I got into dentistry because I have an older brother who is a dentist, and he’s about seven years older than me. I happened to be going through high school when he was in dental school, and I’d stop by and didn’t immediately think that’s what I would do, but the more I thought about it in college, I came to the conclusion that would be something I’d enjoy.
The most rewarding part of being a dentist is working with people and helping them achieve health, the smile they ever wanted, or a return to function where they can chew comfortably and know that they have something they’re proud of, and they can maintain easily, and that’ll last a long time, and being a partner with them or their advocate.
I immediately started taking continuing education once I set up my own practice, which I still take quite a bit of today. It keeps me fresh and enthusiastic and excited about my job. It’s my passion. I feel like I want to be the best I can be at it.
With all the continuing education and experience I’d had, I feel that I can evaluate and diagnose and help come up with reasonable options that are individualized for each patient. There’s many different ways to do things, and sometimes patients choose options that are right for them and yet different than what I might choose. That’s the way it should be. I want my patients making the final decision. My job is to help guide them. I’m always willing to tell them what I would do, and I listen to them and find out what they’re really interested in, because ultimately they need to make the right decision for themselves. I’m just there to help guide them.
Dr. Dan Smith Makes His Patients’ Dental Health His Top Priority
Dr. Dan Smith grew up in California. He studied at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in Southern California, where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1986 with numerous clinical achievement awards. While in dental school, Dr. Smith earned honors in implantology and served as a school officer in clinical affairs. He volunteered to provide dental care to the underserved people in Mexico, among other places, thus beginning his career of service to others.
Dr. Smith was selected by his peers for the Top Dentist award featured in Seattle Met magazine. He is devoted to lifelong learning. Advanced education allows him to offer his patients a superior dental experience and an unparalleled level of quality care with the latest technology and advancements in dentistry. He works to provide an environment where his patients are relaxed, well informed, and aware that their dental health is his top priority. He specializes in improving smiles by using the latest cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Dr. Smith is active with the Tacoma Implant Study Club and the Advanced Prosthetic Study Club. He is a graduate of Creating Restorative Excellence at the Kois Center, one of the country’s leading institutions of advanced dental training, where he also serves as a mentor and has achieved clinical instructor status.
Dr. Smith’s passion for dentistry is evident, as he enjoys all aspects of patient care. He says, “With modern dental techniques and equipment, we are helping patients keep their teeth for a lifetime. We focus on comprehensive care with treatment that is individualized to optimize not only dental health but overall health as well.” Dr. Smith is proud to offer comfortable and predictable results. He treats patients like he would want to be treated.
Dr. Smith has lived in Puyallup since 1986. He enjoys being active in his church and his children’s school. He spends his downtime playing golf, traveling, reading, and spending time with his two adult children, Natalie and Preston.