OUR TEAM

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James P. Tasto, DDS

Dr. James P. Tasto was born and raised in San Diego. He attended University of San Diego High School where he lettered in both golf and wrestling. After earning a Bachelors in Science from Loyola Marymount University, Dr. Tasto graduated from University of Southern California Dental School with an emphasis on cosmetics and sports dentistry. Dr Tasto is currently the TEAM DENTIST for the USD Toreros and works closely with the Athletic Trainers office providing Sports Dentistry care to all of the student athletes at USD. He takes extensive courses in cosmetic and restorative dentistry so that he can deliver the highest quality dental care for his patients.

Dr. James Tasto was selected by his peers to be included in the List of Top Dentists in San Diego for 2007 – 2020. He appeared in the May issue of San Diego Magazine. Dr. Tasto is also a member of D.O.C.S. (Doctors Offering Charitable Services), a local organization that offers medical services such as plastic surgery, vision and dental to the less fortunate patients in San Diego. D.O.C.S. has been featured in the L.A. Times and San Diego Magazine.

Dr. Tasto currently resides in San Diego with his lovely wife Traci and their 3 children. He enjoys golf, beach volleyball, snow skiing, and playing with his kids.

Dr. James Choi

Dr. James Choi grew up in Vancouver, Canada where he played competitive sports that took him to China, Argentina and the United Kingdom. He then earned his Bachelor of Science at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. After his undergraduate studies, he attended Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco where he garnered his passion for implant surgery and general dentistry.

He has taken extensive continuing education courses focusing on implant dentistry and has volunteered his time to place implants for the underserved. Dr. Choi prides himself in his gentle, conservative and compassionate approach to dentistry. He is passionate about providing great care and creating a great experience for his patients. Outside of work, Dr. Choi enjoys surfing, playing golf and attending concerts.

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Gary M. Sigafoos, DDS

Dr. Gary M. Sigafoos has trained with some of the world’s most prominent periodontists. He is rapidly becoming known as La Jolla area’s leading periodontist for people who want periodontic dentistry.

“As your dentist, I am proud to have served patients in our community for over 25 years. The combination of continuing education and state-of-the-art equipment and materials allow us to offer you and your family the high level of care you’re looking for, with a soft touch. You can rest assured that you’ll receive the personalized attention you deserve. My team and I will listen to your needs and answer all your questions and give you a warm welcome with our ongoing commitment to your overall dental related health.”

Dr. Joel Altshul

Dr. Joel Altshul grew up in the Los Angeles area then in 1974 moved to San Diego to attend UCSD where he graduated with a BS degree in biology. He then was accepted to Washington University St Louis, School of Dental Medicine where he earned his DMD degreein 1982. He practiced general dentistry for 11 years before returning to school for his post graduate training in Endodontics at Oregon Health Sciences University in 1996.

Dr. Altshul wanted to move back to North San Diego County and in 1997 opened private practice in Vista, Ca and he practiced therefor 25 years. In 2021, he closed his practice and has been enjoying semi-retirement ever since.



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Jasmin P.

Office Manager

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Kelly H.

Registered Dental Hygienist

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Sara V.

Registered Dental Assistant, EF2

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Mina M.

Registered Dental Assistant

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Jennifer R.

Registered Dental Assistant

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Heather S.

Registered Dental Hygienist

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Allison S.

Registered Dental Hygienist