I have proudly been creating beautiful smiles since 1979. After completing dental school, I worked for the Indian Health Service which was a branch of the Public Health Department. I wanted to get more experience in general dentistry and because of that extra experience, I decided to go into orthodontics. I applied to, and was accepted at, the dental school I had just graduated from the University of Missouri at Kansas City.
After completing my graduate program, I moved to Tucson, Arizona to work for Dr. Richard Matteson. He hadnt taken a graduate orthodontic program, but instead completed preceptorship training with Dr. Charles H. Tweed. Dr. Tweed was one of the most influential orthodontists from 1940 until the time of his death in 2011. Dr. Matteson had completed his training with Dr. Tweed in the 50s and the American Association of Orthodontists allowed him into our profession because of the training he received from Dr. Tweed. By the time I had graduated from orthodontic school, Dr. Tweed was no longer practicing. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Matteson and to learn from someone who had himself learned from Dr. Tweed. It was a tremendous opportunity to learn from, and be associated with, Dr. Matteson. I will always consider Dr. Matteson one of the finest orthodontists in Arizona.
After working for a few years, I felt a need to acquire more training, so I completed a two-year post-graduate program with Dr. Ronald Roth. I was in his first class and learned a different perspective of orthodontic care. During my time in Kansas City at the graduate program, I joined the Army Reserves to help pay my way through school. When I moved to Tucson, the Army Reserves sent me to Ft. Huachuca, Arizona for two weeks of summer training. After that, I moved from Tucson to Sierra Vista (Home of Ft. Huachuca) to set up my orthodontic practice.
Since that time, I have become involved in my community and am currently in charge of the Cochise County Dental Study Group and a delegate to the Arizona Dental Association. I am also a member in several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists and the Military Officers' Association of America, just to name a few.
I stayed in the Army Reserves, eventually retiring with the rank of Colonel. I am not only proud of the fact that I have achieved the rank of Colonel, but that I had started in the army as a private in the enlisted branch, so it has been quite a journey for me, both in my military and professional endeavors!
Dr. Alan Kawakami offers orthodontics in Sierra Vista and Douglas, Arizona. For customized driving directions, please use the interactive map below. Simply click a red indicator on the map, enter a starting address and click on Get Directions. To switch between Map View and Satellite View, please select the corresponding Map or Satellite button on the map. You can also zoom in and out using '+ or ' buttons.
We are especially interested in making all our patients feel right at home! We put your needs first to achieve efficient and comprehensive treatment. Our staff is trained and skilled, and we strive to provide energetic and fun-loving service to each patient. Each member of our treatment team is a registered assistant, and our office staff has years of experience in treating patients with the highest level of care. We strive to stay abreast of the very latest in technology and advances by regularly attending continuing education courses and seminars.
Hello! I am Sasha and I was born and raised in Sierra Vista, Arizona. I am one of the 3 Orthodontic Technicians that work with Dr. Kawakami's office. I have been in the dental field since 2007, working as a dental assistant and started orthodontics in March 2012. I have the experience of meeting new faces every day as as well as working with an amazing staff to create beautiful smiles.
My name is Leta. I went to school in Phoenix, AZ. My husband and I have 2 amazing kids and 2 adorable dogs. I have worked with Dr. Kawakami for several years now. We have a lot of fun in our office. We enjoy all of our awesome patients.
Hello my name is Marina. I am an Ortho Technician at Samurai Smiles. I started out in general dentistry years ago and just recently broadened my horizons to Orthodontics. I love and enjoy working with all my patients. My knowledge and experience provides the confidence to treat all my patients on an individual basis to ensure they are getting the best care.
Outside of work, I am a wife and a mom of 2 beautiful girls. My husband and I have been together 9 years and enjoy a lot of family time. I also enjoy making people happy. I am confident that the staff here at Samurai Smiles will make sure you have the best treatment possible. I look forward to meeting all of you, new and old patients!
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 20 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestKimberly Skolkin
2 years ago
Dr. Kawakami and his staff are amazing. We have never felt so relaxed and welcome in a medical office. He really cares about and invests in his patients. His staff is caring and respectful. These are good people. I have been recommending him to everyone.
Kailey Mabey
2 years ago
The doctor was great! He explains everything and let's you know all the options. It's so refreshing to have someone do that. Also the staff was very friendly and great at what they do. Would definitely recommend!
Sandy K
2 years ago
My first time coming to this location and I have to say I was definitely pleased with the kindness and welcome of the front desk. Of course your first impression of an office is tied into the front desk greeting and helpfulness, right? Both ladies made me feel welcome and took a lot of pride in where they work. The lobby and patient area were noticeably well cared for and clean! Very organized. Now the oral surgeon, Mr. Kawakami...he's on another level! Talk about being a straight shooter! Super pleasant to speak with, kind, humble, and minces no words about what he sees and in discussing solutions. He has pride in what he does and at no time did he appear to be pressuring me into getting some service I didn't need. In fact, we'll meet again to discuss next steps but I can tell you that you will feel peaceful discussing your concerns as he's an active listener who really does HEAR and LISTEN. I'm glad I found this place and I'm sure you will be too!
Brooke Allen
2 years ago
Everyone here is super nice and helpful.
Anthony Vasquez
2 years ago
Awesome for military!
Lakeisha AMims
2 years ago
Family oriented and caring. Their office won't waste your time. There is a peace and pleasant atmosphere throughout the entire office. Every employee is not only kind but also gentle as they explain step by step your appointment process. Superb Customer Service!!!!
Loretto "Matt" Mata
2 years ago
The experience had today has been outstanding at Samurai Smiles. They have been so accommodating and went above and beyond to assist me and my family The staff is amazing and being led by an amazing dentist DR. Kawakami who himself is a proud veteran understands what it means to serve. I regret not knowing about this place sooner for my daughters braces a while back since this staff is very knowledgeable and very reasonable and upfront, but now that I know they are there, that mistake won't be made again with my other daughter. I am coming here first! Go check them out and see how awesome the staff at Samurai Smiles truly are. Thanks guys. And a huge thanks to DR. Kawakami (Assisted with dental information and sleep therapy information and services)
Brooke Allen
3 years ago
Everyone here is super nice and helpful.
Anthony Vasquez
3 years ago
Awesome for military!
Loretto "Matt" Mata
3 years ago
The experience had today has been outstanding at Samurai Smiles. They have been so accommodating and went above and beyond to assist me and my family The staff is amazing and being led by an amazing dentist DR. Kawakami who himself is a proud veteran understands what it means to serve. I regret not knowing about this place sooner for my daughters braces a while back since this staff is very knowledgeable and very reasonable and upfront, but now that I know they are there, that mistake won't be made again with my other daughter. I am coming here first! Go check them out and see how awesome the staff at Samurai Smiles truly are. Thanks guys. And a huge thanks to DR. Kawakami (Assisted with dental information and sleep therapy information and services)
Lakeisha AMims
3 years ago
Family oriented and caring. Their office won't waste your time. There is a peace and pleasant atmosphere throughout the entire office. Every employee is not only kind but also gentle as they explain step by step your appointment process. Superb Customer Service!!!!
Robby Craig
3 years ago
My 3 daughters still have beautiful smiles thanks to DR. Kawakami! Highly recommended.
Robby Craig
4 years ago
My 3 daughters still have beautiful smiles thanks to DR. Kawakami! Highly recommended.
Gloria Borrego
4 years ago
Dr. Kawakami did my 3 children's braces and to this day they have beautiful teeth! Thank you greatly Dr. Kawakami!
Gloria Borrego
5 years ago
Dr. Kawakami did my 3 children's braces and to this day they have beautiful teeth! Thank you greatly Dr. Kawakami!
Thomas K
11 years ago
Went here with my horse teeth came out looking nice and straight. The staff and doc are some of the friendliest and nicest people I've met! Don't hesitate to go here they'll take care of you :)
Thomas K
11 years ago
Went here with my horse teeth came out looking nice and straight. The staff and doc are some of the friendliest and nicest people I've met! Don't hesitate to go here they'll take care of you :)
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