Top 10 BEST Cosmetic Dentists in San Diego CA (2026 Rankings) - Smyleee
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Top 10 Cosmetic Dentists in San Diego California (2026)

Best Cosmetic Dentists in San Diego California (2026 Guide)

⚡ QUICK SUMMARY

  • Top Choice: Dr. David Eshom for Minimally Invasive Veneers.
  • Cost Range: $1,500 – $3,000 per veneer in San Diego (La Jolla/Del Mar areas skew higher).
  • Insider Tip: Many “Holistic” dentists in SD offer metal-free zirconia implants as a standard.
  • Vetting: We audited 3,500+ reviews to shortlist these 11 elite specialists.

Finding the best provider for Cosmetic Dentistry in San Diego, CA requires navigating a unique market. Unlike the “Hollywood” style of LA, San Diego patients often prefer a “California Natural” aesthetic—smiles that look flawless but not fake. From the luxury practices in La Jolla to the holistic studios in Hillcrest, the talent pool here is world-class.

Smyleee cuts through the noise. We have audited the local market to bring you a consolidated guide to the top specialists. Our methodology is rigorous: we cross-referenced over 3,500 verified patient reviews, checked active licensure with the Dental Board of California, and evaluated clinics based on transparent pricing, technology (such as Laser Dentistry), and long-term treatment outcomes.

This list is designed as a research-backed comparison guide to help patients in San Diego evaluate cosmetic dentists efficiently. Rankings are indicative rather than absolute and are meant to support decision-making, not replace an in-person consultation.

Cost Snapshot: Cosmetic Dentistry in San Diego (2026)

Service Typical "San Diego Fee" Notes
Porcelain Veneers (Per Tooth) $1,500 – $3,000 La Jolla/Del Mar clinics are at the high end
Composite Bonding $400 – $900 Great for minor chips; prone to staining
Professional Whitening $450 – $950 In-office Zoom or Kor Whitening
Invisalign (Full Case) $4,000 – $7,500 Includes retainers & digital scans
Dental Implants (Single) $3,000 – $5,500 Includes abutment and custom crown
Gum Contouring (Laser) $400 – $2,500 Price varies by number of teeth treated
Consultation Fee $150 – $400 Usually waived if treatment is booked

Insurance tip: While cosmetic procedures are rarely covered, "medically necessary" crowns or gum grafts may be eligible for partial reimbursement under PPO plans.

The Smyleee 5-Point Vetting Checklist

Save this list to ask during your consultation:

  • 1. Lab Partnership: "Do you use a local master ceramist (like Burbank or Utah labs), and can I see examples of their work?"
  • 2. Conservation: "How much natural enamel will you need to remove for this look?" (San Diego dentists often favor minimal prep).
  • 3. Technology: "Do you use a Digital Smile Design (DSD) preview so I can approve the look before you drill?"
  • 4. Hidden Costs: "Does the quote include temporaries, anesthesia, and night guards?"
  • 5. Before/Afters: "Can I see photos of a case exactly like mine that you performed recently?"

How We Scored the Best Cosmetic Dentists in San Diego

Selection Factor Weight Why it matters in San Diego
Verified Patient Outcomes 35% We check for natural-looking results that match the "California aesthetic."
Advanced Technology 20% Use of lasers and 3D imaging for precise, painless fit.
Years of Aesthetic Focus 15% Experience matters when designing complex smile makeovers.
Pricing Transparency 15% Clear, upfront quotes to avoid "upselling" surprises.
Comfort & Sedation 10% Availability of sedation for anxious patients.
Accessibility 5% Convenient parking (essential in La Jolla/Downtown).

Note: Our weighting emphasizes real patient experience and cosmetic outcomes over marketing visibility or paid placement. In the event of a tie, we prioritize the clinic with a higher volume of verified long-term follow-up reviews.

Looking for a Specialized Dentist in Your Neighborhoood?

1. La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry (Dr. Kami Kohani)

"The 'No Pain' Dentist of La Jolla"

📍 Address: 4510 Executive Dr #205, San Diego, 92121
📞 Phone: (858) 622-1007
⏰ Hours: Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm

Rating: 5.0⭐ (250+ reviews)
Best Known For: "No Pain" Techniques, Gummy Smile Correction
Great For: Nervous patients requiring extensive work
Ideal For: Patients who have delayed treatment due to dental anxiety.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Advanced
Booking Ease: 1-2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$$
Website: lajollacosmeticdentistryandorthodontics.com

Summary: Dr. Kohani is a UCLA lecturer known for his gentle touch. He specializes in combining orthodontics with cosmetic restorative work, often solving complex bite issues that others miss.

➡️ Call to Action: Fix your smile without the fear.

2. Mod Squad Dental (Dr. Greg Friedman)

"Modern Dentistry with a High-Tech Vibe"

📍 Address: 10793 Tierrasanta Blvd, San Diego, 92124
📞 Phone: (858) 547-0065
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8am - 5pm

Rating: 4.9⭐ (300+ reviews)
Best Known For: Same-Day Crowns, Smile Makeovers
Great For: Busy professionals needing efficiency
Ideal For: Patients who appreciate a modern, energetic office environment.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Advanced
Booking Ease: 1 week
Price Indicator: $$$
Website: modsquaddental.com

Summary: Dr. Friedman has created a brand around "Modern" dentistry. The office is known for its cool aesthetic and investment in the latest tech, making appointments faster and more predictable.

➡️ Call to Action: Update your smile in a modern setting.

3. Dr. George Georgaklis

"San Diego's Holistic Cosmetic Expert"

📍 Address: 4510 Executive Dr #106, San Diego, 92121
📞 Phone: (858) 552-1223
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8am - 5pm

Rating: 4.8⭐ (120+ reviews)
Best Known For: Holistic Dentistry, TMJ Treatment
Great For: Health-conscious patients
Ideal For: Those seeking biocompatible materials and a "whole body" approach to aesthetics.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Boutique / Holistic
Booking Ease: 1-2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$$
Website: drgeorgedds.com

Summary: Dr. Georgaklis combines cosmetic expertise with holistic health. He is known for avoiding metals and toxins, ensuring your beautiful smile supports your overall well-being.

➡️ Call to Action: Choose a smile that's healthy and beautiful.

4. Robert A. Rees, DDS

"The Artist of La Jolla"

📍 Address: 7761 Herschel Ave, La Jolla, 92037
📞 Phone: (858) 454-6181
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8am - 5pm

Rating: 4.9⭐ (180+ reviews)
Best Known For: "Smile Lift" Veneers, Implant Restoration
Great For: Mature patients wanting rejuvenation
Ideal For: Patients in La Jolla seeking a personalized, un-rushed cosmetic experience.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Boutique
Booking Ease: 2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$$
Website: lajollasmile.com

Summary: Dr. Rees has served the La Jolla community for years with a reputation for "artistic" dentistry. His focus is on smile rejuvenation that looks appropriate for the patient's age and face shape.

➡️ Call to Action: Rediscover your smile in La Jolla.

5. Mesa Dental (Dr. Arash Qadeer)

"High-Tech Veneers in Clairemont"

📍 Address: 7625 Mesa College Dr #100, San Diego, 92111
📞 Phone: (858) 877-5200
⏰ Hours: Mon-Fri 9am - 6pm

Rating: 5.0⭐ (500+ reviews)
Best Known For: Porcelain Veneers, Full Mouth Rehab
Great For: Patients wanting high-impact results
Ideal For: Those seeking a highly-rated cosmetic practice outside of the La Jolla price bubble.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Advanced
Booking Ease: 1-2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$
Website: mesadentalsd.com

Summary: Mesa Dental has exploded in popularity due to Dr. Qadeer's consistent results and modern approach. Patients appreciate the detailed consultations and the fact that the clinic uses the latest digital scanners.

➡️ Call to Action: Get a modern smile makeover.

6. Brighton Dental (Dr. Paige Woods)

"Holistic & Anxiety-Free Dentistry"

📍 Address: 1040 University Ave B201, San Diego, 92103
📞 Phone: (619) 831-8832
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8am - 5pm

Rating: 4.8⭐ (150+ reviews)
Best Known For: Holistic Veneers, Safe Mercury Removal
Great For: Patients with chemical sensitivities
Ideal For: Those who want a beautiful smile without compromising on holistic health principles.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Holistic / Boutique
Booking Ease: 2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$
Website: brightondentalsd.com

Summary: Dr. Woods offers a unique blend of cosmetic skill and holistic care in Hillcrest. She is famous for her "anxiety-free" approach, using aromatherapy and soft lighting to put patients at ease.

➡️ Call to Action: Experience holistic cosmetic care.

7. Marcos Ortega, DDS

"Hillcrest's Trusted Aesthetic Expert"

📍 Address: 306 Walnut Ave #36, San Diego, 92103
📞 Phone: (619) 295-4545
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 7am - 4pm

Rating: 4.9⭐ (200+ reviews)
Best Known For: Porcelain Veneers, Gum Recontouring
Great For: Locals in Hillcrest/Bankers Hill
Ideal For: Patients wanting a long-established dentist with a reputation for honesty and detail.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Advanced
Booking Ease: 2-3 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$
Website: marcosortegadds.com

Summary: Dr. Ortega is a staple in the Hillcrest community. He is known for taking his time with cosmetic consultations and ensuring that veneers look age-appropriate and natural, never "fake."

➡️ Call to Action: Book a consult in Hillcrest.

8. Peggy Curtis, DDS

"Downtown's Premier Female Cosmetic Dentist"

📍 Address: 4060 4th Ave #205, San Diego, 92103
📞 Phone: (619) 295-6100
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8am - 5pm

Rating: 5.0⭐ (100+ reviews)
Best Known For: Smile Design, Restorative bonding
Great For: Patients wanting a gentle, feminine touch
Ideal For: Those who want a dentist that listens intently and focuses on conservative aesthetics.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Boutique
Booking Ease: 1-2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$
Website: peggycurtisdds.com

Summary: Dr. Curtis receives glowing reviews for her chairside manner. She excels at direct bonding (a cheaper alternative to veneers) and creating smiles that look completely natural.

➡️ Call to Action: Visit Dr. Curtis for a gentle makeover.

9. Landmark Dental Arts

"Kearny Mesa's Center for Excellence"

📍 Address: 3737 Moraga Ave B-312, San Diego, 92117
📞 Phone: (858) 270-4333
⏰ Hours: Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm

Rating: 4.8⭐ (220+ reviews)
Best Known For: Full Mouth Implants, Veneers
Great For: Patients with complex restorative needs
Ideal For: Patients who need both surgical and cosmetic work done in one place.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Advanced
Booking Ease: 1 week
Price Indicator: $$$
Website: landmarkdentalarts.com

Summary: Landmark Dental Arts is known for handling difficult cases. If you have missing teeth combined with aesthetic concerns, their comprehensive approach makes them a top choice in Kearny Mesa.

➡️ Call to Action: Restore your smile at Landmark.

10. Dr. Weston Spencer

"The Beachside Cosmetic Specialist"

📍 Address: 7855 Fay Ave #200, La Jolla, 92037
📞 Phone: (858) 459-0226
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 8am - 5pm

Rating: 5.0⭐ (150+ reviews)
Best Known For: Conservative Veneers, Whitening
Great For: Younger patients, Local residents
Ideal For: Those seeking a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with high-end results.
Cosmetic Focus Level: Boutique
Booking Ease: 1-2 weeks
Price Indicator: $$$$
Website: westonspencerdds.com

Summary: Dr. Spencer took over a prestigious practice in La Jolla and has maintained its high standards. His philosophy is "conservative excellence," meaning he strives to keep as much of your natural tooth as possible.

➡️ Call to Action: Visit Dr. Spencer in La Jolla.

FAQ

Question Short answer
Does ranking #1 mean best for everyone? No. Ranking #1 often reflects popularity. A patient needing full implants might find a veneer specialist unsuitable. Choose based on your specific clinical need.
Should I go to Tijuana for cheaper veneers? This is the #1 question in San Diego. While 70% cheaper, legal recourse is difficult if things go wrong. For high-stakes cosmetic work (front teeth), we recommend staying in the US for guaranteed material quality.
How much do veneers cost in San Diego? Expect $1,500 - $3,000 per tooth. Prices in La Jolla are comparable to Beverly Hills, while clinics in Mesa/Hillcrest may offer better value.
Are cosmetic procedures covered by insurance? Rarely. Most PPO plans view veneers as elective. However, restorative crowns may receive partial coverage.
Can I get a free consultation? Some clinics (like Mesa Dental) may offer free consults, but top-tier boutiques usually charge $150-$400, credited toward treatment.
What is the best area for cosmetic dentistry in SD? La Jolla and Del Mar have the highest concentration of high-end aesthetic specialists.
How long does a smile makeover take? Typically 2-3 weeks. This covers the consult, temporaries, and final bonding.
Are veneers permanent? They are irreversible. High-quality porcelain veneers typically last 15-20 years with proper care.
What is Digital Smile Design? A protocol used by clinics to create a digital preview of your smile before any work begins.
What if I have dental anxiety? Look for "sedation dentistry." Many SD clinics offer nitrous oxide or oral sedation.
Can I whiten my veneers? No. Porcelain does not whiten. You must whiten natural teeth before matching veneers to them.
Do I need gum contouring? If you have a "gummy smile," laser contouring is recommended for the best aesthetic proportion.
What are "No-Prep" veneers? Veneers placed without shaving enamel. They are reversible but only suitable for specific tooth alignments.
Is Invisalign faster than braces? Often yes, for mild cosmetic alignment. It is preferred for its invisibility.
How do I verify a dentist? Verify licenses via the Dental Board of California or look for AACD accreditation.
Do these dentists treat children? Generally, no. These are adult-focused aesthetic practices. See a pediatric dentist for kids.
Can I park easily? Most SD clinics have parking lots. La Jolla clinics usually have underground structures (validation often provided).
Why are some dentists cheaper? Lower fees often mean offshore labs or cheaper materials. You pay for the artist's time.
Is financing available? Yes. CareCredit and LendingClub are widely accepted in San Diego.

Dear User. We hope we were able to help you find the Best Cosmetic Dentist in San Diego, CA. If you have visited any of the dental clinics listed in our portal then this is your chance to tell other people about your experience with the dentist, both good and bad, like how they treat you, if the facility is clean, and more. Help patients find the right dentist. Write about your experience in the review form available at the bottom of every clinic page.

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Medically reviewed by:
Dr Maqsud Mallick, BDS
(General dental standards & procedures)
Fact-checked by:

(Clinical Content Manager)
Last review: 18 October 2025.

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