Cal Dental USA, a Southern California-based dental service organization (DSO), has announced the appointment of Dr. Ki Lee as its new Chief Dental Officer, succeeding Dr. Sean Sunyoto.
This leadership change underscores the organization’s ongoing commitment to innovation, advanced digital dentistry, and convenient, patient-centered dental care.
For over a decade, Cal Dental USA has experienced rapid growth driven by its in-house digital dental laboratory, community-driven care, and mission to provide high-quality, affordable dental services.
Dr. Lee’s appointment further solidifies its position as one of the most dynamic DSOs in California and globally.
Dr. Ki Lee: A Recognized Leader in Advanced Dentistry
With nearly 20 years of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Lee brings deep expertise to his new position. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Korean, he reflects the diverse patient population served by the Cal Dental USA network of clinics.
His advanced training includes:
Cosmetic Dentistry – Institute of Advanced Dentistry, Monterrey, Mexico
Oral Surgery and Periodontics – Cayetano Heredia University, Lima, Peru
Implant Training – Hiosen Dental College, Seoul, South Korea
General Dentistry and Orthodontics – California Dental Education Institute, Sacramento
Botulinum Toxin Treatment – ??California Dental Education Institute, Sacramento
LANAP? Certified – Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure
Dr. Lee is also an honorary member of the American Dental Association (ADA).
Driving Innovation: LANAP and Digital Dentistry
Dr. Lee has been instrumental in advancing clinical services at Cal Dental USA by implementing LANAP? (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure), a minimally invasive and patient-friendly treatment for gum disease.
He has also championed digital dental solutions designed to streamline workflows, reduce costs, and increase precision in crown, implant, and restorative treatments, making Cal Dental USA a model for how dental service organizations (DSOs) can leverage technology to improve patient outcomes.
Earlier this year, Dr. Li shared his vision at the Glidewell DSO Annual Meeting with founders Dr. John Kim, Dr. Feng Liu, Dr. Michael Kennedy, Dr. Salaheddin Marashi, CEO James Jones, and Regional Manager David Linarte, highlighting the organization’s emphasis on innovation and patient-centered care.
Smooth Leadership Transition
Dr. Li succeeds Dr. Sean Sunyoto, who led California Dental America through a critical period of growth. This smooth transition ensures continuity of patient care and demonstrates the organization’s confidence in Dr. Li’s future leadership.
“Dr. Li is not only a skilled dentist, but also an innovator and leader,” said James Jones, CEO of California Dental America.
“From advancing LANAP therapy to driving our digital dentistry initiatives, he embodies our patient-centric, visionary values. We are excited to see him lead us into this new era.”
Looking Ahead: National Leadership and Industry Participation
As part of its national growth vision, the California Dental Association (Cal Dental USA) will be represented by CEO James Jones, Founder Dr. John Kim, DDS, and Marketing Director Adrian McCovey at the Future of Dentistry Roundtable, scheduled for September 29-30, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
The event will bring together leading dental leaders from across the country to discuss the future of DSOs, innovations in digital dentistry, and strategies to expand access to oral health. The CDA’s participation reflects its growing influence and commitment to shaping the new era of dental care.