My name is Jonah Barasz; welcome to our website! We view this as a place where we can share with you our passion for dentistry. We feel so fortunate to have a profession where we can directly help others and make a significant impact in the lives of our patients with regards to their oral health and the way they feel about themselves.

I would like to share with you a little about who I am and why I chose dentistry. I am a proud father of three wonderful daughters, and the faithful sidekick to my amazing wife, Allison. I serve my community in a variety of different ways, including as an officer in the Connecticut Air National Guard. I served previously in the Connecticut Army National Guard for Nine years.

I grew up in Guilford, Connecticut with a father who was a general dentist, however, I didn’t originally plan on becoming a dentist myself. My first passion was teaching and I enjoyed the sciences. I thought I might like to be a college chemistry professor. I graduated from Colby College in Waterville, ME, where I received a Bachelor's Degree in BioChemistry. My real success at Colby, however, was meeting my future bride Allison. After graduating, I attended The Ohio State University and earned a Master's Degree in Chemistry. I learned a great deal about myself while I was in Ohio. I learned that I loved engaging with people and learning about their interests and passions. I learned that I loved working with my hands and that I wanted to make a difference in people's lives.

I came back to Connecticut and completed a Doctorate of Dental Medicine, specialty residency training in Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, and Master's of Dental Science degrees at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine (UConn). I completed my Board Certification by the American Academy of Periodontology in the areas of Periodontics and Dental Implant Surgery. I have been humbled by my peers for their recognition of me as one of Connecticut Magazine's "Top Dentists" for multiple years.

I founded Dental Implants and Periodontics of Connecticut, LLC in 2015 after taking the reins of the dental practice built by Dr. Marianne Urbanski. In 2018, Dental Implants and Periodontics of Connecticut, LLC merged with the periodontal practice of Dr. Leif Washer who had previously practiced in Wallingford for over 40 years. In 2020, we moved to a larger state of the art facility to better meet the needs of our patients, and the rapidly evolving discipline of dentistry.  Additionally, in 2020 we added a second location in Waterbury, combining with the long-time practice of Dr. Bill Tarasuk.

I strive to provide a patient-centered approach to periodontal and implant therapy. My team is wholly committed to this approach by listening to each patient's needs and concerns, and taking the time to educate our patients about their treatment. Of particular interest to me are oral rehabilitation, esthetic implant placement, and oral plastic surgery.

I have served as President of the Connecticut Society of Periodontists and the Meriden-Wallingford-Cheshire Chapter of the Connecticut State Dental Association. I look forward to meeting you and for you to meet our TEAM!

Dr. Karim El Kholy is currently an Associate Professor of Dental Medicine in the Division of Periodontics and the Chairman of the ITI Scholarship Program at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada. He is the recipient of multiple career and research awards from the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation, Harvard University, University of Michigan, and Indiana University.

Dr. El Kholy is actively involved with teaching in periodontics and implant surgical procedures, practices as a periodontist, and lectures nationally and internationally on topics related to immunology, digital technology, and implant dentistry. Dr. El Kholy completed his clinical residency in Periodontology and a Master of Science at Indiana University School of Dentistry. He then completed a Doctor of Medical Sciences Degree at Harvard University and the Forsyth Institute, where he was awarded the Presidential Scholarship for three consecutive years. He also completed an implant residency at Harvard University and a DrMedDent at the University of Bern in Switzerland under the mentorship of Professor Daniel Buser. He previously held teaching positions at University of Michigan, Harvard University, University of Bern, and McGill University.

Welcome to our office. Over the years I have had the pleasure to meet so many wonderful people. My role is to work closely with you to ensure you are cared for and comfortable in every step of the process of your dental treatment. I work with your general dentist and coordinate any information that needs to be communicated for a smooth transition from surgical to restorative care.

As a treatment coordinator I am so excited to work with you towards a happy smile and healthy teeth and gums. I will work closely with you during your dental care and will be your liaison to navigate questions regarding scheduling appointments, post-operative care, as well as financial questions. My goal is for you to have full knowledge and engagement in every aspect of your dental care.

I joined the practice in 2024 and serve as the Practice Success Director. I graduated from Lincoln College of New England in 2017 with a degree in Dental Hygiene and later earned my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2021.

After many years working as a chair-side dental hygienist, I transitioned into a leadership role where I focus on strengthening team development, improving practice operations, and enhancing the overall patient experience. As a Navy veteran, I bring a strong foundation of discipline, organization, and service-driven leadership to the practice. I am passionate about helping patients achieve healthier smiles while supporting a team dedicated to exceptional care.

My name is Gabby, and I joined Dental Implants and Periodontics of CT in July 2024 as a surgical assistant after graduating from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Graphic Design. I now serve as the practice’s Strategic Growth Partner, focusing on building strong relationships with referring doctors, supporting collaboration between practices, and helping create a seamless experience for patients throughout their care.

My name is Allison Barasz, and I am the Business Manager. I am originally from Ohio, and I met Dr. Barasz at Colby College in 2001. I officially joined his “team” when we married in 2005. We have been through a lot together - including raising our three beautiful daughters. I have been a part of Dental Implants and Periodontics of Connecticut since the beginning. With my background as an attorney and also in economic consulting, I have been able to contribute in a variety of different ways over the years. I have found my niche in my current role where I work mostly behind the scenes on Human Resources. When not at work, I enjoy playing the piano, Zumba, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.