New Dental Commission Member Bios
Dr. Seung H Yu:
I was born in Seoul, South Korea, and have lived in the Pacific Northwest most of my life. I earned my Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Dental Surgery degrees at the University of Washington. I then completed an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at the University of Washington while working at multiple regional hospitals including Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle Children’s Medical Center, VA Medical Center, Swedish Medical Center, Northwest Medical Center, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center and Providence Medical Center. Currently, I have a private practice in Bellevue and Renton, Washington. I enjoy spending time with my two young daughters. I also enjoy reading intellectually stimulating books. I am most grateful for the opportunities I have been afforded. I would like to share the knowledge and experience I have and enhance the quality of dental care for the people of Washington State.
Dr. Jurges:
Dr. Jurges is a dedicated dentist whose journey reflects resilience, leadership, and a passion for serving others. Before pursuing dentistry, Dr. Jurges earned a degree in Systems Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer and as a Salvage Diving Officer. As an officer in Iraq, he disarmed 198 explosive devices and was awarded a Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” Distinguishing Device. These experiences instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, precision, and adaptability, traits that have been invaluable in his dental career.
Following his Naval Officer career, he earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Washington School of Dentistry in 2016. Following graduation, Dr. Jurges began his dental career at Columbia Valley Community Health in Wenatchee. During his time there, he provided comprehensive care to patients of all ages, gaining invaluable experience in delivering high-quality dental services in a federally qualified health center.
In 2018, Dr. Jurges made the decision to transition to private practice by founding SageBrush Dental in Wenatchee, WA. Beginning with just one dental assistant, he embraced the challenge of building the practice from the ground up. Through determination and dedication, SageBrush Dental has flourished into a thriving team committed to providing high quality oral health care while fostering long-lasting relationships with their patients. His practice is known not only for its clinical excellence but also for its emphasis on patient education, ensuring that individuals feel informed and empowered to make the best decisions for their dental health.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Jurges is looking forward to his new role as a member of the Washington State Dental Commission. In this capacity, he plans to continue to uphold and advance the standards of dental care across the state, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality treatment. His commitment to professional service reflects his dedication to the broader dental community and his desire to contribute to the future of the profession.
Through SageBrush Dental and his role on the Washington State Dental Commission, Dr. Jurges continues to shape the future of dentistry while making a meaningful impact on the oral health and well-being of his community. His journey from military service to dental excellence is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.
Bio of Dr Choi:
Dr. Ji Choi is the Chief Dental Officer at Columbia Basin Health Association (CBHA), a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). Dr. Choi was formerly the Dental Director at International Community Health Services (ICHS) in Seattle. Prior to becoming the CDO at CBHA, Dr. Choi owned and operated a private dental practice in Silverdale. Dr. Choi is an Affiliate Instructor for the University of Washington School of Dentistry, Department of Restorative Dentistry, and a Clinical Faculty for the NYU-Langone Department of Dental Medicine. Dr. Choi graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry with a DDS degree. Dr. Choi joined the Arcora Foundation Board in 2015 and was a former board member at Dale Turner YMCA. Dr. Choi has worked closely with Project Access, the Seattle King County Dental Society, and the Washington Association of Community and Migrant Health Centers, now known as the Washington Association for Community Health, to help increase access to oral health.
New Dental Hygiene Examining Committee member Bios.
Joy Sykes:
Joy Sykes began her career in 1999 as a certified dental assistant in general dentistry. Driven by her passion for restorative dentistry, she pursued further education and graduated from hygiene school in 2009. Shortly after, Joy managed the restorative side of a private practice, collaborating with three dentists. Alongside her clinical work, she has provided consulting services on the role of restorative hygienists and successfully managed an independent temping business. Currently, she practices full-time in public health with a strong focus on periodontal therapy. This marks her first appointment serving on the Dental Hygiene Examining Committee
Camille Luke, RDH:
Camille Luke, RDH, MSDH has been a practicing hygienist since 1992. She has a passion for dental hygiene and baking. She enjoys sharing her recipes and creations with friends, and within the dental community, sharing the key ingredients for dental hygiene success. Her experience ranges from clinical practice, to education, in-office coaching, continuing education presentations, research and crafting tasty recipes to share with family and friends. She has worked as Clinical Lead for Pierce College in Lakewood, WA and as an adjunct faculty for Eastern Washington University. She currently works in private practice and serves as Director of Education and Clinical Development for a local dental group, where she developed a robust continuing education program for dentists and dental hygienists. To say she has a passion for dental hygiene is an understatement. Her energy and enthusiasm for dentistry extends beyond the operatory. She has presented motivational and educational sessions to audiences around the country and internationally. She is a member of ADHA, former president of the Washington Dental Hygienists’ Association and an active member of the Academy of Laser Dentistry.