Meet The Team

At DENTSHIELD, we are a team of thinkers, doers and problem-solvers with a commitment to translating research into

           technology that

                                          makes a difference.

Backed by real-life experience, we are developing solutions that push the boundaries of conventional implant dentistry.

PROF.DR.

ÜLKÜ BAŞER

CEO OF DENTSHIELD

Ülkü is a Professor of Periodontology at Istanbul University, where her research explores periodontal diseases, implantology, and regenerative techniques.  She has led and contributed to numerous high-impact publications and international collaborations, with a strong focus on the relationship between periodontal health and systemic conditions. Beyond academia, she is the Founder and CEO of DENTSHIELD, a company developing innovative dental implant technologies. Passionate about transforming research into innovative solutions, she actively contributes to technological advancements in dental implantology and periodontal therapy.
i-Shield is an invention especially designed to eliminate the risk of failure of dental implants, which are widely preferred and used in the treatment of missing teeth.

DDS, PhD

SERHAN OKUTAN

CO-FOUNDER

Serhan is a PhD-qualified Orthodontist and entrepreneur based in Istanbul, specializing in dental implants and orthodontic treatment. 

As Co-Founder of DENTSHIELD, he plays a key role in developing innovative dental implant technologies. 

He also co-owns multiple dental clinics in Turkey, overseeing patient care and clinic staff management. Serhan is internationally engaged, having pursued advanced orthodontic training across Europe and the U.S., and is currently a fully registered Specialist Dentist in the UK.

DDS, Res. Asst.

Nurefşan H. Efeoğlu

Nur is a Research Assistant at Istanbul University’s Faculty of Dentistry, where she investigates the impact of periodontal treatment on quality of life, implant applications, and mucogingival surgeries. 

She is also involved in research and development at DENTSHIELD, contributing to the development of innovative technology in dental implantology and regulatory processes. 

 Actively participating in international collaborations, scientific congresses, and professional organizations, Nur is dedicated to making a difference with her research and creative zest.

DDS, PhD Candidate

Silvi Domnori

Silvi is a PhD candidate in Periodontology at Istanbul University, focusing on periodontal medicine, oral implantology, epidemology and public health. 

She is also a Researcher at DENTSHIELD, contributing to R&D efforts in innovative technology for the advancement of dental implantology. 

Beyond research, she is actively engaged in international dental education and leadership, having been involved with organizations like the International Association of Dental Students (IADS) and Albanian Trailblazers, where she contributes to scientific exchange and professional development.

Silvi is passionate about advancing patient-centered care and inspiring young researchers to develop ideas that create meaningful impact.

Mechanical Engineer, MSc

A. BARKIN ARAK

Project Management Advisor

A.Barkın Arak is a Mechanical Engineer amd experienced Innovation & Tech Transfer Leader. With over 17 years in R&D, intellectual property (IP), and project management and more than 9 years specializing in startup advisory, tech transfer and business development, he has successfully managed technology transfer offices at top Turkish universities, provided innovation consultancy and helped companies develop and manage their IP portfolios across different industries.

A certified Turkish Patent Attorney and inventor of 25 patents, Barkın has played a key role in Turkey’s intellectual property development and has been invited to join the WIPO trainer pool.

Atty, PhD

ONUR ŞAHİN

Legal Advisor

Onur is an attorney and legal expert specializing in intellectual property, commercial law, and international trade. 

He earned his LL.M. in Intellectual Property & Digital Economy (with Merit) from the University of Glasgow (UK) as a Jean Monnet Scholar, further strengthening his expertise in technology and digital law and holds a Ph.D. in Private Law. Over the years, he has advised leading companies in telecom, energy, maritime, and finance, including Turkcell, Socar, and ABN Amro.  

His expertise spans startups, joint ventures, and arbitration, helping businesses navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes.