Cosmetic & Implant Dentist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr. Shawn Hlavaty | NYU-Trained | 19 Years in Santa Barbara
Top-rated Santa Barbara cosmetic & implant dentist
meet DR. SHAWN HLAVATY
Dr. Shawn Hlavaty earned his dental degree from New York University College of Dentistry and completed advanced implant training through NYU in collaboration with the Oral Surgery Clinics at Bellevue Hospital and NYU Medical Center. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the Global Dental Implant Academy, and has been recognized as one of America's Best Dentists.Over 19 years of practice in Santa Barbara, Dr. Hlavaty has focused exclusively on cosmetic smile design and implant dentistry — helping patients restore teeth, confidence, and quality of life through care that is precise, personalized, and unhurried. He founded Hlavaty Dental Arts on a straightforward belief: the quality of the experience matters as much as the quality of the result.
“What I love most about dentistry is that every patient is different. Each case presents unique challenges, and the work we do can have a meaningful impact on someone’s confidence, health, and quality of life.”
— Dr. Shawn Hlavaty
on-site
private
parking & EXIT
Discreet, covered parking with a private exit – ideal following aesthetic or sedation procedures.
Eco-friendly
0ffice COMFORTs
Soothing, sustainable atmosphere with soft blankets, neck pillows
and a warm towel at the end of your visit.
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elevated entertainment experience
Ceiling-mounted TVs, wall screens, and noise-canceling headphones — films, streaming, and scenic travel content available throughout your appointment.
concierge level expert care
Personalized scheduling, proactive follow-up, and a team that remembers your preferences — care that feels more like hospitality than dentistry.
hlavaty dental arts
A Different Standard of Care
Most dental offices are designed around efficiency. Hlavaty Dental Arts is designed around you.From the moment you arrive at our Garden Street office in Santa Barbara, the experience is intentionally different — quieter, more personal, and more like a private consultation than a clinical appointment. There are no assembly-line schedules, no unfamiliar faces, and no pressure. Dr. Hlavaty personally oversees every case from the first conversation to the final result.For patients who have avoided dentistry because of anxiety, past experiences that felt rushed or impersonal, or simply because nothing felt like the right fit — this practice was built with you in mind.
preventative dentistry
Thoughtful, proactive care designed to keep your smile beautiful and healthy for years to come.
Learn more smile makeovers
A personalized combination of cosmetic treatments to create a beautifully balanced, confident smile.
Learn more Porcelain veneers
Custom-crafted veneers designed to enhance the shape, color, and balance of your smile.
Learn more Dental Implants
Permanent, natural-looking tooth replacement designed to restore strength, function, and confidence.
Learn more full mouth reconstruction
Comprehensive treatment to restore health, function, and beauty to severely worn or damaged smiles.
Learn more "I love that I get to help my patients get out of pain, be able to eat the things they haven’t in years, or have the new smile and the confidence they’ve always wanted. Dentistry now days is more than just treating teeth...it's treating you."
– Dr. Shawn Hlavaty
patient reviews
A professional, thorough, and friendly practice. I was impressed with the time Dr. Hlavaty took to explain what was needed (and just as importantly, what was not) for my dental care, and was extremely pleased with the work carried out. I highly recommend him and all his staff.
Fiona S.
I had the most wonderful experience at Hlavaty Dental Arts . Dr Hlavaty is an amazing dentist. He also Is so pleasant and caring. His staff are fabulous They really went the extra mile to make me comfortable the ambiance of the office is stunning .
Andrea P.
The entire experience was absolutely wonderful. To say that I have dental anxiety would be a gross understatement. This was the easiest and most pain free cleaning I’ve ever had. Yay. Dr. Hlavaty was clear, candid and compassionate. I highly recommend.
Lisa S.
Having relocated to Santa Barbara I feel fortunate to have found Dr. Hlavaty and his staff for some routine dental work, 2 cracked crowns and one dental emergency. His staff is professional, courteous and accommodating. Dr. Hlavaty is top-notch in his skill set and training. Thank you!
Jill L.
Wow, I am thrilled and so thankful. Already my friends and family have noticed the incredible improvement in my smile and have commented on the difference it had made in my appearance, mood and confidence.
Melanie B.
The whole team is wonderful: Vanessa at the front desk is friendly and efficient, Valerie makes you feel totally comfortable in the chair, and Noe is hands-down the best hygienist I’ve ever had. Their office is beautiful—clean, modern, and welcoming. Dr. Hlavaty and his team are the real deal for top-tier dental care. Five stars isn't enough!
Stan H
I can't say enough about Dr. Hlavaty and the entire team at Hlavaty Dental Arts! Dr. Hlavaty is an absolute artist. I came in for cosmetic dentistry and the results are beyond what I imagined—my smile is completely transformed, and I get compliments constantly.
Stanley H.
This is hard for me to say especially since I have anxiety with dentist and have had bad experience with other dentist. Here I had none of that and they worked with me the whole way through knowing my level of anxiety associated with my past experiences. Highly recommend
Steve D.
Very good experience here, office was mellow, relaxing, and staff was amazing from the minute I was greeted by front desk and spoke with hygienist to when Dr. Hlavaty was extracting my wisdom tooth. I highly recommend them
Stephen D.
What a fantastic experience for our family! We just Love Dr. Shawn, the office staff, and his beautiful new office! Great location and the most professional service in this town. We have found our dental home!
Andrea K.
I had the best experience at a dental office. Staff extremely professional, spacious office, calm environment, and an amazing capable dentist. I felt not only in good hands but also very relaxed and comfortable.
Fabiana A.
Saw me on a emergency referral. Made the pain go away and also handled my less than capable pharmacist to make sure i got my meds. Couldn't sing his praises enough.
Nicholas L.
The hygienist diligently remove years of plaque buildup. Thank you! Dr. Shawn is first dentist to offer me a solution for a gap in my back teeth that always traps food. Love the TV on the ceiling! Beautiful new office, great team.
Darlynne L.
If you are looking for a dentist in SB, you need look no further. Dr. Hlavaty has been my dentist for years...and I'm a dentist myself! The dentist of dentists is the one you want. The office is amazing and the staff, top notch. 5 stars!
Bobby B.
What Our Patients Say
Leave A reviewGiving back in Santa Barbara
Keeping our community smiling
Dr. Shawn Hlavaty and the Hlavaty Dental Arts team are proud members of the Santa Barbara community. The practice actively supports local organizations including One805, the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, Laguna Blanca School, Santa Barbara High School, and the Breast Cancer Resource Center.
Dr. Hlavaty's associations include the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the Global Dental Implant Academy, and has been named one of America's Best Dentists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hlavaty Dental Arts
What does Hlavaty Dental Arts specialize in?
Hlavaty Dental Arts is a cosmetic and implant dental practice in Santa Barbara, California, led by Dr. Shawn Hlavaty. The practice specializes in porcelain veneers, smile makeovers, Invisalign clear aligners, dental implants, and All-on-4 full-arch restoration. Additional services include sedation dentistry, TMJ and teeth-clenching treatment, sleep apnea care, and emergency dental care. The practice is fee-for-service and not in network with dental insurance plans.
Where is Hlavaty Dental Arts located?
Hlavaty Dental Arts is located at 737 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. The practice serves patients throughout Santa Barbara, Montecito, Goleta, Summerland, and Carpinteria. Dr. Hlavaty sees patients by appointment — call the office or submit an appointment request online to schedule.
Is Hlavaty Dental Arts a good fit if I have dental anxiety?
Yes. Hlavaty Dental Arts was specifically designed around patients who experience dental anxiety. The practice offers sedation dentistry for patients who need additional comfort support, and the environment itself — private, calm, and unhurried — is intentionally different from a clinical dental office. Many of Dr. Hlavaty's patients come specifically because previous experiences at other practices felt impersonal, rushed, or anxiety-provoking.
Does Hlavaty Dental Arts accept dental insurance?
Hlavaty Dental Arts is a Fee-For-Service practice, which means we can offer you the care you need at a fair price, without being restricted by the insurance companies. As a courtesy to our patients with insurance, we will gladly submit your claims (with all required information, forms, & x-rays) as an out-of-network provider & your insurance company will send your reimbursement checks directly to you at home. Financing options are available — ask during your consultation.
How is Hlavaty Dental Arts different from other dental practices in Santa Barbara?
Hlavaty Dental Arts competes on experience, personalization, and outcomes — not on price, convenience, or insurance networks. Dr. Shawn Hlavaty, NYU-trained with 19 years of experience, personally handles every case. The environment is calm and private rather than clinical. The pace is unhurried. Technology is used to help patients understand their care, not just to perform it. For patients who have felt like a number at other dental offices, this practice is built to feel completely different.
What is the process for getting dental implants at Hlavaty Dental Arts?
The implant process at Hlavaty Dental Arts begins with a comprehensive consultation and 3D imaging to assess bone density, anatomy, and candidacy. Dr. Hlavaty then presents a complete treatment plan with clear timelines and cost information before anything is scheduled. Implant placement and final restoration are handled in-house. Most single-implant cases are completed over two to three appointments. All-on-4 full-arch procedures require more extensive planning and are reviewed in detail during an extended consultation.
Can I get a smile makeover consultation before committing to treatment?
Yes. All cosmetic treatment at Hlavaty Dental Arts begins with a consultation — no commitment required. During the consultation, Dr. Hlavaty reviews your goals, examines your current dental health, discusses what is realistic, and outlines what the recommended treatment would involve, how long it takes, and what to expect at each step. There is no pressure to proceed, and no treatment is scheduled without your full understanding and agreement.
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Conveniently Located in Santa Barbara, CA — Serving patients from Montecito, Goleta, Summerland, Carpinteria, and surrounding areas.
Conveniently Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Serving patients from Montecito, Summerland, & surrounding areas
Conveniently Located in Santa Barbara, CA — Serving patients from Montecito, Goleta, Summerland, Carpinteria, and surrounding areas.
schedule your consultationReady to Experience a Different Kind of Dentistry?
Schedule your consultation today and discover what makes Hlavaty Dental Arts different.
office hours
Monday - Thursday
9:00AM - 6:00PM
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