Our Dental Team

Dr. Arash Niazi

Dr. Arash Niazi obtained his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from Case Western Reserve University in 2003. After practicing for five years as a general dentist in Tacoma and Gig Harbor, he attended the University of Southern California to become certified in Endodontics (root canal specialist).

Dr. Niazi's past experience as a general dentist is an asset in providing a multidisciplinary approach to long-term treatment in conjunction with a patient's general dentist. Dr. Niazi believes root canal treatment is the best method of saving teeth and improving oral health, an essential part of a patient's overall health. He believes that treatment should be affordable, comfortable, and of long-lasting results.

Dr. Niazi is a member of the:

• American Association of Endodontists
• American Dental Association
• Washington Dental Association
• Pierce County Dental Society

Dr. Niazi is active in endodontic research and publication. He has volunteered and traveled to El Salvador to provide endodontic care to the less fortunate. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Rebecca, and a daughter, and a son.

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.

Meet Our Staff

	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. Kristy has 1 son, 1 daughter, 1 step-daughter, and 3 grandchildren. She enjoys reading, music, camping, traveling, and spending time with her family.
	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 two kids who keep her busy with sporting activities. In her free time, Amber enjoys traveling, whitewater rafting, and shopping.
	Nicole, Professional Relations Coordinator Nicole has been with Gig Harbor Endodontics for 3 years. As the marketing coordinator, she has had the privelage to travel throughout the Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and Port Orchard area visiting the offices of our referring dentists. You will most likely find her on the road delivering lunches, flowers, or other seasonal goodies to show our appreciation for helpting the practice thrive. Away from the practice, Nicole keeps her wheels spinning with her own floral business. When she's not working she enjoys her family, Ted and Miranda. Together they like to camp, hike, fish, garden and frequently go to local farmer's markets.
	Lacey, Dental Assistant Lacey is a talented assistant who is very sensitive to our patients needs.  She has been in dentistry since 2003.  Lacey’s enthusiasm and positive attitude are appreciated by our patients as well as her co-workers.  Lacey is married and has a young son.  When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.