Universal Orthodontic Lab Appoints Dr. Ryo Hamanaka, DDS, PhD as Chief Clinical Officer and Head of Experimental Applications Group
Universal Orthodontic Lab, a leading orthodontic laboratory headquartered in Norwalk, California, today announced the appointment of Dr. Ryo Hamanaka, a renowned orthodontic clinician and professor, as Chief Clinical Officer and Head of the Experimental Applications Group.
Dr. Hamanaka brings decades of clinical expertise and academic leadership in orthodontics. Widely recognized for advancing orthodontic education and treatment methodologies, he will lead clinical strategy while directing the Experimental Applications Group—an internal initiative focused on developing and validating next-generation orthodontic solutions.
In this dual role, Dr. Hamanaka will bridge real-world clinical practice with cutting-edge dental laboratory applications, collaborating closely with doctors, scientists, and industry partners. His leadership is expected to accelerate clinical validation, improve patient outcomes, and drive innovation across the company's product and service portfolio.
"Dr. Hamanaka represents the rare combination of world-class clinician, educator, and innovator," said Joseph Kim, CEO of Universal Lab. "As orthodontics evolves, laboratories must be led by individuals who understand both the science and the day-to-day realities of patient care. His appointment reflects our commitment to leading the industry at the intersection of clinical rigor and experimental discovery."
