Endodontist in Virginia Beach

William A. Meares, DDS, MS

• Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics
• Specialist Member, American Association of Endodontists

A Virginia Beach native, Dr. Meares graduated from Kempsville High School before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a minor in Biology from the University of Virginia. He then attended the Medical College of Virginia, School of Dentistry, where he graduated with honors and was ranked third in his dental school class. After practicing general dentistry for a year in Richmond, he pursued advanced endodontic training at the University of Detroit-Mercy, earning both a Master of Science degree and a Certificate in Endodontics. In 2010, he achieved Diplomate status with the American Board of Endodontics, a distinction held by only 20% of endodontists.

Dr. Meares is passionate about providing the highest quality care to his patients. He understands that many people experience dental anxiety—especially when facing a root canal—and strives to create a calm and reassuring environment. He takes the time to answer all patient questions and concerns during the consultation process and ensures they feel fully informed before treatment begins. During procedures, Dr. Meares and his team prioritize patient comfort, creating a relaxed and supportive atmosphere while regularly checking in to ensure patients feel at ease. His commitment to patient care and meticulous approach to treatment help ensure the best possible outcomes.

To stay at the forefront of endodontic advancements, Dr. Meares participates in continuing education each year, attending the American Association of Endodontists annual meeting or local professional development courses. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics, he undergoes recertification, keeping him up to date with the latest techniques and innovations in his field.

Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Meares is actively involved in the dental community. He is a member of local dental study clubs and has served as President of both the Tidewater Dental Association and the Virginia Beach Dental Study Club. Dedicated to advocating for the profession, he has traveled to Richmond to meet with state representatives on behalf of his colleagues.

Life Outside the Office

When he’s not treating patients, Dr. Meares enjoys golfing, exercising, and spending quality time with his wife, Tracy, and their two sons. You can often find him in the bleachers at his high school son’s baseball games, cheering on the team.

Dr. Meares’ dedication to his profession, patients, and ongoing education ensures he provides the highest level of endodontic care, helping patients achieve optimal oral health with confidence and comfort.

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Dr. Meares’ professional memberships include:

• American Association of Endodontists
• College of Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics
• American Dental Association
• Virginia Dental Association
• Tidewater Dental Association, past president
• Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society
• Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society

Education

What does it mean to be a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics?

A diplomate is a physician or specialist who is board certified.  Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics are a distinguished group of endodontists who have demonstrated their dedication to professional growth and providing the highest quality of patient care.  Board certification is a voluntary achievement that not all Endodontists choose to pursue.  The process requires the Endodontist to demonstrate actual accomplishments in patient care with detailed case reports on the treatment provided for a broad range of patient problems.

Board Certification in Endodontics

Becoming a board-certified endodontist requires completing a rigorous examination process administered by the American Board of Endodontics (ABE). This voluntary certification demonstrates a high level of knowledge, clinical expertise, and commitment to excellence beyond the standard requirements of a residency program.

Key Components of Board Certification:

• Written Examination – Covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, radiology, and clinical endodontics.
• Case History Exam – Requires submission of detailed documentation of diverse and complex cases from the endodontist’s own practice.
• Oral Examination – A practical assessment where the endodontist is evaluated on diagnosis, treatment planning, and decision-making in complex endodontic scenarios.

A Voluntary Commitment to Excellence

While board certification is not required to practice endodontics, it signifies an endodontist’s dedication to the highest standards of patient care, clinical proficiency, and lifelong learning in the field.

Publications and Research

• Co-authored “Non-Surgical Post Perforation Repair with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate: A Case Report,” Journal of the Michigan Dental Association, 2003; Vol. 85; No. 3: 36-38
• Authored “The Influence of Sodium Hypochlorite Irrigation on the Accuracy of the Root ZX Electronic Apex Locator,” Journal of Endodontics, 2002; Vol. 28, No. 8: 595-598
• Co-authored “Effect of Peroxide Bleaches on Fluoride Release of Dental Materials,” American Journal
  of Dentistry, 1997; Vol. 10; No. 6: 264-267
• Co-authored “Fluoride Release from a Phase-transition Amalgam Bonding Cement,” which was presented at the IADR’s 1996 session in San Francisco, CA; Abstract 1274 J Dent Res 75, 1996