Our Dental Team
 Dr. Robert H. Smith: A Commitment to Teeth for Life
Dr. Smith earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Washington in 1975. He began practicing general dentistry in Sumner, Washington. At that time he committed himself to helping patients avoid tooth extraction and save their natural teeth for life. Dr. Smith became known and beloved by his patients for the high quality of his restorative dentistry and for the warm, trusting relationships he builds with his patients and their families. Even today, patients from his Sumner practice still seek him out for treatment and advice.
From 1989-1991, he extended this commitment to “Teeth for Life” by obtaining two years of advanced endodontic training at Boston University’s renowned School of Endodontics. He believes that without proper endodontic care, many people would loose their natural teeth. By saving their teeth through the latest root canal procedures when appropriate, patients can enjoy better oral health and overall quality of life. After completing his specialist training, he began his endodontic practice in Gig Harbor in 1991.
Dr. Smith is known for his dedication to patient education and insists on providing each patient with a comprehensive explanation of their diagnosis and treatment options so that they can make an informed treatment decision.
He attended the prestigious Pankey Institute and has obtained numerous hours of continuing education courses in the latest endodontic techniques to continue to hone his skills. He is a long-time member of the Pierce County Dental Society and the Washington State Dental Association where he is actively involved in protecting the integrity of dentistry and the quality of patient care through legislative affairs committee work. He is also a member of the Washington State Association of Endodontists and the American Association of Endodontists.
He and his wife of 41 years, Debi, traveled with Northwest Medical teams to bring dentistry to children in Honduras, and they look forward to doing this again in the future. They have lived in the Gig Harbor area since 1991. They have two grown daughters and 5 grandchildren.
Meet Our Staff
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Karin, Office Manager
Karin brings 30 years of experience in dentistry to our practice,
working with Dr. Smith since 1997. In her career,
she has worked as a dental assistant, a receptionist, and an office
manager in general dentistry and endodontics. She enjoys getting
to know each patient that walks through the door. Karin
hopes every patient leaves feeling they’ve had a positive
experience in our office. She enjoys beading, quilting, reading,
and camping with Al, her husband of 20 years. They have 3 grown
children and 2 grandchildren. |
Shelley, Dental Assistant
Shelley’s dental career started 16 years ago first in
pediatric and general dentistry, and now as an endodontic specialty
assistant for Dr. Smith since 1995. She trained at Clover Park
Technical College. As a dental assistant in Louisiana, Shelley
saw a need and took the initiative to organize dental education
programs for elementary schools. She loves the patients she gets
to meet and help in dentistry. Shelley also enjoys the ever-changing
dental technology. Shelley and her husband, Chris, have 3 daughters,
ages 8, 7, and 3. |
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Amber, Dental Assistant
Amber loves to help keep patients smiling! After training at
Bryman Technical Institute, Amber spent five years in general dentistry
primarily focusing on children and on dentistry performed for patients
under general anesthesia in hospitals. Amber has been with us since 2003 and is committed to helping patients have the best dental
experience possible. She enjoys spending time with her five-year
old daughter Madison, who is active on a wrestling team. In her
free time, Amber enjoys traveling, whitewater rafting, and shopping. |
 Kristy, Administrative Assistant
Kristy brings more than 20 years experience in the insurance and financial services industries to her role as administrative assistant at Gig Harbor Endodontics. Kristy finds dentistry interesting and is amazed at how far technology has advanced to help people maintain their smiles for a lifetime. She loves knowing that when people come into our office she has a part not only in relieving their pain but also in pampering them. A patient recently commented to her that they felt like they were at a 5 star hotel when they came to the office for dental treatment. Married for 21 years, Kristy has 1 son, 1 daughter, 1 step-daughter, and
3 grandchildren. She enjoys reading, music, camping, traveling, and spending time with her family. |
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