Los Angeles Institute of Clinical Dentistry & Ruiz Dental Seminars Inc. is the dental institute for a new generation. We are here to serve all of your continuing education needs by providing you with access to modern, scientifically based, hands-on workshops and lectures. Here are a few of Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz’s team members:
Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz
The Artist
Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz has a reputation as a talented dental artisan in Burbank and Los Angeles. For over 20 years, his skill as a premiere Burbank aesthetic dentist has created authentic, unique smiles for thousands of successful and discerning patients in Burbank and throughout the Los Angeles area.
Dr. Ruiz is considered one of the top aesthetic dentists not only in Burbank and throughout California, but in the entertainment industry as well. “My constant studies and research allow me to better serve my patients by using the most innovative, tested and predictable materials and techniques,” says Dr. Ruiz.
Educator to Dentists
Dr. Ruiz is a respected professor, researcher and educator in modern, minimally invasive dentistry. Other respected dentists come to him when they want to upgrade and hone their dentistry skills and techniques. He is a standout in his profession because of his extensive knowledge. Dr. Ruiz loves to share what he has learned with other dental professionals.
Dr. Luis Cabeza Ferrer, the president of the Spanish Academy for Esthetic Dentistry, says that, “As dental professionals, we look for superb results. Professor Jose-Luis Ruiz reaches excellence with his clinical results, which includes his postgraduate training to other dentists. That is why I came from Spain to see him.”
Affiliations & Memberships
Dr. Ruiz has gained many affiliations in his career, including:
- Director, Los Angeles Institute of Esthetic Dentistry
- Course Director, multiple CE courses at University of Southern California School of Dentistry
- Instructor, Gordon Christensen’s Practical Clinical Courses in Utah
- Honorary Professor, University of Warwick, United Kingdom
- Associate Editor, Dentistry Today
Additionally, Dr. Ruiz holds membership in several dental societies, including:
- American Dental Association®
- California Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Academy of Osseointegration
Our dentist has also published several clinical and research papers on adhesive dentistry, aesthetic dentistry and occlusion.
Hannah Stone, DDSDr. Hannah Stone was born and raised in the gorgeous state of Idaho, where she completed her Bachelor of Science in microbiology cum laude at the University of Idaho. She went on to pursue her dream of becoming a dentist at the UCLA School of Dentistry, where she graduated with multiple clinical honors and extensive training in operative and cosmetic dentistry. Upon graduation, she went on to complete a competitive surgery-based program at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, where she managed the dental care of patients in the hospital, emergency room and the University of Texas dental practice.
Because of her unique experience, Dr. Stone is known for providing gentle yet precise and mindful care to each patient. She stands behind the treatment she delivers and has an aesthetic eye to aid each patient in achieving the result they desire.
Dr. Stone is excited to be back in Southern California, where she can once again enjoy the sunshine and abundant outdoor activities. When not improving smiles, she enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, cooking and practicing yoga.
Professional Affiliations:
- American Dental Association®
- California Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry
- Academy of Laser Dentistry Certified
Patricia Ryan-Martin, DDS
Dr. Ryan-Martin was previously Course Director of several restorative and operative preclinical courses and was a full-time Assistant Professor of clinical dentistry at the University of Southern California. She received her Doctorate in Dentistry from USC and is currently a part-time volunteer and maintains a private practice in Fullerton, California.
Renee Kurtz, DMD
Dr. Kurtz is faculty at the Los Angeles Institute of Clinical Dentistry, Instructor at the University of Connecticut Dental School, and she also maintains a private practice in Cheshire, CT. She was also a past Course Director and a Clinical Instructor at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. She received her Doctorate in Dentistry from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.
Luis G. Vargas, DDS, FAGD
Dr. Vargas graduated in 1984 and has been in practice for over 25 years. He obtained the fellowship of the A.G.D in 1998. He has a general practice that includes orthodontics, implants, and laser dentistry. He is a member of A.G.D, I.A.O., and several other organizations. He has been in private practice since 1994 in San Bernardino, California.
Amir Esfandiari, DDS
Dr. Esfandiari received his DDS degree from the University of Southern California and continued his education at the Dawson Center Continuum on Esthetic at USC. Currently, he is a Clinical Associate Professor at USC School of Dentistry. He is the president of OC Center for Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry, the Chair of Emergency Care panel for OC Dental Society, and on the peer review committee for the California Dental Association. Dr. Esfandiari lectures throughout the world and has published numerous articles.
Steven Lynch, DDS
Dr. Lynch received his dental education at UCLA. Rather than enter private practice immediately, Dr. Lynch completed an additional year of training in a Hospital General Practice Residency, also at UCLA. He has been practicing dentistry in Vacaville, CA, since 1983. Additionally, he lectures internationally on a variety of dental subjects, including orthodontics.
Erick Gutierrez, DMD, FAGD
Dr. Gutierrez received his DMD degree from the University of Pennsylvania and then went on to complete a General Practice Residency where he was Chief Resident. He then completed a post-graduate Residency in esthetic dentistry at UCLA as well as LAICD’s continuum. He has achieved Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry and is in private practice in Pasadena, CA.
Gregory Mar, DMD
A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Gregory Mar initially came to Los Angeles for his undergraduate studies at UCLA. Wanting to have some east coast culture, he continued his studies at Boston University School of Dental Medicine where he graduated with honors. Upon returning to sunny southern California, he sought experience working with offices of all types to better develop his skills and serve his communities. Finding a mentor and partner in Dr. Ruiz, he also works as Dr. Ruiz’s personal dentist! In addition to practicing alongside Dr. Ruiz, Dr. Mar is faculty at the LA Institute and teaches other dentists. A big believer in education, he has countless hours in continuing education to better take care of his patients. In his free time, he is an avid sports fan (Go Bruins!) and is heavily involved with multiple local charities.
Merion earned her bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Southern California. She aspires to continue to grow in the dental field and one day become a dentist herself. Merion loves every aspect of dentistry and loves to interact with patients one on one, providing a high quality of care with a gentle touch.
A Los Angeles native, April has been a part of the dental field for over 20 years now. She is 100% committed to helping every patient feel as comfortable as possible in the treatment chair and answering all of the questions they may have. Building strong relationships based on trust is what it’s all about! Outside of working hours, she spends quality time with her three children, reads plenty of good books, and watches documentaries.
seasoned Angeleno from Northern California, offers a distinctive perspective in the dentistry world with his extensive background in food, fashion, and an earned degree in art history. Alongside his job with Dr. Ruiz, he serves as a private caterer, a florist for friends’ weddings, and an avid adventurer.
