Learn More about Our Practice

I’m Dr. Gohel and I’d like to personally invite you to come see what makes our office unique and special.

About Us

Building Foundations Together

At Gums by Gohel, we believe in true teamwork, camaraderie and collaboration between each other, our patients and the referring doctors we work with. We provide patients with ethical and honest options to create healthy smiles and better oral and overall health in a comfortable setting. Our goal is to base each experience in trust and respect. Our team strives to be the best version of ourselves, both in and out of the office.

Dr. Shivali Gohel and Dr. James Sinks specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, as well as the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants. Our office also offers patients a variety of cosmetic procedures to enhance your smile. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with our doctors and their friendly staff. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.

Proudly serving all of San Diego County – including Ramona and La Mesa!

Meet the doctors

Dr. Shivali Gohel

Dr. Shivali Gohel is a Board Certified periodontist who is passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal oral health. In doing so, she is able to improve their overall well-being, since periodontal disease is linked to heart disease and other serious health problems. Providing an attentive, personalized treatment approach, and always aware of each person’s unique concerns, Dr. Gohel caters to each patient’s needs. Dr. Gohel’s interest in dentistry started when she was nine years old and she fractured her two front teeth. When her teeth were restored, she was amazed at the difference in her life. Restoration of her teeth not only gave her back her smile, but also restored her self-confidence. She loves helping her patients regain their oral health and confidence in the same way. Dr. Gohel is committed to providing the best possible periodontal care. She is ethical, compassionate, understanding, and loves to help others.

Check out the latest press releases regarding Gums by Gohel and our periodontist in San Diego, Dr. Shivali Gohel!

Meet the doctors

Dr. James Sinks

Dr. Sinks is a native of San Diego, attending Clairemont High School and UCSD. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA and received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

Having practiced general dentistry in San Diego for four years before leaving for his residency in Periodontics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Dr. Sinks brings a unique perspective to his periodontal practice.

To keep up with the many changes in periodontics and implant dentistry, Dr. Sinks is continuously taking courses and seminars. The emphasis of his continuing education has been on regeneration of lost supporting tissues, placement of dental implants and aesthetic periodontal procedures.

Meet the doctors

Dr. Steven D. Nytko

Dr. Nytko completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1986 and a Master of Science degree in Kinesiology in 1989 at the University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of Illinois-Chicago graduating with honors in 1991 and subsequently went on to complete his Periodontics residency training at the University, culminating with a Specialty Certificate in Periodontology in 1994.

After more than 20 years of honorable and distinguished service, Dr. Nytko retired from the United States Navy as a senior dental officer in 2014. During his career in the Navy he served as the Director of Periodontal Training and Periodontal Specialty Advisor for numerous commands while serving in duty stations that included San Diego, Chicago and Okinawa, Japan. Dr. Nytko is Board Certified by the American Board of Periodontology and is a national lecturer and member of Geistlich Pharma NA’s Fibro-Gide Expert Council. He was among the first group of surgeon strained in North America on the advanced Straumann Bone Ring Implant Graft System, and is certified by the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry. It is his passion and desire to be on the leading edge of novel surgical advancements, bringing the latest reconstructive and regenerative technologies to his patients.

When not engaged in clinical practice, Dr. Nytko and his wife are avid dog handlers and trainers whose dogs have achieved national ranking and numerous accolades in several dog sports. In addition, he is an approved American Kennel Club Tracking judge, Tracking trainer, and a CGC evaluator. Dr. Nytko and his wife are devoted to the Southwestern Rottweiler Club’s Rescue Program – training, rehabilitating, and helping rescued Rottweilers find there forever homes.

Meet the team

Kim - Business Manager

I oversee all day-to-day operations of the business. I have been part of the office team here for over 25 years.
I handle our patient’s treatment plans and oversee all day-to-day operations. My goal is to make sure our patients are taken care of, have a good understanding of why they are here and that their questions are answered. I try to make their periodontal visit as pleasant as possible. I have been a part of the office team here for over 22 years. Dr. Gohel is an extremely skilled doctor who truly loves what she does and is wonderful to work with. I also have the pleasure of working with Dr. Sinks. Both doctors have an amazing chairside manner and you can see they really love what they do!
When I’m not here in the office, my husband and I spend a lot of time outdoors and are starting to travel more now that our kids are all grown.

Amanda - Office Manager

For the past 14 years, I have been a dedicated member of this practice, and it has been my privilege to grow alongside this incredible team. My journey here began by assisting Dr. Sinks and Dr. Gohel in surgical procedures, where I focused on every detail to ensure a safe and successful outcome for our patients. When Dr. Sinks moved on to his next chapter; he made sure to leave the practice in excellent hands, and I am honored to say he picked a wonderful replacement in Dr. Gohel. For the few years, I have stepped into the role of Office Manager, leading our team with that same commitment to excellence and continuity of care.

My mission remains the same: ensuring every patient feels comfortable, informed, and truly cared for. Because I’ve transitioned from clinical care to leadership, I have a unique perspective on the entire patient experience—from the first hello to the final post-op follow-up. What makes this office special is the genuine friendship we share. Dr. Gohel is incredibly generous, always going out of her way to show appreciation for both the team and our patients. Outside of the office, I enjoy cheering on our local San Diego sports teams. Most of my free time is spent with close friends and family, or simply relaxing at home with my husband and our two cats.

Aixa - Surgical Assistant

I love coming to work everyday. The environment here is conducive to learning and growing. We’re all willing to help each other. Dr. Gohel and Dr. Sinks are amazing. They treat us and their patients with the same love and respect.
Outside of work I love spending time with family and my dogs. I also really enjoy bouldering at grotto.

Jessica - Patient Care Coordinator

My career in dentistry has spanned 34 years in “America’s Finest City.” I spent twenty of those years in general dentistry and other specialties before finding my passion for periodontics 14 years ago. I truly enjoy the precision and delicate artistry required in periodontal surgery; it is a beauty in itself to appreciate.

As the Patient Care and Insurance Coordinator, I am dedicated to helping our patients navigate their treatment plans and maximize their benefits so they can focus on their health. I take great pride in working alongside Dr. Gohel to ensure every patient feels comfortable and well-informed. It is incredibly important to me that our patients receive genuine care and concern, and I love being part of a team that puts the patient’s needs first at every step of their journey.

On beautiful days when the sun is warm and bright, you can find me with my toes in the sand playing in the waves—the beach is the ultimate escape! I also enjoy fun road trips, thrifting, and antiquing. Above all, my greatest joy is spending time with my grandchildren.

Karina - Surgical Assistant

My names is Karina. I am an experienced surgical assistant specializing in periodontics. I take pride in creating a calm, safe, and sterile environment for both patients and the surgical team, ensuring every procedure runs smoothly and efficiently. I’m passionate about helping patients feel comfortable and informed throughout their treatment journey, and I’m committed to continuing education and growth within the dental field.

As a mother of two wonderful daughters our home is filled with music, laughter, and dance—some of my favorite moments are singing and dancing around the house with them.

Jackie - Surgical Assistant

Hi, I’m Jackie Carrillo, and I’m proud to be part of the team at Gums By Gohel. I’ve always been passionate about helping others and making meaningful connections, which is what drew me to the dental field. I’m known for my warm personality, positive attitude, and attention to detail—qualities I bring to everything I do. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, staying active, and finding new ways to grow both personally and professionally. I also love spending time with my Chihuahua, Bambi, who definitely keeps life interesting and full of joy. I believe that a genuine smile can make a big difference, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of a team that helps people feel confident in theirs.

Dominica - Registered Dental Hygienist

Hi, I’m Dominica! I have been practicing dental hygiene for 8 years and recently moved to San Diego from Seattle— I love it here and definitely don’t miss the rain! I strive to make appointments feel as comfortable as possible and love getting to know my patients. My husband and I are big foodies and love cooking and trying new restaurants. We also have a Rottweiler and an elderly Boxer we like to take out to dog beach.

Alma - Registered Dental Hygienist

With over 15 years of experience in the dental field, I’m passionate about providing care, comfort, trust, and long-term oral health first.

One of the aspects I value most in my role is the opportunity to collaborate closely with doctors, seeking their guidance and insight so that together, we can provide the most informed and professional attention possible. This collaborative approach not only helps me continue growing in my own clinical knowledge, but it also reinforces my commitment to patient-centered care.

When I’m not at work, you’ll likely find me at the playground soaking up quality time with my daughter.

Chauntay - Surgical Assistant

Bio coming soon

Matie - Registered Dental Hygienist

Bio coming soon

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