Q: What got you into this specific medical field?
A: I have always been interested in the art of healing. After being employed in the bioengineering field, I realized that primary patient care was my calling. I enjoy being able to work with patients' dental needs. I have since been able to satisfy my patients in many aspects of general dentistry.
Q: What landed you in your city, and what is it that you like about the neighborhood?
A: I came to Los Angeles to study Dentistry, and settled in Pasadena. I bought Dr. Edward Saito's Practice in 2009 after practicing over 7 years in the Pasadena, Arcadia, and Los Angeles Koreatown communities.
Q: Where did you receive your undergraduate and professional degrees, and did you participate in any residencies?
A: I obtained my Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Mastered in Craniofacial Biology at the University of Southern California. I have an ongoing interest in oral genetic pathology.
Q: Do you belong to any professional associations?
A: California Dental Association, San Gabriel Valley Dental Society, American Dental Association.
Q: What year did you begin practicing?
A: 2002
Q: What investments in your practice equipment and facilities have you made?
A: We have replaced the essential equipment to provide state-of-the-art digital radiography, endodontics, Invisalign, Snap-On Smile, removable and fixed crown and bridge.
Q: What procedures do you feel your practice excels in above others?
A: Our Associates excel and have extensive experience in Endodontics, General Restorative, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry.
Q: What are your office hours?
A: Normally we are fully staffed M-W, 8am-5pm with a lunch at 12-1pm. All other days we are available by special appointment.
Q: What HMO or PPO providers are you in network with? Do you offer financing?
A: We take most PPOs and a few HMOs including Aetna, MetLife, and Delta Dental. 3rd Party Financing is available through CareCredit.
Q: Do you accept any government programs or discount cards?
A: Currently, we are reviewing possible programs, and haven't been able to fully implement them.
Q: What are the most challenging parts of your everyday practice?
A: Honestly, working with new patients who have been at multiple offices expecting to receive immediate care recommended by other practitioners. It helps to have new patients know that every new dentist they see is like a new relationship. Every new relationship requires good communication, trust and understanding that not all dentists are the same, nor are their recommendations. Once they are properly educated, the relationship always becomes mutually symbiotic, mutually beneficial, and above all, enjoyable and FUN!
Q: What are the best moments that make it worthwhile?
A: Being able to restore a patient's oral health to the best condition possible. When patients tell me or my staff that we made a positive difference in their lives, it's like no other feeling, and energizes me for the next patient.
