Being the father of my two beautiful children is my greatest accomplishment and pride thus far — I love to spend every free moment with them. They have taught me so much, including humility, patience, and how to listen. Communicating effectively and understanding the needs of children in my practice is a direct translation of my experience as a dad. While continuing education is a requirement of my profession, I believe my best work training is found in being a dad. A personal experience led me to pursue a career in orthodontics. At the age of seven, I sustained serious damage to my teeth in a school bus accident. Six years of extensive orthodontic treatment followed. Not only was the problem corrected, but it created the desire for my professional life. Dedication and skill help me to educate others about the benefits of orthodontics.
Education
- University of Pittsburgh – Doctorate in Dental Medicine (1992)
- Montefiore University Hospital – General practice residency (1993)
- West Virginia University – master’s in orthodontics (1996)
Affiliations and Recognition
- Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Southern Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Georgia Dental Association
- International Association for Dental Research
Dr. Vargo has received both national and international recognition for research publications he has authored. He frequently lectures to orthodontic graduate students and civic organizations.
Community and Family
Community outreach is a part of my practice. Since coming to Rome in 1996, I have been active in the community. I have been blessed to be a major sponsor for the Ridge Ferry Park playground project and have been able to give back to the schools in our area through Partners in Education, a program that helps to provide a well-rounded education.
Field trips to our office are a highlight of my practice. I enjoy the opportunity to help educate children on the importance of proper dental care. Giving of time is very important to me. I am currently serving as a board member of the Sexual Assault Center. Winning the People’s Choice award for the Rome Celebrity Dance Challenge was a rewarding experience. I enjoyed the challenge of learning my dance number, but I most enjoyed the fundraising and giving back to a great cause.
My family and I continue to stay involved in our community. We enjoy an active church life as well as participate in various community organizations. When time permits, I like to bike, ski, play tennis, and spend time with Sophia and Denton.
I am a board-certified orthodontist, also known as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, and have been voluntarily examined by my peers on the basis of knowledge and clinical skills. To learn more, go to http://www.americanboardortho.com.
Currently Dr. Vargo continues to give back to the orthodontic profession as an adjunct professor teaching the next generation of dentists that are training to become orthodontists at Augusta University’s Orthodontic Residency Program.