Comfort Dental West Tacoma

Dr. Craig Smith

Dr. Smith is a Washington Native who grew up working with his father in the construction trade. He attended Brigham Young University-Idaho where he majored in Biology and Chemistry and graduated with high honors. He then attended the prestigious University of Washington School of Dentistry where he finished first in his class each of the four years. He received many awards and honors for both his academic and clinical abilities.

After dental school, Dr. Smith attended an additional year of specialized training at the University of Washington Medical Center, the Seattle VA Hospital, and Harborview Hospital. During this time, he gained additional skills in dealing with medically complex patients and IV sedation. His training has allowed him to perform many advanced procedures such as dental implant placement, difficult root canal treatment and retreatment of failed previously root canal treated teeth, surgical tooth extraction including impacted wisdom teeth, periodontal gum grafting, and crown lengthening surgeries.

Since his graduation in 2010 Dr. Smith has become known for his expertise in implant placement and restoration, having placed thousands of implant successfully. Patients also appreciate his gentle touch and pain-free injections. Patients have been known to call him “angel hands” or “golden hands.”

Outside of dentistry Dr. Smith is the father of four children. He loves spending time with family playing sports, especially baseball, snow skiing, riding dirt bikes in the mountains. Dr. Smith is passionate about providing conservative high quality care to all patients at a price they can afford.

Dr. Matthew Hockins

Dr. Hockins – As a dentist, I have the opportunity to change the life of each person who comes to me for care. I get to make people feel more confident by improving their smiles, and I offer useful education so people learn how to keep that smile healthy and strong. I come from a family of tradesmen, enjoy working with my hands, and pay extra attention to the finer details. Dentistry is a science and an art form, as well as a way to connect with and serve others. It is a natural fit for who I am: my interests, skills, and passions. Having a practice in Tacoma enables me to meet and get to know a diverse group of people. I enjoy learning about the experiences and interests of other people, hearing about their lives and goals, and sharing who I am. Each conversation gives me greater insight into how I can best help that individual, while also broadening my understanding of our community. I am honored when someone allows me to care for their smile. I take that responsibility seriously, and always consider what is in the person’s best interests – now and for the future.

I hold a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Colorado, where I graduated with honors. Dental school gave me a solid foundational understanding of oral health concerns, as well as proven approaches to addressing issues. However, dentistry is a constantly advancing field: ongoing research leads to a greater understanding of dental concerns and how best to treat problems. The development of new techniques, improved materials, and revolutionary technologies means more options to deliver better service, quality, and efficiency. It is my responsibility to stay at the forefront of new options, and to evaluate each and incorporate the best into the practice. Each year I seek out numerous continuing education (CE) opportunities in order to provide patients with ideal treatment for each person’s specific needs. In addition to keeping current on general dentistry topics, much of my CE has focused on full mouth rehabilitation, Invisalign® clear aligner therapy, and dental implants. I have been awarded the Invisalign® Gold Provider designation, based on the courses I’ve completed, as well as the successful cases I’ve treated. In addition, I am designated as a Hiossen® Implant research consultant after placing over one thousand successful implants.

I grew up in Prince George, British Columbia Canada and moved to Seattle after completing dental school in Denver to be closer to family; particularly my grandparents who are in their 90s. If I’m not seeing patients or studying the latest dental research, there’s a good chance I’m enjoying the outdoors. I love boating, biking, hiking, and skiing. At home I spend a lot of time in the kitchen.