Dentistry NW

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA
1628 S Mildred St #206, Tacoma, WA 98465
Closed
Opens today at 7:00am
SundayClosed
Monday7:00am - 7:00pm
Tuesday7:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday7:00am - 7:00pm
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed

I see dentistry as the intersection of art and science. It enables me to use my artistic skills in creating aesthetic results and to use evidence-based scientific methods to help people achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.

I love working with my hands and taking the time and effort to get every detail right. This is what brought me to dentistry in the first place! Being able to create something that literally puts a smile on someones face continues to excite me today. Helping people to be pain-free or to smile with confidence is rewarding in a way that very few things in life can equal.

Im inspired and motivated to provide the best care that is individually tailored for each patient. The most profound gift of this profession is that its taught me to a better listener and to withhold judgement because everyone has a story.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in microbiology at the University of New Hampshire, and received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Howard University in Washington, DC. After that, I entered the Lutheran Medical Centers advanced education in general dentistry residency program, and underwent postdoctoral clinical training in Boston.

I consider myself a lifelong learner:I love studying and learning for theirown sake. Having studied microbiology in college, science has always been important to me. I take continuing education courses taught by specialists in endodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, orthodontics, implants, cosmetic dentistry, and sleep apnea, all so I can stay uptodate with the latest developments in all areas of dentistry. Continuing education enables me to bring the best evidence-based dentistry to my practice and to be the best clinician possible for my patients.

I am very fortunate to have a highly skilled team with extensive experience and many years in the dental field. My team shares my passion for helping people, and they treat patients as though theyre family. Everyone who walks in the door is treated with great care, respect, and compassion.

My team and I love getting to know our patients and earning their trust. We will go the extra mile to ensure that not only do patients feel special, but they also get the best care possible. We practice state-of-the-art dentistry in a warm and friendly atmosphere, and we work closely with specialists and lab technicians to deliver the best results every time.

Since our practice has been serving the Tacoma area for more than 30 years, I have had the honor and pleasure of treating many long-time, multi-generational patients, as well as people who are new to the area. I love the sense of community here, and I love getting to know my patients and hearing about their lives, families, jobs, and interests. It is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work as a dentist.

My wife and I met as students and, after more than 20 years together,we havea large extended family that spans several states, countries and continents. Family gatherings are always fun and its been a blessing to have such a multicultural family.

My passion for working with my hands extends into the kitchen. I enjoy cookingand sharing culinarycreations with family and friends. I likebaking because it uses the same skills as dentistry: precision, using special tools, and creating something aesthetically pleasing. I also love learning about other cultures, peoples and histories, whether through books, traveling, or trying new cuisines.In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling and exploring the Pacific Northwest.I try to stay active by participating in local 5K runs.I hope to run a marathon someday!

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

Im very fortunate to be part of an amazing community here in Tacoma and volunteering allows me to give back to the community. I find opportunities to donate my time and services at local organizations and especially through projects sponsored by the Pierce County Dental Society.

We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice.

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

I am married with two kids and another one on the way. We also have an Australian Shepherd named Oso. As a family, we enjoy hiking, camping, traveling, gardening and cooking. I love volunteering and I try to find opportunities to serve and give back to the community whenever I can. In the last couple of years, I have volunteered at the King County Seattle Clinic, church activities and school events, coaching my kids cross country team. I also went on a dental hygiene mission trip to Peru in 2019.

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

I joined Dentistry NW in 2021but I have been in the dental field since 2014 after graduating from Pima Medical Institutes's dental hygiene program. As a hygienist, I advise patients on oral health issues and preventive care, conduct cleanings and assist the dentist on treatment plans. I enjoy working at Dentistry NW because the team has a great sense of humor and there's a family-like feeling in the office. I love that my job gives me an opportunity to meet new people and connect with patients. As oral health is closely connected to general wellbeing, it gives me a sense of purpose that I am able to help people take better care of themselves through the work that I do. Helping people feel confident and proud of their smiles also give me tremendous satisfaction.

I was born and raised in Tacoma and I am a mother to twin daughters. Ialso own a local health and wellness company, Ellivated Goods. Outside of work, I enjoy running, cooking and hanging out with my French bulldog, Jim.

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

I began working in this office and in the dental field in 2012, after receiving my dental assistant certificate. My primary duties include assisting Dr. Smith chairside in dental restorations and oral surgery, as well as taking all the necessary steps to support Dr. Smith in creating successful implant restorative outcomes. This entails communicating with referring offices and implant manufacturers to obtain the right parts, and ensuring the parts are on-site and ready for patients when they come in for their restorations. Oh, Im also tasked with making fun of Dr. Smith!

I love bonding with our patients, sharing stories, and swapping ideas and recipes! One of the most gratifying aspects of my job is seeing the happiness on a patients face after a complex anterior restorative case. Its also heartwarming to witness patients with prior negative experiences progress from needing every available sedation to not needing anything at all, because they trust us completely.

I was born on the beautiful island of Guam and moved to Tacoma at the age of eight. Im a mother to a gorgeous little girl who is a black belt in karate and pet parent to a one year old bully puppy named Blitz.

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

I received my RDA certification from Everest Technical College in 2014 and joined Dentistry NW in 2015. My primary duties include preparing the operatories and ensuring that all the necessary instruments and materials are ready for procedures, bringing patients into the treatment rooms, as well as seating and informing them of their treatment so that they know what to expect. I also provide chairside assistance to Dr. Smith and perform an extensive array of laboratory work, including fabricating in-house retainers, night guards, sports guards, study models and temporary crowns.

My favorite part of the job is getting to know the patients and building relationships with them. I also love that our entire team is highly motivated by the goal of giving our patients the best dental care in a warm and friendly environment.

Outside of work, I love sports, taking walks, listening to music and playing the piano. I have an amazing little boy who means the world to me and we also have a dog. Family time is precious and I love cooking family dinners and going on random weekend getaways with them.

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

I have been working intermittently at Dentistry NW since 2002. I started working as an office assistant in 2002 and I became a dental assistant in 2005, after attending Bryman Collge for dental assisting and Tacoma Community College.

My job entails assisting Dr. Smith with restorative work, endodontics, crowns and bridges, oral surgery and lab work. I love connecting with patients and providing them with the best care to help create beautiful, happy and healthy smiles. I also love the teamwork at Dentistry NW;it feels like family here!

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

My name is Katlen but I also go by Kate. I am pretty new to the dental field, having graduated from dental assisting school in April 2021. I did my externship at Dentistry NW and joined the team right after graduation. My job entails assisting Dr. Smith during dental procedures. I truly enjoy making connections with our patients and working with everyone at Dentistry NW. I love how laidback and fun everyone is, and I also find their strong work ethic and high energy to be very motivating!

I am currently a student at Tacoma Community College and studying to be a radiology technician. Im a huge food lover and a bit of a nerd, especially when it comes to The Legend of Zelda game series. I plan on getting married to Caleb, the love of my life. When I have free time, I enjoy a good read and doing crafts.

Dentistry NW - General dentist in Tacoma, WA

I started working in the dental field in 2011 and I have an AA degree in dental assisting, as well as an orthodontic assistant certificate. I joined Dentistry NW in 2019. As treatmentcoordinator, my job entails outlining dental options for patients, providing payment plans, answering phone calls and emails, scheduling treatment, verifying insurances, managing digital X-rays and doctor correspondences. However,my favorite part of the job is interacting with the patients.

I love working at Dentistry NW because I love the teams upbeat and positive attitude. They keep the office fun and professional, and they are always putting the patients care as their number one priority.

I was born and raised in Tacoma, where my parents and sibling still reside. I have been blessed with anamazing son, Gavyn. When I am not at work, my son and I spend a lot of time with family and friends going camping, playing sports and enjoying the great outdoors.

Dr. Smith and our staff know the best dentistry starts with us understanding what you are seeking, your concerns, and what you need from care. After determining your clinical needs, Dr. Smith will design a treatment approach that works for the whole of your situation, for efficient, effective, affordable care, and results that have you smiling!

The thought of a dental visit, much less a procedure, can cause anxiety for some people. If this is you, wed appreciate the opportunity to meet and talk about your previous experiences and how we can help you overcome your fears.

We will listen, learn, and work closely with you to find a treatment path that is non-threatening. In addition to offering mild sedation options, including nitrous oxide, Dr. Smith uses a safe, painless dental laser for fillings and other procedures. The laser eliminates the need for injection ofnumbing medication, so no needles are required, and it works without heat, vibration, or drilling!

Reviews

Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 240 reviews

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Bart Christensen
a year ago
Everone was very kind and helpful!


Jamie Davidson
a year ago
Dr. Smith and his team are incredible. I moved to the Olympia area 3 years ago and still drive to Tacoma for my appointments.


Colleen Dutmers
a year ago
Dr. Karl and his team at Dentistry NW always provide wonderful service. In and out for my cleaning in less than an hour. From the cheery welcome upon entering to my amazing hygienist Ellie, it was a 5 star plus experience. Thanks all.


Patricia ODonnell
a year ago
Kind courteous thoughtful staff work here. Consistent care with the patient a priority.


Shelby Henderson
a year ago
Dental appointments for some can be extremely stressful. Dr Smith and his crew are wonderful. Very friendly and very competent. Usually at dental appointments I find my self very tense when sitting in the chair and I curl my toes and fingers but not at here. Every aspect of the visit are 5 star and very pleasant. And I left there not dreading the next appointment. I wouldn't hesitate to reccomend this practice.


Beverly Curtice
a year ago
Everyone is so kind, gentle and provide comfort to stressed out patients like me@@


Victor Bode
a year ago
Great professional service


Bertha Carrales
a year ago
Always good experience!


Martha Harris
a year ago
Good morning Martha Harris here, I just want to say that my hygienist Jessica did an exceptional job cleaning my teeth today , she is very professional , courteous and very professional at what she does .. excellent job today Jessica. My grandson who I brought today had a fantastic time learning about dental cleaning. I have been coming to this facility for 30 years and they are a great team of professionals . I recommend them highly thank you everyone.


A.H.
a year ago
Very accommodating and helpful. Thank you!


Randy Jantz
2 years ago
I've been going here for a very long time and this is the first time it was this way...but, I was not happy. They split their work between 3 different people (4 if you include the dentist). The first person, took X-rays and only then polished 1/2 my teeth, then I saw the dentist, then someone else came (whom I thought would finish the job) but they only polished the other 1/2 of my teeth, then yet another person came and actually cleaned my teeth. This was completely unacceptable in my opinion. I believe as a result of all this disjointed and disconnected care, I realized later that no one flossed my teeth (this normally happens) and no one scheduled the work that I was told was needed on my teeth (I have a cavity that is going to require removing a crown, fixing the cavity, and putting on a new crown). I didn't realize that till I was home...so now, I guess it will be up to me to call them and schedule that work. And even calling them is going to be more difficult because they changed their work hours to only be Mon thru Wed one week and then Wed thru Friday the next week. This means that I might have to wait a whole week before speaking to someone. They say that change was for their customer...I'm not so sure. I'm thinking it is to give themselves 6 days off in a row. Hey, I get it, who wouldn't want 6 days off in a row every other week...I would. I'm just not sure it is serving the customer better, especially if it means 4 different people are going to work on my teeth in a single visit. They lost all continuity of taking care of me...the patient, and as a result the ball was dropped several times in my visit alone. Also, please don't take this poor review completely bad. Up until this time, I loved my dental office, they have always taken pretty good care of me....just not this time.


Patrick Lillie
2 years ago
I had more communication before this appointment, (texts & calls) than was probably warranted. 30 minutes prior to my visit, I received a call asking if I could delay by an hour. Normally, not a big deal but it takes me 90 minutes to get to the office. I also had other appointments lined up after this one. As it was, my appointment was delayed by 15-20 minutes due to another procedure needing more time. This was not communicated to me until I was called back for my cleaning. I understand that things come up, but when communication was necessary, it didn't happen. Staff were polite, courteous, & professional.


Lynn Schaaf
2 years ago
My appointment was on time. the staff were friendly and professional.


Steve Sar
2 years ago
Andrea was very nice and gentle. She did a thorough job! I am very pleased.


Vintage Queen
2 years ago
Dr. Smith and the staff at Dentistry NW always are helpful and the make me feel comfortable. The office is very clean and the take extra precautions. I recommend them highly.


James Housel
2 years ago
The staff are professional, warm and caring. The entire facility is kept immaculate. I've been receiving outstanding treatment for 15 years and highly recommend Dentistry NW for your family dental needs.


Mary Alice Kline
2 years ago
Polite staff, considerate care


Roger Freimarck
2 years ago
The young lady (Elli) that worked on me was great. Very personable - and a very gentle touch which is hard to do with sharp instruments. I hope to have her as my hygienist for years to come. Also, the young lady that polished my teeth before Elli started was also very nice. She has a very bubbly and pleasant personality. Apparently, Dentistry NW hires only the best people. Thanks much.


Bob Clark
2 years ago
Good customer service and patient treatment.


Nikka Tuula
2 years ago
What I liked most: I was quickly scheduled for an appointment the next day after I called with a dental concern. Dr. Smith and the team are always warm and welcoming.


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Find the best dentist in: Washington / Pierce County / Tacoma / 98465