Tanya Tabibian, DDS

Highlights    

• Comprehensive Dental Care
• Aesthetic Cosmetic Dentistry
• Hygiene & Periodontal Care
• Conventional & Implant Prosthodontics

Tanya Tabibian, DDS, is an associate dentist at Steven K. Okamoto, DDS, Inc., a prosthodontic and general dentistry practice in Torrance. She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of California, Irvine, and her dental degree at the University of Los Angeles School of Dentistry. Dr. Tanya joined the practice two years ago.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the field of dentistry?

Dentistry has always been a positive part of my life, thanks to my uncle, who was my dentist. My college studies in biology fueled my passion for the field, as it combines science, artistry and problem-solving while allowing me to build meaningful relationships with patients and make a real difference in their health. For women just starting in the dentistry, my advice is to go for it, seek out great mentors, ask questions and never be afraid to put yourself in situations where you can learn and grow.

Who opened a door for you professionally that made a huge impact?

I have been incredibly fortunate to have many mentors throughout my journey in dental school, residency and now in private practice. During my time at UCLA, I had mentors who believed in me, advocated for me and opened doors to opportunities in research and professional development. Their support continued throughout my residency, where I learned from mentors who helped shape both the dentist and the person I aspired to become.

This experience is especially meaningful because mentorship did not end with my training. Today, I have the privilege of working alongside my mentors, including Dr. Steven Okamoto, whom I originally met during my time at UCLA and continue to learn from. As I advance in my career, I hope to provide younger dentists and students with the same encouragement and support that I received.

Does holistic practice play a role in dentistry?

For me, treating a patient means seeing the whole person—not simply the teeth in front of me. I want to understand what brought someone in, what matters to them, what they may be nervous about and what they ultimately hope to accomplish. Creating an environment where patients feel comfortable and at ease allows us to work together toward treatment that makes sense for them.

What keeps you going on difficult days?

My patients do. Over the past few years, I’ve met so many wonderful people through dentistry. There are days when seeing a longtime patient feels like catching up with someone I know! Outside work, spending quality time with my fiancé, family and friends keeps me grounded and reminds me of everything I have to be grateful for.

How do you stand out in your industry?

I want patients to feel that they have my full attention. I’m naturally thorough, and I love teaching and explaining, so I make a point of walking patients through what I’m seeing and helping them understand their care. I’m also very conscious of how vulnerable it can feel to sit in a dental chair. My goal is to create a warm, calm environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and leave feeling cared for and understood.

What can we each do to support other women in business?

Some of the women who made the biggest impact on me early in my education believed in me before I had fully developed that confidence in myself. My first mentor in high school was a woman, and one of my earliest mentors in dental school was as well. Their confidence in me helped give me the confidence to keep pushing myself. Supporting other women means doing the same for someone else by sharing opportunities, making introductions, advocating for others and being generous with what we’ve learned along the way.

Have you had a patient who reminded you why you chose dentistry?

At the end of my residency, a patient gave me a handwritten card that I still cherish. When we first met, he was struggling with his dental health and confidence. Throughout his treatment, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in both his smile and self-assurance, leading him to make positive changes in his life. In the card, he wrote, “Dentists can save lives and give people new ones. You did that for me.” This reminder of our impact beyond dental health left a lasting impression on me. It’s an experience I will carry with me throughout my career.

Photographed by Lauren Taylor