Our Team

Torrey Pines Dental Arts |9850 Genesee Avenue Suite 720La JollaCA92037 | (858) 453-5525

The Team at Torrey Pines Dental Arts 

Our three dentists, Dr. Kelly Terranova, Dr. Michael Saade, and Dr. Hannah Hurley, are experienced and talented dentists that work in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Our dentists work collaboratively with a team of specialists in order to offer personalized dental care across all phases of dentistry. We deliver kind, friendly service in a patient-centered environment that means more. Patients often say that they have the best dental experience of their life here!

Ready to get started with us? Visit our dental practice in La Jolla, CA, today. We are located in the Scripps/Ximed Medical Center.

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GENERAL DENTISTS

Kelly Terranova headshot

KELLY C. TERRANOVA, D.D.S.

 

Dr. Kelly Terranova knows from personal experience the power of transforming an average smile into a beautiful one, and she has made it her professional goal to help other people achieve both healthy mouths and stunning smiles.

Growing up in Rockford, Illinois, Dr. Terranova began her unofficial dental training as a precocious patient in an orthodontist’s office. Her orthodontist instilled in her a passion for excellence and inspired her to pursue a career in dentistry. During her time as an undergraduate at the University of Notre Dame, where she received Bachelor of Arts degrees in psychology and pre-professional studies, she began her official dental training. While on summer breaks from college, she worked for her orthodontist mentor as an assistant. When she finally began her dental studies at Marquette University School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she had every intention of becoming an orthodontist. But once she found that restorative dentistry could provide beautiful and healthy smiles too, she changed her career trajectory and committed to studying general dentistry.

After graduating from Marquette in 2009, Dr. Terranova spent five years practicing general dentistry full-time in South Bend, Indiana, before relocating to San Diego in 2014 and joining Torrey Pines Dental Arts. She enjoys spending time forming relationships with patients and helping them to understand not only their role in their own dental health but also how their dental health can affect their overall health. Dr. Terranova firmly believes that dental health is a group effort, and she aims to arm her patients with the knowledge they need to be successful with their long-term dental goals. A member of the California Dental Association and the American Dental Association, Dr. Terranova knows the importance of comprehensive dentistry and loves collaborating with the talented team at Torrey Pines Dental Arts.

When Dr. Terranova is not practicing dentistry, she spends time with her husband and three sons, enjoying the beautiful San Diego weather. The Terranova's like to swim at the beach, hike, and visit their favorite animals at the zoo.

Michael Saade headshot

MICHAEL SAADE, D.M.D.

 

Dr. Michael Saade believes that prevention and education are the foundations of maintaining a healthy mouth and are imperative for systemic health. He enjoys building relationships with his patients and believes it is important to listen while keeping their oral healthcare needs as his primary focus.

Dr. Saade graduated at the top of his class from Western University of Health Sciences in 2013. After receiving his D.M.D., Dr. Saade was commissioned as a dental officer in the United States Navy. For five years, he had the privilege of practicing dentistry for our country’s sailors and marines. After completing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency in 2014 with a wide breadth of dental experience, Dr. Saade focused his skills on same-day crown dentistry, wanting to be a part of the movement to improve the patient experience in the dental chair. Dr. Saade is passionate about surgical dentistry as well, having been trained in extractions, including the removal of wisdom teeth. He is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, San Diego County Dental Society, and Spear Faculty club, and he actively participates in various continuing education courses to further improve his skills.

Originally from nearby Orange County, Dr. Saade has chosen San Diego and Torrey Pines Dental Arts as his permanent homes. When he’s not working, Dr. Saade enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, visiting the local beaches, and staying active by working out. He is an avid basketball fan and enjoys watching all sports. Dr. Saade loves to travel and is frequently trying to plan his next destination to visit!

Hannah Hurley headshot

HANNAH J. HURLEY, D.D.S.

 

Dr. Hurley loves getting to know her patients and acting as a resource for all their dental needs. She strives to make her patients feel comfortable and supported during what she understands can be a stressful experience for some. Dr. Hurley’s specific career interests include cosmetic dentistry, endodontics, and treating dental trauma.

Dr. Hannah Hurley grew up in a small Mississippi River town just outside of St. Louis, Missouri. She completed her Bachelor of Science at Saint Louis University before moving to San Francisco to attend the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. In dental school, Dr. Hurley excelled in her studies, leading her to graduate with high honors in the top 10 of her class. She earned multiple excellence awards for her dentistry and an academic scholarship from the United States Navy. Dr. Hurley was voted “laugh heard around the world” as her boisterous laugh always alerted her classmates that she was present in the clinic!

Upon graduation, Dr. Hurley reported to Balboa Hospital to begin her service as an active-duty dental officer. She immediately fell in love with San Diego, and though she knew she wanted to settle here one day, she first served an additional two years at the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Arizona. While in the Navy, Dr. Hurley met the kindest and most selfless people. She feels extremely privileged to have cared for our country’s exceptional servicemembers. Her time in the military will always remain one of the most influential periods of her life.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Hurley enjoys any outdoor activity. She spends her free time traveling, weight lifting, paddle boarding, cooking, camping, and hiking on the many trails around San Diego. Dr. Hurley is an avid reader and is always looking for new book recommendations!

ENDODONTISTS

Michael Sherman headshot

MICHAEL SHERMAN, D.M.D.

 

Dr. Michael Sherman provides endodontic expertise for Torrey Pines Dental Arts. He regularly consults with our team of general dentists on difficult cases and offers treatment options for patients whose endodontic therapy requires the use of a microscope.

Dr. Sherman grew up in southern Ohio. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor’s degree in Biology and then went on to do research at the National Institute of Health in Washington, DC. After a year at the NIH, Dr. Sherman moved to Boston, where he attended Tufts University and received his D.M.D. Immediately following graduation, Dr. Sherman was accepted into a two-year endodontic residency program at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale. He now practices endodontics at Torrey Pines Dental Arts as well as at offices in Vista and Fallbrook. Dr. Sherman is a published author in the Journal of Endodontics. He is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, the American Dental Association, and the California Dental Association. Dr. Sherman is very active in the dental community in San Diego and belongs to several local organizations and study clubs.

When Dr. Sherman is not involved in the practice of endodontics, he is often found spending time with his wife and two children. He loves craft beers, jazz music, and reading. Dr. Sherman is a passionate surfer and enjoys participating in any outdoor activities, including bike riding, hiking, and golfing.

JAMES MORRIS JR., D.M.D., M.S.

 

Dr. James Morris offers his dental experience to our team at Torrey Pines Dental Arts specializing in endodontics. He provides comprehensive treatment planning and the use of endodontic microscopy to help our patients achieve their optimal dental health.

Dr. Morris grew up in Mesa, Arizona. He completed his undergraduate education and Arizona State University and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. During dental school, he completed a General Practice Residency at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton. Dr. Morris served as a general dentist both operationally and ashore before entering endodontic residency at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland. After completing specialty training in 2018, he attained board certification in 2019 and became a diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics.

Dr. Morris, his wife, and their five children live in the San Diego area. They enjoy sports, the outdoors, and spending time together as a family.

PERIODONTIST

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ANTHONY OPILKA, D.D.S., M.S.

 

Dr. Anthony Opilka specializes in the surgical placement of dental implants, tissue and bone grafting, gum reshaping for esthetic enhancement, and extractions. He provides both oral and IV conscious sedation, giving patients options for relaxation and comfort during surgical procedures. Dr. Opilka works very closely with the restorative team at Torrey Pines Dental Arts to create outstanding cosmetic outcomes for the patients under his care.

Dr. Opilka is originally from the Chicago area. He received his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Science degrees from the University of Illinois and completed his Master of Science degree in Oral Biology at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. After practicing for six years as a general dentist, Dr. Opilka completed a demanding three-year periodontics residency at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland (the President’s Hospital). He served in the Navy for 22 years, treating the pilots of Marine One (the President’s helicopter) during his career as a Naval Officer.

Dr. Opilka achieved Diplomate status in the American Board of Periodontology in 2002. He was a periodontics staff member and mentor to periodontal residents at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School from 2006-2009. He has given numerous lectures on many of the clinical techniques he has honed in his career. Dr. Opilka is a member of the American Academy of Periodontology, American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Academy of Osseointegration, San Diego County Dental Society, American Society of Dental Anesthesiology, and California Dental Society of Anesthesiology.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Opilka enjoys golfing and playing guitar. He and his wife have two children. They revel in bodyboarding, swimming, traveling, spending time with friends, and discovering great food.

Although he left Chicago years ago, he remains an avid White Sox fan.

ORAL SURGEON

Hector Caballero headshot

HECTOR CABALLERO, D.D.S.

 

Dr. Hector Caballero is a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicing a full scope of surgical procedures, including teeth removal, dental implant placement, bone grafting, orthognathic surgery, and in-office facial cosmetics. He is trained in general anesthesia and can provide IV conscious sedation for all in-office surgical procedures. He currently serves as a general anesthesia office evaluator for the Dental Board of California.

Dr. Caballero attended The Ohio State University as a student-athlete, playing Division I volleyball from 1982-1984 and earning two varsity O letters. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biochemistry in 1987 and his DDS in 1991. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant into the United States Navy Dental Corps. Dr. Caballero completed a GPR at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton and an internship in exodontia at Naval Training Center Great Lakes before graduating from his Oral and Maxillofacial program in 2009. He served with the Marines at Camp Pendleton before going on to serve as the Dental Department Head and Staff Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon aboard the aircraft carrier Carl Vinson CVN 70. After his carrier tour, he was assigned to MCRD Branch Dental Clinic, where he served as the Clinic Director from 2016 through 2018. Dr. Caballero retired from the Navy with the rank of Captain after 30 years of honorable service.

Dr. Caballero volunteers and mentors at the UCSD Pre-Dental Student Run Free Clinics. He maintains active memberships in the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, San Diego County Dental Society, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, American College of Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons, and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology.

Dr. Caballero was born and raised in Caguas, Puerto Rico. He is married and has two daughters. Dr. Caballero enjoys playing tennis, golfing, running, hiking, biking, and traveling the world.

ABOUT THE STAFF

At Torrey Pines Dental Arts, we’re proud of our professional, highly-trained staff members! All of our team members, no matter what their daily duties are, hold a license as a registered dental hygienist or a registered dental assistant. We even have a lead dental assistant, Edward, who has gone through additional training to become a licensed registered dental assistant in extended functions! 

We also make a point of cross-training our dental assistants to be able to handle the front desk and clinical operatories. It’s common for the person you speak to over the phone to be the same person who will help our dentists during your procedure. Our office manager, Cristi, still holds a license as a registered dental hygenist and even steps in to help patients during their cleanings! 

In addition, our staff members often hold additional certifications in different concentrations, from oral surgery to laser-assisted hygiene therapy. This ensures that our team is fully qualified to provide you with the dental care you need. When you walk into Torrey Pines Dental Arts for an appointment, you can be sure that you’ll be taken care of.

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