Meet the Dream Team

We strive to provide personalized oral health care tailored to your unique dental needs and goals.

All our professionals at Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry maintain the highest levels of accreditation and pursue ongoing education to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the field. We offer an easy online appointment system, affordable payment and financing options, and accept most insurances.

Dr. Vincent J Monticciolo, DDS, MBA, JD

Dr. Monticciolo earned his dental degree, with highest honors, from the University of Detroit School of Dentistry in 1990. He was selected to the Honors Clinical Program and was class president. After graduation, he also served as a part-time faculty member at the dental school. Dr. Monticciolo has always been a constant student, earning his M.B.A. in 2000 from the University of South Florida and his Law degree (J.D.) in 2013, all while continuing to practice full-time. Also, he has recently co-authored two books: Uncommon with Brian Tracy, and The Soul of Success with Jack Canfield. In 2001, Dr. Monticciolo founded Dentistry from the Heart, a non-profit dental charity which provides free dental care to those in need. Under his guidance, the charity has grown to all 50 states and 5 countries and is now sponsoring over 300 events a year. Dr. Monticciolo is a member of the American Dental Society, Florida Dental Society, American Society of Dental Anesthesiology, Society for Special Care Dentistry, Academy of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities, and the American Society for Geriatric Dentistry. He lives locally with his wife, Dr. Natalie Monticciolo, a Dermatologist, and his daughters Isabella and Sophia. His interests include his family, sedation dentistry, and his dental charity work. He is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of his patients. Click here for more information on Dr. Monticciolo’s charitable outreach, Dentistry from the Heart.
Dr. Monticciolo earned his dental degree, with highest honors, from the University of Detroit School of Dentistry in 1990. He was selected to the Honors Clinical Program and was class president. After graduation, he also served as a part-time faculty member at the dental school. Dr. Monticciolo has always been a constant student, earning his M.B.A. in 2000 from the University of South Florida and his Law degree (J.D.) in 2013, all while continuing to practice full-time. Also, he has recently co-authored two books: Uncommon with Brian Tracy, and The Soul of Success with Jack Canfield. In 2001, Dr. Monticciolo founded Dentistry from the Heart, a non-profit dental charity which provides free dental care to those in need. Under his guidance, the charity has grown to all 50 states and 5 countries and is now sponsoring over 300 events a year. Dr. Monticciolo is a member of the American Dental Society, Florida Dental Society, American Society of Dental Anesthesiology, Society for Special Care Dentistry, Academy of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities, and the American Society for Geriatric Dentistry. He lives locally with his wife, Dr. Natalie Monticciolo, a Dermatologist, and his daughters Isabella and Sophia. His interests include his family, sedation dentistry, and his dental charity work. He is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of his patients. Click here for more information on Dr. Monticciolo’s charitable outreach, Dentistry from the Heart.

Dr. Fadi Fares, DMD

Fadi Fares, DMD Dr. Fares began pursuing his career at the Antonin University where he earned a degree in Dental Laboratory in 1988. He then moved to Tampa to attend the University of South Florida, and received his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1991. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University in 1995, and was the recipient of the Organization of Teachers of Oral Diagnosis Award. Prior to graduating, Dr. Fares chose to do his externship at the US Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT, and had the opportunity and privilege to provide dental care to cadets and military retirees. Dr. Fares is certified in moderate parenteral sedation by the Florida Board of Dentistry, and works directly with the medical community to ensure that his patients receive the most positive outcome possible. He has transformed thousands of smiles, and is known for his utmost attention to the finest details of his cosmetic procedures. To bring exceptional care to his patients, Dr. Fares attends numerous continuing education seminars, staying up-to-date on the latest technology and materials that modern dentistry has to offer. In addition, Dr. Fares has a special interest in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with oral appliances, and enjoys helping his patients breathe easier and sleep better. He is an active member of distinguished professional societies, including the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, the West Coast Dental Association, the Hillsborough County Dental Research Study Group, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. When not practicing dentistry, he enjoys time with his wife and two sons, traveling, and family activities.
Fadi Fares, DMD Dr. Fares began pursuing his career at the Antonin University where he earned a degree in Dental Laboratory in 1988. He then moved to Tampa to attend the University of South Florida, and received his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1991. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University in 1995, and was the recipient of the Organization of Teachers of Oral Diagnosis Award. Prior to graduating, Dr. Fares chose to do his externship at the US Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT, and had the opportunity and privilege to provide dental care to cadets and military retirees. Dr. Fares is certified in moderate parenteral sedation by the Florida Board of Dentistry, and works directly with the medical community to ensure that his patients receive the most positive outcome possible. He has transformed thousands of smiles, and is known for his utmost attention to the finest details of his cosmetic procedures. To bring exceptional care to his patients, Dr. Fares attends numerous continuing education seminars, staying up-to-date on the latest technology and materials that modern dentistry has to offer. In addition, Dr. Fares has a special interest in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with oral appliances, and enjoys helping his patients breathe easier and sleep better. He is an active member of distinguished professional societies, including the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, the West Coast Dental Association, the Hillsborough County Dental Research Study Group, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. When not practicing dentistry, he enjoys time with his wife and two sons, traveling, and family activities.

Dr. Monica Perez, DMD

Monica Perez, D.M.D. Dr. Perez is a Florida native, born and raised in Miami, FL. Coming from a family of dentists, her passion for the field of dentistry was nurtured from a young age. While working as a dental assistant, she obtained her Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida. She then continued to the University of Florida, College of Dentistry where she earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. Dr. Perez moved to the Tampa Bay area soon after graduation to pursue her dental career. Before joining the Monticciolo team, Dr. Perez practiced as a general dentist in Hillsborough County serving the community for eight years. Dr. Perez enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and working on patients of all ages. Whether it is restoring function or for cosmetics, creating your dream smile in a comfortable and stress-free environment is of the utmost importance to Dr. Perez. Because she believes in lifelong learning, she is consistently attending continuing education courses and uses her knowledge to strengthen her skills and give her patients the best care possible. Dr. Perez is also certified by the Florida Board of Dentistry in Moderate Conscious Sedation and offers the service as part of her comprehensive care plan to those interested in sedation. Dr. Perez enjoys spending quality time with her husband of ten years and her two young children. You can frequently find her heading to her “favorite place”, Disney World. In her spare time, she loves to read suspense novels, travel and enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Miami and Tampa Bay areas.
Monica Perez, D.M.D. Dr. Perez is a Florida native, born and raised in Miami, FL. Coming from a family of dentists, her passion for the field of dentistry was nurtured from a young age. While working as a dental assistant, she obtained her Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida. She then continued to the University of Florida, College of Dentistry where she earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. Dr. Perez moved to the Tampa Bay area soon after graduation to pursue her dental career. Before joining the Monticciolo team, Dr. Perez practiced as a general dentist in Hillsborough County serving the community for eight years. Dr. Perez enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and working on patients of all ages. Whether it is restoring function or for cosmetics, creating your dream smile in a comfortable and stress-free environment is of the utmost importance to Dr. Perez. Because she believes in lifelong learning, she is consistently attending continuing education courses and uses her knowledge to strengthen her skills and give her patients the best care possible. Dr. Perez is also certified by the Florida Board of Dentistry in Moderate Conscious Sedation and offers the service as part of her comprehensive care plan to those interested in sedation. Dr. Perez enjoys spending quality time with her husband of ten years and her two young children. You can frequently find her heading to her “favorite place”, Disney World. In her spare time, she loves to read suspense novels, travel and enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Miami and Tampa Bay areas.

Dr. Brant W. Wade, DMD

Dr. Wade earned his Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. His undergraduate study was in the field of Microbiology. Prior to joining Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry, Dr. Wade practiced general dentistry for over 25 years in the Brandon/Bradenton areas. His extensive professional experience assures patients they are receiving the highest level of compassionate dental care. Dr. Wade is dedicated to his work and strives to remain on the cutting edge in the delivery of dental care. Throughout his career, he has studied and taken continuing education courses from some of the leading authorities in the dental community. Dr. Wade provides all aspects of general family care, with a special interest in creating beautiful smiles. He is a member of the American, Florida, and West Coast Dental Associations. For the comfort of our more anxious patients, Dr. Wade is fully trained to safely sedate you. You can have your dental treatment completed while you peacefully relax. Dr. Wade enjoys a proud family heritage as a fifth generation Floridian. He grew up in Hillsborough County and currently resides there with his wife, Christine. He is the proud father of three children. Dr. Wade enjoys college sports and is a long-time Florida Gator supporter, attending their events as often as possible. Additionally, Dr. Wade appreciates the great outdoors and enjoys traveling with his wife and children.
Dr. Wade earned his Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. His undergraduate study was in the field of Microbiology. Prior to joining Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry, Dr. Wade practiced general dentistry for over 25 years in the Brandon/Bradenton areas. His extensive professional experience assures patients they are receiving the highest level of compassionate dental care. Dr. Wade is dedicated to his work and strives to remain on the cutting edge in the delivery of dental care. Throughout his career, he has studied and taken continuing education courses from some of the leading authorities in the dental community. Dr. Wade provides all aspects of general family care, with a special interest in creating beautiful smiles. He is a member of the American, Florida, and West Coast Dental Associations. For the comfort of our more anxious patients, Dr. Wade is fully trained to safely sedate you. You can have your dental treatment completed while you peacefully relax. Dr. Wade enjoys a proud family heritage as a fifth generation Floridian. He grew up in Hillsborough County and currently resides there with his wife, Christine. He is the proud father of three children. Dr. Wade enjoys college sports and is a long-time Florida Gator supporter, attending their events as often as possible. Additionally, Dr. Wade appreciates the great outdoors and enjoys traveling with his wife and children.

Dr. David Engelsberg, DDS

Dr. Engelsberg understands how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits and how he can make a difference in providing a relaxing and positive experience for them. Dr. Engelsberg attends dental lectures, meetings and dental conventions to stay informed of new techniques and the latest products to help patients feel more comfortable. As a dental graduate of McGill University in Montreal, Canada, he has practiced dentistry in South Florida since 1991. He lives in Tampa, Florida with his wife and two children. In his spare time, Dr. Engelsberg enjoys tennis, playing piano and spending quality time with his family.
Dr. Engelsberg understands how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits and how he can make a difference in providing a relaxing and positive experience for them. Dr. Engelsberg attends dental lectures, meetings and dental conventions to stay informed of new techniques and the latest products to help patients feel more comfortable. As a dental graduate of McGill University in Montreal, Canada, he has practiced dentistry in South Florida since 1991. He lives in Tampa, Florida with his wife and two children. In his spare time, Dr. Engelsberg enjoys tennis, playing piano and spending quality time with his family.

Dr. Alexandra Griffin, DDS

I was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia. I moved to Florida to complete high school and subsequently went on to earn my Bachelors in Biomedical Science at the University of South Florida. I then completed my dental studies at Ohio State University. It is my mission to get to know my patients and establish a long term commitment to their dental care. I want my patients to be able to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. I continuously seek advanced training opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest technology in the dental industry. I am a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and West Coast Dental Association. Besides working, I enjoy participating in mission trips and Dentistry from the Heart. I previously traveled to Honduras to provide dental care to communities in need. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, son and twins, where we enjoy outdoor activities and traveling.
I was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia. I moved to Florida to complete high school and subsequently went on to earn my Bachelors in Biomedical Science at the University of South Florida. I then completed my dental studies at Ohio State University. It is my mission to get to know my patients and establish a long term commitment to their dental care. I want my patients to be able to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. I continuously seek advanced training opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest technology in the dental industry. I am a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and West Coast Dental Association. Besides working, I enjoy participating in mission trips and Dentistry from the Heart. I previously traveled to Honduras to provide dental care to communities in need. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, son and twins, where we enjoy outdoor activities and traveling.

Dr. Lawrence Harkins, DMD

Dr. Harkins graduated from Temple University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. He then attended Temple University School of Dentistry from 1982-1986. After graduation from dental school, he moved to Pinellas County in 1988 with his wife Nancy. In 1996, he completed a two year program in Orthodontics at the United States Dental Institute and then a one year program in European Orthodontic Techniques and Second Molar Extraction Therapy. He has also completed multiple courses at the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Study on Occlusion and committed the last ten years to implant placement, restoration and supporting procedures; such as grafting and ridge preservation. Dr. Harkins has three children, Shea, Patrick, and Abigail. Shea and Patrick proudly serve their country in the Marine Corp. Sargent Shea Harkins is a reservist, stationed in the Amphibious unit on the Gandy Bridge. Lance Corporal Patrick Harkins is stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC and is in the Marine Sniper Platoon. His daughter Abigail is a junior at Assumption College in Worcester, MA and proudly plays soccer for her school. Dr. Harkins enjoys fishing, biking, working with clay but most of all spending time with his family, especially his loving wife of 30 years.
Dr. Harkins graduated from Temple University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. He then attended Temple University School of Dentistry from 1982-1986. After graduation from dental school, he moved to Pinellas County in 1988 with his wife Nancy. In 1996, he completed a two year program in Orthodontics at the United States Dental Institute and then a one year program in European Orthodontic Techniques and Second Molar Extraction Therapy. He has also completed multiple courses at the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Study on Occlusion and committed the last ten years to implant placement, restoration and supporting procedures; such as grafting and ridge preservation. Dr. Harkins has three children, Shea, Patrick, and Abigail. Shea and Patrick proudly serve their country in the Marine Corp. Sargent Shea Harkins is a reservist, stationed in the Amphibious unit on the Gandy Bridge. Lance Corporal Patrick Harkins is stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC and is in the Marine Sniper Platoon. His daughter Abigail is a junior at Assumption College in Worcester, MA and proudly plays soccer for her school. Dr. Harkins enjoys fishing, biking, working with clay but most of all spending time with his family, especially his loving wife of 30 years.

Dr. Donald Horn, DMD

I was raised in San Diego, California where I earned my Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from San Diego State University. Upon completion of my undergraduate degree, I moved to Cleveland, Ohio to attend Case Western Reserve University Dental School. While at CWRU, I was President of my class for 3 years as well as Student Council Treasurer for 2 years. In addition, I was awarded the Paul P. Sherwood Award for excellence in Endodontics, The International College of Dentists Award and a Health Professionals Scholarship from the U.S. Army. After graduating CWRU with my Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree, I entered the U.S Army as a dentist. During my military career, my focus in dentistry turned more to Endodontics. After four years as a Captain in the Army, I accepted a residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I received my Certificate in Endodontics after the two-year program. I moved to the Tampa Bay area in 1997 and have practiced the specialty of Endodontics in both private and group settings. My affiliation with Monticciolo Sedation and Family Dentistry began in 2006. Over the years, the demand for my specialty has continued to grow along with Monticciolo Sedation and Family Dentistry’s growth. I became the full-time staff Endodontist in 2018. My training and experience allow me to provide excellent care for the patients I treat.
I was raised in San Diego, California where I earned my Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from San Diego State University. Upon completion of my undergraduate degree, I moved to Cleveland, Ohio to attend Case Western Reserve University Dental School. While at CWRU, I was President of my class for 3 years as well as Student Council Treasurer for 2 years. In addition, I was awarded the Paul P. Sherwood Award for excellence in Endodontics, The International College of Dentists Award and a Health Professionals Scholarship from the U.S. Army. After graduating CWRU with my Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree, I entered the U.S Army as a dentist. During my military career, my focus in dentistry turned more to Endodontics. After four years as a Captain in the Army, I accepted a residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I received my Certificate in Endodontics after the two-year program. I moved to the Tampa Bay area in 1997 and have practiced the specialty of Endodontics in both private and group settings. My affiliation with Monticciolo Sedation and Family Dentistry began in 2006. Over the years, the demand for my specialty has continued to grow along with Monticciolo Sedation and Family Dentistry’s growth. I became the full-time staff Endodontist in 2018. My training and experience allow me to provide excellent care for the patients I treat.

Dr. Cory J. Ruppel, DDS

Dr. Ruppel earned his doctoral degree in dental surgery at the prestigious Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago, followed by additional post-doctoral work in academic and clinical settings. He has been practicing in the Tampa Bay area since 1995. His goal is to help patients get the most effective care available for optimal oral health and a great looking smile. Dr. Ruppel and his wife, along with their three children live in South Tampa. He enjoys all activities outdoors, especially fishing. He tries to attend and support all of the professional Tampa sports teams and is also a passionate supporter of his Michigan State Spartans. He also enjoys spending time and traveling with his family.
Dr. Ruppel earned his doctoral degree in dental surgery at the prestigious Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago, followed by additional post-doctoral work in academic and clinical settings. He has been practicing in the Tampa Bay area since 1995. His goal is to help patients get the most effective care available for optimal oral health and a great looking smile. Dr. Ruppel and his wife, along with their three children live in South Tampa. He enjoys all activities outdoors, especially fishing. He tries to attend and support all of the professional Tampa sports teams and is also a passionate supporter of his Michigan State Spartans. He also enjoys spending time and traveling with his family.

Dr. Diaa Ghabbour, DMD

Dr. Ghabbour earned his dental degree at the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville in 1999. He also completed a residency at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida as an AEGD/GPR In 2000. His undergraduate degree is from the University of South Florida in Tampa. There, he earned a bachelor's of science in biology with a minor in chemistry, and a second bachelor's of science degree in psychology with a minor in sociology. He is fluent in English and Arabic. While in dental school, Dr. Ghabbour did missionary work in Haiti for two summers, and continues to give back to his community through volunteering for local outreach programs through his church. Dr. Ghabbour is known for his chair side humor and ability to help patients feel comfortable and at ease. While practicing dentistry for the last 19 years, Dr. Ghabbour has also had the opportunity to coach and mentor younger dentists helping them excel and establish practices and techniques to help them succeed. When not pursuing dentistry, Dr. Ghabbour enjoys spending time with his wife and four children creating family memories and helping his kids chase their dreams.
Dr. Ghabbour earned his dental degree at the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville in 1999. He also completed a residency at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida as an AEGD/GPR In 2000. His undergraduate degree is from the University of South Florida in Tampa. There, he earned a bachelor’s of science in biology with a minor in chemistry, and a second bachelor’s of science degree in psychology with a minor in sociology. He is fluent in English and Arabic. While in dental school, Dr. Ghabbour did missionary work in Haiti for two summers, and continues to give back to his community through volunteering for local outreach programs through his church. Dr. Ghabbour is known for his chair side humor and ability to help patients feel comfortable and at ease. While practicing dentistry for the last 19 years, Dr. Ghabbour has also had the opportunity to coach and mentor younger dentists helping them excel and establish practices and techniques to help them succeed. When not pursuing dentistry, Dr. Ghabbour enjoys spending time with his wife and four children creating family memories and helping his kids chase their dreams.

Dr. Herman Goh, DMD

Dr. Herman Goh was born in Singapore and arrived in the United States when he was 15 years of age and resided in Miami Florida. Graduated from the University of Miami with a baccalaureate of science degree in nursing and practiced as a trauma nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Received a degree in dentistry at the University of Florida and has been in practice since 1999. Dr. Goh does have an affinity to establish a rapport with his clients in an empathetic manner; “I have worked with people involved in trauma and different disease processes since 1989 when I first became an emergency medical technician”. Dr. Goh is currently living locally in the city of Palm Harbor with his wife, Frances Ann Goh, who are members of Calvary Church in Clearwater. We are fond connoisseurs of food (all foods) and enjoy associating with people of different cultures.
Dr. Herman Goh was born in Singapore and arrived in the United States when he was 15 years of age and resided in Miami Florida. Graduated from the University of Miami with a baccalaureate of science degree in nursing and practiced as a trauma nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Received a degree in dentistry at the University of Florida and has been in practice since 1999. Dr. Goh does have an affinity to establish a rapport with his clients in an empathetic manner; “I have worked with people involved in trauma and different disease processes since 1989 when I first became an emergency medical technician”. Dr. Goh is currently living locally in the city of Palm Harbor with his wife, Frances Ann Goh, who are members of Calvary Church in Clearwater. We are fond connoisseurs of food (all foods) and enjoy associating with people of different cultures.
Office Information

Appointments

We know you have many choices when choosing a Dentist in Tampa, FL so we have made requesting an appointment a simple process. If, for any reason, you cannot keep a scheduled appointment, or will be delayed, please call us as soon as possible.

Insurance and Billing

We accept most insurance plans. Call our office for more information.

Payment Options

We accept checks, cash or credit cards. We also offer a flexible payment plan. Please see our Financial Coordinator for details. We are happy to file insurance for your reimbursement as long as you are free to choose your own dentist.

Financing Options

CareCredit is here to help you pay for treatments and procedures your insurance doesn’t cover. We offer No Interest* financing or low minimum monthly payment options so you can get what you want, when you want it.

With three simple steps, including an instant approval process, it’s easy to apply for CareCredit. After you’re approved, you’re free to use CareCredit for the services you choose.

CareCredit is endorsed by some of the most credible organizations specific to each healthcare profession we support and CareCredit is a GE Money Company, so you know you can count on us. For over 20 years, we’ve been helping over five million cardholders get the healthcare treatments they want and need.

Now you don’t have to worry about saving up for the procedures you want and need. With CareCredit, the decision’s in your hands to get what you want, when you want it. For more information or to apply online, visit carecredit.com.

*We accept many traditional dental insurance plans. Please contact our office to verify your benefits. Our office is happy to be preferred providers for the following dental insurances: MetLife, Delta Dental Premier, United Concordia, Principal, Atena, Guardian and Cigna. We accept many other dental plans and are happy to file your insurance reimbursement as a courtesy. We accept checks, cash or credit cards. Please see our Financial Coordinator for details.

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