Dr. Foroud Hakim began his undergraduate studies at Louisiana State University, but completed his degree at San Jose State University when his family moved to the Bay Area in 1985. He went on to earn his DDS degree from the world-renowned University of Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in 1991, graduating with high honors. He also holds an MBA degree from the UOP Business School. Upon graduation, he received uncommon and immediate validation by being recruited back to his alma mater as a faculty member by school leadership. He is in his 4th decade of giving back to the profession by teaching young dentists. Equally passionate about providing the best possible patient care, Dr. Hakim assumed ownership of San Ramon Dental Excellence in 1992. He takes great pride in having provided 4 decades of thoughtful, compassionate, and expert oral health care to a multitude of patients in the San Ramon Valley area. To this end, Dr. Hakim has received numerous honors and accolades related to both teaching and patient care. Dr. Hakim wears a 3rd hat as an established speaker and opinion leader in his field. He has provided continuing education and training to established dentists on both a national and international level on a multitude of topics including prevention, conservative to complex restorative dentistry, esthetics, smile design, and implant dentistry. His activities in the profession have resulted in the development of long-standing relationships with the dental industry. Dental manufacturers routinely use Dr. Hakim’s office as a trusted beta site, where he is asked to evaluate the latest developments in technology and materials. His patients get great comfort in knowing they are being treated in a practice committed to staying on the cutting edge. Dr. Hakim strives to provide the most thoughtful and individualized care, specifically catering to every patients’ priorities, needs and wants. He takes the time to explain his findings and the recommended treatment in a way that is logical and clear to all of his patients. He believes “a well-informed patient will inevitably be a healthier and happier patient”. Perhaps the most compelling fact about Dr. Hakim’s skill set is that over 50 fellow dentists have chosen him to be their doctor over the years - “the ultimate compliment, when one is chosen by colleagues”. Dr. Hakim considers it both a privilege, and a great responsibility when a patient trusts him with their health. He truly looks forward to caring for his current patients, who he considers family. He also looks forward to meeting all the new patients that choose him to be their doctor in the future!
Welcome to San Ramon Dental Excellence, where innovation meets empathy under the leadership of Dr. Divian Patel. With over 15 years of experience in general dentistry, Dr. Patel has built his career on a belief that dentistry is not just about teeth — it’s about people. Patients come to him not only for his technical skill but for his calm, compassionate approach that makes every visit feel comfortable, personal, and empowering. A Global Journey in Dentistry Dr. Patel began his dental career at the Royal London Hospital, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), where he earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2010. His early years in London were marked by rapid success, managing two thriving dental practices. In 2016, Dr. Patel brought his expertise to the United States, completing his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of the Pacific (UOP), where he was inducted into the Tau Kappa Omega Honor Society for his excellence in scholarship, character, and patient care. Today, he blends European precision with American innovation, providing comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry in San Ramon — from preventive and restorative treatments to invisible orthodontics, smile makeovers, and implant dentistry — all guided by a focus on long-term oral health and patient comfort. Recognized Excellence & Leadership in Dental Innovation Dr. Patel’s impact reaches far beyond his practice. He is widely recognized as one of the leading voices in modern dentistry, blending clinical excellence with cutting-edge technology and mentorship. • Featured in Forbes, Yahoo Finance, Dentistry Today and Business Insider for his pioneering work with Trust AI — an AI-powered dental platform that supports real-time diagnosis, treatment planning, and smarter patient care. • Advisory Board Member, Cloud Dentistry — often called “the Uber of dental staffing” — which has facilitated over 500,000 dental placements, transforming how practices recruit and operate across the nation. • Award Recipient – QMUL Alumni Centre of Excellence in AI in Education Awards 2025, celebrating his leadership in innovation and global influence in dentistry. • Member, Tau Kappa Omega Honor Society at UOP, honoring his dedication to ethical, patient-centered practice. • Co-Creator of the Trust AI Trailer, a short film highlighting how technology and human empathy can coexist in modern dentistry. Mentorship & Building a Brighter Dental Future Dr. Patel is deeply committed to mentorship, guiding pre-dental students and new graduates as they embark on their professional journeys. His mentorship philosophy is simple yet profound: “The future of dentistry shines brighter when experience is shared, not guarded.” He regularly volunteers his time to help young professionals develop clinical confidence, business understanding, and personal resilience — ensuring the next generation of dentists lead with both skill and heart. A Philosophy Rooted in Trust & Empathy Every patient relationship begins with listening. Dr. Patel believes the most important part of dentistry is understanding the person behind the smile. His approach emphasizes conservative, minimally invasive care, helping patients achieve health, function, and beauty in harmony. Whether he’s restoring a single tooth or rebuilding a full smile, his focus remains on comfort, transparency, and trust. Giving Back & Global Impact Dr. Patel is passionate about humanitarian work and supports the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation USA — a Nobel Peace Prize–winning organization dedicated to ending child labor and rescuing trafficked children. His belief that “true success is measured by how much we uplift others” fuels both his clinical work and global outreach. Life Beyond Dentistry Outside of dentistry, Dr. Patel lives in Pleasanton with his wife and their beloved goldendoodle, Toffee, and are joyfully expecting identical twin boys. A lifelong learner and competitor, he enjoys gym training and powerlifting, watching Liverpool FC, and exploring music and film. His patients often describe him as approachable, thoughtful, and inspiring — the kind of dentist who makes you feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for.
Nicole embarked on her dental career at Western Career College, where she completed the rigorous Dental Assistant Program in 2005. Her dedication and commitment to the field quickly propelled her forward, and by 2008, she became a fully registered dental assistant. In addition to her formal qualifications, Nicole is also certified in CPR, ensuring that she is fully prepared to provide the highest standard of care in any situation. Over the past five years, she has been an integral part of the San Ramon dental community, bringing her expertise and warm personality to every patient she encounters. Nicole’s true passion lies in connecting with her patients on a personal level. She finds joy in getting to know each individual who sits in her chair, whether they are visiting for the first time or are long-time patients. These interactions are the highlight of her day, as she believes that building trust and rapport is key to delivering exceptional care. Nicole is particularly proud of her involvement in complex dental cases, such as crowns and bridges. She derives immense satisfaction from knowing that her skills contribute directly to improving her patients' smiles and, ultimately, their confidence. Outside of her professional life, Nicole is deeply committed to her family and friends. She treasures the time spent with loved ones and is always looking for ways to create meaningful memories together. A certified animal lover, Nicole’s home is filled with the joyful presence of her beloved pets. Her adventurous spirit was truly ignited when she traveled to Cuba—a trip that left a lasting impression on her. Captivated by the culture, history, and beauty of the island, Nicole has since developed a passion for travel and is eager to explore more destinations around the world.
With over two decades of experience in the dental field, Rajdeep has cultivated a profound passion for crafting beautiful smiles and promoting overall dental health. Her journey began at Dashmesh Institute of Research and Dental Sciences in India, where she graduated in 2002. Rajdeep initially worked as a general dentist in India, honing her skills and gaining invaluable experience. Seeking new opportunities and challenges, she moved to the USA and has since worked in various dental offices, taking on diverse roles that have enriched her expertise. Rajdeep's dedication to oral health led her to pursue further education in dental hygiene, driven by a keen interest in the connection between gum health and systemic diseases. Since earning her degree, she has committed herself to educating her patients about the crucial role of optimal gum health in preventing chronic conditions. Her focus is on empowering individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions about their oral care and overall well-being. In her personal life, Rajdeep finds joy in cooking and preparing meals for her family, cherishing the time spent together. Her beloved one-year-old golden retriever, Bruno, is a cherished part of her life, and she enjoys their moments of play and companionship. Rajdeep also has a strong passion for cleaning and organizing, finding satisfaction in maintaining an orderly and welcoming home environment.
Adrien, a longtime resident of San Ramon, recently graduated with distinction from UC Riverside, where she obtained her degree in Biology. She brings a blend of dedication and enthusiasm to her role at the dental practice, where she skillfully manages a diverse range of responsibilities. Whether she’s interacting with patients at the front desk or assisting in clinical procedures in the back office, Adrien’s commitment to providing exceptional care and ensuring smooth operations is evident in every aspect of her work. Outside of her professional duties, Adrien is passionate about maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. She enjoys a broad spectrum of fitness activities, from rigorous gym workouts and competitive basketball games to invigorating beach football sessions. Her dedication to staying fit and enjoying the outdoors is a core part of her daily routine. Additionally, Adrien treasures the moments spent with her beloved Shiba Inu, Cali, and values the balance she achieves between her career and personal pursuits. Her ability to seamlessly integrate her professional responsibilities with her personal interests allows her to lead a vibrant, well-rounded, and deeply satisfying life.
Tiana's journey with our office began uniquely — as a patient. Over the past two years, she has transitioned from receiving care to providing it, becoming a vital part of the team. Tiana’s versatility allows her to contribute effectively across multiple aspects of the practice. Whether she’s assisting the doctor chairside with precision and care, or managing the front office with professionalism and a warm smile, Tiana plays a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of the office. Her dedication to learning and growing in her role has made her an invaluable asset to both the team and the patients they serve. In addition to her role at the office, Tiana is a part-time college student who skillfully balances her academic responsibilities with her professional duties. Her ability to manage both effectively highlights her commitment and strong work ethic. Outside of work and school, Tiana is someone who truly values her personal time. She loves creating memorable moments with her family and friends, whether it’s through lively gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet evening together. An avid moviegoer, Tiana always keeps up with the latest films, and she finds balance in her life through regularly attending her local gym and participating in yoga and cycling classes. Her passion for both her work and her personal interests reflects the well-rounded and committed individual she is.
Orqui brings a wealth of knowledge and a joyful spirit to their role as a dental hygienist. With a strong focus on education, she is passionate about empowering patients with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain optimal oral health. Her approach combines technical expertise with a personal touch, ensuring that each patient feels comfortable, informed, and cared for during their visit. Living in Hayward, Orqui enjoys the companionship of her two cherished dogs, who are always ready to greet her after a fulfilling day at work. Outside of the office, she is a true creative at heart, finding joy in the rhythms of music and the artistry of cooking and baking. Whether experimenting with a new recipe or perfecting a favorite dish, Orqui brings the same dedication to her culinary endeavors as she does to the dental practice. Living in Hayward, Orqui enjoys the companionship of her two cherished dogs, who are always ready to greet her after a fulfilling day at work. Outside of the office, she is a true creative at heart, finding joy in the rhythms of music and the artistry of cooking and baking. Whether experimenting with a new recipe or perfecting a favorite dish, Orqui brings the same dedication to her culinary endeavors as she does to the dental practice.
Elicia brings over 20 years of experience in the dental field to our practice. She began her journey as a dental assistant, where she developed a deep understanding of patient care and clinical operations. Over the years, her dedication and hard work led her to advance to the role of office manager, where she now oversees a wide range of responsibilities. These include managing billing and insurance claims, coordinating patient interactions, and ensuring the smooth operation of the practice. As the manager, Elicia is the backbone of our office, seamlessly handling both administrative and patient-facing duties. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards of care our patients have come to expect. Outside of work, Elicia is a proud mother of five children and a devoted pet owner with four dogs. Her family is her greatest joy and passion, and she cherishes every moment spent with them. Balancing a demanding career and a bustling household, Elicia exemplifies dedication both at work and at home. Her ability to manage multiple responsibilities with grace and efficiency makes her an invaluable member of our team.
San Ramon Dental Excellence is proud to welcome you to our new state-of-the-art dental office, designed to elevate your dental care experience while reflecting our long-standing commitment to superior service in a welcoming setting. This New modern facility has been meticulously developed to provide our patients with the comfort and convenience they deserve. The updated office features advanced technology, improved patient spaces, and a serene environment to enhance your visit. From routine checkups to advanced procedures, every aspect of our practice aligns with our mission to prioritize your health and satisfaction.
"San Ramon Dental Excellence is by far the best dental office I have been to. Dr. Divian Patel is highly knowledgeable, professional and courteous. He did an amazing job on my two front teeth which gave me a new confident smile and the work he has done for my family is second to none! His staff are welcoming, professional and easy to talk to. I wish I had found Dr. Patel sooner. I highly recommend him to everyone!"
