Kyung Choi, DDS, MS, PhD

Meet Dr. Choi

Photo of Dr. Kyung ChoiDr. Kyung Choi’s illustrious dental career commenced with his graduation from the University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Dentistry, in 1996. His formative years at UIC were instrumental in shaping his perspective on dentistry, instilling a profound commitment to patient care and clinical excellence.

In 1997, Dr. Choi pursued a General Practice Residency at Evanston Hospital, motivated by a desire to further his professional development. This residency provided a robust foundation for his early career, enhancing his skills andbroadening his clinical experience.

Dr. Choi’s dedication to advancing his expertise led him to undertake an intensive full-time three-year residency in implant dentistry at Loma Linda University. His decision to specialize in implant dentistry was driven by a passion for innovation and patient care. This rigorous program provided comprehensive training in bone grafting, sinus grafting, implant surgery, and implant prosthodontics, significantly shaping his clinical acumen.

For 13 years, Dr. Choi maintained a private general dental practice in Pusan, South Korea, which played a pivotal role in his professional growth. His practice in South Korea enriched his clinical approach and provided unique insights into global dental practices. Navigating the differences and challenges between dental practices in South Korea and Southern California further honed his adaptability and expertise.

In 2014, Dr. Choi returned to the United States and completed a second full-time two-year residency in Endodontics at the University of Southern California. This shift in focus to endodontics was driven by a desire to broaden his skill set and provide comprehensive patient care. The combination of expertise in both implant dentistry and endodontics has profoundly influenced his holistic approach to patient treatment.

As a part-time faculty member in the Department of Prosthodontics at Pusan National University, School of Dentistry, Dr. Choi balances academic responsibilities with his clinical practice. His role in academia complements his work in private practice, allowing him to contribute to the education of future dental professionals while staying at the forefront of the latest advancements in the field.

Dr. Choi’s innovative spirit is exemplified by his inventions, including the Taegeuk scalloped implant and the EZI mini-implant. These innovations, inspired by a commitment to improving patient outcomes, have had a significant impact on his practice. Memorable cases and success stories related to the implementation of his inventions highlight his contributions to the field.

A prolific contributor to peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Choi co-authored a chapter in the 7th Edition of Ingle’s Endodontic Textbook. His publications reflect a dedication to sharing knowledge and advancing the field of dentistry. Topics of particular interest include the latest techniques and advancements in implant dentistry and endodontics.

For aspiring dental professionals, Dr. Choi offers invaluable advice: pursue specialized training with dedication, stay abreast of the latest advancements, and maintain a patient-centric approach. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and innovation in achieving professional excellence.

Looking ahead, Dr. Choi envisions a bright future for implant dentistry and endodontics. Key factors contributing to his professional growth include commitment to lifelong learning, adaptability, and a focus on patient-centered care. He identifies promising areas for future development within both fields, driven by technological advancements and evolving patient needs.

Dr. Choi ensures a patient-centric approach by balancing technical expertise with personalized care. He employs strategies to educate and engage patients, helping them understand the benefits of both implant dentistry and endodontics. His dedication to comprehensive, innovative, and compassionate care continues to drive his professional journey.