Gentle Dental Aiea/Pearlridge

ABOUT ME
Dr. Verga says, “I most enjoy the relationships that I am able to build with patients, their families, and the community. Watching patient’s self-esteem develop as they get a beautiful new smile is very rewarding.”

“Growing up I had broad interests in art, science, engineering, and business. Initially, it was very difficult to find a profession that satisfied all my interests. Wanting to help people with my unique combination of skills, dentistry provided the perfect solution.”

After graduating from University of Central Florida, Dr. Verga received his Dental Degree from the Nova Southeastern University College Of Dental Medicine. He was awarded his Orthodontics Certificate from the Georgia School of Orthodontics. He’s a member of the American Association of Orthodontics and the American Dental Association.

Dr. Verga grew up in Naples, Florida. He plays several musical instruments. He says, “I enjoy traveling, cooking, working out, anything in the outdoors, photography and valuable time with family and friends.”

Education

B.S., Biology–University of Central Florida
D.M.D.–Nova Southeastern University College Of Dental Medicine
Orthodontics Certificate–Georgia School of Orthodontics

Affiliations

American Association of Orthodontics
American Dental Associations

ABOUT ME
Dr. Ching loves helping his patients realize new smiles as he gets to know them and their families. The lasting relationships he has created with each patient are one of the many reasons why dentistry is his passion. Dr. Ching’s own positive experiences with his dentist and orthodontist inspired him to pursue a career in dentistry. Facilitating open communication and getting to know his patients beyond what you would find on a piece of paper allows him to provide the care they need.

His journey to becoming a dentist continued in Nebraska where he attended the Creighton University School of Dentistry. After being away for eight years, Dr. Ching decided to move back and serve his home community. He has volunteered in several free dental organizations including the Healthy Smiles Program. He is also Invisalign certified.

Outside the office, Dr. Ching enjoys spending time with family and friends-particularly while watching Marvel movies or heading to the beach.

EDUCATION
B.S., Biology–Creighton University
D.D.S.–Creighton University School of Dentistry

ABOUT ME
Dr. Oka says, “I would like my patients to know that my goal is to help each of them to achieve their unique oral health goals. I strive to work with my patients and provide the necessary treatment and education they need to manage their oral health and be confident in their smile!”

“What I enjoy most about my profession is that I have the opportunity to really get to know my patients. Every day I get to serve and educate them and help them to achieve their oral health goals, seeing them leave the office with a smile is the best feeling!”

“Dentistry is a unique field where I can combine my love for working with my hands, my compassion for others and medicine all in one. As a dentist I am able to connect and create great relationships with my patients–something that I value and definitely attracted me to the field!”

After graduating from Oregon State University, Dr. Oka received his Dental Degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. He’s a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Hawaii Dental Association and the HDA Young Dentists Group.

Dr. Oka says, “My hobbies include fishing and spearfishing, hiking and volunteering at my church. I also spend a lot of time after hours learning new and better techniques to implement in my daily practice to better serve my patients.”

EDUCATION
B.S., Biomedical Science–Oregon State University
D.D.S.–Indiana University School of Dentistry

AFFILIATIONS
American Dental Association
Academy of General Dentistry
Hawaii Dental Association
HDA Young Dentists Group

About Me
For Dr. Rick Holguin, dentistry is an excellent combination of science and hands-on artistry. He appreciates being able to help others improve their health and appearance with nearly immediate results, and works closely with his patients in a respectful manner. Specifically, he tries to explain information clearly and to present all available options so that patients can decide themselves what is best.

Dr. Holguin received both his Bachelor’s and D.D.S. degrees from UCLA. He spent an additional three years in training to complete his General Practice Residency at the St. Francis Medical Center, Master of Science in Dentistry degree at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, and Certificate in Periodontology at the Veteran’s Administration Medical Center. He is a former faculty member of the University of Hawaii Department of Dental Hygiene, and a current member of the American Academy of Periodontology.

Dr. Holguin has two beautiful daughters and values the balanced life dentistry affords him. He has many interests outside of the office, including golf, cars, and traveling. He enjoys professional baseball, hockey, and basketball, and he travels to the Staples Center several times each year to watch his favorite team, the LA Lakers.

Education

B.S., Biology – UCLA

D.D.S. – UCLA School of Dentistry

G.P.R. – St. Francis Medical Center

M.S.D. – Indiana University School of Dentistry

Certificate, Periodontology – Veteran’s Administration Medical Center

Affiliations

American Academy of Periodontology