Dr. Leila Putnam Saedi, DDS
I was first inspired to follow my career path when, as a child, I was traumatized by a not-so-gentle dentist, then feared going back for most of my teen years. Thinking about my experience and wishing for a gentle and patient-friendly practitioner, the younger me decided to become that dentist myself!
I attended UCLA and received my Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, in 2001, graduating with honors and a publication in a respected journal. In 2005, as a graduate from the School of Dentistry at USC, in the top ten for cosmetic dentistry, I had completed the highest number of veneers in my class. Next came an externship at University of Loma Linda in Oral Surgery.
Becoming familiar with the individual needs of my patients is important to me, as are the needs of the wider community. There is nothing more gratifying than giving back and paying forward. It is important to me to teach my children gratitude and humility. We always look forward to volunteering at a shelter on Thanksgiving Day to feed people experiencing homelessness; we also deliver Christmas gifts at the senior center.
I am committed to being up-to-date with every new dental innovation and am a dyed-in-the-wool CE (continuing education) junkie. I have traveled all around the United States to be trained by the most prestigious dental educators, including both Kois and Spear, among others.
I am most honored, however, by all of my patients who have chosen to return to me repeatedly for my gentle touch and caring treatment.
Travel fascinates me and I have sampled food in over 22 countries on all 5 continents! For adventure, I have gone bungee jumping and skydiving, which I can recommend to anyone who wants to experience real fear, after which other fears become trivial.
My devoted husband of over 20 years and I have two adorable teen daughters.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor of Science, Microbiology UCLA, 2001
- School of Dentistry at USC, 2005
- University of Loma Linda, Externship, Oral Surgery, 2004
Professional Affiliations
- Santa Barbara-Ventura County Dental Society
- San Fernando Valley Dental Society
- California Dental Association
- American Dental Association
- Kois Center Alumna
- Spear Alumna
Dr. Mackenzie Porter, DMD
Mackenzie Porter, DMD is an experienced dentist who has dedicated her career to helping people maintain healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Porter attended California Lutheran University before receiving her Doctorate in 2014 from Western University College of Dental Medicine, where she earned several prestigious awards of excellence in dentistry. Committed to her professional development, Dr. Porter accepted a residency position at the University of Las Vegas, Nevada for additional training after her time at Western University College. During her residency, Dr. Porter became specialty-trained in an array of dental treatments from restorative, endodontics, periodontics and surgical procedures.
Her continued goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to health by custom-tailoring dental treatment to each individual patient. In addition, providing safe and effective treatment and results that can improve both function and form of your teeth. Dr. Porter resides in Ventura County. When she is not committing herself to continued education within the field of dentistry, she enjoys spending time outdoors and spending time with family.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Mondana Arami, DDS
I started my career in the dental field working as a dental assistant in high school. I then continued my education and graduated from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio majoring in chemistry and music.
I received my Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Southern University New York School of Dentistry. I went on to complete a year of residency in General Dentistry. I have enjoyed practicing dentistry for over 30 years and providing my patients with expert and gentle dental care that matches their unique needs.
I have taken many dental courses over the years. I have been an Invisalign provider for over 20 years. My passion is exceeding my patients’ expectations and seeing them leaving with a smile.
Ventura County is where I call home and reside with my husband of 27 years. We are proud parents of two adult daughters: one graduated from UCLA and the other from USC both pursuing their careers in finance. When I have spare time, I enjoy fostering animals, exercising, reading, and traveling.
Education and Experience
- Majors in Chemistry and Music
Case Western Reserve University
- Doctorate in Dental Medicine
Southern University New York School of Dentistry
- One-Year Residency, General Dentistry
Dr. Alexander Knold, DMD
Joining the team of talented professionals at Vista Pacific Dental Care in 2022 has been one of the honors and joys of my dental career. It is an ongoing pleasure and privilege meeting and getting to know our growing family of patients.
As a graduate of the University of North Carolina, I went on to study microbiology at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA. I then earned my Doctorate of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, and continue to stay up to date with the latest research and restorative techniques by taking elective courses around the country.
My career began through a community outreach program for underserved members of my city, which often involved getting patients out of dental pain and restoring missing teeth. I then moved to California, where I have worked in private practice since 2014.
At Vista Pacific, I strive to create an atmosphere for patients that is calm and inviting, while focusing on each patient’s unique dental needs and concerns, however big or small. I especially love spending extra time making restorations esthetically natural and beautiful.
Originally from the mossy rainforest of Olympia, WA, I am happy to have found a long term home here in sunny California. When not doing dentistry, I enjoy barbecuing, skiing, running on the beach, meeting new people, and soaking up the sun.
Specialists
Dr. Shanne Sastiel
I was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). I then went on to attend the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), School of Dentistry, where I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) and later my master’s degree in oral and craniofacial sciences, as well as my postgraduate training and certificate in periodontics. During my time at UCSF, I received the prestigious award for Outstanding Achievement in Periodontics by the American Academy of Periodontics.
My passion in dentistry stems from my desire to educate and care for patients. I believe that the highest quality of dental care can only be achieved through the communication and trust between doctor and patient. I do a variety of procedures with a gentle touch, including placing dental Implants, extractions, bone and gum tissue grafting and improving patient smiles!
I am married to my wife, Shirley, and have three children. During my free time, I can be found cooking, hiking, or taking my family to the beach.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Doctor of Dental Surgery
Master’s Degree, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences
Postgraduate Training and Certificate, Periodontics
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), School of Dentistry
Dr. Sam Gegamian
I graduated from Boston University Dental School in 2004. I also completed a one-year advanced education in general dentistry from the University of the Pacific in 2005.
From 2005 until 2010, I practiced general dentistry, but enjoyed endodontic procedures most of all. I then returned to Boston University in 2010 and completed a 2-year endodontic specialty program. From 2010 until 2018, I practiced as an endodontist in Boston.
At the end of 2018, I moved to California. I live with my wife and child. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, practicing guitar, and reading.
Education and Experience
- Boston University Dental School, 2004
- 1-Year Advanced Education, General Dentistry
University of the Pacific, 2005
- 2-Year Endodontic Specialty Program
Boston University, 2010