Aesthetic Dentistry as an Artform: A Conversation with Dr. David Montalvo
Interview by Meredith Damouni
Dentistry is often thought of as a purely clinical profession—functional, necessary, but rarely artistic. However, as Dr. David Montalvo sees it, aesthetic dentistry is a deeply creative discipline that fuses science, artistry, and psychology to shape not just smiles, but confidence and identity. I sat down with Dr. Montalvo at Apa Aesthetic Dental & Cosmetic Centre in Dubai to discuss how he views dentistry as a design-oriented craft, the evolution of the field, and why a holistic approach is the future.
MD: People often think of dentists as purely clinical—fillings, extractions, cleanings. But you see dentistry in a much more expansive way. What is it about your field that fuels your creativity?
DM: I completely understand why people have that perception—because, in many cases, that’s what dentistry is. But there’s a whole other world within dentistry that is incredibly creative. It’s the perfect blend of science and art. The way I see it, it’s not just about fixing teeth, but about designing a smile that fits harmoniously with a person’s facial aesthetics, personality, and even their psychology. Every patient presents a new creative challenge, and that’s what excites me.
MD: When you first studied dentistry, did you already have this expansive vision, or was it something that evolved over time?
DM: At the beginning, like every dentist, I was trained to focus on a single tooth—studying its shape, structure, and how to restore it perfectly. We would literally draw teeth in detail to understand every ridge and groove. And while that technical precision is essential, over time you start to zoom out. You begin to see the smile as a whole, then the gums, then how everything relates to the face. Eventually, you realize that what we do is not just dentistry—it’s facial aesthetics. The smile is a central part of a person’s identity, and once you see it that way, you approach it differently.
MD: So, would you say your approach is holistic?
DM: Absolutely. A smile isn’t just about teeth; it affects facial harmony, posture, even mental health. There’s a deep connection between oral health and overall well-being. Inflammation, jaw structure, and even self-consciousness about one’s smile can have cascading effects on a person’s health and confidence. That’s why my approach is comprehensive—I don’t just fix a problem; I look at why it exists and how it fits into the patient’s broader health and aesthetic goals.
MD: There’s a strong psychological aspect to what you do, isn’t there?
DM: One hundred percent. Managing patient expectations is one of the most challenging parts of the job. Many people come in with preconceived ideas of what they want, often influenced by social media or trends. But what they think will look good isn’t always what’s best for their face. This is where creativity comes in—I have to guide them toward an aesthetic that enhances their natural beauty rather than just giving them what they think they want.
MD: That reminds me of how creative directors work with brands—clients come in with a vision, but it’s up to the expert to refine and elevate it.
DM: Exactly! There’s a process of translation involved. If I can make them see the bigger picture and how all the elements—teeth, gums, lips, facial proportions—work together, then we create something timeless. It’s about finding the perfect balance between artistry and function.
MD: Your practice is known for natural aesthetics. What’s your philosophy when it comes to cosmetic enhancements?
DM: The best dental work should be undetectable. No one should look at a person’s smile and immediately think, ‘veneers.’ It should blend seamlessly with their natural features. That’s why we take a customized approach—each smile is tailored to the individual. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all process.
MD: You’ve been with Apa Aesthetic for over a decade. Why do you think people keep coming back?
DM: Consistency. We’ve developed a refined approach and protocol that ensures every patient gets the same high level of care. But beyond that, I think what sets us apart is that we’re not just a clinic; we’re a brand. There’s a philosophy behind what we do, and people trust that. Our patients understand that they’re getting something more than just dentistry—they’re getting artistry.
MD: There’s also a sense of community around the brand. I loved the recent event at Natalia’s house—it was a mix of aesthetics, luxury, and expertise. Do you see more of these experiences happening?
DM: Definitely. We want to create more opportunities to connect with our community outside of the clinic. When you blend dentistry with design, fashion, and beauty, it becomes something bigger than just healthcare—it becomes a lifestyle.
MD: Technology is evolving so quickly in aesthetics. How do you see it influencing dentistry?
DM: AI and digital tools are amazing for previews and planning, but at the end of the day, craftsmanship still matters. A screen rendering is one thing; translating that into a real smile is another. The human eye, the touch, the understanding of facial harmony—that can’t be replaced by technology. What AI does is speed up certain processes, but artistry will always be at the core.
MD: So what’s next for you and Apa Aesthetic this year?
DM: Expansion. Dr. Apa recently opened a clinic in Miami, and we have more growth plans ahead. We’re also bringing in more specialists so that we can offer everything in-house. The goal is to create a full-circle experience where patients never have to go anywhere else for their aesthetic dental needs.
MD: One last question—after 20 years in the field, do you still feel like you’re learning?
DM: Always. The moment you think you know everything is the moment you stop being great at what you do. I read constantly, attend courses, and refine my techniques. The industry will always evolve, and I want to be ahead of it, not chasing it. But what excites me the most is that my core philosophy hasn’t changed—dentistry is an art form, and I’m just getting started.
Apa Aesthetic Dental & Cosmetic Centre in Dubai