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, 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 cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics courses, emphasizing 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 cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Go, Champa Bay!
Dr. Wynn prides herself as a native Floridian. Born in Tampa, and raised in Plant City and Lithia, she has witnessed firsthand the growth of the FishHawk community. After graduating from Plant City High School, she got 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 spent 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 improve their dental care. She stays 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 taste a new dish from a great restaurant.
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.
After receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Avril has continuously pursued 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 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.
Dr. Jyoti Kansal is originally from India. After graduating valedictorian in high school, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in dentistry from Manipal University, India, where she graduated cum laude. She then pursued a Preceptorship Certificate from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from New York University College of Dentistry. While in dental school, she was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a national dental honor society.
Before moving to Tampa, Dr. Kansal practiced in Lake Mary, Florida. She and her husband are excited to raise their infant in Tampa, which offers a perfect amalgamation of a big city and a small town. Dr. Kansal loves spending time with family, cooking, reading, and traveling when not transforming patients’ smiles.
Dr. Kansal also likes to keep herself updated with the most innovative developments and techniques to provide her patients with the highest comprehensive dental care by attending continuing education courses regularly. She believes in delivering excellent care with a personal touch for all her patients.
Dr. Farag was born and raised in Lakeland, Florida. Growing up, he spent much of his time helping at his Father’s dental practice, where he enjoyed being exposed to and learning about the dental profession. From this experience, 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.
Dr. Elodie Epane was born and raised in Douala, Cameroon. At eighteen, she moved to the United States and attended the University of Houston, where she graduated with a BS in Chemistry and a minor in Biology. Following her undergraduate education, she went on to earn her Doctorate in 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 results from her experiences as a child in a country with a non-existing dental health system. She believes that a smile begins a journey that can have lasting effects. Dr. Epane recognizes that every patient has unique dental goals, experiences, and challenges. “It’s important to know patients’ expectations, 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 and 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 to equip 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 volunteers for various organizations, including Better Together as a mentor for fostering families, Grace Community Church in Sarasota, and Hope 4 Kids Dental Screening and Education.
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.
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.
Dr. Mark Behm grew up watching his father practice dentistry in the Tampa Bay area for over 25 years, while his mother still continues practicing dental hygiene. Dr. Mark is committed to providing gentle, compassionate, and personalized dental care for his patients.
Dr. Mark Behm earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL, and a Master of Science at the University of South Florida in Tampa, FL before pursuing a dental career at LECOM School of Dental Medicine in Bradenton, FL, where he received his Doctorate in Dental Medicine.
Dr. Mark Behm is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
During his free time, Dr. Mark Behm enjoys fishing, exercising, cooking, and spending time with his dog BO and girlfriend Katie, who is earning her degree in pediatric dentistry.
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!”
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.
Dr. Loo is a highly skilled general dentist who earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University at Buffalo. She further enhanced her clinical expertise by completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where she gained in-depth experience in comprehensive, high-quality patient care.
With a keen eye for detail and a special interest in cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Loo brings a well-rounded perspective to her practice. Her background spans multiple aspects of private practice, including assisting, insurance coordination, office management, and clinical care—giving her a deep appreciation for the full patient experience. She strongly believes in the power of teamwork, embracing the idea that collaboration is key to exceptional outcomes.
Dr. Loo prides herself not only on her clinical skills but also on her ability to build trust with her patients. She approaches care with empathy, compassion, and open communication—always taking time to listen to her patients’ concerns and answer their questions thoroughly. She understands that dental health is often connected to a patient’s broader life circumstances, and she strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and safe.
Her philosophy is simple: treat patients with empathy, explain procedures clearly, believe them when they express discomfort, and always be honest—even when acknowledging mistakes. She sees this transparency as essential to creating lasting relationships and positive experiences in the dental chair.
Dr. Loo is an active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Hispanic Dental Association. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she is proud to serve a diverse patient community and is passionate about giving back through local volunteer work.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Loo enjoys expressing her creativity through baking, cooking, drawing, and photography.
Dr. Bart Knowles was born and raised in Lake Orion, Michigan. He attended Wayne State University, in downtown Detroit, where he received a Bachelors degree in Chemistry. After obtaining his Bachelor’s degree, Dr. Knowles moved to Boston, Massachusetts where he received a Masters degree in Oral Health Sciences from Boston University’s School of Medicine.
Dr. Knowles later received his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, graduating with the highest distinction of Summa Cum Laude. After graduation, Dr. Knowles returned back to metro Detroit where he began practicing and honing his skills in all aspects of dentistry, including cosmetics, clear plastic aligners, root canals, oral surgery and surgical implant placement. He has now claimed Lakewood Ranch, Florida as his new home. Outside of the office, he enjoys travel, ice hockey and is an avid golfer!
Welcome to Tampa Dental Excellence. Meet the team at your trusted Tampa dental clinic. We are here to help you with all of your dentistry needs. Our services cover everything from family dentistry, assisting all family members with their dentistry needs, to sedation dentistry, to help ease the dental anxiety that you and your loved ones may feel. With the latest in dental technology, we can help with all dental needs. Have you had a bad experience with dentists before? Our family-friendly atmosphere sets Tampa Dental Excellence apart from other Tampa dental clinics. We treat your family like ours and offer services tailored to you and your loved ones’ own personal needs.
At Tampa Dental Excellence, we love to help families with their dental needs and to help create a stronger relationship with their dentist through care and the treatments we provide. Whether you need restorative dentistry done to help replace your teeth, or brighten up your smile through our cosmetic dentistry options, trust Tampa Dental Excellence to give you the best dental experience you’ve ever had. Our South Tampa dentists cater to your needs and can help you love your dental visits again.
With five conveniently located offices throughout Tampa and surrounding areas, we are just a call away. Contact our Tampa dental clinic today to schedule your next appointment or to discuss the treatments that we have available.
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