Dentists in Bellingham, WA - Sehome Village

Aravind Buddula D.M.D., M.D.S., M.S., Periodontist

ABOUT ME

Dr. Aravind Buddula’s father, a pediatric surgeon, served as his initial inspiration and played a key role in shaping his career. He loves treating his patients and giving them the gentle care they need for great oral health. Delivering periodontal services at multiple Gentle Dental offices throughout the Seattle region, he brings a wide range of knowledge and experience to each patient’s care. His love for his profession is reflected in his achievements. While studying Dentistry at a top dental school in his home country of India, Dr. Buddula received an award from the International College of Dentists for achieving the highest marks in Prosthodontics. He furthered his education with a Masters of Dental Surgery in Periodontics from the College of Dental Surgery in Manipal, India. He went on to pursue a Certificate in Public Health at the Oklahoma University of Health Sciences in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

He then attained his D.M.D degree at Tufts School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Buddula made the Dean’s Honor Roll for his exemplary performance on the National Dental Board examination, and was selected by the world-renowned Mayo Clinic to complete his Fellowship in Periodontology and Masters in Biomedical Sciences. His work there earned him the Dental Student Award for outstanding achievements from the American Academy of Periodontology. Especially interested in implant surgery, he has multiple articles on this topic in international, peer-reviewed journals, and his papers have been accepted for presentations at various national and international conferences. He is a member of the American Academy of Periodontology and American Dental Association. Recognizing that patient care and understanding are the essence of any health profession, Dr.Buddula has genuine love and concern for his patients. This fact was acknowledged when he was placed among the best periodontists in patient care at the Mayo Clinic, based exclusively upon the positive patient feedback he received.

In his spare time, Dr.Buddula enjoys watching movies and playing cricket. He is fluent in English, Telugu and Hindi.

EDUCATION

D.M.D., Dentistry – Tufts School of Dental Medicine

M.D.S. – College of Dental Surgery (India)

M.S., Periodontics – Mayo Clinic

AFFILIATIONS

American Dental Association

American Academy of Periodontology

Lester Woo D.D.S., Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

ABOUT ME

Dr. Woo says, “For me, dentistry combines creative artistry with the fundamentals of science. I try to create a welcoming and comforting environment by treating each of my patients like family.”

After graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, Dr. Woo received his Dental Degree from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry.

EDUCATION

B.S., Biochemistry–University of California, Berkeley

D.D.S.–University of Southern California

Oral and Maxillofacial training– University of Southern California

Meeta Bhatt Endodontist

About Me

Dr. Meeta Bhatt, BDS, MSc, MSc Diploma (Endo), is an accomplished Endodontist serving patients at Gentle Dental Sehome. With a focus on endodontics, Dr. Bhatt brings a compassionate and precise approach to her practice, ensuring patients feel at ease throughout their treatment journey.

Dr. Bhatt began her dental education at the University of British Columbia, where she obtained her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree. Her dedication to excellence led her to pursue further education, earning two Master of Science degrees and a specialized diploma in Endodontics, all from the University of British Columbia. Active in her field, Dr. Bhatt holds membership in esteemed professional associations such as the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia (CDSBC), the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), and others.

This affiliation keeps her updated on the latest advancements, enabling her to provide patients with the highest standard of care. Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. Bhatt is fluent in Hindi, allowing her to communicate effectively with diverse patients. With her commitment to ongoing learning and patient-centered care, Dr. Meeta Bhatt is a trusted partner in oral health for the Sehome community.

Education

Undergraduate School = SDC

Dental School = University of British Columbia

Post-Grad School = University of British Columbia

Affiliations

CDSBC, AAE, WSDA, NDEB, RODC

Preston Dekker D.D.S., Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

About Me

Dr. Preston Dekker is a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who joined Gentle Dental in March of 2024 after recently moving back to the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Dekker graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. He attended the University of Washington School of Dentistry in Seattle, Washington, where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2018.

Dr. Dekker completed his comprehensive surgical training at the University of Illinois Chicago Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program, where he served as Chief Resident.

While at the University of Illinois Chicago, Dr. Dekker was mentored by some of the nation’s leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons sharing their vast surgical knowledge and expertise in all aspects of the specialty. Dr. Dekker rotated through five hospitals in the surrounding Chicagoland area that further served to solidify his surgical training including, UI Health Hospital, Northwestern Hospital, Lurie Children’s Hospital, Christ Advocate Hospital and Jesse Brown VA Hospital.

In addition to years of surgical training, Dr. Dekker has also published research articles, co-authored a book chapter, and presented his research at several national meetings. Most notably, he presented at the American Academy of Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons Conference, Chalmers J. Lyons Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Conference, and at the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Conference.

Prior to pursing his surgical career, Dr. Dekker had lived in ten different states, much of which was due to playing ice hockey for over 15 years. It wasn’t until a short stent of playing junior hockey, a couple chipped teeth and lip laceration later, he realized he could combine his passions of hockey and surgery. Dr. Dekker was one of the team doctors serving as an oral and facial surgeon of the 2023 Stanley Cup Champion Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League.

In his spare time, he still enjoys playing men’s league hockey, golfing, snowboarding, playing guitar, hiking and traveling with his wife, Lauren. Dr. Dekker is excited to provide compassionate and patient-centered care through Gentle Dental. Dr. Dekker practices the full-scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with special interests in facial trauma, full arch dental implant rehabilitation, microneurosurgery and orthognathic surgery.

He is excited to use his surgical knowledge and abilities to improve the quality of life of his patients. Dr. Dekker has a natural ability to relate to others and befriend those around him, which has always earned him the trust and respect of his colleagues and patients.

Ramanjot Sahni D.M.D., General Dentist

About Me

Introducing Dr. Ramanjot Sahni, a compassionate General Dentist practicing at GD Sehome Village. Fluent in Punjabi and Hindi, she brings a diverse and inclusive approach to patient care. A distinguished graduate of Boston University with a major in General Dentistry in 2019, Dr. Sahni furthered her education at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, graduating the same year.

Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her membership with the American Dental Association, AGD, and BCCOHP in British Columbia, Canada. Dr. Sahni’s accolades include being an honor roll student and receiving a scholarship in her first year of dental school in India. Motivated by a passion for both the science and art of dentistry, she is dedicated to promoting good oral health and restoring smiles.

Driven by the joy of helping patients overcome dental anxieties, she strives to provide pain-free dentistry. Beyond her profession, Dr. Sahni’s interests include audiobooks, music, and cooking. Patients can trust Dr. Ramanjot Sahni for compassionate and pain-free dental care, where her focus on restoring smiles and eliminating pain reflects her commitment to enhancing patients’ confidence and well-being.

Education

Undergraduate School = Boston University

Dental School = Boston University School of Dental Medicine

Affiliations

American Dental Association

AGD

BCCOHP (BC Canada)

Randy Ogata D.D.S., Orthodontist

About Me

Introducing Randy Ogata D.D.S., our Orthodontist at Gentle Dental, specializing in creating beautiful smiles at our Lynnwood and Puyallup Washington locations. He previously served as the Executive Director of the Seattle-King County Dental Society and the Seattle-King County Dental Foundation.

Recently hired for the Puyallup office, Dr. Ogata specializes in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, using his expertise to create beautiful smiles for his patients. A graduate of the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology in 1987, Dr. Ogata continued his dental education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, earning his D.D.S. degree in 1991.

He furthered his studies in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Oklahoma University Health Science Center Dental School, completing his post-graduate program in 1994. Dr. Ogata’s passion for dentistry stems from his desire to serve others, helping patients achieve the smile of their dreams. He cherishes the ability to make a positive impact in people’s lives and build meaningful relationships with his patients and their families.

Beyond dentistry, he enjoys being a dedicated volunteer and leader in Scouts with his sons. His hobbies include fishing, fly-fishing, fly tying, model rocketry, model railroads, kayaking, canoeing, and camping, reflecting his love for outdoor activities and exploring nature. With a warm smile and a commitment to patient care, Dr. Randy Ogata looks forward to helping patients achieve the smiles of their dreams.

Education

University of Washington

University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry

Oklahoma University Health Science Center Dental School

Affiliations

Seattle-King County Dental Society

Washington State Dental Association

American Dental Association

Dr. Jason Guangxuan Zhai is a skilled general dentist at GD Sehome Village, fluent in Mandarin Chinese and conversational in Spanish and French. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Waterloo, where he majored in Biotechnology and Accounting, graduating in 2020. Dr. Zhai then earned his dental degree from NYU College of Dentistry in 2024.

As a member of both the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), Dr. Zhai brings a unique blend of art and science to his practice. He is passionate about using his scientific knowledge and creative skills to craft beautiful, functional smiles. The hands-on nature of dentistry, which allows him to make a tangible and positive impact on his patients' lives, is particularly fulfilling to him. Dr. Zhai takes great satisfaction in helping his patients achieve brighter, healthier smiles, and he is committed to ensuring that every patient leaves with a smile they’re proud of.

Before pursuing his dream of becoming a dentist, Dr. Zhai worked as an accountant, a background that adds a unique perspective to his practice. Outside of dentistry, he has a deep passion for traveling, especially exploring the rich and diverse cultures of Asia and Europe. An avid photographer, Dr. Zhai enjoys capturing the stunning landscapes and moments of his journeys, documenting the beauty and essence of each destination.