasen is a dentist who practices here in town. Time with family and friends is a priority, though I also enjoy remodeling houses when not remodeling smiles!
