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Dr. Shari

Dr. Shari Tahririan DDS

Dr. Shari Tahririan’s journey into dentistry was inspired by her lifelong passion for art. Raised in Oregon, her love for painting, sculpture, and meticulous detail found a perfect home in the world of dental care. She sees dentistry as a unique blend of clinical skill and artistic vision, allowing her to create beautiful, lasting smiles that bring people happiness.

Dr. Tahririan began her academic career in Portland, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Art from Portland State University in 2003. She then achieved her dental degree from Oregon Health & Science University in 2007. After practicing in Portland for three years, she moved to San Diego to further her professional goals.

Dr. Tahririan has been practicing dentistry in San Diego for over 15 years. She is dedicated to continuous learning and stays current with the latest techniques and technology in the field. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and a certified Invisalign provider, she is equipped to handle a wide variety of patient needs, from bridges and root canals to restorative treatments.

For Dr. Tahririan, quality dental care is built on a foundation of compassion, a commitment to perfection, and truly listening to her patients. She believes this approach ensures everyone receives the best care possible.

When she is not in the office, Dr. Shari enjoys water activities and exploring new places through travel.

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Dr. J

Dr. Peter F. Johnson, D.M.D.

Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics

Dr. Peter F. Johnson is a board-certified prosthodontist with more than five decades of experience in clinical practice, academia, research, and military service. A graduate of Princeton University (A.B., 1967) and the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (D.M.D., 1971), he completed his specialty training in Prosthodontics at the University of Southern California in 1977.

Dr. Johnson served with distinction as a Captain in the United States Navy Dental Corps, holding numerous leadership roles, including Director of Prosthodontic Residency Training at the Naval Dental School, Bethesda, Maryland, and Director of the Area Dental Laboratory at the Naval Dental Clinic, San Diego. He retired from active duty in 1991 after 20 years of service, having received the Navy Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and other commendations for his contributions to military dentistry.

In parallel with his military career, Dr. Johnson became deeply engaged in dental education. He served as Clinical Associate Professor in the Continuing Education Department at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, co-directed the USC Odontic Seminar in San Diego, and lectured nationally and internationally on prosthodontics, implant dentistry, and esthetics. His teaching extended to the Naval Dental School, Georgetown University, and advanced prosthodontic programs for dental professionals.

A Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics since 1980, Dr. Johnson has been a prominent leader in organized dentistry. He is a past president of the American College of Prosthodontists (1993–1994) and has held multiple leadership positions within the organization, including Vice President, President-Elect, and Chair of numerous committees. He has also served on editorial boards for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry and the Journal of Prosthodontics, and remains active in professional societies such as the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, San Diego County Dental Society, and the International College of Prosthodontists.

Dr. Johnson’s scholarly contributions include numerous peer-reviewed publications on implant dentistry, prosthodontic treatment planning, esthetics, and dental materials. He has also delivered lectures and continuing education courses on implant prosthodontics, restorative techniques, and the integration of fixed and removable prosthodontics.

Recognized for his professional achievements and dedication to dentistry, Dr. Johnson has been honored with the Fellowship of the International College of Dentists, Omicron Kappa Upsilon, and the American College of Prosthodontists President’s Award.

Today, Dr. Johnson continues to contribute to the field of prosthodontics through clinical practice, mentorship, and thought leadership, maintaining his commitment to excellence in patient care and dental education.

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Holistic Dental Procedures

Our Holistic Dental Overview

We serve patients who embrace holistic healthcare. While we support many scientifically-backed holistic treatments, we carefully evaluate each approach to ensure it meets our standards of care.

Treatments We Offer

Ceramic Zirconia Implants

Zirconia implants offer a metal-free alternative to traditional titanium implants. Made from zirconia dioxide, these ceramic implants provide several advantages:

Key Benefits:

  • Biocompatible and hypoallergenic
  • Natural white color for improved aesthetics
  • Strong, durable, and long-lasting
  • Reduced risk of gum inflammation

These implants work well for patients with metal sensitivities or those seeking a completely metal-free solution.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy harnesses your body’s natural healing power using concentrated platelets from your own blood.

The Process:

  1. We draw a small blood sample
  2. The blood is centrifuged to concentrate platelets
  3. The PRP is applied to the treatment area

Benefits:

  • Accelerates tissue healing
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Stimulates collagen production
  • Promotes faster recovery

Ozone Therapy

Ozone therapy uses a reactive form of oxygen to eliminate harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Applications:

  • Treating gum disease by targeting harmful bacteria
  • Disinfecting root canals during treatment
  • Preventing cavities by strengthening tooth enamel
  • Reducing tooth sensitivity
  • Improving overall oral hygiene

Important Note: Ozone treats bacterial infections but cannot repair existing decay or fractures.

Dental Cavitations

Dental cavitations are empty spaces in the jawbone, typically resulting from incomplete tooth extractions or root canals. While some practitioners frequently diagnose this condition, our experience tells a different story.

Our Findings:
Out of 200 suspected cavitation cases we’ve evaluated, only 6 were confirmed and successfully treated. We recommend evaluation by our oral surgeon or maxillofacial radiologist for accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging like cone beam CT scans.

A Case of Mistaken Identity: When Dental Pain Isn’t Dental

We recently treated a patient who came to us with what appeared to be dental cavitations. After careful examination, we discovered her pain actually stemmed from damaged stylohyoid ligaments—a classic case of Eagle syndrome.

Eagle syndrome happens when an elongated styloid process (a small bone beneath your ear) or calcified stylohyoid ligament irritates surrounding nerves. The result? Pain that feels exactly like a dental problem.

Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp facial and tooth pain
  • Ear discomfort
  • Trouble swallowing
  • The sensation of something stuck in your throat

This case highlights why proper diagnosis matters. What seems like a straightforward dental issue may require a comprehensive examination, detailed patient history, and imaging studies to uncover the real culprit.  Sometimes the answer lies not in your teeth, but in the delicate structures nearby.

Failed Root Canal Retreatments

When a root canal fails after retreatment and involves surrounding bone and gums (periodontal involvement), treatment options become limited. Symptoms include recurring pain, gum swelling, and tooth mobility.

Our Approach:
We evaluate each case individually. Treatment may include endodontic surgery or tooth extraction with implant replacement. Contact us for a consultation or send us your recent CT scan for evaluation.

Non-Toxic Dental Fillings

We use biocompatible materials free from concerning chemicals like BPA, BHT, HMBP, DPCL, TPSb, HEMA, and TEGDMA. These materials eliminate concerns about endocrine disruption and potential developmental effects.

Safe Amalgam Removal

When amalgam removal is necessary, we follow the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) protocol:

  • Rubber dam isolation
  • Slow-speed drilling with extensive water cooling
  • High-volume suction with specialized filtration
  • Oxygen administration during procedure
  • Post-procedure charcoal or chlorella rinse

Important Considerations:

  • Removal requires careful evaluation of each case
  • The process may weaken teeth by removing healthy structure
  • The FDA doesn’t recommend removing intact amalgam fillings unless medically necessary
  • Removal temporarily increases mercury vapor exposure

The ADA considers dental amalgam to be safe and deems it unethical to replace solely based on unproven health claims. For removal, the standard ADA code is D2950, which covers amalgam removal and tooth preparation. Intact amalgams should only be removed when medically necessary, not for health concerns without substantiated evidence.

We assess each situation individually to determine if amalgam removal is appropriate and beneficial for your specific case.

For consultations or to discuss your specific needs, please contact our office. We’re here to help you make informed decisions about your oral health

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Implant, Endo, Cosmetic Dentistry

Oral Surgery

Our practice is proud to have an  Oral Surgeon providing the highest standard of surgical care. Patients benefit from advanced training, and the reassurance of safe, predictable outcomes.

Services include:

  • Dental implant placement, including single implants and complex cases (both titanium and ceramic options available)
  • Wisdom teeth extractions, including impacted third molars
  • IV sedation for patient comfort and anxiety management
  • Bone grafting and sinus lift procedures

Prosthodontics

We are equally proud to have a Prosthodontist with extensive experience in restoring complex cases, including full mouth rehabilitation. Working in constant communication with our oral surgeon, our prosthodontist ensures optimal results in both function and aesthetics.

Expertise includes:

  • Full-arch implant restorations (All-on-4 and All-on-X solutions)
  • Dentures and implant-retained overdentures for stable, natural-looking results
  • Crowns, bridges, and veneers customized for smile design
  • Cosmetic treatments tailored to patient needs, including veneers — best performed by a prosthodontist for long-term results
  • Published research and academic contributions, reflecting a high level of expertise and innovation in prosthodontics

Periodontics

Our Periodontist provides specialized care in soft tissue management and the prevention and treatment of gum disease. Healthy gums form the foundation for a healthy smile, and our periodontist ensures long-term stability for both natural teeth and implants.

Focus areas include:

  • Treatment of all stages of periodontal disease
  • Gum grafts to restore recession and protect roots
  • Crown lengthening for functional and cosmetic improvement
  • Implant site preparation and maintenance
  • Long-term periodontal maintenance programs

Emergency Dentistry

Dental emergencies require immediate attention, and our team is equipped to respond quickly and effectively. Patients benefit from urgent access to specialists, including an Endodontist for root canal treatments.

Emergency services include:

  • Same-day root canal therapy by a board-certified endodontist
  • Immediate pain relief for severe toothaches and infections
  • Repair of broken or fractured teeth
  • Urgent extractions, including non-restorable teeth
  • Treatment of dental trauma, including knocked-out or displaced teeth

General & Family Dentistry

Beyond advanced surgical and specialty care, we provide a full range of general dentistry services to keep your entire family’s smiles healthy. From preventive visits to restorative treatments, our goal is to deliver long-term oral health in a comfortable environment.

Services include:

  • Comprehensive exams and digital X-rays for early detection
  • Preventive cleanings and fluoride treatments
  • Tooth-colored fillings for cavities
  • Crowns and bridges to restore function and appearance
  • Sealants and preventive care for children
  • Night guards and sports guards for protection
  • Ongoing care tailored to each stage of life, from childhood through senior years
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The Complete Guide to Endodontic Therapy (Root Canal Treatment)

The Complete Guide to Endodontic Therapy (Root Canal Treatment)

Endodontic therapy, commonly known as root canal treatment, is a routine dental procedure designed to save a natural tooth by removing infection and inflammation from its inner structure. This treatment not only alleviates pain but also protects your overall oral health, preventing further complications that could necessitate tooth extraction.

If you’re curious about why a root canal might be necessary, what the procedure involves, or how it preserves oral health, this post will cover everything you need to know.

Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal treatment becomes essential when the innermost part of your tooth, known as the dental pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. This infection can stem from various causes, including:

1. Large Cavities

When cavities penetrate deep into a tooth, bacteria can reach the dental pulp, causing infection. Left untreated, this can lead to an abscess, severe pain, and swelling. A root canal removes the infected tissue and restores the tooth to a healthy state.

2. Cracks or Fractures

Even minor cracks in a tooth can allow bacteria to enter its internal structure. Some cracks may be invisible to the naked eye but still make the tooth vulnerable to infection. Root canal therapy eliminates the bacteria and prevents further complications.

3. Trauma to the Tooth

A sudden impact or injury to a tooth can damage its nerve tissue. Over time, this damage may lead to the nerve dying, potentially causing discoloration, sensitivity, or infection. A root canal is necessary in these cases to remove the damaged nerve and prevent further issues.

4. Complications from Extensive Dental Work

Though rare, nerves sometimes react poorly to procedures like deep fillings or significant dental treatments. This can lead to inflammation or nerve death. Root canal therapy prevents the situation from worsening.

Ignoring these issues often results in worsening pain, increased infection risks, and the potential need for tooth extraction. Thankfully, root canal therapy can address these problems and save your tooth.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Sometimes, you’ll experience obvious symptoms signaling a need for endodontic therapy, while in other cases, the signs may be subtle. Here are the most common indicators:

  • Persistent Toothache – A throbbing or continuous ache, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
  • Prolonged Sensitivity – Pain or discomfort that lingers after exposure to hot or cold temperatures.
  • Tooth Discoloration – If a tooth suddenly turns dark (brown, black, or reddish hues), it may indicate nerve damage.
  • Swelling and Tenderness – Gums near the painful tooth may become swollen, tender, or show signs of drainage.
  • No Symptoms at All – Some teeth requiring a root canal exhibit no pain, underscoring the importance of regular dental checkups.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to see a dentist promptly. Early diagnosis can prevent pain and additional damage.

What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment

Modern root canal treatments are more efficient and comfortable than they were years ago. The procedure typically requires just one visit to complete, though some cases may need two appointments if the infection is extensive. Here’s what happens during the process:

1. Diagnosis

Your dentist or endodontist will begin by identifying the cause of pain or sensitivity. X-rays might be taken to examine the health of your tooth and surrounding bone.

2. Numbing the Area

Before treatment begins, you’ll receive local anesthesia to completely numb the affected area. The goal is to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.

3. Removing the Damaged Tissue

The dentist will create a small opening in your tooth to access the infected pulp. They’ll carefully remove the damaged tissue, as well as any existing decay, and assess for cracks or fractures in the structure.

4. Cleaning and Disinfecting

Once the pulp is removed, the inner portion of your tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate bacteria and prevent reinfection.

5. Sealing the Tooth

Depending on the severity of the infection, the tooth may be immediately sealed with a special filling material. However, in cases of significant infection, medication may be applied internally, and the tooth will be temporarily sealed. A second visit will then be scheduled to complete the procedure.

6. Recovery and Restoration

Following the root canal, you’ll return to your regular dentist for a final restoration. This often involves a filling or a dental crown, ensuring the tooth remains as strong as possible.

Life After a Root Canal

Recovery from a root canal is typically quick and straightforward. Most patients experience minor soreness that subsides within a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort.

The restored tooth can last a lifetime as long as you maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Your dentist will likely recommend additional protective measures for the treated tooth, such as avoiding hard or sticky foods and considering a nightguard if you grind your teeth.

The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy offers numerous advantages, both functionally and aesthetically:

  • Pain Relief – The infected nerve is removed, eliminating the source of discomfort.
  • Tooth Preservation – By saving your natural tooth, you avoid the need for extractions and replacements, like bridges or implants.
  • Maintained Chewing Ability – A healthy, restored tooth helps you chew and enjoy your favorite foods comfortably.
  • Prevents Shifting Teeth – Keeping the natural tooth ensures optimal alignment of the remaining teeth.

Without treatment, tooth loss can lead to challenges with speaking, eating, and even self-confidence. Preventing extraction with a root canal not only restores your smile but also supports your overall wellness.

When Root Canal Treatment Isn’t an Option

While most teeth can be saved with endodontic therapy, there are exceptions. Your dentist will explore alternative options if:

  • The tooth’s root is severely fractured.
  • There is insufficient bone support, causing the tooth to be highly mobile.
  • Extensive decay makes the tooth irreparable.
  • Root canals are inaccessible due to unusual anatomy.

When a root canal isn’t feasible, an extraction may be necessary, followed by options like dental implants or bridges to replace the missing tooth.

Final Thoughts

Root canal therapy remains one of the most effective dental treatments for preserving natural teeth and preventing further oral health issues. If you suspect you need a root canal, don’t ignore the symptoms—prompt treatment can make all the difference. By choosing endodontic therapy, you’re investing in your health, comfort, and confidence.

Take charge of your dental health by scheduling regular checkups, practicing good oral hygiene, and addressing problems as they arise. A healthy smile starts with informed decisions, and a root canal is one of the best ways to protect yours!