Meet Dr. Matthew Tomala

Trusted Endodontist in Burien, WA

When tooth pain strikes, finding an endodontist with the right combination of advanced training, military discipline, and a genuine commitment to patient comfort can make all the difference in your treatment outcome. Patients throughout the Burien area trust their most complex endodontic care to a provider whose credentials span prestigious academic institutions, hands-on military service, and continued involvement in dental education.

Dr. Matthew Tomala leads Burien Endodontics with over 14 years of experience dedicated to saving teeth and alleviating pain. His unique background blends rigorous scientific training, real-world clinical experience across multiple continents, and an ongoing commitment to advancing the field through teaching the next generation of endodontists.

Educational Foundation and Advanced Training

Dr. Tomala's academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence at every stage of his career. His educational credentials include:

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Michigan State University
Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi
Master of Science in Dentistry from the University of Washington
Certificate in Endodontics from the University of Washington

This combination of undergraduate science education, doctoral training at a top-ranked dental school, and advanced postgraduate study prepared Dr. Tomala to handle even the most complex endodontic cases with precision and confidence.

Professional Memberships

Dr. Tomala's dedication to his profession is demonstrated through active membership in multiple professional organizations:

American Association of Endodontists
Washington State Association of Endodontists
American Dental Association
Washington State Dental Association
King County Dental Society

These affiliations provide access to continuing education, peer co

Military Service and Clinical Experience

Dr. Tomala's path to endodontics included dedicated service in the United States Air Force. His military career provided invaluable hands-on experience treating diverse patient populations while developing the clinical discipline that defines his approach to care today.

During his time in the United States Air Force, Dr. Tomala treated a wide range of patients across different clinical settings, including his assignment at Yokota Air Force Base in Japan. This experience exposed him to diverse cases and taught him to adapt his approach based on each patient's unique needs. The problem-solving skills and clinical adaptability he developed during his military career continue to benefit patients at Burien Endodontics, particularly those with challenging or unusual cases.

His military service timeline includes:

Military scholarship recipient at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry
AEGD residency completion at Keesler Air Force Base
General dentist assignment at Yokota Air Force Base, Japan

Teaching and Academic Involvement

Dr. Tomala maintains a close connection to the University of Washington as an affiliate assistant faculty member within the School of Endodontics. This teaching role keeps him engaged with the latest research, techniques, and technologies emerging in the field. Endodontists complete specialized training that makes them highly skilled in diagnosing tooth pain and performing procedures to save natural teeth.

His academic involvement reflects a commitment to excellence that extends beyond his own practice. By helping train future endodontists, Dr. Tomala stays at the forefront of developments in the field while contributing to the advancement of endodontic care throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Schedule Your Appointment With Dr. Tomala

At Burien Endodontics, Dr. Tomala and the team combine high-quality, gentle care with cutting-edge technology to deliver the endodontic treatment patients deserve. The practice utilizes advanced equipment including CBCT scanning, Global A-Series 6 Step Dental Microscopes, digital radiography, laser treatment, and TDO software to provide precise diagnoses and effective treatment.

Whether you need a root canal, retreatment, or surgical procedure, Dr. Tomala's extensive training and years of experience ensure you receive care from a trusted provider. Contact Burien Endodontics today to schedule your appointment with an endodontist who brings military precision, academic excellence, and genuine compassion to every procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dr. Matthew Tomala

What is Dr. Tomala's approach to patient comfort during procedures?

Dr. Tomala and the team at Burien Endodontics prioritize patient comfort from the moment you walk through the door. The practice combines advanced technology with a gentle, patient-focused approach to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible. From thorough numbing techniques to clear communication throughout your procedure, Dr. Tomala takes the time to make sure you feel at ease before, during, and after treatment.

Does Dr. Tomala treat anxious or nervous patients?

Absolutely. Dr. Tomala understands that many patients feel anxious about endodontic procedures, and he takes a calm, reassuring approach to help put those concerns at ease. The team creates a warm, welcoming environment where patients can ask questions and voice concerns without judgment. If you experience dental anxiety, let the team know when scheduling your appointment so they can take extra steps to ensure your comfort.

Does Dr. Tomala work with referring general dentists?

Yes. Dr. Tomala maintains strong relationships with general dentists throughout the Burien area and greater Seattle region. When your dentist refers you to Burien Endodontics, Dr. Tomala communicates directly with their office to ensure seamless coordination of your care. After your endodontic treatment is complete, he provides detailed notes and recommendations so your general dentist can continue with any necessary restorative work.

Can Dr. Tomala handle complex endodontic cases?

Dr. Tomala's advanced training and years of experience make him well-equipped to handle the most challenging endodontic cases. His Master of Science degree from the University of Washington, combined with access to advanced technology like CBCT scanning and dental microscopes, allows him to diagnose and treat complex anatomy, calcified canals, retreatments, and cases requiring surgical intervention. If your general dentist has referred you for a difficult case, you're in capable hands.

What does Dr. Tomala enjoy most about being an endodontist?

For Dr. Tomala, the most rewarding part of endodontics is helping patients find relief from pain and saving teeth that might otherwise be lost. There's a unique satisfaction in taking someone who arrived in discomfort and sending them home with their natural tooth preserved and their pain resolved. His continued involvement in teaching at the University of Washington also reflects his passion for advancing the field and sharing knowledge with future endodontists.

📍 Visit Us: 118 SW 160th Street, Burien, WA 98166
📞 Call: (206) 402-5147
📩 Or Request an Appointment Online Today at www.burienendo.com

Let Dr. Matthew Tomala and the team at Burien Endodontics help you restore comfort, protect your natural teeth, and get the expert care you deserve.