09/22/2026
A Pirate Looks at Retirement
(Ode to Jimmy Buffett)
Mother, mother ocean, I have heard you call…
For decades along the shores of Tampa Bay and the sunny docks of St. Petersburg, I have tended to the gums, smiles and stories of this amazing community. But the time has come to drop anchor. Like a Pirate arriving 200 years too late, I realize that my working days are simply catching up to a well-earned horizon.
I’ve done a bit of scaling, and placed my share of implants,
And though I didn’t quite make enough money to buy Miami, I did build a career filled with more bright smiles and cherished friendships than any treasure chest could hold. We have laughed through some tears, swapped tales in the chair, and weathered every change in latitude with a steadfast devotion to our team, patients, and our extended dental family.
Mother, mother ocean, after all the years I’ve found…
My occupational hazard is that my occupation’s just not around---at least not when the Gulf and the Grandkids are calling my name.
(It’s Pop Pop now)
I’m growing older but not up, and my metabolic rate is pleasantly stuck. It’s time to stop wishin’ and go fishin’, trade the laser for a cocktail with a little umbrella, and let the warm winds of change blow over my head.
Thank you St. Petersburg for allowing me to care for your smiles.
Fins up and Farewell!
Dr. Gregg Langston
