Dr. Michael A. Pikos did not set out to change lives or even to be an oral surgeon. Yet, driven by an innate desire to make a difference, his journey has grown into an enduring legacy that spans decades, geographies, and generations of dental professionals.
To fully appreciate today’s impact, let’s rewind to 1990 when Dr. Pikos was a practicing Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon who welcomed eight clinicians into the second floor of his practice in Palm Harbor, Florida. Armed with two projectors and a passion to share his knowledge, Dr. Pikos began teaching others the intricacies of bone grafting and implant dentistry.
Over three decades later, what is now known as the Pikos Institute has grown into a hub for dental professionals worldwide focusing on surgical implant and cosmetic dentistry CE courses, with attendees from all 50 states and over 65 countries. At the heart of his story is the remarkable success of the Pikos Institute and the lives he has transformed along the way.
“Honesty and integrity have been my guiding values,” Dr. Pikos shares. “I’ve always believed in showing the good, the bad, and the ugly. I share complications as openly as successes. That transparency builds trust and credibility.”
Over the years, Dr. Pikos has fostered relationships that embody such qualities. He has also mentored more than a hundred promising dentists and has taught more than 6,500 students through the Pikos Institute.
One connection in particular stands out: Dr. Jennifer Doobrow, a nationally recognized periodontist and educator.
Many years ago, Dr. Pikos and Dr. Doobrow met unassumingly at a quaint BioHorizons dinner. Dr. Doobrow, a young periodontist, was placed across the table from Dr. Pikos, a recognized leader in the field with a stellar clinical reputation that she had admired from afar. They connected immediately. For Dr. Pikos, it was Dr. Doobrow’s enthusiasm and passion; for Dr. Doobrow, it was Dr. Pikos’s kindness and curiosity.
Dr. Doobrow’s father, a practicing periodontist and her biggest cheerleader, passed away suddenly during her surgical residency. So, when she met Dr. Pikos, she was still grappling with the unimaginable loss of her father — her role model and trusted mentor.
“I was thrust into managing two periodontal practices while finishing my residency. It was like being thrown into the deep end without knowing how to swim,” Dr. Doobrow recalls.
The two remained in touch, and Dr. Pikos soon became a mentor to Dr. Doobrow. Dr. Pikos’ support helped fill an irreplaceable void left by her father, offering not just practical advice on how to run a practice, but the emotional support needed to navigate the weight of the responsibility.
“When my dad passed, there were so many people who lifted me up. But Dr. Pikos — he carried me,” she shares.
Dr. Pikos’ ability to see not only Dr. Doobrow’s potential but also the struggles she faced made his mentorship so transformative.
“I saw resilience and a deep well of strength in Jennifer. She faced challenges that would break most people, yet she emerged with grace and determination. She reminded me of why I started teaching in the first place,” Dr. Pikos shares.
“The first thing he told me was, ‘Family always comes first.’ That advice shaped how I approach everything — from balancing my roles as a mom and a clinician to how I lead and teach others today,” Dr. Doobrow adds.
Today, Dr. Doobrow carries forward the values instilled in her by both her late father and Dr. Pikos. She has continued her father’s legacy by running his practice while creating her own.
In addition to her practice and to teaching, Dr. Doobrow is also a leader. As the Immediate Past President of the Southern Academy of Periodontology, she is now President-Elect of the Alabama Dental Assocation. She also serves on the Board of Trustees for the American Academy of Periodontology and chairs BioHorizons’ “WISE” initiative (Women in Implantology Supporting and Empowering).
Her commitment to excellence in each of these roles reflects a deep connection she feels to her roots and the responsibility she carries to inspire others in her profession.
“There isn’t a week that goes by where I don’t see a patient my dad treated. It’s a reminder of the impact we can have — not just in our patients’ lives but in our communities,” she says.
One of the qualities Dr. Pikos admires most about Dr. Doobrow is her ability to connect with others.
“She has this incredible ability to lead with authenticity and compassion. That’s invaluable in our field,” Dr. Pikos adds.
For Dr. Doobrow, these qualities are rooted in gratitude.
“When my dad passed, I told everyone who offered to help that I was a sponge. I soaked up everything. I’ve been carried on the shoulders of giants. Now, I try to pay that forward by extending it to others — offering guidance, mentorship, and support,” Dr. Doobrow shares.
The Pikos Institute itself has evolved to reflect these values. What began as a modest gathering of doctors in a small practice and has grown into an internationally recognized premier provider for oral surgery and implantology focused continuing education institution. Dr. Pikos emphasizes that clinicians are trained in implant surgical technical skills and guided in how to think critically and navigate complex cases confidently. With a strong focus on mentorship, it’s become a unique hub for professional development.
“We demystify implant dentistry. It’s not just about techniques — it’s about fostering a deeper understanding and creating a culture of excellence,” Dr. Pikos shares.
Along with the growth of the Pikos Institute, Dr. Doobrow’s role has also grown. From her early days as one of its first faculty members to her current position as a key leader, she has worked tirelessly to uphold and expand Dr. Pikos’ vision. Her contributions have helped the institute remain at the forefront of dental implant education, particularly in its efforts to elevate women in the field.
“Dr. Pikos has always believed in celebrating everyone. He’s created a space where professionals from all backgrounds feel welcomed and empowered to learn and grow,” Jennifer remarks.
Both Dr. Pikos and Dr. Doobrow agree that the true measure of success lies in their impact on others.
“When you teach one clinician, you’re impacting thousands of patients. As I reflect on the legacy I hope to create, the real reward is knowing that what we’re building here will outlast us,” shares Dr. Pikos.
Dr. Doobrow echoes this sentiment, adding her own perspective shaped by her personal life and professional achievements.
“My dad’s legacy lives on through the patients he treated and through me. And now, through my own work as a clinician, educator, and leader, I am creating my own legacy. At the end of the day, it’s about more than just dentistry — it’s about relationships, resilience, and the courage to keep learning and growing.”
