Featured Speakers
Obad Alshammaa
Dental Laboratory Technologist
Meet Abbad Alshammaa, a talented Dental Laboratory Technician, and the proud founder of Shama Dental Lab. After receiving his Dental Lab Certification from Bates Technical College, Abbad began his professional journey in 1993. Passionate about his work, he obtained his CDT in 1996. He is driven by a particular interest in All-on-X implant cases, constantly seeking opportunities to expand his knowledge and expertise in this specialized field.
Since 2017, Abbad has been an esteemed partner of the Washington Academy of General Dentistry, contributing his knowledge and skills to a variety of courses, especially the Implantology course. Additionally, he has been an active member of the Washington State Dental Laboratory Association, staying abreast of the latest industry advancements.
Michi Katafuchi
DDS, PhD, MSD
Dr. Katafuchi earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Fukuoka Dental College (FDC) in Japan in 2003. He subsequently pursued his Ph.D. in the Department of Prosthodontics at FDC, during which he conducted research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He later served as an Assistant Professor of Prosthodontics at FDC before continuing his education in the United States.
Dr. Katafuchi completed a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) and Certificate in Periodontics at the University of Washington in 2016. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and the owner of a private practice in Kirkland, Washington, specializing in periodontics and implant dentistry.
His clinical and academic interests include periodontal plastic surgery, dental implants, and peri-implant diseases. His 2018 publication, “Restoration contour is a risk indicator for peri-implantitis”, has been cited more than 500 times. He has authored multiple scientific publications and serves as a peer reviewer for journals in periodontics and implant dentistry.
Dr. Katafuchi completed the American Academy of Periodontology’s Leadership, Engagement, Action, and Development (LEAD) Program in 2021 and serves on the AAP Innovation Advisory Council. He also contributes to the Academy of Osseointegration through its Research Submission and Membership Committees. In 2023, he completed the Executive MBA program at the University of Washington, graduating with Top 10% Honors.
In private practice, Dr. Katafuchi is committed to evidence-based, individualized care and close collaboration with referring dentists and specialists. He also lectures regularly for dental organizations and study groups, sharing clinical and research-based perspectives on periodontics, implant dentistry, and interdisciplinary treatment.
Outside of his professional work, Dr. Katafuchi enjoys competitive badminton and spending time with his wife, son, and daughter. As a family, they enjoy the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
Timothy A. Hess
DDS, MAGD, LLSR, FACD, FICD, FPFA
Dr. Timothy A. Hess is a graduate of the University of Alberta and earned his DDS degree from the University of Washington in 1994. He is an Affiliate Assistant Professor Restorative Dentistry, Affiliate Assistant Professor Oral Medicine, and the former Director of the Tucker Institute at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Dr. Hess is known for his expertise in the topic of implant failures due to restorative techniques, operative dentistry, zirconia restorations, and facial aesthetics, including the use of Botulinum toxin and dermal fillers.
In addition to his academic role, Dr. Hess maintains a private restorative practice in Auburn, WA. Much of his practice focuses on advanced prosthetic procedures including implant support complete dentures. He is an accomplished author, with publications in respected journals such as The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, International Journal of Oral Maxillofacial Implants, International Journal of Prosthodontics, Canadian Journal of Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics, Decisions in Dentistry, and Operative Dentistry.
Dr. Hess is an active lecturer, having presented at numerous prestigious events, including the ADA Annual Meeting, the AGD Annual Meeting, the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference, Canadian Academy of Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics, Operative Academy, the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry, and the International Academy of Gnathology. He is also a Past-President of the Seattle-King County Dental Society and a Fellow of the International College of Dentists, American College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. He has received the Lifelong Service Recognition from the Academy of General Dentistry three times.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Hess enjoys time with his wife, Lisa, and their six nieces and nephews. When not lecturing or teaching, Dr. Hess enjoys photography, traveling, and attending junior hockey games. His favorite films are Raiders of the Lost Ark and Star Wars, and his favorite book is Great Expectations. Passionate about his work, Dr. Hess is committed to educating others and advancing the field of dentistry.
LeRoy Horton
DDS, MS, DICOI
LeRoy Horton, DDS, MS, DICOI is the Director of the Periodontal and Implant Curriculum at Pacific Northwest University (PNWU). Originally from Athens, Greece, Dr. Horton moved to the United States as a teenager and settled in the Tacoma, WA area. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Pacific Lutheran University before attending the University of Washington School of Dentistry, where he graduated in 2007.
After 14 years as a private practice owner, Dr. Horton sold his practice and pursued specialty training in periodontics at Oregon Health Sciences University, where he also obtained a master’s degree in Periodontal Science.
Dr. Horton is board certified in Periodontics and Dental Implant Surgery as a Diplomate of the American Academy of Periodontology and also earned his Diplomate in the International Congress of Oral Implantology (DICOI). He maintains a busy lecturing schedule nationwide. He currently serves as the Chair of the Scientific Committee for the National Dental Association and is an active leader in his local dental community, having previously served as Treasurer and currently as President of the Seattle King County Dental Society.
A passionate educator, Dr. Horton believes that excellence in any field stems from a deep love for it, and he is truly dedicated to teaching.
He is a strong believer that to be great at something you must love it, and he absolutely loves teaching.
Dr. LeRoy Horton DDS, MS, DICOI
Dual Board Certified Specialist in Periodontics and Dental Implant Surgery
Associate Professor & Director of Periodontics
PNWU School of Dental Medicine
Robert J. Timothy
DDS, MS, Board Certified ABOMR
Embark on this educational journey with Dr. Robert Timothy, a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience. After completing dental education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, Dr. Timothy served in the US Army dental corps and furthered his expertise through a one-year AEGD residency in general dentistry.
With 19 years of private practice in southeast Idaho, Dr. Timothy’s commitment to excellence led him back to academia. He pursued studies in Oral Maxillofacial Radiology at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, where he graduated and commenced his academic career at East Carolina School of Dental Medicine.
Currently a part-time clinical instructor at the University of Utah School of Dentistry, Dr. Timothy also maintains a thriving private practice in oral radiology. As a fellow of the American Board of Oral Maxillofacial Radiology, his expertise and dedication make him a valuable guide in navigating the transformative landscape of 3D imaging in general dentistry. Join Dr. Timothy on this enlightening journey to redefine the future of your dental practice.
