Get To Know Our Experts
Our team of dentists at Pure Dental Spa has a variety of specialized training and education in different areas of their fields, allowing us to provide truly comprehensive care for patients of all ages in Illinois. Not only do we have general dentists in Illinois to take care of your loved ones’ preventive dental concerns, but we also have an oral maxillofacial surgeon, orthodontist, and endodontists on staff to tackle your more specialized needs. You can learn more about our unique team below.
FOUNDER & CLINICAL DIRECTOR – ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Rajul Patel
Dr. Patel first opened the doors to our Chicago dental office in 2010, and well over a decade later, she still finds plenty of fulfillment in enhancing smiles and helping patients rediscover their self-confidence! If you’re ready to start working towards better, brighter teeth, don’t hesitate to give her a call here in Bloomingdale. You can also learn more about her by continuing to read below.
While in college, Dr. Patel had a physics lab partner who introduced her to her sister. The sister worked as a dentist and was currently searching for an assistant. At that time, Dr. Patel wasn’t sure if she wanted to pursue the medical field or dentistry in particular – but she started working for her and was quickly inspired! Whether through alleviating dental pain or completely transforming a smile, the dentist was able to change people’s lives for the better every single day, and she wanted to provide that same level of immediate gratification. The rest, they say, is history.
After graduating from Loyola University in Chicago, Dr. Patel pursued her dental doctorate at New York University College of Dentistry. Continuing education has been very important to her over the years; she’s completed numerous workshops with Spear Education, along with training in CEREC, BOTOX, oral conscious sedation, Invisalign, and more. Currently, she is a member of the American Dental Association and the Illinois State Dental Society.
- American Dental Association
- Illinois State Dental Society
- American Medical Association
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
At home, Dr. Patel and her husband have a young daughter and son, as well as their 10-year-old Boxer. When she isn’t busy caring for patients, you can typically find her taking the kids to museums or spending a family day at the beach. She also loves listening to almost any kind of music live!
BOARD-CERTIFIED ORAL SURGEON – ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Prem Patel
Dr. Prem is able to provide a wide range of oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures in Chicago, including facial trauma repair and reconstruction, dental implant surgery, bone grafting, removal of impacted wisdom teeth, TMJ surgery, and corrective jaw and cosmetic surgery. He deeply enjoys getting to know his patients and working alongside an excellent team that enables him to deliver optimal care every single day. To learn a little more about Dr. Prem, read below.
Dr. Prem was drawn to oral surgery because he liked the precision of dentistry, the science of medicine, and the art of surgery. He knew that becoming an oral surgeon would allow him to blend all these passions and pursue a career where he could make meaningful, long-lasting improvements for his patients, both for their health and appearance.
Dr. Prem received his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he graduated with high honors. He then attended the University of Pennsylvania and obtained his Dental of Medicine Doctorate degree (DMD). During this time, he was awarded several surgical and scholastic distinctions. He was later accepted into the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania’s Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery residency program. Once admitted, he attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, eventually earning his MD degree. Dr. Prem went on to receive his two-year General Surgery Certificate while completing rotations at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Today, he is board-certified in both oral and maxillofacial surgery as well as cosmetic surgery.
- American Dental Association
- Illinois State Dental Society
- American Medical Association
- American Association Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeons
- American Academy Of Cosmetic Surgery
- American College Of Surgeons
Most of Dr. Prem’s free time is dedicated to his wife, Sonia, and their young son and daughter, Zayn and Zavia. Currently, he and the children are taking swimming lessons (he never learned when he was younger)! When he’s not in the pool, he enjoys working out, traveling, and trying new adventures.
ORTHODONTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Amer Shammaa
Nothing makes Dr. Shammaa happier than seeing his patients’ faces after he takes off their braces and they get to look at their new smiles for the first time. For him, the best part of his job is knowing that he is making positive and lasting changes in people’s lives. He looks forward to doing the same for you or your child, and to learn a little more about him, read on below.
Most of Dr. Shammaa’s family members are dentists, and it was his older brother, an orthodontist, that encouraged him to take the same path. His brother is 18 years older than him, and growing up, Dr. Shammaa always admired how he was able to help people, and he fondly remembers that all of his patients loved him.
Dr. Shammaa completed his initial dental education at the University of Minnesota, and he went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics from West Virginia University. To stay on top of the latest advancements in dentistry, he is currently a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, and the American Academy of Orthodontists.
Dr. Shammaa and his wife, Aylah, have one boy, Zayd. When he isn’t spending time with family, he enjoys reading, watching soccer, and playing tennis.
ORTHODONTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Tommy Bond
Dr. Tommy Bond loves transforming smiles and building genuine relationships with patients – it’s a few of the many things that make him an exceptional orthodontist in Chicago! Today, he is board-certified and just as passionate about using his education and training to help others achieve the smiles of their dreams. If you would like to learn more about him, including an interesting task that piqued his interest in dentistry, read on.
While some doctors were inspired by their parents or their own orthodontist, Dr. Bond’s journey to becoming a board-certified orthodontist began at IKEA.
At 18, he arrived at the 320,000-square-foot maze to get some new furniture. After fiddling around with the unlabeled instructions, tiny wood legs, and wrenches, he took a step back and saw clean lines, a beautiful aesthetic, and harmony. The cohesiveness and fluidity of it all were extremely satisfying, especially since the outcome laid in his own hands. Since he was always interested in engineering and architecture, he decided to combine these passions with his love for working with his hands – orthodontics was the perfect fit!
Originally from Virginia, Dr. Bond chose to pursue his studies nearby at Virginia Tech. From there, he studied at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. He completed his orthodontic residency in 2020 and became a board-certified orthodontist in 2021. Now, he has additional training in orthopedics and is Invisalign certified as well! Plus, he maintains active memberships with several professional organizations, including:
- American Dental Association
- Illinois State Dental Association
- American Academy Of Orthodontists
- American Board Of Orthodontics (Board-Certified)
In his free time, you’ll probably find Dr. Bond walking around the city with an iced coffee or going to the dog park with his French Bulldog, Louis. He also enjoys teaching an indoor cycling class in the city, trying out all of the newest restaurants in the Chicago area, and creating artwork for his home. Here’s an interesting fact about him: he used to race dirt bikes competitively.
GENERAL DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Leslie Lopez
Dr. Leslie Lopez’s journey in the dental field is one of perseverance, aspiration, and an enduring love for the profession. From starting at the front desk to becoming a general dentist, she has worn multiple hats, each one leading her further into the heart of dentistry. Her passion for the field is a testament to her commitment to her patients and the dental team she cherishes. With only a year into her career as a dentist, she has already made significant strides, embracing every opportunity to build relationships and craft individualized treatment plans for her patients.
The decision to become a dentist was a natural progression for Dr. Lopez. She began her dental career working at the front desk, where she developed a deep understanding of the practice’s operations. From there, she moved into the role of an office manager and then a dental assistant. Each role enriched her knowledge and fueled her desire to make a more significant impact. The best part of her job, she says, is building relationships with her patients and the team. The foundation of her approach is to actively listen to her patient’s goals, which helps her to create individualized treatment plans and guide them toward optimal oral health.
Dr. Lopez received her undergraduate degree from the University of New Mexico before advancing to Creighton University School of Dentistry. Her education at these institutions provided a robust foundation and the necessary skills to excel in her current position as a general dentist. Today, she is proud to apply her expertise to provide top-quality dental care for her patients.
Beyond the realm of dentistry, Dr. Lopez is an outdoor enthusiast. She takes pleasure in bike riding, swimming, hiking, and gardening, activities that allow her to embrace the beauty of nature. In addition, she loves experimenting with new recipes, with a particular fondness for baking. She enjoys visiting her family and friends who live outside of Illinois and travels often to stay connected with them.
Interestingly, Dr. Lopez has lived in five different states, adding to her diverse experiences and perspectives. Today, she is excited to call Illinois her forever home. Her journey, both in her professional and personal life, is an accomplishment she is proud of.
GENERAL DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Sayali Patankar
Dr. Sayali Patankar brings a refreshing blend of clinical precision and contagious optimism to every patient experience. Known for her “obnoxiously positive” attitude (her words, not ours!), she creates a space where patients feel genuinely heard, understood, and cared for. Her approach is human-first and heart-led—because dentistry, to her, is about more than teeth; it’s about trust, transformation, and connection.
Dr. Patankar’s interest in dentistry was sparked by childhood visits to her orthodontist and pediatric dentist—two providers who made her feel confident, safe, and seen. Those early experiences lit a fire that’s never gone out. Today, she carries that same energy forward, crafting thoughtful, transparent care that helps people feel empowered about their health and their smile.
A proud Chicagoland native, Dr. Patankar earned both her undergraduate and dental degrees at the University of Illinois at Chicago. After nearly a decade of rigorous training, she expanded her professional journey in Dallas, where she refined her clinical skills and discovered a love for travel, culture, and connection.
A curious traveler with a global perspective, Dr. Patankar has explored nearly every continent alongside her husband, making memories and collecting stories along the way. Closer to home, she loves discovering new restaurants, enjoying Chicago’s neighborhoods, and finding joy in small, meaningful moments. Her warm, approachable nature carries through everything she does—making her someone patients trust from the very first visit.
GENERAL DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Vivian Lee
Warm, thoughtful, and deeply attentive, Dr. Vivian Lee approaches dentistry with a patient-first mindset and a passion for education. She believes that oral health is a lifelong journey, and she’s committed to walking alongside her patients every step of the way. With a focus on comfort and clarity, she creates a space where patients feel safe, informed, and empowered to take charge of their health.
Dr. Lee was drawn to dentistry for its perfect blend of science, artistry, and human connection. She loves being a steady presence in her patients’ lives—someone they can turn to with questions, concerns, and a desire to understand their care more deeply. Every appointment is a chance to build trust and foster long-term well-being.
She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed her General Practice Residency at New York Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. She is also an active member of the American Dental Association.
Away from the dental chair, Dr. Lee enjoys connecting with her creative side through music, dance, embroidery, and crochet. These passions bring her balance and joy—alongside quality time with her beloved family and friends, who remain her greatest source of support and inspiration.
GENERAL DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Eliza Kim
Dr. Kim loves that her job revolves around helping people smile, whether it’s because they finally feel comfortable in the chair, are pain-free, or are excited to show off their newly enhanced teeth! Her goal is to seamlessly combine science, art, and service into personalized treatment plans that are perfectly suited to each individual. To learn a little more about her before you visit Pure Dental Spa, just keep reading!
Dr. Kim knew she wanted to go into healthcare from an early age, but her interest in dentistry actually started because she experienced some trauma to one of her front teeth at age 13. She ended up needing a root canal and eventually underwent three crown replacements, which consistently made her feel insecure. She finally found a dentist that fixed it correctly, and now it looks seamless. She decided that she wanted to be able to help people in the same way, so she ended up shadowing some dental students, and this solidified that she wanted to become a dentist.
Before starting dental school, Dr. Kim worked at the front desk of a dental office managing insurance and treatment plans. She also volunteered at non-profit dental clinics. She received her dental degree from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Dental Medicine. While studying, she went on multiple dental mission trips to provide free care to underserved populations in both South America and the U.S.
After graduating, Dr. Kim completed a General Practice Residency at the Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. There, she received intensive education that covered all aspects of dentistry, from pediatrics to full mouth rehabilitation and everything in between.
Always eager to learn more, she is an active member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Dr. Kim is a Korean-American who was born in Brazil and raised in Florida, and she is proud to be a first-generation college graduate for her family. She is recently engaged, and when she isn’t spending time with her fiancé, you’ll usually find her at the gym, a coffee shop, or a restaurant (she’s a self-proclaimed “foodie”). She loves tuning the world out while working on a pottery wheel, and even though she wears scrubs at work every day, she always has different shoes because she is a “sneakerhead.”
GENERAL DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Youn Ju Lee
Dr. Youn Ju Lee is a skilled and compassionate dentist at our practice, where she has been practicing since January 2024. With a strong educational background that includes a Bachelor of Science in biology from Northeastern University and a Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University Henry M Goldman School of Medicine, Dr. Lee completed a challenging two-year residency at NYU Langone Brooklyn, where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Lee is committed to continual professional development, having completed courses in clear aligners, composite veneers, and laser dentistry. She is also a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Second District Dental Society.
Dr. Lee’s passion for dentistry stems from her desire to connect with people and assist them on their oral health journey. She finds it rewarding to educate and guide her patients toward achieving their oral health goals, appreciating the opportunity to interact with diverse individuals and learn from their unique life experiences.
Dr. Lee pursued her dental education at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, followed by a comprehensive two-year residency at NYU Langone Brooklyn, where she honed her skills and leadership as Chief Resident.
Outside of her professional life, Dr. Lee is an avid reader and enjoys attending concerts, running, and going on long walks around Chicago with her husband and their dog, Yuzu. She also has a passion for baking sourdough bread, hiking, and photography—activities that allow her to relax and recharge.
As the proud daughter of Korean immigrants, Dr. Lee is deeply grateful to her parents for giving her the chance to pursue her dreams. Their perseverance and support have been crucial to her success, and she credits them with instilling the values of hard work and resilience that she carries into every aspect of her life, including her profession. Her dedication to her patients and her team makes her a cherished member of our practice.
GENERAL DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Jobren Dingle
Dr. Dingle combines meticulous clinical expertise with a compassionate approach to patient care. He is dedicated to delivering precise, personalized dentistry that supports both the health and aesthetics of every smile. Known for his calm demeanor and clear communication, Dr. Dingle ensures each patient feels comfortable and informed throughout their treatment journey.
Dr. Dingle knew he wanted to be a dentist from the young age of five. That early passion has guided his journey ever since, from academic excellence to leadership roles within the American Dental Association. For him, dentistry is more than a profession—it’s a calling rooted in forming real relationships and helping patients feel truly seen and supported.
Dr. Dingle earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Boston University, followed by a residency in New York where he further sharpened his clinical skills and focus on patient-centered care.
Recently relocated to Chicago, Dr. Dingle is embracing the city’s vibrant culture and community. He’s a fashion enthusiast with an eye for aesthetics—both in and out of the office—and finds joy in music, trying new restaurants, and connecting with others. Whether he’s curating a playlist or a smile makeover, his goal is always the same: bring confidence, clarity, and a touch of radiance to every experience.
GENERAL & INVISALIGN DENTIST - ILLINOIS
Get To Know Dr. Athena Tosiou
With a warm heart, sharp clinical eye, and a belief that even the smallest changes can have a big impact, she’s dedicated to helping patients rediscover their confidence—one smile at a time. Her approach is thoughtful and thorough, creating a sense of peace and trust with every visit.
Dr. Tosiou’s journey into dentistry began with an encouraging dentist from her childhood and a friend’s father who saw her potential early on. Drawn to biology, skilled with her hands, and fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact, she discovered a deep passion for dentistry. Today, she’s driven by the opportunity to build lasting relationships and help patients feel truly seen, supported, and proud of their smiles.
Dr. Tosiou earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry. She has called Chicago home since 2002, bringing with her a strong foundation in clinical excellence and a commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
When she’s not at work, Dr. Tosiou cherishes time with her big, close-knit family—especially her nieces, nephews, and her 14-year-old morkie. She enjoys long walks, local shopping trips, and quiet moments of connection. Passionate about technology and innovation, she’s always exploring new ways to use digital tools to make dentistry more transparent and comfortable for every patient.—;lsdkjf
When she’s not at work, Dr. Tosiou cherishes time with her big, close-knit family—especially her nieces, nephews, and her 14-year-old morkie. She enjoys long walks, local shopping trips, and quiet moments of connection. Passionate about technology and innovation, she’s always exploring new ways to use digital tools to make dentistry more transparent and comfortable for every patient.