Rik A. Vanooteghem, DDS, MS has been practicing periodontics since 1986. His career has been highlighted by his commitment to education, his several published articles and his involvement with numerous professional organizations.
Dr. Vanooteghem earned his dental degree from the Catholic University of Leuven's Dental School in Leuven, Belgium in 1981. After immigrating to the United States of America from Belgium in 1984, he received his Master of Science Degree in Periodontics from Loma Linda University. He then returned to Belgium to earn a diploma in Surgical Placement of Bränemark Dental Implants in 1985.
Dr. Vanooteghem's commitment to education is evident by his involvement in both teaching and learning. He has been a full-time and part-time assistant professor at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry and also was a teaching assistant in Periodontics at Loma Linda University. Dr. Vanooteghem is also founder and director of the Silicon Valley Study Group, a group of dentists dedicated to excellence in continuing education.
Dr. Vanooteghem has contributed several articles to the Journal of Clinical Periodontology as follows:
- "The Effect of Plaque Control and Root Debridement in Molar Teeth."
J. of Clinical Periodontology 1987:14 - "Bleeding on Probing and Probing Depth as Indicators of the Response to Plaque Control and Root Debridement."
J. of Clinical Periodontology 1987:14 - "Subjective Criteria and Probing Attachment Loss to Evaluate the Effect of Plaque Control and Root Debridement"
J. of Clinical Periodontology 1990:17
Dr. Vanooteghem lectures routinely on subjects of Dental Implants and Plastic Periodontal Surgery. Please see his teaching schedule for more information.
Being active in dental organizations and staying on the leading edge of periodontics and implants have always been a priority for Dr. Vanooteghem. He is an active member of several dental organizations including:
- The American Dental Association
- The American Academy of Periodontology
- The Western Society of Periodontology
- The California Society of Periodontology
- The Santa Clara County Dental Society
- The American Academy of Osseointegration
- The International Congress of Dental Implantologists
- The American Dental Society of Anesthesiology
Dr. Vanooteghem lives in San Jose with his wife, Kathy, and two teenage daughters, Tessa and Tara. His older daughter, Bonnie, and son, Kyle, are away at college. A licensed private pilot, Dr. Vanooteghem’s passion is flying. Anytime he can steal time away from all his other commitments, he’s soaring with the eagles. He also uses his plane to travel to many seminars or conventions, whether he’s teaching or just attending to expand his knowledge base. A computer enthusiast, he enjoys having the latest, fastest technology. Dr. Vanooteghem also welcomes the chance to take walks with his wife and their two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Charlie and Chanel, or play an invigorating game of tennis.