Meet Our Team

Gerald P. Curatola, D.D.S., F.D.I.C.

Biologic Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry

The founder of Rejuvenation Dentistry, Dr. Gerry Curatola, is an internationally recognized biologic doctor with nearly four decades of experience as a clinician, researcher, educator, author and humanitarian. Dr. Curatola graduated from Colgate University in 1979 with a topical concentration in Neuroscience and his BS degree in Biology and Psychology. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from New York University College of Dentistry in 1983, where he currently serves as Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor in Cariology and Comprehensive Care. Prior to his graduation, Dr. Curatola performed voluntary dentistry and oral surgery with the Ministry of Health of the Government of Jamaica, West Indies, and the Peace Corps in 1982. Dr. Curatola completed his residency at Cabrini Hospital in New York City, where he also served as Assistant Attending in the Department of Dentistry from 1983 to 85.

Postdoctoral Dr. Curatola received his initial training in Biologic Dentistry and Principles of Holistic Health under the mentorship of Dr. Alan Pressman, a renowned naturopathic doctor and chiropractor in New York City, in 1983-84. In 1996-97, Dr. Curatola attended Harvard Medical School’s program in Complementary and Alternative Medicine under the direction of Dr. David Eisenberg. As a pioneer in the biologic approach to Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry in the mid-1980s, Dr. Curatola consulted in the research and development of many biocompatible restorative materials used today. He supported the clinical introduction of CAD/CAM dentistry (3-D printing), studied with CEREC inventor Dr. Werner Mormann at the Univ. of Zurich, Switzerland, and was among the first CEREC 1 users in clinical practice in the United States in 1993. Dr. Curatola received three United States Patents for his clinical research and formulations, and he is the co-inventor of the first “prebiotic” oral care formulation, Revitin (revitin.com), which is based on leading-edge oral microbiome science.

In 2006, Dr. Curatola named the Curatola Wing for Clinical Research at New York University to further the study of translational research, and he was awarded the Acton Medal for his outstanding contributions to New York University. He founded and established Rejuvenation Dentistry in 2007 with a mission to establish an integrative model in dentistry that combines a wellness-based approach to advanced restorative, aesthetic, and implant dentistry. He is listed in the Guide to America’s Top Dentists, the Leading Physicians of the World, Who’s Who Amongst Professionals, and Top Dentists of New York. Dr. Curatola’s dental work has been featured on The Doctor Oz Show, CBS, FOX, and ABC television networks, and he has published extensively in professional and lay publications. Dr. Curatola’s latest book, The Mouth-Body Connection, explores the intricate bidirectional pathways between oral and systemic disease.

Jeannie Grecco, D.D.S.

Biologic Restorative Dentistry for Adults and Children

Dr. Grecco is a Biologic Restorative Dentist for Adults and Children. Dr. Grecco received her undergraduate education from Syracuse University, majoring in Biology and Psychology. She went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from New York University College of Dentistry and continued her dental residency and postdoctoral education at Northwell Health, where she was selected to serve as the department’s Chief Dental Resident. During her time as Chief Resident, she received the prestigious C.A.R.E. award for her constant efforts to pursue and deliver exemplary patient care. She has trained extensively in Pediatric Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Periodontics, Cosmetic Dentistry, Oral Surgery, and Dental Implants.

With her comprehensive medical and dental training, Dr. Grecco is committed to utilizing biologic approaches to bridge the gap between medicine and dentistry in order to provide a more holistic approach to both young and adult patients. Dr. Grecco is a member of The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), The International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM), and The American Dental Association (ADA). Having trained in Biologic Dentistry under Dr. Gerry Curatola, Dr. Grecco is also certified in Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) mercury removal, as well as biologic approaches in Pediatric (Children’s) Dentistry, as well as Laser Dentistry, treatment of Airway Health and treatment for Sleep Apnea. Dr. Grecco speaks to the New York City and online communities on many issues of oral health, as well as growth and development disorders and toxicity in children.

Roman Temkin, D.D.S.

Biologic Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Dr. Temkin grew up in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. He graduated from NYU College of Arts and Sciences in 2008, then continued to earn his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at NYU College of Dentistry in 2012. Towards the end of his dental school curriculum, he rotated at Bellevue Hospital and absolutely fell in love with Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

Dr. Temkin continued to complete his General Practice Residency at VA Hospital in Brooklyn in 2013. He then finished an additional fellowship in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in 2014 at Kings County Hospital Center. In 2018, he completed an additional 4 years of training in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Kings County Hospital, where he served as Chief resident in 2018. Dr. Temkin is a Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and teaches at the VA Medical Center in NY. In his free time, he enjoys spending weekends with his daughter, hiking, traveling, going to jazz and comedy clubs, driving cars, and volunteering with veterans. Dr. Temkin understands that oral surgery, although necessary, may not be at the top of everyone’s wish list, so he prides himself on having compassion and a gentle touch.

Tifany Elmalem, D.M.D.

Biologic Aesthetic Dentistry

Dr. Tifany Elmalem is a distinguished general dentist specializing in full-mouth aesthetic cases. She received her undergraduate education from the University of Maryland, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the School of Public Health.

Dr. Elmalem went on to earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where she graduated with Honors for her excellence in Clinical Dentistry. During her time there, Dr. Elmalem was the Founder and President of the Mental Wellness Club, reflecting her belief in the interconnectedness between physical and mental health. This passion for overall wellness is what brought her to our practice. Dr. Elmalem continued her postdoctoral education and completed a general practice residency at the VA New York Harbor Healthcare System in Manhattan.

Dr. Elmalem is committed to providing comprehensive care that enhances smiles and contributes to the overall well-being of her patients. Her patient-centered approach, combined with her expertise in general and aesthetic dentistry, ensures that each treatment is uniquely tailored to uplift the most natural smile possible and elevate oral health.

Dr. Elmalem is a native New Yorker. In her spare time, she embraces her love for travel, finds tranquility in yoga, and captures the beauty of her experiences through photography.

Ryan Shargel, D.D.S.

Biologic Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

Dr. Ryan Shargel received his DDS from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in 2019. During his senior year, he was chosen for the Oral Surgery Clerkship, where he worked in the department handling emergency cases, working with medically complex patients, performing surgical extractions, and performing pre-prosthetic surgery.

Dr. Shargel went on to complete his post-graduate training in the specialty of Periodontology at New York University College of Dentistry. The 3-year program entails extensive training in all aspects of Periodontics, including treatment of Periodontal disease, complex extractions, replacement of lost teeth with dental implants, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and periodontal plastic surgery.

He is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at New York University College of Dentistry in the Department of Periodontics and Implant Dentistry. Dr. Shargel maintains an active membership in the American Academy of Periodontology, the Northeastern Society of Periodontists, and the American Dental Association.

Philip Grecco, D.D.S.

Biologic Restorative Dentistry for Adults and Children

Dr. Grecco is a Biologic Restorative Dentist for patients of all ages. He received his undergraduate education from the University of Michigan with a major in Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience. His long-standing passion for wellness and community led him to serve as the co-chair of the Physical Health and Wellness Committee of the Student Government.

He went on to receive his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from New York University College of Dentistry, graduating with honors. Because of his academic excellence, gentle manner, and exceptional skills, he was selected for specialty coursework in clear aligner therapy, like Invisalign, and special care dentistry, where he provided cutting-edge treatment to patients in the state-of-the-art Oral Health Center for people with disabilities. Dr. Grecco completed his postdoctoral training at NYP-Weill Cornell, where he gained additional experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, as well as dental emergencies, covering the facial trauma service alongside plastic and head and neck surgeons.

Dr. Philip also completed additional training at Memorial Sloan Kettering, where he was exposed to the practice of Dental Oncology and Maxillofacial Prosthetics. Having trained in Biologic Dentistry under Dr. Gerry Curatola, Dr. Grecco practices in Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal, as well as Laser Dentistry and treatment of Airway Health and Sleep Apnea. He is committed to providing high-quality, holistic oral healthcare while enhancing natural aesthetics at the same time. Dr. Grecco was raised in Westchester County, New York. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures and cuisines, finds mindfulness in meditation and hot yoga, and cheers on the Michigan Wolverines.

Dean Raio, D.D.S.

Dr. Raio is a Restorative Dentist and Airway Health Specialist. He received his undergraduate education from the University at Albany, majoring in Biology, and his dental education from the University of Buffalo.

Dr. Raio completed his dental residency at Nassau County Medical Center and an additional postdoctoral advanced two-year residency in Temporal Mandibular Disorders (TMD) and Orofacial Pain Disorders at New York University College of Dentistry. In addition to his training in Restorative Dentistry, TMD/TMJ, and the treatment of Orofacial Pain, Dr. Raio completed advanced certification for Sleep Disordered Breathing and the diagnosis and treatment of Sleep Apnea. With over 25 years of clinical practice experience, Dr. Raio is a pioneer and leading dental expert in Airway Health and serves as a National Clinical Advisor for Vivos Therapeutics, a company that focuses on the treatment of Sleep Disordered Breathing/Sleep Apnea in pediatric and adult patients.

He has lectured extensively to dentists in courses throughout the United States, teaching and training dentists in the use of revolutionary systems to alleviate and cure sleep-disordered breathing. Recognizing the importance of Airway Health as an integral part of Biologic Dentistry, Dr. Raio is a strong advocate of ongoing education and staying on the cutting edge of the most advanced biologic dental treatment available for his patients. Dr Raio was raised on Long Island and continues to maintain a home and family there. He practices in both Rejuvenation Dentistry’s Manhattan and East Hampton locations, and he enjoys providing education and awareness on the importance of Airway Health to patients and the community.

Ariana Spagna, D.D.S

Dr. Spagna is a dedicated general dentist committed to providing comprehensive oral care, focusing on preventative dentistry and patient education. She grew up on Long Island and received her undergraduate education from Loyola University Maryland with a major in Biology and Forensic Studies. She went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S) degree from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. During her time there, she went on numerous trips both locally and across the country serving veterans and communities that lacked the access to dental care. Dr. Spagna continued her postdoctoral education and completed a general practice residency at Stony Brook University Hospital. Her training involved a multidisciplinary comprehensive dental care approach while managing a diverse patient pool consisting of medically compromised, geriatric, pediatric, and phobic patients, as well as those with developmental disabilities and special needs. Through her dental journey, she remains committed to prioritizing her patients’ well-being by understanding their unique needs and designing comprehensive treatments to achieve optimal oral health.

In her spare time, she enjoys going on hikes with her husband and golden retriever and stopping into a local café for a midday cappuccino. 

Stephen Simonetti, D.D.S.

Dr. Stephen John Simonetti was born and raised in East Islip and graduated from East Islip High School in 2011. He then went on to attend James Madison University and received a B.S. in Biology. Following this he attended VCU School of Dentistry and received a DDS degree. He then completed a 1 year AEGD dental residency program In Tucson Arizona. During this residency he treated members of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and got specialized training in Implants and many other surgical procedures. He has been in practice as a general dentist on Long Island since October of 2021. Dr. Stephen is very passionate about providing individualized and top of the line care for his community. He works tirelessly to stay up to date with the technology and techniques in order to deliver the best care for all of his patients. He takes pride in being able to help every patient either maintain or restore their smile in order to feel confident in life and live their life to the fullest. Dr. Stephen has a strong focus on healing from the inside with proper nutrition and prevention of disease by optimizing health instead of only treating symptoms. The areas of dentistry he has a focus on include, Cosmetic dentistry, Implant dentistry, complex treatment planning and restorations, and oral disease prevention. In his free time he is a very avid golfer and plays in amateur competitions. He also enjoys eating healthy, working out, athletics, and quality time with friends and loved ones.