Dr. Claudia Garces,
Board Certified Endodontist

Dr. Claudia Garces is a board-certified endodontist serving patients and referring dentists at Total Endo in South Orange.

Board certification through the American Board of Endodontics represents one of the highest professional achievements in the specialty. It reflects advanced clinical knowledge, sound judgment, and a commitment to meeting rigorous standards in endodontic care. For patients, this offers added confidence when facing a root canal, retreatment, or complex diagnosis. For referring dentists, it supports trusted collaboration, clear communication, and thoughtful treatment planning.

Originally from Colombia, Dr. Garces moved to the United States at age 18. She later joined the U.S. Army and served for four years at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Her military experience shaped the discipline, focus, and sense of responsibility she brings to patient care today.

Dr. Garces earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Fayetteville State University. Before dental school, she volunteered as a dental assistant through the Fort Bragg Red Cross, strengthening her interest in dentistry and patient service.

She earned her dental degree from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, completed a general practice residency at Hackensack, and returned to Rutgers for her specialty training in endodontics. Her education and clinical experience prepared her to diagnose and treat dental pain, infection, traumatic injuries, and complex root canal conditions with precision and care.

Dr. Garces understands many patients arrive feeling anxious or uncertain. She takes time to listen, explain each step, and help patients feel informed before treatment begins. Her approach combines technical skill with patience, compassion, and close attention to detail.

She also values strong relationships with referring dentists. Dr. Garces works closely with each provider to support continuity of care, share findings, and help patients return to their general dentist with a clear treatment plan.

Outside the office, Dr. Garces enjoys caring for her plants and taking walks with her husband and dog. During her Army service, she worked as a truck driver, an experience that reflects the adaptability and determination seen throughout her career.

Her favorite quote, “Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence,” reflects her thoughtful approach to diagnosis and her commitment to looking beyond the obvious when evaluating a patient’s symptoms.

Dr. Garces is proud to serve the South Orange community and honored to care for every patient and referral entrusted to Total Endo.