Meet the Doctors
Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing Puyallup families with compassionate, high-quality dental care in a welcoming environment.
Dr. Christopher Carlson, DDS
Dr. Christopher Carlson grew up in the sun and cacti of Southern Arizona before heading to Nebraska for his undergraduate education at Creighton University, where he met his wife, Rachel. The two then moved to Colorado, where he earned his doctorate degree from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine.
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Following Rachel back to her home state of Washington, Dr. Carlson completed a General Hospital Residency at the University of Washington, gaining experience in advanced dental and surgical cases. That foundation allows him to work efficiently to help every patient achieve their dental goals.
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Dr. Carlson joined Puyallup Family Dental in 2020. Outside the office, he and Rachel enjoy raising their two children — son Isaac and daughter Isabella — and love exploring Washington's beaches and local parks together.
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He is a member of the Pierce County Dental Society, the Washington State Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the National Dental Honor Society — Omicron Kappa Upsilon.
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Dr. Jonathan Walker, DMD
Dr. Jonathan Walker has enjoyed practicing dentistry in Puyallup since 2009. Born and raised in Twin Falls, Idaho, he earned his bachelor's degree in biology from Brigham Young University-Idaho and his doctorate degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio.
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Dr. Walker and his wife, Caprice, met in undergrad and chose to settle in Puyallup to raise their family of five boys. In 2015, he founded Walker Family Dental on South Hill — a reflection of his dedication to serving patients with excellent care, honesty, and a little fun.
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Outside the office, Dr. Walker stays busy working out, running, competing in Spartan obstacle races, playing piano and saxophone, and spending time with his family.
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He is a member of the Pierce County Dental Society and the American Dental Association.
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Dr. Nicole Ters, DDS
Dr. Nicole Ters moved to Washington and joined Walker Family Dental and Puyallup Family Dental in 2020. Originally from colorful Colorado, she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine before embarking on a two-year adventure in Hawaii. On the Big Island, she completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Bay Clinic, and in her free time, she learned how to surf!
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After meeting the love of her life, she moved to Washington and settled into her new home in the PNW.
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Dr. Ters cares deeply about her patients' well-being and always goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is as comfortable as possible during their visit. Her attention to detail and precise clinical skills help ensure excellent results. Dr. Ters loves helping others and is committed to making a positive impact on everyone she crosses paths with.
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When she's not in the office making smiles brighter, she's probably out hiking or exploring the world with her husband, Tyler, and their adorable little boys, Oliver and Bodhi. Whether she's in the great outdoors or in the office, she's always bringing a smile to someone's face!
Dr. Soo Kyung Ryu, DMD
Dr. Soo Kyung Ryu was born in South Korea and has called the Pacific Northwest home for many years. After earning her B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Washington, she received her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from Temple University in Philadelphia, where she graduated magna cum laude.
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Dr. Ryu is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care in a comfortable setting for every patient. She is currently training at the Kois Center, further developing her skills in comprehensive diagnosis, treatment planning, and evidence-based dentistry. When planning care, she considers each patient’s individual needs, concerns, and long-term oral health.
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Dr. Ryu lives in Tacoma with her husband and their playful Sheepadoodle, Darong. Outside the office, she enjoys golf, hiking, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.