World-Class Instructors Woodland Hills, CA

Dr. Homa Zadeh is an internationally renowned periodontist recognized for his clinical and scientific expertise. Dr. Zadeh is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Implant Surgery. He has served as tenured associate professor of the post-doctoral periodontology (2012 to 2019), as well as Chair of Periodontology Section (2003-2006) at USC Ostrow School of Dentistry. Dr. Zadeh graduated from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) with a Bachelor of Science degree, followed by Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from USC Ostrow School of Dentistry. He completed post-doctoral clinical training in periodontology, as well as a PhD degree in immunology, at the University of Connecticut Health Center (UCHC) School of Dental Medicine and School of Medicine, respectively. Dr. Zadeh has lectured nationally and internationally in over 30 countries at prestigious conferences on topics ranging from aesthetics to minimally invasive periodontal and implant surgery, as well as tissue engineering. Dr. Zadeh served as president of the Western Society of Periodontology (WSP) in 2017, which is the largest regional periodontology society spanning the 16 western US states and Canadian provinces. Dr. Zadeh is the innovator of the VISTA technique recognized around the world as one of the most effective methods for the treatment of gingival recession. He has also innovated many concepts and devices, which have been patented and developed into products in clinical use in many countries. Dr. Zadeh has an extensive publication track, including over 100 publications in peer-reviewed journals and numerous book chapters. He serves as an editorial reviewer for many scientific journals. He served as a chartered scientific reviewer to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and chaired a scientific panel at the NIH Center for Scientific Review. Dr. Zadeh has served as the director of USC International Periodontal and Implant Symposium. Dr. Zadeh is the recipient of many honors and awards, including outstanding teaching award and outstanding service award from USC Ostrow School of Dentistry and many research grants. He is an active member of the American Academy of Periodontology, Western Society of Periodontology (WSP), Academy of Osseointegration (AO), American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), American Dental Association® (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), San Fernando Valley Dental Association (SFVDA) and Santa Barbara Ventura Dental Association (SBVDA).

Dr. Ali Zadeh has over 35 years of experience as a periodontist. He completed his post-doctoral periodontology clinical training at New York University (NYU). Upon completion of his training, he remained at NYU as a full-time faculty for five years. He subsequently served as a clinical assistant professor at the University of Southern California (USC). Dr. Zadeh is a pioneer in the field of implant surgery as one of the first periodontists to perform osseointegrated surgical implant therapy in Los Angeles beginning in the 1980’s. He has decades of experience with surgical reconstructive therapies for bone and soft tissue therapy for teeth and dental implants. He is an active member of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), Academy of Osseointegration (AO), American Dental Association® (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), and Santa Barbara Ventura Dental Association (SBVDA).

Dr. Cooper formerly served as Program Director of Advanced Prosthodontics and Stallings Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics (ACP), a former ACP President and received the ACP’s 2004 Clinician/Researcher Award. He also was named the recipient of the 2009 International Association for Dental Research Distinguished Scientist Award for Prosthodontics and Implantology. Dr. Cooper has one of the strongest international reputations for innovation, perspective and patient-oriented research and clinical care in the world. He has led an innovative team in translational research evaluating the role of a variety of pro- and anti-inflammatory bio-markers as well as innovative medical device designs to create research-oriented clinical solutions for relevant patient care. After earning his DDS from New York University, Dr. Cooper went on to earn a PhD from the University of Rochester, New York, and a Certificate in Prosthodontics from the Eastman Dental Center in Rochester. Later, he completed a two-year research fellowship at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in Bethesda, Maryland.

Dr. Tanavoli is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Implant Surgery. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at USC in 2001 and completed post-doctoral residency in periodontology in 2004. In addition, she earned a Master of Science degree (MS) in craniofacial biology (CBY). She focuses her practice on regenerative therapies for periodontal and dental implant reconstruction.

Dr. Seiko Min is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Implant Surgery. He currently serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and the director of the Periodontology Preceptorship Program. Dr. Min has completed post-doctoral periodontology training at USC Ostrow School of Dentistry, where he also earned the Master of Science degree in Craniofacial Biology. He had previously earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and PhD degree in bone biology at Nihon University, Tokyo, Japan. He has been received prestigious awards by American Academy of Periodontology, Academy of Osseointegration, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Osteology Foundation. He has published many scientific papers and is an internationally renowned lecturer, best known for his work in the field of soft tissue management and his research on new technologies in periodontology and implant dentistry.

Dr. Daftary received his DDS from the National University of Iran and has completed post-doctoral training in prosthodontics at Boston University (BU). He has held a position as an assistant professor at New York University (NYU) and was associate professor and chair of the Department of Fixed Prosthodontics at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry from 1982 to 1992. Dr. Daftary has lectured nationally and internationally on the topics of aesthetics and implant prosthodontics. He is a pioneer in the field of implant dentistry and has developed and patented more than 20 devices, which have been utilized in the development of hundreds of products commonly used in implant dentistry, including the Anatomic Abutment and Bio-Esthetic System and AIS Implant System. He also has numerous publications on different topics in prosthodontics. Dr. Daftary is a member of multiple national and local dental organizations.

Dr. Wallace serves as a clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and Columbia University with decades of research and education in post-doctoral periodontology programs. Dr. Wallace earned his dental degree, as well as completed post-doctoral education in periodontology at Boston University Goldman School of Dentistry. Dr. Wallace is universally recognized as an expert in maxillary sinus augmentation because of his decades of research and education in this field. Dr. Wallace was the recipient of Master Clinician Award (2013) from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). He has been in private practice in periodontology in Waterbury, Connecticut.

Dr. Rojas is Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He is the Founder and Director of the Mediterranean Prosthodontic Institute and maintains a private practice limited to dental implant surgery and prosthodontics in Castellon, Spain. Dr. Rojas has innovated some of the most anatomically realistic models available through his company (Bone Models) and has designed educationally-valuable simulated exercises, which he has conducted in dozens of countries around the world to clinicians. Dr. Rojas received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at the University Javeriana School of Dentistry in Bogota, Colombia. He received a Doctorate in Buccal Surgery and his University Specialty Degrees in both Oral Medicine and Implant Surgery at the University Complutense in Madrid. He received his Certificate training in Oral Surgery at Gregorio Marañon Hospital in Madrid, Spain. Dr. Rojas completed his post-doctoral specialty degree in prosthodontics along with a Master of Sciences degree in prosthodontics, and a Fellowship in Oral Implantology at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, USA. He is a Diplomate and Mastership of the ICOI-IPS, and he has the homologation by the European Jury for Implantology and Oral Rehabilitation. His major research interest includes esthetic management in complex dental implant cases in immediate placement and immediate loading protocols. He has published extensively on these topics in peer-reviewed journals.

Pascal Valentini is Adjunct Associate Professor of Implant Dentistry at Loma Linda University. Dr Valentini has earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Paris VII. He has further obtained a certificate of Oral Implantology and later served as Clinical Assistant professor in the Department of Oral Implantology between 1992 and 1996. Dr. Valentini has served as president of the European Academy of Osseointegration (EAO). He currently serves as Director of the European Post-Graduate Oral Implantology Program at the University of Corsica, in Corte, France, and for the University of Liege in Belgium. Dr. Valentini is an internationally recognized expert in maxillary sinus augmentation, due to his extensive research and publication in this field. He also engages in private practice focused on implant and regenerative surgery in Paris.

Dr. Alireza Moshaverinia is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics and a tenure track assistant professor at the UCLA School of Dentistry, Division of Advanced Prosthodontics. Alireza received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 2004 from Iran. He has a Master of Science degree in Dental Biomaterials (2009) from the Ohio State University, College of Dentistry. He completed advanced clinical education in Prosthodontics and earned his PhD in Craniofacial Biology from Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC (2012). He has published more than 75 papers in peer-reviewed journals on dental materials, implant dentistry and stem cell-mediated tissue engineering. He serves as the editorial review board member for several scientific journals such as Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Dr. Moshaverinia is the recipient of several awards in recognition of his scientific achievements including: John Sharry Award (2012) and GSK Prosthodontist Innovator Award from the American College of Prosthodontists in 2013 and 2016, NIH Career Development Award (2014), IADR Innovation in Oral Care Award (2015), IADR Academy of Osseointegration innovation in Implant Sciences Award, Academy of Osseointegration (AO) Research Grant Award (2016), and Peter Geistlich Research Award (Osteo Science Foundation) in 2018. Dr. Moshaverinia has received the Discovery Inception Award from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). More recently, he received the prestigious IADR Young Investigator Award from International Association for Dental Research (IADR) and American College of Prosthodontists Distinguished Researcher Award. Dr. Moshaverinia directs the Laboratory for Biomaterials Innovation and Tissue Engineering (BITE) at Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, UCLA School of Dentistry. His NIH funded research projects are focused on the development of novel biomaterials and to study the role of the biomaterials in the cross talk between stem cells and host immune system in stem cell-mediated tissue engineering. Dr. Moshaverinia lectures nationally and internationally on various topics such as dental ceramics, implant dentistry and multidisciplinary treatment planning.

Dr. Shahram Ghanaati has triple doctorate degrees in medicine, dentistry and science (MD, DMD, PhD) from Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz and Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt. Germany. He has a degree of Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and is leading the Head and Neck Oncology section at the University Cancer Center, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt. He is an Associate Professor at the Clinic of Oral, Cranio-Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery and a faculty member at the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt. He is the Chief Senior Physician and Deputy Director of the Clinic. Dr. Ghanaati does oncological plastic reconstructive surgery and implant surgery for head and neck cancer patients and carries out clinical teaching and histological research. He is an international speaker and lectures extensively on understanding tissue regeneration, the inflammatory pattern during biomaterial-based tissue regeneration and the use of PRF in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. He has published over 90 papers in peer-reviewed journals and achieved an H-index of 20 (Web of Science) together with currently more than 250 impact points and has a series of translational studies (preclinical and clinical) with special focus on biomaterial-related cellular reaction and regeneration capacity. He has extensively studied the inflammatory pattern and regeneration capacity of biomaterials with respect to different physio-chemical properties. He has performed research and accompanied the development of over 10 biomaterials from bench to the clinic and received 510 (k) in USA for developing a biomaterial-based technique for extraoral skin regeneration. Dr. Ghanaati is a spokesperson of the German chapter of YSF (Young Scientist Forum) of the ESB (European Society for Biomaterials) and he has received the Isiah Lew Memorial research award from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry in recognition of his important contribution to research in dental implantology. Presently, he is a research consultant for the world’s leading manufacturer of biomaterials.

Dr. Julio Moreno completed his dental education and earned BDS degree at Complutense University of Madrid, Spain (2015). Dr. Moreno completed Advanced Education in Periodontology at the University of Southern California (USC), Ostrow School of Dentistry (2019). In addition, he achieved a Master of Science degree in Craniofacial Biology at USC. His thesis project was entitled “Patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) and analgesic use of three coronal advancement methods for the treatment of multiple gingival recession defects.” He is currently a resident in the Implant Periodontal-Prosthodontics Program at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.

Dr. Shoko Sato completed her dental education and earned DDS degree at Shoa University of Tokyo, Japan. Dr. Sato completed Advanced Education in Periodontology at the University of Southern California (USC), Ostrow School of Dentistry (2014). In addition, she achieved a Master of Science degree in Craniofacial Biology at USC. Her thesis project was entitled “Two-dimensional analysis of root coverage outcomes of three coronal advancement methods for the treatment of multiple gingival recession defects.” She is currently in full time private practice limited to periodontology and implant surgery in Seattle, Washington.

Dr. Goldberg was born and raised in Mexico City, where he received his dental degree from the Technological University of Mexico in 2011. Determined to advance his knowledge in the field of oral rehabilitation, esthetics and implant therapy, Dr. Goldberg continued at the University of Southern California (USC) Ostrow School of Dentistry with a three-year full-time residency in Advance Prosthodontics, where he was awarded Prosthodontics Certification. Dr. Goldberg developed an exceptional interest in the field of Orofacial pain and Oral Medicine, and he was offered the opportunity to pursue a three-year Master’s Degree program in this field at USC, graduating in 2015. Dr. Goldberg’s continuous effort to achieve excellence earned him the highly regarded ITI scholarship with the opportunity to complete a one-year fellowship program in implant dentistry at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Goldberg has authored multiple articles published in international journals and lectured internationally on topics of interdisciplinary treatment planning, esthetics and full mouth rehabilitations. Presently, he is in full time private practice in Mexico City, Mexico.

Dr. Marcelo Freire is an associate professor of the Genomic Medicine and Infectious Disease Department at the J. Craig Venter Institute. He is also an adjunct professor of infectious diseases for the School of Medicine at the University of California, San Diego. He received his clinical Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He later received his PhD in craniofacial biology, focusing on immune engineering for tissue regeneration, from USC. He completed his Certificate in Periodontology and Doctor of Medical Sciences in oral biology from Harvard University. He completed postdoctoral research training in immunology at the Forsyth Institute and was the award winner of the Balint Orban Memorial Award from the Academy of Periodontology. Dr. Freire previously served as a faculty member at Harvard and the Forsyth Institute and is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology.

As both a scientist and clinician, Dr. Freire’s research focuses on the role of the human microbiome in modulating chronic inflammation. His current NIH-funded research program focuses on finding immune signals that are common to oral and systemic chronic inflammation present in diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and periodontal diseases. By learning from complex host-microbial interactions, Dr. Freire’s team is shedding light on novel diagnostics for chronic inflammation and novel therapeutics in tissue regeneration. Currently, Dr. Freire serves as the president of the Clinical and Translational Science Network of the International Association for Dental Research.

Alfonso Gil obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, with highest honors, from the University of the Basque Country (2008-2013). He obtained his Master of Science degree and advanced periodontology-implantology certificate from the University of Southern California (USC) (2013-2016), where he received a scholarship from Proclinic Dental Company for his research project on soft tissue augmentation. He obtained a certificate in advanced surgical implant dentistry from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) (2016-2017). He became board certified and a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology in 2017 and currently maintains his diplomate status.

Dr. Gil is now attending the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Zurich, where he will receive five years of post-graduate education in fixed and removable prosthodontics and dental material sciences. He obtained his PhD, with highest honor, at the University International of Catalunya in November 2019 with the doctoral thesis project “Three-dimensional volumetric analysis of root coverage and gingival volume gain of multiple recession-type defects treated by Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access (VISTA).” His research focuses on the treatment of peri-implant diseases, soft tissue augmentation of teeth, and implants and fixed prosthodontics.

Dr. Senichi Suzuki is the current 2019-2020 president of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), which is the largest international academy in the field of implant dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and PhD degree at Nihon University, Tokyo, Japan. He is the author of multiple textbooks in immediate loading, published by Quintessence, available both in Japanese and English. He has special expertise in photofunctionalization of implants to enhance osseointegration, in particular for immediate loading. Dr. Suzuki practices dentistry with a focus on implant dentistry in Tokyo, Japan.

Dr. Giulio Rasperini serves as Associate Professor of Periodontology, University of Milan, Italy, and Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Michigan. Dr. Rasperini’s research has focused on periodontal regeneration with extensive publication track in this area. He is an active member of the Italian Society of Periodontology, the European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, and is an ITI fellow. He serves on the Editorial Boards for several publications, including the International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, and the Journal of Implant and Advanced Clinical Dentistry. He maintains a private practice specialized in periodontology and implant therapy in Milan.

Dr. Kia Karimi received his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from University of Szeged in Hungary in 2010 and his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the Colorado School of Dental Medicine in 2014. His postgraduate training includes one year studying advanced clinical training in restorative dentistry from the UCLA School of Dentistry and three additional years in an Advanced Prosthodontics Residency at the USC School of Dentistry, which he completed in 2019.

He has been named “The Most Accomplished Alumni” in 2015 by the University of Szeged and was awarded the “Max Sosin Scholarship” in 2017 and 2019, and the “Howard Landesman Scholarship” in 2018 by USC. He lectures nationally and internationally on cosmetic and implant dentistry and is a peer reviewer for dental journals such as Clinical Case Reports.

A board eligible prosthodontist, Dr. Karimi’s practice is focused on full-mouth rehabilitations, implant dentistry, and minimally invasive cosmetic and adhesive dentistry. Dr. Karimi is a faculty member at the UCLA School of Dentistry in the Postdoctoral Restorative Program where he teaches cosmetic and restorative dentistry.

Prof. Maurício Araújo is a periodontist working both in private practice in Rio de Janeiro and as the chairman of the Periodontology and Implant Research Unit at Universidade Estadual de Maringá in Paraná, Brazil. He completed his PhD at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1998. He has, together with his co-workers, published groundbreaking research in the fields of ridge alterations following tooth extraction, ridge preservation, bone formation in extraction sockets and immediate implant placement. He is an Osteology Foundation Honorary Board Member, ITI Fellow, former ITI Chairman in Brazil and ITI Research committee member. He is also a member of the editorial board of several scientific journals.

Dr. Chen began his undergraduate study in Biomedical Engineering at UCLA. He completed his dental degree at the Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC and then went on to specialize in dental anesthesiology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and UPMC.

Dr. Chen has published in numerous journals including JADA and CDA Journals. He has an Assistant Professor appointment at the Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC. He has been featured on Dr. 90210 and Dr. Drew’s Life Changers.

Dr. Rebekka Hueber is an accredited specialist in oral surgery, biological dentistry and ceramic implantology and the leader of the dental department of the Swiss BioHealth Clinic in Switzerland. She is certified and specialized in autologous bone augmentation techniques combined with the use of ceramic implants and is a certified team sports dentist of the German Society for Sports Dentistry. Dr. Hueber is a well-respected international lecturer, key opinion leader, educator in the application of ceramic implants and biological dentistry, and author of several articles and publications in recognized journals.

Dr. Bach Le completed his specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Oregon Health Sciences University. He is currently Clinical Associate Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC where he has been an active faculty member since 2000. Dr. Le has lectured internationally on bone regeneration and dental implant-related surgery and has taught on six continents around the world. He has published extensively in scientific texts and professional peer-reviewed journals. His primary focus has been in hard and soft tissue regeneration for improving esthetic outcomes. He has been a main podium speaker at numerous national organizations, including the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the Academy of Osseointegration, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the American College of Prosthodontists, the Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontists and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Le was inducted as an Honorary Member of the American College of Prosthodontists in 2014 and is a recipient of the Charles E. English Award in Clinical Science for “the most significant article” published in the Journal of Implant Dentistry for 2008. Dr. Le is a Diplomate of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Society of Anesthesiologist and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Le holds Fellowship in the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists and the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

Dr. Baldwin Marchack earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery credentials from the USC School of Dentistry in 1971 and went on to complete MBA studies at UCLA in 1989.

In 2012, the American College of Prosthodontists inducted Dr. Marchack as an honorary member based on his vast experience, professional presentation, published works and other stringent criteria. He has the distinction of being the last general dentist to earn this recognition.

Dr. Marchack has taught restorative implant dentistry continuing education courses at USC and serves on the Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC Board of Councilors. He serves as course director for a training program in comprehensive surgical and restorative implant dentistry at the USC Hong Kong program, and he chairs the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry’s Editorial Council.

Dr. Marchack has served as president of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, the American Prosthodontic Society, the Pacific Coast Society for Prosthodontics and the Osseointegration Study Club of Southern California. He is fellow of the International College of Dentists, the American College of Dentists and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. He is a founding member of the Academy for Excellence in Dentistry in Los Angeles, California. He is also a member of the Academy of Osseointegration, the Academy of Prosthodontics, the International College of Prosthodontists and the Newport Harbor Academy of Dentistry.

Dr. Kathy Omrani is a Board-Certified orofacial pain specialist at the Headache, Orofacial Pain and Sleep Apnea Program at the Cedars-Sinai Pain Center. She is also a fellow of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain. Dr. Omrani’s area of expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment for chronic pain in the head, neck and temporomandibular joint. Dr. Omrani earned her bachelor’s degree in biology cum laude and her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She won a research award for an outstanding project in her senior year and received exceptional performance reports in many subjects throughout her schooling. She then completed a one-year residency in advanced education in general dentistry at UCLA. Dr. Omrani returned to UCLA and the field of pain management and completed a two-year residency in orofacial pain and dental sleep medicine, where she served as chief resident. During the residency, she rotated in neurology and anesthesia-based pain management at the Cedars-Sinai Pain Center. She currently serves as a lecturer in the Department of Oral Medicine and Orofacial Pain at UCLA, where she teaches the residents. She is the former co-director of the Orofacial Pain mini residency at UCLA. Her research focuses on headache and neuropathic pain, and she has lectured extensively on these topics. Dr. Omrani is a member in several organizations, including the American Academy of Orofacial Pain, the American Board of Orofacial Pain, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, the Headache Cooperative of the Pacific and the American Headache Society.

Anton Sculean is professor and chairman of the Department of Periodontology and currently the Executive Director of the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Berne, Switzerland. He qualified in 1990 at the Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary, and has received his postgraduate training at the Universities Münster, Germany and Royal Dental College Aarhus, Denmark. He received his Habilitation (PhD) at the University of Saarland in Homburg, Germany. From 2004 to 2008 he was appointed as Head of the Department of Periodontology and program director of the EFP accredited postgraduate program at the Radboud University in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. In December 2008, he was appointed Professor and Chairman of the Department of Periodontology of the University of Bern, Switzerland.

Professor Sculean has been a recipient of many research awards, including, among others, the Anthony Rizzo Young Investigator Award of the Periodontal Research Group (PRG) of the International Association for Dental Research (IADR), the IADR/PRG Award in Regenerative Periodontal Medicine and the Distinguished Teacher Award of the European Orthodontic Society. He received honorary doctorates (Dr. h.c.) from the Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary, and from the Victor Babes University in Timisoara, Romania. He has authored more than 300 articles in peer-reviewed journals and 30 chapters in periodontal textbooks and has delivered more than 450 lectures at national and international meetings. He is the editor of the book Periodontal Regenerative Therapy published by Quintessence and guest editor of the Periodontology 2000 Issue published in 2015, entitled “Wound Healing in Periodontology and Implantology”. Professor Sculean serves as Editor-in-Chief of Periodontology 2000, as well as on the editorial board of more than 12 dental journals, including the Journal of Dental Research, the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, the Clinical Oral Implants Research Journal, and the Journal of Periodontal Research and Clinical Advances in Periodontics. He is also an associate editor of Quintessence International and Clinical Oral Investigations, a section editor of BMC Oral Health, and the Editor-in-Chief of Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry.

Professor Sculean served as president of the Periodontal Research Group of the IADR from 2009 to 2010, past president of the Swiss Society of Periodontology, President of the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) from 2018 to 2019, and President Elect of the International Academy of Periodontology (IAP) from 2018 to 2020. Very recently, he was elected as board member of the Osteology Foundation and member of the Workshop Committee of the EFP. His research interests focus on periodontal wound healing, regenerative and plastic-aesthetic periodontal therapy, use of antibiotics and antiseptics, and novel approaches, such as lasers and photodynamic therapy, in the treatment of periodontal and peri-implant infections.

Dr. Abdi Sameni graduated from the USC School of Dentistry in 1991. He has been a member of the USC clinical faculty since 1998. He is a former senior faculty for the Esthetic Selective program, which emphasizes a biomimetic approach to restorative and esthetic care. He was the original director of the USC Advanced Esthetic Dentistry Continuum for the portion relating to indirect porcelain veneers. He currently is the course director for an intensive lecture and hands-on course relating to indirect bonded porcelain restoration, and he is the chairman and developer of the USC International Restorative Dental Symposium for the USC School of Dentistry.

Dr. Sameni lectures nationally and internationally on topics related to interdisciplinary dentistry, digital photography and its applications for dentistry, and various aspects of biomimetic and esthetic dentistry. Dr. Sameni is a past president of the USC Dental Alumni Association, past president of the USC Century Club and a member of the Board of Counselors for the USC School of Dentistry. Dr. Sameni was recently appointed as the representative for the School of Dentistry to serve on the Board of Governors for the USC Alumni Association. He maintains a private practice in West Los Angeles, where he emphasizes comprehensive restorative dentistry, including implant reconstruction and esthetic dentistry.

Dr. Sameni has a conservative, non-invasive approach to dental treatment and esthetic restoration — he believes least is best. His philosophy is to work on the fewest teeth possible to achieve the patient’s required results. In particular, his understanding of natural beauty and expert attention to detail make beautiful smiles look natural and age appropriate. He goes to great lengths to allow patients to see and feel their smiles before they commit to a restorative procedure. He is personable and takes a personalized approach to each patient and their needs and concerns.

As a practitioner in the field of cosmetic and restorative dentistry, he is not only an expert dentist but an artist as well. The mechanics of cosmetic dentistry, although challenging, also require an artist’s eye when restoring someone’s smile to meet their vision of what their smile should look like. Thus, Dr. Sameni’s philosophy is centered in the meeting of his vision and the vision of each patient to achieve the best possible dental outcome for that patient. That is what sets him apart from his peers.

Dr. Cristina Sola is an American Board Certified orthodontist who has been trained extensively both in Europe and the United States.

Dr. Sola began her professional pursuits at Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), summa cum laude. She completed her orthodontic residency at the University of Southern California’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry. During her last year of residency, she was honored to be named one of the top three Best Orthodontic Residents of the Year in the United States by the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, where she got to publish one of her cases. Dr. Sola has extensive training in all aspects of orthodontics for kids, including Phase I and Phase II treatment, adult orthodontics, airway treatments and digitally customized treatment.

She has participated in multiple dental meetings as a lecturer. She works as a clinical advisor for INBRACE (digitally customized lingual braces) training and gives advice to other orthodontists. She has expertise in using lingual orthodontics.

Dr. Andrea Ravidà finished his periodontal specialty training in graduate periodontics at the University of Michigan in 2021. Since graduation, he has been teaching as a full-time clinical faculty member at the University of Michigan. He teaches topics related to periodontal/implant disease and implant therapy to graduate periodontal residents in clinics and in the classroom. He also conducts clinical research focusing on peri-implantitis and short implants. Dr. Ravidà has published more than 50 peer-reviewed articles and conference abstracts/presentations related to periodontology and implant therapy. He is section editor of the International Journal of Oral Implantology and serves as a reviewer for multiple international journals covering periodontics and implant dentistry. He has received several other awards from the nation’s authorities in periodontics and implantology (the American Academy of Periodontology and the Academy of Osseointegration), including the Schoor Research Award (2020), the Educator Scholarship (2021) and the William Laney Award (2020). He was also listed as a finalist of the Balint Orban competition (2020).

Dr. Diego Velásquez is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and is an adjunct clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan in the department of periodontology and oral medicine. He is a graduate of the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana School of Dentistry in Colombia. He was awarded an Ambassadorial Scholarship by the Rotary Foundation that allowed him to complete his postdoctoral training in prosthodontics and dental materials at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, where he also received a master’s degree in the science of dentistry. He went on to complete a residency in periodontics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

He was and is currently a member of the peer review panels of the Journal of Periodontology and Clinical Advances in Periodontics as well as a former consultant of The International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry. He is part of the Expert Council of the Osteology Foundation; has published a number of articles on prosthodontics, periodontics, microsurgery and dental implant related topics; and has lectured nationally and internationally. He is the co-editor of the book titled “Microsurgery in Periodontal and Implant Dentistry — Concepts and Applications.”

Dr. Velásquez is a recipient of the prestigious Dr. and Mrs. Gerald M. Kramer Scholarship for Excellence award of the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation. His private-practice-based research activity has been recognized by the American Academy of Periodontology with the Clinical Research Award in 2017 and 2021. He is the former president of the Midwest Society of Periodontology, Michigan Periodontal Association and the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation.

Dr. Leandro Chambrone currently serves as an adjunct associate professor in the Department of Periodontics at Penn Dental Medicine. He holds extensive experience in didactic teaching and clinical training of predoctoral and postgraduate (MSc and PhD) students. His first exposure to teaching was during his postgraduate training (2007-2012), when Dr. Chambrone worked with predoctoral students as a clinical supervisor and lecturer. Upon completion of this training, he joined Guarulhos University as an assistant professor, where he was in charge of lecturing didactic classes and providing laboratory and clinical training to predoctoral and postdoctoral students. He then went on to join the MSc Dentistry Program at Ibirapuera University, where his responsibilities included lecturing the predoctoral and postdoctoral classes and mentoring master students.

Dr. Chambrone serves as an ad honorem associate professor and research consultant at the Unit of Basic Oral Investigations at El Bosque University (Colombia), as well as visiting professor at the Department of Periodontology at the University of Iowa. He has developed didactical materials that have been widely used by predoctoral and postdoctoral students worldwide. Along these lines, he has co-authored a chapter in the 12th and 13th editions of Carranza’s Textbook of Periodontology, four commissioned review papers for the American Academy of Periodontology (one on soft tissue root coverage for the 2014 AAP Workshop on Periodontal Tissue Regeneration and three for the AAP Best-Evidence Consensus on Lasers and CBCT), and for the European Federation of Periodontology (XV Workshop in Periodontology). Furthermore, he has published two textbooks, one on periodontal plastic surgery for undergraduate students, published in three languages (English, Portuguese and Chinese) by Springer Verlag Book Co. in 2015, and one on decision making in dental implantology, published in five languages (English, Portuguese, Chinese, Russian and Turkish). Dr. Chambrone’s scientific papers are often reviewed in local and international certificate programs of periodontology.

Beyond his enthusiasm and dedication as a dental clinician and educator, Dr. Chambrone is also heavily involved with clinical research and evidence-based dentistry. His publications have a high impact in current dentistry and are among the most cited articles published in 2012 and 2015 at both the Journal of Clinical Periodontology and the Journal of Periodontology. Recognition of his work in the field of periodontology is also demonstrated through his membership in the Cochrane Oral Health Group and on the editorial board of an international dental journal (i.e. Clinical Oral Implants Research). In addition, Dr. Chambrone currently serves as the Section/Associate Editor of Clinical Research for the International Journal of Oral Implantology.

Professor Niklaus Lang received his dental degree at the University of Berne in 1968 and his Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) in 1970. After obtaining a Master of Science in periodontology at the University of Michigan, Professor Lang returned to the University of Berne to earn his PhD in 1978. Has served as Professor of Implant Dentistry at the University of Hong Kong in the area of oral rehabilitation.

Author of over 600 refereed publications and conference proceedings, Professor Lang holds four honorary doctorates as well as honorary memberships in 10 national societies. He received multiple honors, including the “Prix Louis Metzger” (1968) from the Swiss Dental Association (SSO) and the “Basic Science in Periodontal Disease Award” (1992) from the International Association for Dental Research. Former President of the International Team of Implantology (ITI) and the Swiss Society of Periodontology (SSP), Professor Lang has also served as editor-in-chief of Clinical Oral Implants Research. Professor Lang actively participates in clinical research related to implant dentistry, periodontology, etiology and pathogenesis of peri-implant infections, risk evaluations, wound healing and oral microbiology.

Dr. Navid Sharifzadeh is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Implant Surgery. After obtaining his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 2003 and practicing dentistry for over a decade, he enrolled into a 2013 program in Advanced Education in Periodontology at the Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California (USC). He earned his specialty clinical certificate as well as a Master of Science degree in craniofacial biology at USC.

The current main focus for Dr. Sharifzadeh is managing soft tissue in the vicinity of implants and natural teeth. He has authored multiple book chapters and articles about these procedures, as well as implant esthetics.

Dr. Sharifzadeh currently teaches periodontology as a visiting part-time faculty member. He is a member of multiple professional organizations, including the European Academy of Osseointegration, the (worldwide) Academy of Osseointegration and the American Academy of Periodontology.

Dr. Jeffrey Ganeles is a periodontist practicing with the South Florida Center for Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in Boca Raton, Florida. Currently, he serves as an associate professor at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale and holds an appointment at the Boston University Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, a Fellow of the American College of Dentists, a Fellow and Member of the Board of Directors of the Academy of Osseointegration and a Fellow of the International Team for Implantology (ITI). Previously, he was a consultant and surgeon for several reality television shows, providing immediate implant loading and restoration for ABC’s “Extreme Makeover” and UK Channel 5’s “Brand New You”.

Dr. Ganeles is a graduate of Cornell University and received his Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) from the Boston University Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry in 1983. He completed a general practice residency at the hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, then received his certificate in periodontics from the University of Pennsylvania College of Dental Medicine in 1987. He has authored more than 50 articles and chapters in textbooks and has participated in a number of clinical research projects looking at various aspects of implant dentistry, technology innovations in implant dentistry and tissue regeneration. He is a frequent lecturer at local, national and international specialist meetings.

He was a clinical consultant to Neocis, Inc., the first company to receive FDA approval for robotic implant surgery and is believed to have performed the first robotically placed implant worldwide.

Dr. Joseph Kan received from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry (LLUSD), California, USA, and completed both Advanced Education in Prosthodontics and Advanced Program in Implant Surgery with MS degree. He is currently a Professor for Implant Dentistry and maintains a private practice.

Dr. Kan received 1997 Best Research Award from the Academy of Osseointegration at their 12th Annual meeting at San Francisco, 2003 Judson C. Hinckey Scientific Award from Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 2005 Robert James Implant Dentistry Achievement Award, 2019 Honorary Membership from Association of Dental Implantology, United Kingdom, 2020 Distinguished Research Award from Loma Linda University and 2020 Distinguished Speaker Award from the Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontist at the Lincoln Art Performance Center in New York. In 2021, Dr. Kan received Honorary Membership for Outstanding contribution to the field of Periodontology as well as the Clinical Research Award from the American Academy of Periodontology at the annual meeting in Miami.

Dr. Kan is on the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Esthetic Dentistry, Journal of Esthetics and Restorative Dentistry. He was Program Chairman for the 2018 Academy of Osseointegration (AO) Annual Meeting at Los Angeles Convention Center and is currently a member on AO Board. In 2018, Dr. Kan performed live patient surgery on immediate implant placement and provisionalization with connective tissue graft at the 104th Annual meeting of the American Academy of Periodontology in Vancouver BC, Canada.

In 2017, Fardi et al (Int J Maxillofac Implants), listed four of Dr. Kan’s publications as the 100 Top cited articles in Implant Dentistry. Then in 2020, Praveen G et al (J Prosthet Dent), cited two of Dr. Kan’s publications as the top 100 most cited articles in Prosthodontics.

Besides lecturing nationally and internationally, Dr. Kan has published over 110 referenced articles and book chapters on interdisciplinary treatment planning, periodontal peri-implant tissue management, and immediate tooth replacement concepts.

Before studying graduate orthodontics at Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Richard Roblee practiced restorative dentistry in Dallas, Texas. He is recognized worldwide for his work in esthetic dentistry, orthodontic techniques and interdisciplinary therapy, and has given more than 500 professional presentations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and Japan. He has authored numerous publications and videos, including a textbook entitled “Interdisciplinary Dentofacial Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach to Optimal Patient Care” (Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc.). He is an active member of numerous prestigious dental organizations, including the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics, the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry, and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, of which he is a Past-President. Dr. Roblee is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and has a full-time orthodontic practice with his two sons, James and Thomas, in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Dr. Neimar Sartori is an accomplished dental professional with extensive education and experience in prosthodontics, operative dentistry and dental biomaterials. He completed his Advanced Prosthodontics Program training and earned his Master of Science degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 2023.

Dr. Sartori’s impressive educational background includes a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 2005, as well as a Master of Science degree and certificate in operative dentistry in 2008, and a Ph.D. in Dentistry Biomaterials in 2011 from the esteemed Federal University of Santa Catarina in Brazil. Dr. Sartori also pursued additional research opportunities as a visiting Research Scholar at both Case Western Reserve University in 2010 and the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC in 2011.

As an Associate Professor of clinical dentistry and course director for the Division of Restorative Sciences at the University of Southern California, Dr. Sartori has dedicated over seven years to teaching and mentoring dental students. He was also co-director of the Advanced Program in Advanced Operative and Adhesive Dentistry, demonstrating his commitment to providing students with the most up-to-date training in modern dental practices.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Sartori is a prolific author, publishing numerous articles in leading dental journals. He has also served as an associate editor and reviewer for several dental publications. The attendees of the LA symposium will have the opportunity to learn from Dr. Sartori as he shares his expertise on topics such as esthetic restorations, adhesive dentistry and the use of digital technologies to create predictable interdisciplinary treatment for complex dental cases.

Dr. Parish Sedghizadeh is a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologist. He is a Professor of Clinical Dentistry at the University of Southern California, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, and serves as the Department Co-Chair of Diagnostic Sciences, Anesthesia and Emergency Medicine, which also includes the disciplines of oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology, oral and orofacial pain. Dr. Sedghizadeh is a clinical and surgical oral pathologist with an active intramural and extramural practice. As a clinician-scientist, Dr. Sedghizadeh conducts clinical and laboratory research, publishes, consults and teaches. He has over 100 peer-reviewed publications, and his research laboratory and clinical research projects focus on the characterization and treatment of microbial biofilm infections, particularly osteomyelitis and osteonecrosis of the jaw where he has developed and tested novel bisphosphonate-fluoroquinolone drug conjugates that target bone infections.

Dr. Hom-Lay Wang is a professor and Director of Graduate Periodontics at the University of Michigan. He has co-editor three textbooks, published more than 50 book chapters/invited reviews and more than 760 peer-reviewed scientific articles. Dr. Wang currently serves as a member of Task Force as Future Science Strategy for the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), Nevins Teaching and Clinical Research Fellowship Selection Committee (AAPF), President-Elect of the Academy of Osseointegration (AO). Dr. Wang is a Diplomate and a Former Chair and Director of the American Board of Periodontology, a Fellow of American College of Dentists as well as a Fellow and a Former Board of Director of AO, a Diplomate and Former President and Board Director of the ICOI and a former President of Midwest Society of Periodontology.

Dr. Wang serves as a Co-Editor-in-Chief for Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research, an Associate Editor for The International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants, International Journal of Oral Implantology, Section Editors for Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry and Founding Editorial board member for Clinical Advances in Periodontics, Editorial Board member for the Journal of Periodontology, International Journal of Oral Science, Clinical Oral Implants Research, International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, Journal of Clinical Periodontology, Periodontology 2000 and many others.

Dr. Wang is the recipient of many awards/honors including but are not limited to: Morton L. Perel Annual Award for Dental Implant Educator (2007), AAP Outstanding Educator Award (2017), AAP Distinguished Scientist Award (2017), ADEA William J. Gies Annual Periodontology Award for Outstanding Periodontal Educator(2018), University of Michigan Distinguished Faculty Research Mentoring Award (2019), AAP Master Clinician Award (2019), AAP Distinguished Service Award (2021), AAP Clinical Research Award (2021) and ADEA William J. Gies Annual Periodontology Award (2022).