Meet Dr. Riza Santos

Dr. Santos received a BA in Integrative Biology and Psychology from UC Berkeley (GO BEARS!).  After college, Dr. Santos worked for several years as a Research Associate in the Biotech industry and then a Recruiter in the Software and Health Sciences industries.  Although she enjoyed her time in these fields, it became apparent that she would be most happy in a career that combined both her passion for science and working with people. This realization led her to graduate with honors from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine.  Upon graduation, she received the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry Award of Merit as well as the American Association of Women Dentists Eleanor J. Bushee Award for academic excellence and outstanding leadership.  Dr. Santos then completed her residency at The University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco.  She also currently works at a dental clinic in Pittsburg, and is clinical faculty with the UCSF/Lutheran Medical Center Residency Program.  

Dr. Santos is an active member of:

• The American Dental Association
• The California Dental Association
• The Contra Costa Dental Society
• The Seattle Study Club

She also attends more than the required continuing education courses annually in order to keep to date with the advances in dental care and technology.

Dr. Santos was raised in the East Bay and Ohio.  She and Dr. Rikli have two sons, Jacob and Noah.  When not working, Dr. Santos enjoys hiking, camping and running and has completed several marathons and half-marathons. She also loves making handmade cards, reading books highly recommended by others, dabbling in arts and crafts projects, and spending time with family and friends.