It’s hard to believe that I have been practicing dentistry for 30 years! (That makes me sound old!) It is still my passion and the focus of my every day.  One of the things I love most about being a dentist is getting to know my patients; dentistry is a very focused and exact science, and you bring fun and variety to my days. I have the best staff in the valley! It is the promise of everyone on our team to treat you with respect and integrity, with the sole purpose of providing you with a healthy mouth, and a smile that will last your lifetime.  We enjoy treating the entire family of all ages.  My team is committed to your health. I look forward to meeting you.  I know you’ll be delighted when you make our family part of your health care family! Tamara

Dr. Abbett graduated from Ashland Sr. High School in Ashland Oregon.  She began her dental career at the age of 17, when she began working as a dental assistant for an Ashland dentist.  Dr. Abbett worked as a dental assistant for 13 years, during which time she did her undergraduate studies at San Diego State University.  She then attended dental school at the University of California, San Francisco, graduating in 1992, with a bachelor and doctorate in dental science.

Dr. Abbett has practiced in Medford for nearly 18 years.  She loves living in the Rogue Valley.  She is dedicated to many causes and works hard to give back to the community.  She has served on the board of the Southern Oregon Humane Society since 2008, and was board president in 2009. She also volunteers at the Children’s Dental Clinic in Southern Oregon, she donates to the disabled through Donated Dental, as well as doing volunteer dentistry in Baja California, Mexico.

Continuing education is her top priority, and Dr. Abbett attends many hours of dental workshops and seminars every year.  Dr. Abbett is a member of the Southern Oregon Dental Society, the Oregon Dental Association, and the American Dental Association.  She is also on the board of Advantage Dental, a dentist owned insurance company.

Tamara is married to Dr. Joel Hodge, a retired Orthodontist.  Dr. Hodge practiced in Southern Oregon for 37 years.  He now spends his days hiking, skiing, and playing with the couple’s dog, Olivia.  They try to make time to spend a few weeks each year in Baja, where they enjoy windsurfing, hiking, fishing, cooking, and reading.  Tamara is also a road and mountain bike enthusiast. They also have two beautiful cats, both were rescued, one in Baja and one from C.A.T.S.  Dr. Abbett’s children all have paws.  You may have the good fortune of meeting their dog Olivia, as she occasionally spends her days entertaining patients and staff at the office.  If you would like to meet Olivia, please let us know and we’ll be sure she is here for your appointment.