Jeff Knittel, 38

Occupation: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Florida Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Mount Dora

What I do: Oral surgeons treat diseases, injuries, and defects of the head, neck, face and jaws. At my office I frequently perform complex dental extractions (including wisdom teeth), bone grafts, place dental implants and treat benign pathology of the jaws.

How I got started: I was always interested in medicine, even as a child growing up. Eventually I decided to pursue dentistry. Before going to dental school I spent some time shadowing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and I knew that was what I wanted to do. I eventually went to the University of Tennessee for Dental School and the University of Florida for Medical School for my surgery residency.

I’m passionate about oral surgery because: Being able to give back and help others has always been important to me. As an oral surgeon I have the ability to give people their confidence back through a new and improved smile, help them return to function after years of difficulty eating, or just help someone get out of pain if they have an infection. I understand most people do not look forward to going to a dentist or surgeon’s office, but I enjoy working with them and doing what I can to make them comfortable and ensure a positive experience.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far: We recently completed a renovation of a new office, and it has been a very exciting time using our new space and treating patients with the most up-to-date equipment and technology.

When I’m not working: I spend most of my spare time with my beautiful wife and four young boys. I help with their baseball teams, and I get so much out of being involved and coaching them and their friends.

My first job: My first job related to my current career was taking X-rays at a Pediatric Dental office while I was in college. It gave me valuable exposure to the field of dentistry, but it also taught me patience and how to gently work with a patient population that is usually very apprehensive of their appointment.

The best advice I’ve received: Always be persistent and never give up. You haven’t failed until you’ve stopped trying.

Fun fact: I played guitar in a rock band in college. We even recorded an album with a small, local record label and toured the East Coast one summer. I still fiddle with my guitar when I have some free time.

If I had a million dollars to give away: I am very passionate about access to quality health care. I would look to support organizations that provide care for the underserved such as the Mission of Mercy here in Florida which provides free dental care to patients that would otherwise go without.

Life after 40: Professionally, I plan on practicing here in Lake County for many years to come. Personally, I am excited to watch my boys continue to grow and be a part of whatever adventures may come our way. I look forward to the future!