Rick Kernagis, DMD
Dr. Kernagis initially began his undergraduate studies in engineering at the University of Florida as he loves working with his hands and being creative. After spending time with a family mentor who was a dentist, he discovered that he could also fulfill his passion for helping people through dentistry. While attending college, he met his future wife, Dr. Jennifer Wynn Kernagis, who was from the Tampa Bay area. Upon graduation, they settled in Tampa and began their careers and family.
Dr. Kernagis graduated in 1999 from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He has completed continuing education courses in orthodontics, Invisalign, sleep apnea treatment, TMJ (jaw pain) therapy & dental implants. He has also taken extensive courses in cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics with an emphasis on Digital Smile Designs and IV Sedation. As a leading dentist in Tampa, FL, Dr. Richard Kernagis is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Psi Omega Dental Fraternity, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
When Dr. Kernagis is not in the office creating confident smiles, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, especially on traveling adventures. He also loves playing a great game of golf, attending the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games, and also cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Go Champa Bay!
Jennifer Wynn Kernagis, DMD
Dr. Wynn prides herself as a native Floridian. Born in Tampa, raised in Plant City and Lithia, she has witnessed firsthand the growth of the FishHawk community. After graduating from Plant City High School, she went on to get her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida in Tampa. A high school job at a local orthodontist’s office shed light on a future in dentistry. She worked as an orthodontic assistant while obtaining her degree from USF. Dr. Wynn went on to spend 4 years in Gainesville where she found it truly is “great to be a Florida Gator.” Not only did she receive her DMD degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, but she also met her husband, Dr. Richard Kernagis.
Dr. Wynn understands the importance of good communication and enjoys getting to know her patients to better provide their dental care. She continues to stay abreast of the latest advances in dentistry and enjoys helping patients achieve beautiful healthy smiles. Dr. Wynn believes in the value of continual learning and has taken numerous continuing education courses including Invisalign, dental sleep medicine, and digital dentistry.
When not in the office, Dr. Wynn enjoys time spent with family. She and Dr. Kernagis have two children that keep them busy. They also have two dogs to round out their house. Dr. Wynn lives an active lifestyle. She enjoys being outdoors, distance running, and even completed a Spartan race. Dr. Wynn loves to travel and is never shy to tastes a new dish from a great restaurant.
Vladimir Avril, DDS, FIDIA
After receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at NYU College of dentistry, Dr. Avril has been on an endless pursuit to acquire the latest knowledge and techniques to provide his patients with the best care. From placing implants to oral sedation, Dr. Avril is ready to provide you with personalized and anxiety-free care!
Dr. Avril is currently on track to obtain a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, Diplomate status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, and countless other dental organization awards and accolades.
Originally from Miami, Dr. Avril settled down on the west coast of Florida because of his love for the relaxing atmosphere, beautiful coastline, and melting pot of numerous cultures. Involved in numerous hobbies, Dr. Avril’s most passionate activities are traveling and photography. He is looking forward to meeting you and would love to share any tips, recommendations, and experiences with each other.
Mark Farag, DMD
Dr. Farag was born and raised in Lakeland Florida. Growing up, he spent much of his time helping out at his Father’s dental practice where he enjoyed being exposed and learning about the dental profession. It is from this experience that he decided to pursue a career as a dentist.
Dr. Farag received his Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida where he was part of the accelerated Dental program and then attended the University of Florida College of Dentistry where he received his DMD. Dr. Farag enjoys all aspects of dentistry and has completed numerous hours of CE in Aesthetics, Occlusion, Implants, and Prosthetic dentistry. He is passionate about transforming smiles and lives.
When not in the office, Dr. Farag enjoys traveling, fishing, and being outdoors with his wife and two children.
Elodie Epane, DDS
Dr. Elodie Epane was born and raised in Douala, Camerron.At eighteen, she moved to the United States and attended the University of Houston where she graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry and a minor in Biology. Following her undergraduate education, she went on to earn her Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Meharry Medical College. After dental school, Dr. Epane moved to sunny Florida to complete her residency training at NYU Lutheran at LECOM.
Dr. Epane’s passion for dentistry is a result of her personal experiences as a child in a country with a non-existing dental health system. She believes that a smile is the beginning of a journey that can have lasting effects. Dr. Epane recognizes that every patient has unique dental goals, experiences, and challenges.“It’s important to get to know what patient’s expectations are, so I can help resolve their problems and work within their budget. My patients and I are a team. I educate them and empower them to take control of the care they receive.”Dr. Epane is exceptionally caring, detail-oriented, and always has the best interests of her patients in mind. It is a priority for her to educate each person on the importance of routine oral health care, and her ultimate goal is equipping each patient with a confident smile. Dr. Epane is nitrous oxide certified and is also a certified Invisalign provider.
In her free time, Dr. Epane loves to spend time with her six children and husband. Dr. Epane enjoys reading biblical publications, swimming with the family, and traveling. Additionally, she is a volunteer to a variety of organizations including Better Together as a mentor for fostering families, Grace Community Church in Sarasota, and Hope 4 Kids Dental Screening and Education.
Ryan Cyriac, DDS
Dr. Ryan Cyriac was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Illinois and continued on to received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Immediately following graduation, Dr. Cyriac made the cross country move to Tampa, Florida to be closer to family.
Dr. Cyriac is a motivated and dedicated general dentist who focuses on providing the highest quality of dental care possible while developing long term relationships with his patients. He strives to gain the trust of each patient he encounters and to deliver a smooth and pleasant experience. Dr. Cyriac views dentistry as the perfect crossroads between science, art, and problem solving. His passion for the field is driven by the ability to help patients regain confidence in their smiles while also improving their overall health.
Dr. Cyriac provides a wide range of dental treatments including cosmetic and restorative dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, and orthodontics. Dr. Cyriac is an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the Florida Dental Association.
Outside of the office, Dr. Cyriac loves to spend time with his wife hiking, traveling and trying new cuisines. They have set a personal goal of visiting 40 national parks before the age of 40!
Leydi Barros, DDS
Dr. Barros graduated from New York University – College of Dentistry top of her class academically, and clinically. She was a Teaching Assistant for two years and taught the new classes how to perform restorative, fixed and removable prosthetic procedures. She received the school’s Dr. Bernard E. Rudner Memorial award for demonstrating superior performance in providing oral comprehensive care and administering a dental practice. She also received the Dean’s Scholarship for demonstrating academic excellence throughout Dental School.
She provides preventative, cosmetic, restorative and surgical procedures including, but not limited to: fillings, crowns, implant crowns, Overdentures (dentures supported by implants), veneers, bridges, dentures, extractions, bone grafts, root canal therapy, oral cancer screening, teeth whitening and is a Certifies Invisalign Provider (Clear orthodontic appliance).
She is a member of the American Dental Association and Hispanic Dental Association. She is fluent in English and Spanish.
Brent Waldman, DDS
Brent J. Waldman, Lt Col (Dr), USAF, DC (retired) joins the Dental Excellence Team after completing 20 years of active-duty service in the US Air Force. Dr. Waldman was raised in Winter Haven, FL. He completed both undergraduate and graduate school in West Virginia, at Bethany College and WVU School of Dentistry, respectively. After Commissioned Officer Training, he completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington D.C. His remaining Air Force career included five moves within the US, two deployments, and one tour overseas.
At home, his wife and four children enjoy family dinners and board games. Their sports and activities keep him busy on the sidelines. When time permits, he enjoys photography, gardening, hunting, fishing, traveling, hiking, college football, and the occasional pour of a fantastic bourbon.
Dr. Waldman enjoys all disciplines in dentistry. He is excited for this new chapter in his dental career, especially not having to shave daily. Dr. Waldman will continue to deliver top-notch care to his patients, upholding the core values of the Air Force: Integrity, Service, and Excellence.
Yashri Sanghani, DMD
Dr. Sanghani is a native Floridian, born and raised in Tampa. She earned her Bachelor Science degree from the University of South Florida and her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, PA.
Dr. Sanghani focuses on all aspects of dentistry including implants, crown and bridge, cosmetic makeovers and Invisalign. She performs all dental procedures utilizing the latest techniques and materials in a comfortable and relaxing setting. This includes the implementation of pain management techniques to prevent treatment discomfort and minimize dental anxiety.
She continues to take advanced training in various aspects of dentistry and is passionate about educating her patients on preventative care, good oral hygiene practices and the risk of periodontal disease. Dr. Sanghani offers comprehensive treatment to the entire family.
When Dr. Sanghani is not practicing dentistry, you can find her on a beach enjoying the Florida sunshine. “I love to explore new cities and try new foods with friends and family,” says Dr. Sanghani.
Anurag Gudeti, DDS
Dr. Gudeti was born in India and raised in Michigan, where he participated in the International Academy for the International Baccalaureate Program. He then attended Michigan State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Human Biology. After college, Dr. Gudeti went straight to Dental school and attended New York University College of Dentistry. There he participated in community service around New York City in a Dental van. Dr. Gudeti knew at a young age he wanted to be a dentist, because of his passion for working with his hands and wanting to help people achieve a confident smile.
Dr. Gudeti is passionate about educating patients on establishing good dental habits and is very driven about helping others achieve their smile goals. Dr. Gudeti continuously seeks out training and professional development opportunities that allow him to remain aware and knowledgeable about new dental practices and the latest technology being considered or used. Also, Dr. Gudeti is a part of ADA and FDA active.
Dr. Gudeti likes to give all options for his patients with recommendations of the pros and cons of each treatment plan and welcomes all questions about treatment to help educate the patient. He likes to be as fast and efficient as possible while also delivering quality work. He performs painless dentistry so that the patient has the best experience in the chair and wants to show that going to the dentist can be comfortable and easy. Dr. Gudeti is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics. Dr. Gudeti met his Fiance in New York City in dental school, after several years practicing dentistry together in Michigan, they decided to relocate to Florida.
In his free time, Dr. Gudeti enjoys playing sports, traveling, and spending time with his friends, family, and his dog.
Victor Bustos, DMD
Dr. Bustos was born in Colombia and moved to Florida at the age of four. He fell in love with dentistry at an early age thanks mostly in part to his childhood dentist. Dr. Bustos graduated from Florida Internation University with an undergraduate degree in Chemistry and Biology and then continued on to obtain his DMD from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He strives to always stay current on the newest techniques and continuously attends dental continuing education courses and workshops to further his knowledge and hone his skills.
Dr Bustos’ greatest satisfaction comes from helping patients achieve their dental goals. “Helping people get out of pain, or giving them the smile that they’ve always wanted is truly my passion.”
When he’s not creating beautiful smiles, Dr. Bustos enjoys spending time outdoors and living an active lifestyle with his friends and family. An avid foodie, you can find him at many of the local restaurants as well as the Bradenton and Sarasota farmers markets.
Dr. Bustos is bilingual in English and Spanish, so yes “¡Se Habla Español!”
Osmar Morales-Fernandez, DMD
Dr. Morales was born and raised in Cuba and graduated from the Medical Sciences University of Camaguey in 2010. After completing one year of residence, he went to Venezuela and Ecuador and worked as a general dentist in underserved communities. Once he came to the USA, he completed the Internationally Educated DMD Program at Rutgers Dental School, New Jersey.
Dr. Morales is committed to providing personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal oral health outcomes for his patients. With a dynamic and patient-focused approach, he delivers high-quality dentistry services.
