dentist in Santa Barbara, CA

Thomas Blake, DDS

Dr. Blake received his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2001 at the University of Pacific School of Dentistry, San Francisco. In order to provide his uncompromising level of excellence, Dr. Blake participates in extensive continuing education with the L.D. Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. Dr. Blake also participates in two monthly study clubs, the Seattle Study Club®, Santa Barbara Chapter, and the Santa Barbara Interdisciplinary Esthetic Dental Network, and he is an active member of the American Dental Association®, the California Dental Association, the Santa Barbara/Ventura County Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Blake has been married to his wife, Krista, for over 20 years. They have two beautiful children, Connor and Sophia, along with Avi, their Weimaraner and the latest addition to their family, and Beau, their Golden Labradoodle. In addition to spending time with his family, Dr. Blake enjoys surfing, fishing and diving.

Meet Our Team

 

Our team at the dental office of Thomas Blake, DDS, loves having a good time, getting to know you like a close friend, and allowing you to unwind as we deliver high-quality results while treating your oral health needs. If you are looking for excellent dental care in Santa Barbara, California, please give us a call at 805-962-5000 today to learn more about our team and set an appointment with our dentist.

dental team in Santa Barbara, CA

Carole

Dental Assistant/Practice Administrator

Carole is a seasoned member of the practice who joined in 2016, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role. Carole graduated from Douglas College in British Columbia, Canada, in 1988, earning certification as a Dental Assistant (CDA).

What Carole values most about being part of the practice is the opportunity to meet new people and ensure their experience is positive. Her dedication to fostering a welcoming atmosphere contributes significantly to the practice’s success.

With decades of knowledge and experience, Carole plays a key role in the practice’s achievements. Her expertise enhances the team’s collective capabilities, contributing to the overall success of the practice. Carole is a valuable team member, not only for her professional proficiency but also for her commitment to creating positive experiences for patients, making her an integral part of the practice’s success.

dental team in Santa Barbara, CA

Gamyn

Registered Dental Hygienist

Gamyn comes to us with 20 years of dental experience in private practice with 10 of those years in a periodontal specialty practice. Gamyn is also a certified Holistic Health Coach and has a license with expanded duties in Dental Hygiene. Gamyn brings her many years of experience in dental and blends it with her passion for overall health and wellness to create a dynamic experience for each of our patients.

Gamyn grew up in the Pacific Northwest and now lives in Ojai, California where she and her new husband have a big, blended family with 5 teenage boys, 2 cats, 5 chickens and the newest addition of a Vizsla puppy. She and her husband love to travel, garden and putt around on their Nordic Tug in the Channel Islands.

dental team in Santa Barbara, CA

Heather

Registered Dental Hygienist

Heather came to us in November 2017. She is a highly educated professional, having graduated with Honors from the Oxnard College Dental Hygiene Program with an AS in Dental Hygiene in 2003. She also holds an AA in Liberal Studies from Ventura College, earned in 2000.

Heather finds the greatest satisfaction in being part of the practice due to the amazing doctor and staff, the friendly and collaborative work environment, the beautiful office setting, and the fantastic patients. Contributing significantly to the success of the practice, Heather emphasizes her ability to work well with others and values being part of a cohesive team. Her focus on ensuring a positive patient experience and comfort during appointments reflects her dedication to providing the best possible treatment.

Outside of the office, Heather cherishes her family life. She has been happily married to her husband Doug for almost 20 years, celebrating 11 years of marriage. Together, they have three wonderful children: 21-year-old Chloe, attending college for business; 12-year-old Liam, attending middle school; and 9-year-old Quinn, in elementary school. While balancing a busy schedule as a working mom, Heather treasures family time as her happy place.

dental team in Santa Barbara, CA

Makala

Dental Assistant

Makala joined the practice in October 2022, bringing 5 years of experience in the dental field. Makala started her career in Pediatric dentistry, gaining four years of valuable experience before transitioning to General dentistry. Inspired by working on more complex cases, she became a registered dental assistant.

What Makala enjoys most about being part of the practice is the opportunity to work with a great team that collaborates effectively, coupled with the pleasant environment of the office. Makala brings a wide knowledge base and a calming personality to the table. Her ability to comfort patients before, during, and after their dental visits enhances the overall experience.

Outside of the office, Makala is a multi-talented individual. She enjoys painting and has a passion for interior design, working at The Well in Summerland on weekends. Her love for the outdoors extends to hiking and any activities that involve being outside. Makala’s diverse skills and interests make her a well-rounded and valuable asset to the practice.

dental team in Santa Barbara, CA

Noe

Registered Dental Hygienist

The practice welcomed Noe in September 2023, who brought a wealth of knowledge and dedication to his role. Noe graduated from Fortis College Dental Hygiene Program with an AS in Dental Hygiene in 2019, receiving the prestigious Hu Friedy Golden Scaler award for being the top clinician of his class.

What Noe appreciates most about being part of the practice is the strong support system under Dr. Blake, where everyone lifts each other up. Noe approaches patient care with a personal touch, treating each individual as if they were his own family members. He strives to make everyone as comfortable as possible, combined with a team-player mentality, enhances the overall patient experience.

Noe’s family is an integral part of his life, with his wife Sierra also working as a hygienist at the practice. They have two beautiful daughters, 4-year-old Penelope and infant Annabelle. Penelope is actively involved in tap, ballet, and gymnastics, showcasing their family’s love for various activities. They enjoy bike rides around the city, with Penelope joining in on an E-bike trailer. Exploring new coffee shops and restaurants is a favorite pastime! Noe’s commitment to excellence in his profession is mirrored in his dedication to creating cherished moments with his family.

dental team in Santa Barbara, CA

Noemi

Financial Coordinator

Noemi is a seasoned professional who joined the practice in June 2023, bringing over 15 years of experience in the dental field. Noemi’s journey in dentistry has been diverse, working in different spectrums such as periodontics and endodontics, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the field. In her early years, she attended various dental insurance seminars through the ADA, CDA, and AAP, honing her ability to translate dental cases into medical cases.

Noemi finds the greatest satisfaction in being part of the practice due to the professionalism and kindness of everyone involved. The focus on providing the best possible care is a shared commitment, and she considers herself fortunate to work with the best dentist in Santa Barbara. Noemi’s joy is amplified by her 13 years of prior experience in the same office with Dennis A. Shanelec, DDS. Noemi leverages her 15 years of experience to help patients maximize their dental insurance reimbursement. She is confident in presenting comprehensive treatment plans and assisting patients in planning their finances for recommended dental treatments.

Outside of the office, Noemi cherishes time with her 10-year-old son and family. Cooking delicious foods is a favorite family activity, and she personally enjoys hiking and running. Noemi’s dedication to excellence in the dental field is complemented by her commitment to a balanced and fulfilling personal life.