A native of Bakersfield, Dr. Woolf was raised in the 50s by a single mother whose example taught him to work hard and never give up. While attending Bakersfield High School, he was a driller, an Eagle Scout, and an All-American in swimming. At the University of California, Santa Barbara, Dr. Woolf continued to pursue swimming while earning a chemistry degree.

Although Dr. Woolf thought he would pursue a career in medicine, ultimately, he preferred the specific rewards of becoming a dentist: being in complete control of the outcome and the joy of watching patients view their new smiles. He received his doctorate in dentistry from the University of Southern California, graduating with honors, and returned to Bakersfield to practice dentistry. He later received post-doctoral training in esthetic dentistry from UCLA and in advanced cosmetic dentistry from Esthetics Professionals in Tarzana. A recognized leader in his field, he has returned to both institutions as an instructor, teaching other dentists the finer points of esthetic dentistry.

Im motivated by the people I work with and our patients. Ive known many of our patients for at least 30 years. I have watched themand their childrengrow up, and I have treated their grandchildren. They know my family, too. I visit every patient that comes into the office, even if they are not scheduled with me. Every evening I call patients to check on them and hear about their experiences that day.

Dr. Woolf and his team rarely have emergency calls because their preventive care helps them handle issues before they progress. The team provides treatment that lasts a long time and helps patients save money. Many patients who need major work are limited by insurance and their budget, so Dr. Woolf and his team offer phased treatments and financing.

Ive been a patient at Woolf Dental since I was 19. Im 46 now. I would not even consider another dentist. More than once, theyve gone above and beyond for me when I call last minute with an issue. Dr. Woolf is a trusted expert in his field. Angela D.

Dr. Woolf and his team provide dental care to people in need by participating in community events, including CDA Cares, Operation Smiles, and AeroMedico. He is an aviation enthusiast and makes flights to impoverished villages in Mexico when he volunteers with AeroMedico. When he is not practicing dentistry, Dr. Woolf enjoys spending time with his family, including many relatives in the Bakersfield area.

James Sunwoo, MD, DDS, MSD, besides being a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, is fellowship trained as a physician in cosmetic surgery and orthognathic surgery. He earned his medical doctorate degree from the University of Southern California School of Medicine and his dental doctorate degree from the Columbia University School of Dental Medicine.

Dentistry has always had a negative connotation associated with it. Many people have either had bad experiences in the past or are just plain frightened of getting in the dental chair. I became a dentist because I wanted to change that. I want to make going to the dentist an enjoyable experience.

A native of Bakersfield, Dr. Kobliska received his undergraduate degree from Chapman University in Orange County. He earned his doctor of dental medicine (DMD) degree from Western University of Health Sciences. Dr. Kobliska regularly participates in continuing education, emphasizing cosmetic, restorative, and CAD/CAM dentistry.

After earning his DMD degree, returning to Bakersfield to practice dentistry was an easy decision for Dr. Kobliska. He says, Bakersfield has given me a lot of opportunities throughout the years, which is why I thought it would be important to return after dental school, give back, and serve the community through quality dental care.

With a focus on preventive dentistry, Dr. Kobliskas goal is the early detection of small problems with a patients oral health. He helps patients understand how prompt treatment can prevent an issue from getting worse.

I enjoy getting to know my patients while helping them accomplish their individual dental health goals. I take great pride in enhancing my patients self-esteem and overall well-being by improving their smile.

Dr. Kobliska is passionate about providing patient-centered care and focusing primarily on preventive dentistry, timely treatment, and patient education. He adds, My goal is to exceed all my patients expectations by providing them with quality treatment in a professional and welcoming atmosphere.

Dr. Kobliska volunteers to provide care for underserved communities. When hes not in the office, Dr. Kobliska enjoys spending time with his wife, Laura, and their son, Rowan. His leisure activities include cooking, traveling, playing sports, and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Wong practices full-scope periodontics. After graduating with honors and earning his doctor of dental surgery degree, he completed an intensive three-year residency emphasizing periodontal therapy and medicine, sedation, and surgical/restorative implant treatment. Dr. Wong received his board certificate in periodontology from Oregon Health Sciences University.

He has represented dental students, dentistry, and periodontics locally and nationally. He has also held leadership positions in the American Student Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the Academy of Periodontology. In addition to writing numerous publications, he has presented at events sponsored by the California Dental Association, American Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, and the Academy of Osseointegration.

I did not like going to the dentist, but during my first visit, the staff reassured me that I would not feel pain. They even held my hand. It was pain free. Since that time, Ive had a deep cleaning and some major work done, and now I have no problem walking into Dr. Wongs office. I wouldnt go to anyone else but Dr. Wong. Kimberly S.

I was in pain, extremely nervous, and needed a tooth extracted. Not only did Dr. Wong calm my nerves, but he also took time to explain the procedure. I passed on the implant for my molar tooth since it didnt affect my chewing. There was no hard sell. Dr. Wong accepted and agreed with my decision. Doug M.