Los Angeles Dental Meeting
2022
Premier Speakers

Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz
Aesthetics
Bio
Dr. Ruiz is Founder of the “Supra-gingival Minimally Invasive Dentistry” movement, as well as founder and director of the Los Angeles Institute of Clinical Dentistry. Former Course Director of numerous CE Courses at the University of Southern California (USC). He is an Honorary Clinical Professor at Warwick University in England and a member of the editorial board for Dentistry Today. He is also an Associate Instructor at Dr. Gordon Christensen PCC in Utah & an independent evaluator of dental products for CR (CRA). Dr Ruiz has been named as one of the “Leaders in CE 2006-Present” by Dentistry Today.
Dr. Ruiz is the author of the textbook “Supra-gingival Minimally Invasive Dentistry; A Healthier Approach” published by Wiley-Blackwell and edited by Dr. Ray Bertolotti and has also published several research papers as well as many clinical articles on adhesive dentistry, occlusion and esthetic dentistry. He regularly lectures at all major dental meetings, nationally and internationally.
Dr. Ruiz has been practicing in the studio district of Los Angeles for over 25 years and enjoys a clientele of many stars and entertainers. His focus is on treating complex Cosmetic, Rehabilitation, and Implant cases.
Dr. Ruiz has made numerous television appearances highlighting his Esthetic Dental makeovers, including NBC Channel 4 News, ABC’s News, Good Morning America & Vista La, VH1 and Channel 52’s Telemundo and 34 Univision.

Norman Dotch
Financial
Bio
With more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Norman is passionate about helping highly successful families, health care professionals, executives, and business owners accomplish their financial objectives. A graduate of Marshall University, with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a emphasis in Finance. Norman also poses his Series 7 and Series 66 Securities licenses. Norman brings rigorous, research-driven Tax Strategies (to create “TAX DEDUCTIONS” in order to reduce your taxes, build wealth faster and enjoy it 100% tax-free, become a philanthropist and/or restructure your business) in his approach to the field of wealth management. Norman is fluent in Spanish having been born in his native country of Panama in Central America. Norman is also a veteran after serving in the United States Army.

Dr. Pilseong Kim
Implants
Bio
Dr. Pilseong Kim received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Biomedical Engineering from the School of Engineering at the University of Southern California. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of California, San Francisco, School of Dentistry. Dr. Kim’s Certificate of Advanced Periodontics and Implant Surgery was received from Loma Linda University’s School of Dentistry. Dr. Kim has had additional training from various institutes international, including Gothenburg University in Sweden. Dr. Kim is also committed to continuing his 200-300 hours of Continuing Education training each year. He continues to invest in his education by traveling globally in an effort to receive the most current techniques and training available in the world. He lectures locally and internationally on advanced surgical techniques in implant dentistry, including topics such as various techniques for bone and sinus grafting. Dr. Kim’s experience includes seven years in private practice as a general dentist. He served as an assistant professor of the Periodontics Department at the Loma Linda School of Dentistry. He served as advisory board for many dental industry leader companies. Dr. Kim has been a Hiossen Master Advanced Course Director since it’s beginning. He is currently a part time faculty of the Periodontics Department at UCLA School of Dentistry while maintaining evidence based periodontics and implant practice in his own state of the art practice in Los Angeles. Dr. Kim has 29 years of experience in both surgical and restorative implant dentistry

Dr. Tony Daher
Prosthodontics/ Dentures
Bio

Dr. Vahik Meserkhani
Prosthodontics
Bio
He graduated in1987 and joined Loma Linda University in 2003 to receive his implant surgical fellowship followed by a certificate in Prosthodontics and MSD degree in Prosthodontics specialty. He has numerous publications about Prosthodontics and implant related subjects as well as his chapter contribution to Fonseca oral and maxillofacial surgery on guided surgery and immediate loading. His research at the Loma Linda University about the accuracy of stereolithographic models was presented in Pacific Coast Society of Prosthodontics. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and Board eligible by the American Board of Prosthodontics. He maintains a private practice limited to Prosthodontics and implant dentistry in Glendale, and Pasadena California.

Kayvan Mott
Marketing
Bio
Kayvan Mott is a website & online marketing expert with over 14 years of experience in web design, SEO, social media and online marketing in the dental industry. Kayvan has presented on a variety of topics related to practice marketing for study clubs and national dental societies.

Larry Oxenham
Legal & Taxes
Bio
Larry Oxenham is one of America’s top asset protection experts, having helped thousands of doctors achieve financial peace of mind by teaching them how to properly structure their assets for lawsuit protection and tax reduction. He has authored and co-authored several articles and books on the subject including The Asset Protection Bible and How to Achieve Financial Peace of Mind through Asset Protection. His career has been credited with helping thousands of people save millions of dollars. Larry Oxenham is a nationally recognized speaker who has trained thousands of professionals at hundreds of conventions, conferences and seminars across the country.

Dr. Les Kalman
Digital and Clinical Applications
Bio
Les Kalman is an educator and researcher with a focus on (1) innovations in medical devices and technologies, with an emphasis on additive manufacturing (2) software solutions and (3) education advancement. He remains active with externally-funded research, has published over 50 articles and a book chapter. He holds two patents, a trademark and has translated innovations to industry.
Kalman serves on the Standards Council of Canada, the Ambassadors Circle and Advanced Credentialing Committee for the ICOI. He has been recognized as an Academic Associate Fellow (American Academy of Implant Dentistry), Fellow, Master and Diplomate (International Congress of Oral Implantologists), Fellow (Academy of Osseointegration) and Fellow (American College of Dentists), Schulich Alumni of Distinction and received the Merck Patients First award and the CES Innovation Award honoree.
Dr. Les Kalman,
BSc, DDS
Assistant Professor
DICOI, FAO, (AA)FAAID, FIADFE, FACD

Dr. Charles Schlesinger
Periodontics
Bio
who has been lecturing internationally for the past 15 years. He graduated with honors from The Ohio State College of Dentistry in 1996. After graduation, he completed a General Practice residency at the VAMC San Diego and then went on to become the Chief Resident at the VAMC W. Los Angeles. During his time in Los Angeles, he completed extensive training in oral surgery, implantology and advanced restorative treatment. He is a fellow of the ICOI. Once he completed his residency, Dr. Schlesinger maintained a thriving restorative and implant practice in San Diego, CA for 14 years. In 2012 he relocated to Albuquerque, NM to become the Director of Education and Clinical Affairs for a dental implant manufacturer. In 2013 he took over as Chief Operating Officer along with his clinical responsibilities. In 2016 Dr Schlesinger returned to private practice along with founding The CD Schlesinger Group, LLC. In 2018 he became the COO of Comfortable Dentistry 4U and continues to provide patient care in Albuquerque.

Dr. Sam Halabo
Digital 3D Treatment
Bio
Dr. Sam Halabo has run a state-of-the-art private practice in San Diego, CA for over 20 years and is an accomplished international speaker, author, and product evaluator. He is a graduate of Boston University’s Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry and he completed a General Practice Residency at the Loma Linda Veteran’s Hospital.
Dr. Halabo is an adjunct faculty member at the University of California at San Diego and an Editor for Inside Dentistry Magazine. He served as the director of dental care at the UCSD Homeless Clinic in Pacific Beach, CA. He has been involved in product evaluations for both Catapult Education and Clinicians’ Report (CR) for many years and is proud and honored to share his knowledge and experience with those seeking to provide excellent dental care for their patients. Dr. Halabo lectures on a variety of topics with an emphasis on improving patient care and the dentists’ enjoyment of their profession by combining technological and clinical advancements with the use of simple practice management and motivational tools.
He is a member of the San Diego County Dental Society, California Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Academy of Laser Dentistry, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
Still practicing at a Los Angeles health center. At UCLA School of Dentistry, she has specialized in medical-dental quality improvement projects for pediatric populations and implemented UCLA’s successful Community-Based Clinical Education program aimed at enhancing education while increasing access to care for underserved populations of all ages.

Dr. Lisa Nguyen
Pediatrics
Bio
Dr. Lisa Nguyen is a board-certified pediatric dentist and received her dental degree from NYU College of Dentistry. Dr. Nguyen has over 10 years of clinical experience in a multitude of clinical settings prior to dedicating the past 6 years in dental education while still practicing at a Los Angeles health center. At UCLA School of Dentistry, she has specialized in medical-dental quality improvement projects for pediatric populations and implemented UCLA’s successful Community-Based Clinical Education program aimed at enhancing education while increasing access to care for underserved populations of all ages.

Dr. Paola Ochoa
Aesthetic Crown
Bio
Dr. Paola Ochoa graduated at the top of her class from Cayetano Heredia University in Lima, Peru. She has a degree in Occlusion and Oral Rehabilitation from Universidad Científica del Sur and has received extensive training in Brazil and the United States. She is the co-founder of Infinity Dental Clinic and Infinity Advanced Dental Learning in Lima, Peru. Dr. Ochoa is a Member of the American Society for Dental Aesthetics and a Diplomate in the American Board of Aesthetic Dentistry. She is also Fellow of the International Academy of Dental and Facial Esthetics. In her work, Dr. Ochoa employs an interdisciplinary, facially driven, and minimally invasive philosophy and utilizes digital tools for the planning and communication of all her cases.

Dr. Shahin Safarian
Finance and Business
BIO
I can give you my resume where I can tell you that I played pro soccer, received my MBA and became a doctor that isn’t really the true value of what I can bring you personally. My value will be to share with you all of my failures and how I persevered when everything was dark, when I had no money or credit. I can tell you that I studied a total of 13 years after high school but I am not sure how that helps you in being a professional in the real world. In the end if you are looking for a safe, honest presentation with someone that has spoken for some of the biggest companies in the world and has spoken on multiple stages in front of thousands of dental professionals then we are both in luck. Let’s get started and let me help you gain the confidence and passion you once had and help you enjoin putting your head on the pillow every night not worries or stressed about what the next day will bring.

Dr. James Doundoulakis
Aesthetic
Bio
Dr James H Doundoulakis graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 1982. He then completed a clinical fellowship in Prosthodontics at the Harvard University School of Dental Medicine, followed by a clinical fellowship in maxillofacial prosthetics at Roswell Park Cancer Center in Buffalo, NY. He is currently Assistant Clinical Professor and Director, Prosthodontics and Implantology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, NYC.
Dr Doundoulakis was privileged to have one of his “extreme make-over’s” featured on national television – ABC-TV’s “The View”, starring Barbara Walters. He is the author of “The Perfect Smile”, a Consumer’s Guide to cosmetic dentistry and dental Implants. Dr. Doundoulakis just recently completed a two-year term as General Chairman of the Greater New York Dental Meeting, the largest dental convention in the US. He has lectured nationally and internationally.
Dr. Doundoulakis continues to maintain a private practice, specializing in esthetics, implants and prosthetics, in Greenwich CT, minutes away from NYC.

Dr. John Young
Restoring Endo Teeth/ Treatment for Cracked Teeth
Bio
Dr. John J. Young Jr. DDS received his degree from New York University College of Dentistry in New York City and completed a General Practice Residency at Staten Island University Hospital. He then joined his father’s general dental practice, where he worked for over 30 years. In addition to private practice, Dr. Young was a consultant and treated developmentally disabled children and adults at the Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center for 25 years. He is a Fellow and past President of the New York Academy of Dentistry and Fellow and past Chair of the New York Section of the American College of Dentists. He is also a Fellow of the International College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the Academy of
General Dentistry. As a member of the American Dental Association, the New York State Dental Society and the New York County Dental Society, Dr Young was appointed to the Greater New York Dental Meeting Organization Committee where he presently serves as a Troubleshooter.

Dr. Jouliana Davoudi Chegani
Sleep Apnea
Bio
My name is Jouliana Davoudi Chegani, I am a graduate of USC Orofacial Pain and Medicine center. Wife, and mother of two incredible sons. I graduated with BA and MS from California State University of Northridge and Completed my DDS at USC dental school in 2017, I did work for 2-3 years in the field, but I found my passion in Orofacial Pain and Medicine. Since graduation I took different courses, mini residency, and finally full conventional residency at USC. My interest in this field, inspired me to create a tool that can help clinician to treat the patient in timely manner. I am pleased that our research was recognized as USC Stevens center for innovation award winner for “The Most Disruptive award”. And was accepted for oral presentation and publication in oral surgery, oral medicine, oral pathology, and oral radiology paper.

Dr. Luis Carbajal
Oral Surgery
Bio

Dr. Mahnaz Zandi
Perio Laser
Bio

Dr. Jose Mejia Zepeda
How to get dental license in USA (Bilingual lecture)
Bio
Dr. Jose Mejia Zepeda graduated from the University Autonoma of Queretaro Mexico in 2005. He graduated from the UCLA Advanced Clinical Training in Restorative Dentistry in 2017. Dr. Mejia has four years of excperience in the United States working for community clinics.

Dr. Bertha Alarcon
How to get dental license in USA (Bilingual lecture)
Bio
Dr. Alarcon is original from Guadalajara, Mexico. She completed her dental education at CASE School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland, at a time when women were about 25% of the entering class, and when Hispanic or Chicano applicants and graduates were merely about 3% of the dental workforce. She attended the VA Medical Center in West Los Angeles and completed a General Practice Residency with an emphasis in Hospital Dentistry and Medicine. It was clear in her mind her purpose for pursuing the dental profession. Dr. Alarcon knew firsthand of the disparities in Latino providers who were able to deliver quality dental care in a culturally competent and sensitive manner to the Latino non-English speakers of her community. As she embarked into her life as a practitioner in a predominantly Latino neighborhood of southeastern Los Angeles, it was very clear that one of her roles as a dental professional was to mentor, guide, and take under her wing the Latino/ Chicano/ Hispanic students who demonstrated an interest in dentistry as a calling.
After 29 years in active private practice, she joined WesternU College of Dental Medicine in Pomona, California. As she joined academia, the need to mentor and guide underrepresented students pursuing dental education was evident. Our metrics of underrepresented students in the dental profession have barely moved and there is still a dire need to graduate providers who are able to serve the communities who cannot access oral health care. There is an urgent need to graduate providers that reflect the populations we serve. As faculty at WesternU, she has become deeply involved in community outreach, recruiting, mentoring, and guiding applicants to dentistry. Actively participating in curriculum design for the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) at WesternU CDM, presenting on successful application to dental school at California State San Bernardino Medical Pre-Health Conference, Latinos Dentistas Unidos, Los Angeles Dental Meeting, as well as being an advisor to the Student Hispanic Dental Association has allowed her to experience first-hand the need for proper guidance and mentoring of URM students in the pursuit of dentistry as a profession.
As WesternU CDM Coordinator of Diversity and Inclusion, together with our AdHoc DEI Task Force, has spearheaded several presentations that have been incorporated into the realm of equity in the delivery of our dental care as part of CDM Faculty Development Programs: Dr. Anne Kock “Health and Oral Care of the Transgender Community”. In response to our environment in 2020 we presented on “Microaggressions, biases, racism, and privileges” thru our WesternU White Coats 4 Black Lives Movement, and the most recent with Dr. Jodi Merriday on “All isms of our society and belonging” that included a panel presentation of students, clinical and administrative staff, and alumni, and for the very first time CDM presented with the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Scholarship. Nationally, she has also presented at the ADEA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workshop in Oregon on the different instruments that WesternU College of Dental Medicine has available to improve diversity in our program.
She serves as co-advisor for the Student Hispanic Dental Association and has served as a liaison for CARE Harbor LA, a monumental dental and medical free clinic since 2012. She organizes student and faculty volunteers to serve as providers in the dental clinic. Dr. Alarcon has dedicated her professional life to the recruitment, mentorship, and training of compassionate, highly skilled dental professionals that make a long-lasting impact on the communities they serve upon graduation.
In addition to dentistry, Dr. Alarcon’s personal enjoyments are traveling, photography, cooking, and spending quality time with her family.

Dr. Mohammad Khalifeh
TMJ
Bio
Dr. Khalifeh is a Los Angeles/Beverly Hills Dentist, Board Certified in Dental Implants by the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, Board Certified in Orofacial Pain, Master of Science in Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine and an assistant professor of clinical dentistry at the USC School of Dentistry, practicing state-of the-art dentistry for over 30 years.
Dr. Khalifeh excels in providing his patients with the best possible Cosmetic, Restorative, TMJ, Orofacial pain, Oral Medicine, Headaches, Sleep Apnea and non-invasive Implant Dentistry. As one of the few global Diplomats of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, Dr. Khalifeh demonstrates the highest competence, knowledge, ability, and proficiency in both the surgical and restorative aspects of implant dentistry as well as in critical aftercare. His Latest achievement was gaining a Master of Science degree in Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC and Successfully finishing the certification exams in Orofacial Pain by the American Board of Orofacial pain to be one of the very few dentists to hold two board certifications in the dental field.
Dr. Khalifeh believes that people look different, teeth look different too, so every patient receives a customized service. Dental patients should be treated as humans with dental problems not as teeth with problems. On the other hand, all patients are equally important and treated as friends and family. While working to improve the smiles of his patients, he keeps in mind that each face has a unique smile and shouldn’t be a copy of someone else smile. To Dr. Khalifeh, Hollywood smile is a beautiful smile that shows individuality and uniqueness.
When Dr. Khalifeh is not perfecting the art of dentistry, he’s looking for the perfect scene to capture, or moment to seize. He is a passionate photographer! His work of art is as impressive as his professional dental work. On a beautiful sunny day, Dr. Khalifeh, his wife, three boys and daughter enjoy a nice bike ride or a stroll on the strand.

Dr. Maikel Hermida-Rojas
Oral Surgery And Pharmacy
Bio
Graduated as a Dentistry Doctor, awarded with Gold Title Honors, at the University of Medical Sciences of Camagüey, Cuba. First degree as Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and General Dentistry specialist at the University of Medical Sciences of Camagüey, Cuba; second degree in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialist, awarded by the Cuban Minister of Public Health. Has a master’s degree in Community Oral Health, graduated at University of Medical Sciences of Camagüey, at Cuba. Master’s degree in Bioethics at Catholic University of Valencia, Spain. Doctor in Dental Sciences, graduated Best at the University of Medical Sciences of Havana, Cuba. Postdoctoral studies in Head and Neck Oncology, at University of Concepción, Chile, and Pontifical Javeriana University at Bogotá, Colombia. Has been an associate professor and dental researcher at Cuba for more than 15 years.
Has lived in Mexico since 2013, where he accredited his studies at National Autonomous University of Mexico. Is also certified by the Mexican Council of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Is an associated researcher and professor at Autonomous University of Baja California, also researcher and Postgraduate Coordinator at the Mexicali School of Dentistry, Research Team leader in Clinical and Epidemiological Dentistry, as well as president of the Technical Council of the Medicaltech Laboratories S.A. Company. Also received awards and distinctions for his dental, surgical teaching and scientific career, in addition to being a reference for two international medical science journals. Member of the Mexican Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and Member of the Western Social Science Association. Has published more than 45 academic and scientific posts, and has also been a speaker at national and international dental conferences and courses held in Canada, the United States of America, Mexico, Cuba, Honduras, Panama, Colombia, Chile, and Spain.

Dr. Guillermo Perez-Cortez
Orthodontics
Bio
Dental Surgeon Graduate at the Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexico. Orthodontics specialist, graduated at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Completed master’s studies in Dentistry at the Autonomous University of Nayarit. He obtained the scientific degree as Doctor in Dental Clinical Sciences at the Autonomous University of Baja California. He studied certification courses at the Roth Williams Center for Functional Occlusion and Orthognathic Surgery. Evaluated and Certified by the Mexican Council of Orthodontics with a private practice in Orthodontics from 1995 to the present day.
Professor and researcher at the Autonomous University of Baja California, member of the Postgraduate Studies Committee, teacher and coordinator of the Orthodontic Educational Program from 2014 to 2017, and is currently Dean of the Mexicali School of Dentistry at the Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexico. Team leader of researchers in Dental Biomaterials, member of the Care Program for patients with Cleft Lip and Palate serving the northwestern area of Mexico. Outstanding member of the Mexican Association of Orthodontics, member of the Association of Orthodontists at Baja California, has furthered his studies with certificates in Biomechanics with Mini Implants at Tijuana, BC, Lingual Orthodontics at New York, NY, Lingual Orthodontics at San Diego, CA, International Philosophy Professor at Brazil, Technical Coaching CCO at Cancún, QR. Has published more than 21 academic and scientific posts, member of the Editorial Board of the Scientific Journal of Current Orthodontics. Invited Teacher at several Orthodontic Educational Programs: at Autonomous University of Coahuila, Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Autonomous University of Ciudad Juárez, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla, University of Khon Kaen in Thailand, University of San Francisco de Quito, Ecuador. Member of the Latin American Orthodontic Association, American Orthodontic Association and Fellow of the World Federation of Orthodontics.

Dr. Lee Maddox
Buy a Practice
Bio
Dr. Maddox practiced Endodontics and maintained two offices in Orange County for nine years. During this time, his endodontic practice experienced a 700% increase in production during this nine year period. Dr. Maddox has served as a clinical instructor at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and Loma Linda School of Dentistry. Dr. Maddox has been providing legal services to Dentists for over ten years, helping thousands of doctors with their transition needs as well as general legal services. He has been in the dental transition business as a Practice Broker since 2010. After three successful years as a dental practice broker, Maddox Practice Group was acquired by Henry Schein PPT, the dental practice transition division of Henry Schein Dental, in February, 2013. After over 5 years as Vice-President and Regional Director for the western United States for Henry Schein, Dr. Maddox retired from Henry Schein and has re-opened his law practice. Dr. Maddox now enjoys practicing law full time in Costa Mesa and helping dentists, veterinarians, and medical professionals.

Dr. Lorna Flamer-Caldera
Oxygen Sedation and Pharmacology
Bio
Past president of the NYS Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), Dr. Lorna Flamer-Caldera has practiced dentistry for over 30 years. As a fellow of the American College of Dentists, the International Academy for Dental Facial Esthetics and the AGD, she is an active leader in organized dentistry. Dr. Flamer-Caldera is also a Chair of the Organization Committee of the Greater New York Dental Meeting and the Secretary-Treasurer of the ACD, New York Section. In her role as Assistant Professor at New York City College of Technology , Dr. Flamer-Caldera brought her extensive professional experience to the instruction of students in pharmacology, emergency management, and nitrous oxide sedation. She attained a BS degree from New York University and went on to graduate, with honors, from the University of Maryland Dental School in 1987.

Dr. Barett Andreasen
CBCT Interpretation
Bio
Barett Andreasen, DDS, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist
Dr. Barett Andreasen is an accomplished Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist, lecturer, and founder of the oral radiology practice, Radiodontics.
Dr. Andreasen completed his oral radiology residency at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he received advanced education and training in the interpretation and evaluation of CBCT imaging, panoramic radiographs, and other imaging modalities. Since then, he has worked with dentists and specialists across the nation to provide his expertise on CBCT imaging at both the national and local levels. His experiences have allowed him the opportunity to work closely with world-renowned specialists in Oral and Craniofacial Surgery, Orofacial Pain, Oral Pathology, Orthodontics, and other specialties.
Dr. Andreasen currently lives in South Jordan, Utah with his wife, three children, and dog.

Dr. Leonard Brenner
Smile Design
Bio
Dr. Leonard Brenner is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, and has been practicing dentistry for over thirty years. He delivers his procedures with the highest-quality care under a strict goal of total patient satisfaction.
He and his wife, Mallory, have three grown children. They spend their free time enjoying quality time with the family, playing tennis and golf, and listening to Frank Sinatra.

Dr. John Chao
Pinhole Surgical Technique
Bio
Dr. Chao’s involvement with the Post-Graduate Periodontics Program at the University of Buffalo, SUNY, speaks to the depth of his knowledge and experience in the scientific investigation of gum disease. As a Research Assistant Professor at this university, Dr. Chao is involved in a major study comparing the Pinhole Surgical Technique, his invention, to the standard treatment for gum recession called the Connective Tissue Graft. Dr. Chao will be one of the authors of this new study.
The main reason Dr. Chao has served as faculty at the USC School of Dentistry is that he believes the best way to learn more is to teach. He incorporates stringent academic standards of diagnosis and treatment in his private practice. For example, he examines each patient from every relevant aspect, which generally takes one hour or more. Dr. Chao always offers patients treatment plans that will suit their lifestyle, finances and their immediate or long-term needs. His patients are encouraged to choose freely the treatment plan that best suits their particular priorities and sensibilities.
Dr. Chao’s extensive and in-depth knowledge of every specialty allows him to diagnose your condition accurately and often offers you unique solutions that you would not easily find anywhere else. (See Special Qualifications below). His induction as a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry is just one example of the many awards and accreditations Dr. Chao has received over the years. He has a widespread reputation as a lecturer and teacher both to undergraduate and postgraduate students. (See Professional Associations and Lectures below).

Dr. William Bongiorno
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Bio
I graduated from Seton Hall University in 1969 with a degree of Bachelor of Arts in Biology. I then attend the New YorkUniversity College of Dentistry in 1969 and graduated in 1973. When I graduated I was appointed clinical instructor and also taught in preclinical dental anatomy and operative dentistry. I worked in various dental offices during my tenure while working at the college and then opened my own where I have been practicing for 43 years. I have had a number of offices with different demographics. I have had one in Williamsburg Brooklyn, Dyker HeightsBrooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan on the upper east side. During this time I have taken courses in periodontics, prosthodontics, endodontics, implant placement and restorative dentistry. In my practice, I concentrate on full mouth rehabilitation using all of these disciplines referring out implant placement.
I started teaching again in 2007 as a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Cariology and comprehensive care as a part-time employee of the college. I was then appointed as a full- time employee in the department of Cariology Comprehensive Care as a clinical instructor.
I am on the Board of trustees of the Second District Dental Society, the Organizing Committee of the GreaterNew York Dental Meeting ( GNYDM ) and current President for the last 3 years of the Alumni Association of New YorkUniversity College of Dentistry.

Dr. Periklis Proussaefs
Adult Oral Sedation & Full Arch Implant
Bio
Dr. Periklis Proussaefs graduated in 1993 from the University of Athens School of Dentistry by earning a DDS degree. He subsequently earned a certificate in Implant Dentistry, a specialty certificate in Prosthodontics, and a Master’s degree in Prosthodontics all from Loma Linda University (LLU). He is a diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, a Clinical Associate Professor at Loma Linda University, and a Professor at the Berlin School of Health Sciences. Dr. Proussaefs has received numerous national and international level awards for his research and clinical innovations in dental implants and prosthodontics like the Hickley award by the Journal of prosthetic dentistry twice in 2002 and 2016, the Tylman award by the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics, the Robert James achievement award by LLU in 2015, and many others. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles in the dental literature, and lectured nationally and internationally in topics related to Implant dentistry and prosthodontics. Dr. Proussaefs has been an editorial Board member and reviewer for several scientific journals with high impact factor such as the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, the Journal of Oral implantology, the International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative dentistry, the Journal of Prosthodontics, and many others. He has been maintaining a private practice in Ventura, California with emphasis in implant and prosthetic dentistry, and a private continuing education facility, the California Institute of Dental Education (CIDE) where he offers training and certification courses to dentists in topics related to adult oral sedation and full arch implant reconstruction. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, reading, snorkeling, movies, and spending time with his wife and two kids Arian and Athena.

Michael Antosy
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Bio
Michael Antosy is a National Speaker and Practice Growth Consultant at MyAdvice. Mr. Antosy has consulted with thousands of dental practices since 2010, and his counsel and guidance have been transformative in making his client’s lives better by saving them time, earning more profit, and helping to make his practices more competitive in their markets. Michael has presented before at conferences like AAID, AACD, LVI, and many others. His passion is for helping his clients succeed! Michael is also married to the world’s most beautiful dental hygienist and has an acute understanding of how the best practices are not just marketed, but operated as well.

Robbie Antosy
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Bio
Robbie Antosy has been working as a digital growth consultant in the dental world for nearly a decade. Having presented before at numerous dental conferences (AAID, AACD, GNYDM), he is well-versed in understanding the specific needs and challenges most dental practices face in growing their practice. In short, he prides himself in helping small businesses become more profitable through proper guidance paired with cutting-edge technologies, provided by MyAdvice. When he’s not consulting with dental practices, you can find him chasing around his two children under 3!

Dr. Mo Kang
Endodontics
Bio
Dr. Mo K. Kang, DDS, PhD is a graduate of D.D.S./Ph.D. dual degree program at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he also received specialty training in Endodontics. Dr. Kang has been appointed faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry since 2003 and is currently Professor and Jack Weichman Endowed Chair of the Section of Endodontics at UCLA. Dr. Kang is a diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics (ABE) and has served as Associate Editor of the Journal of Endodontics. Dr. Kang is actively engaged in research programs in oral cancer, oral inflammation, and pulp regeneration studies at UCLA with more than 100 scientific publications, book chapters, and review articles in various areas of his studies.

Dr. Antonio Estrada
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Bio
Antonio Estrada. Born in El Centro California, and raised in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, where Dr. Estrada received his Dental Degree from Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC), Mexicali campus. Later received his Masters degree in Orthodontics from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon (UANL), in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Always involved in all matters of his dental profession as well as the practice of Orthodontics in Baja California, has been president of the Mexicali Dental College and the Orthodontists College of Baja California.
Also, on a national level, has participated in many positions in the Mexican Dental Association, where currently is the secretary of foreign relations, and in the Mexican Association of Orthodontists, with many positions over the years.
Internationally, Dr. Estrada is currently a member of the Education Committee of the World Dental Federation (FDI).
Also, Dr. Estrada is passionate about transmitting the knowledge to students, as he is a teacher in the field of biomechanics and clinical instructor of the Orthodontics program at Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (UABC), Mexicali Campus.

Robbie Antosy
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Bio
Eiman Rahnama, CEO of Safety Compliance Experts, an AGD PACE Provider and Consultant since 2006, works with dental and medical practices, consulting and implementing OSHA and HIPAA guidelines. Safety Compliance Experts have worked with more than 2000 offices and delivered more than 1000 lectures to more than 10,000 dentists, medical professionals, and their staff. Their goal is to safeguard the thousands of dental and medical offices consulted to assist all clients to be more efficient, business-savvy, customer-service oriented, and therefore, thriving in their business and careers.
As CEO of Safety Compliance Experts, he and his staff assist practices in implementing OSHA and HIPAA, providing OSHA, bloodborne pathogens, and HIPAA training, and are based in Glendale, CA.

Dr. Jon Julian
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Bio
Dr. Mo K. Kang, DDS, PhD is a graduate of D.D.S./Ph.D. dual degree program at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where he also received specialty training in Endodontics. Dr. Kang has been appointed faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry since 2003 and is currently Professor and Jack Weichman Endowed Chair of the Section of Endodontics at UCLA. Dr. Kang is a diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics (ABE) and has served as Associate Editor of the Journal of Endodontics. Dr. Kang is actively engaged in research programs in oral cancer, oral inflammation, and pulp regeneration studies at UCLA with more than 100 scientific publications, book chapters, and review articles in various areas of his studies.

Dr. Sadegh Namazikhah
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Bio
Dr. Namazikhah completed his endodontics specialty program at USC School of Dentistry. Following his training he started teaching at USC. He served as professor of Endodontics where he also served as chair of Endodontics department and director of specialty program. Dr. Namazikhah has published numerous researches and given national and international lectures on the field of Endodontics.
Amongst his many achievements
-Member of Board of Advisor at USC Dental School
-President of Century Club at USC School of Dentistry
-President Elect of USC Dental Alumni Association
-President of Southern California Academy of Endodontists
-President of LA Dental Society
-Honorary Chair of CDA Foundation Friends
-Chair: Council of Volunteer Placement CDA
-Chair or Nomination Committee CDA
-CA Dental Association Trustee
-Fellow International college of Dentists
-Fellow American College of Dentists
-Fellow Pierre Fauchard Academy

Dr. Yaara Berdan
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Bio
Yaara Berdan is the Co-Chair of the Department of Endodontics and Periodontics and the Director of Predoctoral Endodontics at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC. Following graduation from UCSF she completed a residency in pediatric dentistry at Harvard After two years of pediatric dental practice in the Boston area she returned to school to complete an endodontics residency at the University of Illinois in Chicago. She was an associate at two endodontic offices for before transitioning to academia 12 years ago. She is a subject matter expert for the California Dental Board, reviewing cases under investigation to evaluate whether professional standards were met. She is a member of the Educational Affairs Committee of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) and is an officer for the Endodontics Section at the American Dental Education Association. She has lectured at local and national meetings and coauthored a chapter in Ingle’s Endodontics on pediatric endodontics.
She recently earned her MBA from the USC Marshall School of Business.

Dr. Jorge Corro Rodriguez Oaxaca
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Bio
Business Engineer from the Universidad Iberoamericana Puebla and Master in Finance from the Universidad Panamericana Ciudad de Mexico. General Director of CEUNI Plantel Valsequillo in the City of Puebla and responsible for the economic, administrative and language degrees
Founder and CEO of Gkombat Mexico.
Lecturer in the area of personal and corporate finance business. Entrepreneurship, production processes, financial engineering, health and education companies, business motivation, among others.

Dr. Jinny Bender
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Bio
Dr. Jinny Bender is a clinical dentist at Glidewell. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Berkeley, she went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. She practiced general dentistry for 27 years before joining Glidewell in 2022. Dr. Bender is a member of the ADA, CDA, and Orange County Dental Society.

Jon Melton
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Bio
Mr. Melton has traveled nationally and internationally for over 30 years teaching people about business which included the necessity of setting the business up correctly as well as marketing the business to maximize profits. Throughout those 3 decades he has also created and managed several small businesses including a printing company, juice company, restoration company and consulting company. Mr. Melton has extensive experience in the medical field from the operating room to the operatory. The culmination of this experience has helped him realize the critical necessity of protecting the assets of the business and more importantly the owners.
He and his wife Julie have been married for 39 years. They love traveling, the outdoors, water skiing, 4 wheeling and all sports. Mr. Melton played football for BYU and football and basketball for Fullerton College. They are the parents of 5 children and 16 grandchildren.

Dr. Laura Diaz
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Bio
Dr. Diaz Graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry of the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico, in 1974. She was the director of the Faculty of Dentistry of the University De La Salle Bajío in 2021. Dr. Diaz was the Head of the Department of Diagnosis and Oral Medicine at the De La Salle Bajío University School of Dentistry, from 1991 to 2017.