Great Expectations - Meet Our Mentors!
Dr. Robert Lemke
Dr. Lemke is a native of San Antonio and a distinguished board certified maxillofacial and oral surgeon. He holds degrees from Trinity University and the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, where he earned both his dental and medical degrees. Dr. Lemke completed his rigorous residency training in Maxillofacial Surgery and Oral Surgery at the same institution.
With his unique combination of MD and DDS degrees, Dr. Lemke is exceptionally equipped to offer exceptional care to all his patients. His commitment to advancing the field is evident through his numerous publications in prestigious academic journals, authorship of 13 scientific abstracts on facial surgery, and contributions to two authoritative books.
Dr. Lemke is not only a dedicated practitioner but also a respected educator, having delivered national lectures on a range of topics, including craniofacial reconstruction, facial cosmetic surgery, facial trauma, and the innovative 'Teeth-in-a-Day' procedure for full-arch reconstruction.
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Lemke finds joy in spending quality time with his family and pursuing his passion for cycling and running. He also expresses his creative side as a published photographer, capturing the beauty of both local landscapes and exotic travel destinations.
Dr. Bart Wilson
As the curious child that my mother always told me I was, I have never taken the easy or short road in life. Yet, I find that my life has been extremely blessed every step of the way. My parents, Tammy & Doug, instilled the value that hard work will always be worth it in the end –however, they never told me when that end would be. As I look back on what I have done, my most notable achievements have always been shared with a group or team. It is no coincidence that the life I have lived and the life I have chosen, revolves around bringing people together to create something that is larger than the sum of its parts.
My adult life has brought me from the shores of North Carolina to the rolling hills of Georgia and I have finally settled into the beautiful scenery of central Texas. In Wilmington, North Carolina, I set the stage for my career by graduating first in the business school majoring in Finance. At that point, I pursued what I had been dreaming of since early in high school-working my way through dental school and ultimately becoming an Orthodontist. My four years of dental school were spent in Augusta, Georgia at the Medical College of Georgia. Immediately thereafter, I was accepted into the Orthodontic Residency program at the same school where I spent thirty months honing my skills as an Orthodontist. Midway through my second year of residency, I successfully passed the American Board of Orthodontics written exam. As of the Spring 2014, I am officially a board-certified orthodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics after successfully completing the case presentation requirement for board certification.
When I am not Dr. Wilson, I am husband to my wonderful wife Nicole, daddy to our adorable girls Chloe(7) and Blakely(5) and “Papi” to my charismatic stepson Bodie(15). We have two of the most lovable/snuggly Goldendoodles named Birdie and Teddy-I could not love them more. As a family, we enjoy exploring in the outdoors, traveling on new adventures and occasionally having those lazy couch days watching whatever new movie is out on streaming. In my other spare time, I love playing golf and about any other sport there is. My teenage athletic drive and ambition continues to be hampered by my ticking biological clock, but I still enjoy whatever physical activity I am presented with.
Dr. Sandra Nairooz
Dr. Nairooz was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt where she received a bachelor’s degree in dental surgery from Ain Shams University. After moving to the United States, she attended SUNY at Buffalo school of dental medicine and received her Doctorate in Dental Surgery (DDS) in 2013. She later completed a one-year internship in Orthodontics at UT health San Antonio.
Upon completing the program, she started her dental career in San Antonio where she practiced for over 5 years before completing her Orthodontics residency program at Jacksonville university and becoming a board-certified orthodontist. Dr. Sandra also is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Board of Orthodontics, American Lingual Orthodontic Association, American academy of Facial Esthetics, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, San Antonio District Dental Society.
Dr. Austin Lee
Dr. Lee is a restorative dentist in San Antonio, TX, focusing on Complex, Cosmetic, and Digital Dentistry. He graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 2015 and AEGD from Boston University School of Dental Medicine in 2016 where he earned the Excellence Award. Committed to direct patient care and education, he had previously served as an adjunct professor at Tufts University, Boston University, and Harvard University. Now the owner of Orbis Dental Group in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Austin Lee practices full-time, serving South Texas. He is a member of Spear Institute, Pankey Institute, International Team for Implantology, American Dental Education Association, and American Dental Association.
Dr. Taylor Cook
Dr. Cook is a general dentist practicing in New Braunfels, TX. She graduated from UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry in 2019. Since graduating, she has stayed very involved in organized dentistry. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for SADDS, the co-chair of the New Dentist Committee for SADDS, and is the new dentist representative for TDA committee CAMCEP, which plans the annual TDA meeting.
Dr. Cook wants to be a mentor in this program because she is passionate about new dentists and their desire to stay involved in organized dentistry. She also just really loves meeting people and would be a great resource for young dentists. She enjoys playing golf, drinking wine, and listening to local Texas country artists.
Dr. Akshay Thusu
Upon realizing that his counting skills extended only up to 32, Akshay Thusu decided to embark on a journey into the field of dentistry. After successfully completing his undergraduate education at UTSA in 2010, he furthered his academic pursuits by enrolling in dental school at UTHSCSA, where he graduated in 2015 with distinction in dental education. Since his graduation, Akshay has contributed his expertise as an associate dentist in San Antonio, gaining experience in various dental settings, including Medicaid offices, HMO/Medicare insurance offices, and PPO/Fee for Service practices.
Presently, Akshay serves as an associate at Advanced Smile Care, a privately owned group practice. Within this role, he specializes in a wide range of procedures, including IV sedations, guided implants, Invisalign treatments, All-On-X conversions, and cutting-edge LASER dentistry techniques.
Beyond his professional commitments, Akshay remains deeply committed to giving back to the community by providing free dental care at events such as Smiles for Hope Clinic, Dentistry from the Heart, and Texas Mission of Mercy. His active involvement in the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is further testament to his dedication to the field, having held leadership positions at all three organizational levels. Akshay also boasts Fellowships from prestigious institutions such as the Academy of General Dentistry, the Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the International College of Dentists.
Outside the realm of dentistry, you'll often find Akshay exploring the picturesque trails that wind through the city, whether it be hiking or biking, and indulging his passion for basketball.
Dr. Yahya Saleh
Dr. Saleh is a dedicated dentist who graduated from UT Health Dental School in San Antonio in 2023. His commitment to dental excellence is underscored by his active membership in both the American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Saleh is not only dedicated to his own practice but also passionate about helping new graduating dental students embark on their careers, offering guidance and support as they navigate the exciting world of dentistry.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Saleh cherishes his time spent with family, finding solace and joy in their company. An avid adventurer, he thrives in the great outdoors, relishing the thrill of hiking and the tranquility of fishing. Dr. Saleh also displays his competitive spirit on the soccer field, passionately supporting Arsenal, his favorite team. His multifaceted interests mirror his dynamic approach to life, embracing both the art and science of dentistry while savoring the pleasures of family and leisure activities.
Dr. Alexandria Gibbs
I am a 2017 Graduate from UTHSCSA Dental School. I am a mother to two girls ages 5 and 2. After graduation I was an associate at several dental offices and in November of 2021, I purchased my dental practice located in the Helotes area. In our free time my family loves to hunt and fish. I have recently enjoyed investing in my health and fitness which has been a rewarding journey. I look forward to passing along any pearls that I have gained in these early years of my dental career.
Dr. William Dunn
Dental Education matters! Teaching is the most important aspect of dentistry and I want to contribute to the success of our dental students' education. After retiring from the US Air Force Dental Corps in 2017, I have been in private practice, but I miss the close interaction between students and faculty. I have 37 years of clinical experience with 17 years devoted to dental education as a Program Director and Training Officer. I was also the Director of Research at the Air Force's largest residency program.
I am a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of General Dentistry and I have completed a Fellowship in Dental Biomaterials. I have extensive experience in dental education int he classroom and in the clinic. I am excited to be a part of SADDS Great Expectations Program and I am looking forward to helping students launch their careers!
Dr. Emad Abdallah
Dr. Abdallah earned his bachelor’s in biochemistry in 2012 and his Doctor of Dental Medicine in
2017 from Boston University. He also completed an Implant Mastery course with over 100
continuing education credits. Before relocating to San Antonio in 2022, Dr. Abdallah practiced
in Detroit, Michigan for five years.
With a focus on cosmetic dentistry and implants, he has dedicated his career to staying up to
date with the latest techniques and technologies. He believes every patient deserves a
beautiful, healthy smile, and works tirelessly to make that a reality for his patients.
When he’s out of the office, Dr. Abdallah enjoys spending time with his family, exercising,
playing pickleball, exploring new restaurants with friends, and cooking delicious meals with his
wife.
Dr. Xavier Walker
I'm a general dentist practicing in San Antonio, TX, since graduating from UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry in 2019. Over the past year, I've actively engaged in organized dentistry, starting with the SADDS New Dentist Committee. Through this involvement, I've come to recognize the vital role organized dentistry plays in keeping us connected not just to the profession but to like-minded peers. Outside of work, I find joy in fitness—currently, I'm passionate about boxing—and exploring new dining spots while enjoying time with friends.
I'm enthusiastic about the prospect of mentoring in this program. I strongly believe that a new dentist should not only be well-prepared clinically but also mentally equipped for the realities of dentistry. Recognizing that mistakes are part of both professional and personal growth, I aspire to be a supportive resource for young dentists, offering insights to help navigate and possibly avoid certain challenges.
