MEET THE TEAM
Restoring Oral Health & Lovely Smiles
Our team works hard to help you understand how periodontal disease occurs and how it can best be treated to restore and maintain oral health. We replace missing or hopeless teeth using dental implants which help restore function, confidence and a lovely smile.
Meet Team Perio
Dr. Alireza Khansari DDS, MSD
Periodontist
Dr. Christine Tran
Periodontist
Dr. Tran is a member of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), California Society of Periodontology (CSP), American Dental Association (ADA), and California Dental Association (CDA).
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, trying new foods, and playing tennis.
Dr. Tran will be in our office on Tuesdays.
Dr. Kent Akin
Periodontist
He received his Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences at the University of San Diego. He pursued a Masters degree in Public Health from Drexel University, after which, he attended the UCLA School of Dentistry. Dr. Akin continued his dental education with a post-doctoral residency in advanced periodontics and implant dentistry at the Veterans Affairs Hospital of West Los Angeles/UCLA Medical Center.
Dr. Akin will be in our office on Thursdays.
Dr. Khansari’s Publications and Affiliations
Dr.Khansari has residency training in periodontology and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology – the highest academic achievement to be obtained in the specialty of periodontics.
Publications
Dr. Khansari has completed the research and didactic requirements for a Master of Medical Science Degree in Oral Biology.
In addition, his research on “Contribution of Interleukins on Bone Resorption” has been published in the journal of Infection and Immunity on July 2002, which is one the most prestigious magazines in oral immunology.
Affiliations
In addition to Dr.Khansari’s publications, he holds affiliations to many scientific societies such as:
- American Academy of Periodontology
- American Board of Periodontology
- California Society of Periodontists
- Academy of Osseo integration
- American Dental Association
- California Dental Association
- San Diego County Dental Society
- Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry
If you’re ready to learn more about how Dr. Khansari and our team can help your oral health, check out our FAQs or contact us.
Meet our Team Members
Dr.Khansari and his team have been working together on a long term basis. This continuity of experienced, skilled, and dedicated team members is invaluable for efficient planning, preparing, and scheduling treatment.
Zohra
Dental Assistant
I have been a chairside dental assistant for 8 years. I love my job and proud to be part of Dr. Khansari’s team. My goal is to come to work every day with positive attitude and make our patients feel comfortable. I am a proud mom of 3 wonderful boys.
Dominique
Paloma
Emma
Sheryl
I am here to assist you with the financial aspects and scheduling of your periodontal care. I have enjoyed dental insurance processing and billing for over 10 years, and have been in the accounting field most of my life. I truly love my job and our team. Everyone here works as hard as they can to create an organized, enjoyable and welcoming workplace. It is amazing to watch Dr. Khansari work his magic every day, creating healthy smiles for our patients.
My husband of 34 years and I are both San Diego natives. We have proudly raised our son and daughter in our hometown and are now looking forward to traveling and celebrating our “empty nest”. In my spare time I enjoy cooking for my family, gardening, cross fit and Pilates.
Ariaunna
Hi, my name is Ariaunna, but everyone calls me Ari. I’ve been in the dental field for 10 years, and I love helping patients feel confident in their smiles—that’s the main reason I became a dental assistant. When I’m not helping save a smile, I’m usually spending time with my four-legged fur baby, Sasha, or hanging out with my family at a sporting event. Being outdoors captures my heart, one sunrise and sunset at a time.
Amanda
Amanda was born and raised in San Diego and has been in the dental field since 2016. She attended Pima Medical Institute to attain her certifications. She thoroughly enjoys helping others and finds her work to be truly rewarding.
Outside of the office, Amanda enjoys spending quality time with her big extended family. She also likes to spend her free time by drawing, listening to music of all genres, attending concerts and going out to the movies.
Angie
Hi, name is Angie! I am one of Dr. Khansari’s assistants here. I have been in the dental field for about 3 years! I’m originally from the east coast and now I’m living here in San Diego! On my free time I love reading and hanging with my two cats; Bean and Peach.
I am very grateful for Dr. Khansari and his team for making me feel so welcomed as someone new to the area and for providing such an enjoyable work space!
Natalie
Hi, I’m Natalie! I grew up in Poway and feel so grateful to serve my hometown as a dental hygienist. I first earned my Bachelor of Science degree in marine biology from UC San Diego, then trained in dental hygiene at South Western College. I’m also a proud dog mom to three adorable pups and enjoy traveling and outdoor activities like hiking and beach trips. My passion is helping patients feel comfortable at the dentist and empowering them to take charge of their dental care.