After graduating cum laude from the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Shiotsu earned his dental degree from the University of California at San Francisco, the #2 ranked dental school in the nation. While there, he was awarded the Regents' Scholarship for high academic achievement.
Following dental school, Dr. Shiotsu stayed in San Francisco where he completed a two-year postgraduate program in Advanced Education in General Dentistry, maintaining a special emphasis in Hospital Dentistry, Geriatric Dentistry, and Clinical Teaching. While receiving his advanced training in General Dentistry, Dr. Shiotsu found his passion in helping patients with complex dental issues often requiring dental implants, so he decided to pursue a specialty in prosthodontics. Upon completion of this training, Dr. Shiotsu moved to Southern California, where he completed two separate postgraduate programs in Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry at Loma Linda University.
Dr. Shiotsu is highly respected by his colleagues, who often refer their patients to him for help in resolving complex and challenging dental situations. He is one of a handful of dentists in the U.S. to receive certified university-based specialty training in both the surgical and restorative aspect of implant dentistry. He is a national lecturer and an author, often asked to speak on the topic of implants and esthetic dentistry.
He is a member and the past president of the Washington State Society of Prosthodontists, and a member of the exclusive, prestigious Academy of Osseointegration. He is also a member of Washington State Dental Association where he was elected and served as member of house of delegates for two years (2013-2014). Dr. Shiotsu has been voted one of the area's Top Dentists by Seattle Metropolitan Magazine every year from 2011-2020.
He has been an active member of the Mercer Island Rotary Club since 2011 where he serves on the Youth Exchange Committee. He also serves on the Mercer Island School District's Superintendent's Advisory Council.
A native of Washington state, specifically Mercer Island, Dr. Tam graduated from Mercer Island High School in 2011 and then completed a Bachelor's of Science degree in Neurobiology at the University of Washington (UW). His strong interest in both art and science led him to the UW School of Dentistry, which he graduated with a Doctorate in Dental Surgery (DDS) in 2020.
Dr. Tam started his career as a volunteer dental assistant at the Dental Fears Research Clinic while at the UW. From there, Dr. Tam got involved with research on topical fluoride use and its effectiveness in preventing cavities.
During his undergraduate studies, Dr. Tam also worked both as a chemistry tutor and science educator at the Pacific Science Center. He strongly believes in the importance of science education and understanding how our oral health and teeth impacts our overall well-being.
Dr. Tam consistently takes continuing education courses to master skills in delivering patient care. Most recently, Dr. Tam has learned to utilize the microscope for restorative dentistry and how to safely and effectively use oral conscious sedation for patients with high dental anxiety. He strongly believes that good oral health is the prerequisite for a long and healthy life.
He also knows how most people experience anxiety over dental visits out of fear of pain, unpleasant experiences, and many other factors. He acknowledges such anxieties by listening to patients' concerns and does his best to accommodate them by soft-touch treatments and providing them with thorough information. Dr. Tam believes in listening to patients' needs and desires, while educating them on their oral conditions based on the most up-to-date protocols and guidelines set by the ADA.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 82 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestJoe Heitzeberg
a year ago
One of the worst professional services experiences I've ever had, which I've summarized in detail below so that others may avoid this place. During the pandemic I decided to switch dentists because I was now working from home and my dentist at the time was in downtown Seattle. Based on the reviews, I decided to switch to these folks. Huge mistake. FIRST ISSUE The routine dental exam uncovered "11 or 12 'pre-cavities' that need 'immediate attention'". That was a huge red flag as I floss and brush daily, have had a couple of issues over a many year period, and have routinely visited my dentist to take care of, and examine, my teeth. I pushed back, asking, "hmm, what if we looked at these so-called pre-cavities to see how they develop? perhaps at the next visit?". They agreed. Then, a few minutes later, using the "higher authority" sales trick, they came back saying that the other doctor really thinks we should take care of these. I said no thanks. SECOND ISSUE The initial visit for an exam and cleaning could not be completed on the visit. I had to come back a second time a week later for the cleaning. In a couple of decades of going to see dentists as an adult, that was a first! Very inconvenient. THIRD ISSUE On my 2nd visit, for my annual cleaning, they once again came at me about the pre-cavities, pressing me to get them drilled and "taken care of". I said, "no, as discussed, you felt we could assess if they get worse and push the determination to later.". They backed off. But then they came back with a form to sign, "we have this treatment plan for those pre-cavities that we'd like you to sign, this is non-binding, but we ask all our patients to sign this in these cases. This is some serious Cialdini manipulative used car salesman pressure tactics. I said plainly and clearly, "No, I'm not signing this." They pressed me to sign again. I said no again. Who is the customer? At this point it was very uncomfortable for me and very unpleasant. Anyway, I'm back at my old dentist -- 4th & Seneca Dental -- who spend the pandemic remodeling and upgrading their facilities and equipment. I couldn't be happier. And I asked them to examine my "pre-cavities" and let me know if there was anything worth taking care of. They said my teeth look great.
Francis Wessbecher
2 years ago
Everyone in the office is friendly, efficient and caring making for a great experience!
kristie neklason
2 years ago
I do appreciate the high level of training, expertise, and care that I consistently receive from Dr. Shiotsu and his entire staff.
Sandy Lew-hailer
2 years ago
Recently I fell and lost one front tooth while damaging the other. Dr Shiotsu very kindly and quickly saw me the next day- handcarving a temporary front tooth so I could face the world! Everyone in this office- drs Shiotsu, Tam, the receptionists, assistants, the hygienists- All are so kind, so professional and so caring. I am so fortunate to be a patient here.
Jim Woeppel
2 years ago
Excellent care, in a caring and personal manner as always. Five stars is too low.
Julie Takasugi
2 years ago
Fantastic experience. Broke a tooth and was brought in as soon as the office opened. Dr. Shiotsu did a fantastic job reconstructing the tooth. It needed a filling removed, added support for a new crown, and resurfacing before the temporary was put on. Painless! I really appreciated that he got me in so quickly when I know he must have had a busy schedule. Additionally, his office staff worked to to ensure that the permanent crown could be placed before I leave for a trip in 3 weeks. Incredible people!!
Karen Ross
2 years ago
I always experience apprehension going to the dentist, but my fears were allayed after seeing Dr. Tam. He is patient, friendly, calm and professional. He takes the time to explain procedures and to make sure I'm as comfortable as possible. I have also seen Dr. Shiotsu and he is outstanding as well. The entire team go out of their way to be responsive, caring and accommodating. Top-notch office!
Konstantin Novikov
2 years ago
Extremely poor experience. I recommend avoiding this place. Arrogant doctor's attitude making unvalidated assumptions and being wrong on multiple occasions, unexperienced assistant (constantly hitting my teeth with his tools) at the same time next to hazardous conditions of the office (tiny rooms, holes in the ceiling, water stains. Renovation was due for the last 10-15 years.). Some of the dental work was fine, however, some of my concerns and questions were actively ignored by the doctor. The administrative staff is very friendly and professional, payment options are limited (charging fees for debit card use, only taking checks without extra processing fees). Overall - stay away, there are better dental places that are run by professional doctors with a customer-friendly attitude.
Michael Mann
2 years ago
Outstanding, experienced, skilled dentist! Thorough and efficient. Referred to him by my previous dentist who was moving out-of-state and told me this is the dentist he would personally use for his oral care. I've been very pleased with the work he has performed. Office staff is welcoming and friendly, as well.
Robert Sharer
2 years ago
Wonderful staff and very kind dentist and assistant! The office manager, Tomoko, made me feel like family!
Michael gluck
2 years ago
Efficient, excellent care, and nice staff
Donald Low
2 years ago
Excellent and attentive staff. A very positive experience
Curt Lengfelder
2 years ago
Prompt and excellent care.
Susan Redifer
2 years ago
I would like to share how professional, courteous and helpful the entire Staff are at Dr. Shiotsu's Office. They get the job done efficiently, safely and smoothly. Thank You Each and Everyone, for making my trip to the Dentists Office comfortable and caring. I truly felt that my was in Great Hands!
james tucker
2 years ago
The level of care, plus wonderful people ( team) makes all the difference! Thanks james t.
Sam Not the other one
2 years ago
Staff are friendly and very professional, excellent work with time taken to explain things and make sure you're comfortable.
Kara M
3 years ago
Great experience. Professional staff. Very Covid friendly. Highly recommend.
richard johnson
3 years ago
I learned how to breathe through my nose!
Brian MacDonald
3 years ago
Dr. Shiotsu and his team are first-rate professionals and people. Our family moved to the area two years ago and had a great dental team where we moved from back east and thought we could not do as well in our move to the Seattle area, but Dr. Shiotsu and his team are the best and have been very helpful with our family dental needs. Great covid protocols too!
Li Ma
3 years ago
I was seeing Dr. Ryan Tam for my annual screening. It's a very good experience as Dr. Tam gave me precise information based on diagnosed evidences and discussed his plan throughly. I was also very impressed by his emphasis on how good habits can go a long way in building general teeth health - that's a sign of what a good doctor should care about in my opinion. I will definitely come back.
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