“Inspired by my sister’s career as a dental hygienist, I earned my dental degree in 1979 before joining the US Army Dental Corps. Helping people is my passion, so I continually upgrade my knowledge to bring you more convenient and predictable options for a healthy and beautiful smile.”
Dr. Dunn worked at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry as a researcher while working towards a dual undergraduate degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1979. Because of his research, Dr. Dunn transitioned smoothly into dental school, and he earned his doctorate in 1983.
Having received a commission in the USA Army Dental Corps, Dr. Dunn was assigned as a dental officer to the 24th Infantry Division at Ft. Stewart, Georgia. Seeing the immense value his contributions made to the health of our soldiers, Dr. Dunn remained in the Reserves after active duty for another four years, attached to the rapid deployment dental unit out of Savannah, GA. During his time with the reserves, Dr. Dunn also worked at a dental practice in Jacksonville.
In 1988, wanting to open a private practice, Dr. Dunn acquired the practice of Dr. Duane Seibert, here in Ocala. After 24 years and two expansions, Dr. Dunn moved Dentistry at Bridlewood to its present location.
Dr. Dunn and his wife, Shelley, have three grown children and three grandchildren. He enjoys cycling, running, and swimming to stay active, and supports our community in any way he can. Dr. Dunn has served as a board member for the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County, Project Hope, and The Centers, and for 20 years has instructed the confirmation class at Queen of Peace Catholic Church.
“I firmly believe that everyone should have access to the healthy, pain-free smile they deserve, so I give back whenever I can, both to the underserved in Florida and through annual mission trips to Guatemala.”
Originally from Sri Lanka, Dr. de Mel has lived in Florida since 2004. Her dental education began at Broward College, where she graduated with highest honors. Dr. de Mel then attended the University of Central Florida for her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She earned her Doctorate in Dental Medicine from the University of Florida.
Dedicated and passionate, Dr. de Mel has the highest expectations of herself and her work. While at Broward College, she was a member of the Honors Institute, graduating with highest honors. Her dedication both to learning and to always being the best she can, earned her entry into Burnett Honors College while at UCF, where she graduated Cum Laude. Dr. de Mel brings this passion and dedication to each person under her care.
Dr. de Mel’s passion for dentistry extends to helping members of our local Florida communities and internationally. In addition to her community support, Dr. de Mel gives back through annual mission trips to Guatemala to help people gain access to the dental care they need and deserve.
“I know firsthand how it feels to lose trust in dentistry. As a dental patient myself, I once had the wrong tooth removed, a permanent adult tooth that I can never get back. That experience shapes everything I do: I listen first, explain every option clearly, and use tools like IV sedation to make even complex treatment comfortable. Everyone deserves care they can count on.”
Dr. Parikh earned his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Florida Atlantic University and a Master of Biomedical Sciences from Barry University before completing his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Roseman College of Dental Medicine in 2021.
Dr. Parikh has practiced comprehensive dentistry in Florida for more than five years, with a special focus on advanced implant and restorative care. His expertise includes full-arch implant rehabilitation (All-on-X) with same-day provisional teeth 3D printed in house, fully guided implant surgery, and advanced techniques for patients who have been told they don’t have enough bone for implants. He also provides IV moderate sedation, wisdom tooth removal, root canal therapy, clear aligner treatment, and cosmetic veneers, so patients can receive nearly all of their care under one roof.
A Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI), Dr. Parikh has completed extensive postgraduate training in implant surgery and sedation dentistry. He partners with top-quality dental laboratories for final restorations, and he is always happy to share examples of his own completed cases with patients considering treatment. He especially resonates with patients who experience dental anxiety, and he never lets anyone feel rushed or judged. Dr. Parikh is a member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Recently married, Dr. Parikh and his wife, a pediatrician, love spending time with their dog, Mylo. Outside the office he enjoys traveling, tennis, film photography, and cooking. He is excited to welcome new patients to Dentistry at Bridlewood.