Dr. Shawn
Hlavaty, DDS
Dr. Shawn Hlavaty is a cosmetic and implant dentist with more than 19 years of experience helping patients achieve natural-looking, life-changing smiles — 17 of those years here in Santa Barbara. At Hlavaty Dental Arts, his boutique practice on Garden Street, appointments are unhurried, the environment is calm, and new patients are always welcome.
Whether you are considering a complete smile transformation or exploring your options for the first time, Dr. Hlavaty brings a rare combination of artistry, advanced training, and unhurried personal attention to every consultation.
Meet Dr. Shawn Hlavaty
From Landscape Architecture to Smile Design
Before entering dentistry, Dr. Hlavaty spent over a decade as a landscape architect — a career rooted in spatial design, proportion, and the balance between form and function. That design-trained eye did not disappear when he traded blueprints for dental instruments. It became the foundation of his approach to cosmetic and implant dentistry.
"Where many clinicians focus exclusively on clinical function, Dr. Hlavaty sees each smile as a composition."
The symmetry of a veneer, the contour of an implant restoration, the way light interacts with porcelain — these details matter to someone who spent years studying how elements work together to create something beautiful. Patients often describe their results as looking completely natural, and that is no accident. It is the product of a practitioner who understands design at a fundamental level.
Education, Training & Credentials
Clinical Training Landmarks
- ✓Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
NYU College of Dentistry
- ✓Advanced Implant Training
NYU — Bellevue Hospital & NYU Medical Center
- ✓3D CT Guided Surgery Specialist
Computer-guided implant planning
- ✓Advanced Veneers & Cosmetic Dentistry Training
Rosenthal Institute for Aesthetic Dentistry, NYC
Elite Memberships
- American Dental Association (ADA)
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
- Global Dental Implant Academy
- ★Named "One of America's Best Dentists"
NYU College of Dentistry & Advanced Implant Training
Dr. Hlavaty earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from NYU College of Dentistry, one of the most respected dental programs in the country. He then completed advanced implant training through NYU, in collaboration with the Oral Surgery Clinics at Bellevue Hospital and NYU Medical Center, building the specialized expertise required for complex implant procedures including full-arch restorations. His commitment to continuing education means he stays current with the latest techniques and advanced dental technology, from 3D CT scanning to computer-guided implant planning.
Professional Memberships & Recognition
Dr. Hlavaty is a member of:
- American Dental Association (ADA)
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
- Global Dental Implant Academy
He has been named One of America's Best Dentists — a recognition that reflects both clinical skill and a consistent standard of patient care. This ensures that every patient in his chair receives world-class treatment backed by proven clinical research and cutting-edge methodologies.
A Patient-First Philosophy Built on Honesty & Artistry
Dr. Hlavaty believes that exceptional dentistry begins with honest conversation. He takes the time to listen, explain your options thoroughly, and help you understand every aspect of your treatment plan — without pressure and without rushing. This unhurried, transparent approach is central to how he practices.
The experience at Hlavaty Dental Arts reflects this philosophy. A spa-like environment with sedation and comfort options ranging from nitrous oxide to IV sedation helps even the most anxious patients feel at ease. Warm towels, noise-canceling headphones, and a calming atmosphere transform what many people dread into something genuinely comfortable.
Honest Dialogue
We set aside plenty of time for questions. No pressure, no rush, just clear guidance so you remain in complete control.
Spa Amenities
Warm towels, soft blankets, neck pillows, and personal attention transform your expectations of dental visits.
Sensory Comforts
Noise-canceling headphones, a peaceful office soundtrack, and overhead entertainment create a quiet sanctuary.
Sedation Options
From nitrous oxide to modern IV sedation, we tailor your comfort level to your exact clinical and emotional needs.
Cosmetic & Implant Expertise You Can Trust
Cosmetic Dentistry
As a cosmetic dentist in Santa Barbara, Dr. Hlavaty specializes in treatments designed to enhance both the beauty and function of your smile. Each procedure is tailored to your unique facial features and personal goals to achieve ultimate aesthetic balance.
- · Porcelain Veneers
- · Teeth Whitening
- · Smile Makeovers
- · Cosmetic Bonding
Implant & Reconstruction
As an implant dentist in Santa Barbara, Dr. Hlavaty provides comprehensive dental implant and tooth replacement solutions. His advanced implant training, combined with computer-guided planning and 3D imaging, helps deliver results designed to look and feel like your own teeth.
- · Single-Tooth Implants
- · Full Mouth Reconstruction
- · All-on-4 Full-Arch
- · Bone Grafting
About Dr. Hlavaty.
A few things patients often ask about our lead dentist, his background, and his care. Don't see your question? We'd love to hear from you.
Ask a QuestionWhat is Dr. Hlavaty's background and training?+
Dr. Shawn Hlavaty Santa Barbara earned his DDS from NYU College of Dentistry, completed advanced implant training at NYU/Bellevue Hospital, and pursued advanced cosmetic training at the Rosenthal Institute for Aesthetic Dentistry. Before pursuing dentistry, he worked as a landscape architect, which gives him a distinctive design perspective on smile aesthetics. He has more than 19 years of experience — 17 of them in Santa Barbara — and is a member of the ADA, AACD, AAID, and Global Dental Implant Academy.
What cosmetic and implant services does Dr. Hlavaty specialize in?+
Dr. Hlavaty specializes in porcelain veneers, smile makeovers, teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, and clear aligners on the cosmetic side. For tooth replacement, he provides single-tooth implants, All-on-4 full-arch restorations, full mouth reconstruction, and bone grafting. Advanced technology such as 3D CT scanning and computer-guided planning supports precise, natural-looking outcomes.
Is Dr. Hlavaty accepting new patients in Santa Barbara?+
Yes, Dr. Hlavaty is welcoming new patients at Hlavaty Dental Arts, located at 737 Garden Street in downtown Santa Barbara. The practice also offers an in-house membership plan for patients who do not carry traditional dental insurance. Contact the office to learn more and schedule your first visit.
Your smile, considered.
Let's start with a quiet conversation. Tell us what you're hoping for — we'll handle the rest.