Smiling for all the right reasons after a Q&A with Hollywood’s smile specialist Dr. Apa.
If you don’t know the name by now, Dr. Apa is famed for creating those perfect smiles you see on celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Uma Thurman, Kyle Richards to the Olsen Twins, and more. Focusing on minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers that are more than just a set of veneers.
Here’s what he has to say about an industry that’s not often known for focusing on sustainability, but like any other, has waste to manage and greenwashing to navigate.
How do you integrate more sustainability within in your practice?
There are different ways to think about sustainability. The most obvious way I integrate it into my practice is by ensuring precision and longevity in our work. Limiting the need for redos reduces material waste, lab work and unnecessary procedures. We are continually finding ways to integrate technology into our workflow, without compromising our signature aesthetic. By digitizing some of the early steps in a smile makeover, we can minimize material waste.
Is there any greenwashing within the industry to be aware of?
Like any industry, dentistry isn’t immune to marketing buzzwords. There’s a lot of talk about ‘natural,’ ‘eco-friendly,’ and ‘biocompatible’ materials, but not all of it is backed by real science. I always encourage patients to ask for transparency—what’s actually in the products, how they perform, and whether they truly deliver on their promises. At the end of the day, our focus should be on both aesthetics and long-term oral health, using materials and techniques that are safe, effective, and backed by research.
How do you encourage a more sustainable mindset for your patrons?
Sustainability in dentistry starts with making choices that last. My approach has always been to use the highest quality materials and techniques to create smiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements or corrections. We also educate our patients on proper oral care, so they can maximize their results.
With toothbrushes being one of the biggest single use plastic products out there, how would you suggest we reduce our footprint here? (What do you think of alternative products?)
It’s true that toothbrushes contribute to plastic waste, but the key is finding a balance between sustainability and effectiveness. While there are bamboo and biodegradable options out there, not all of them provide the same level of performance when it comes to truly maintaining oral health. My recommendation is to invest in a high-quality electric toothbrush with replaceable heads—this reduces overall waste while ensuring the best care for your teeth.
Has AI helped shape your practice moving forwards?
There is a lot of potential with AI but it’s all still a work in progress. Technology, in general, is an incredible tool, but the human element—our expertise, creativity, and attention to detail—will always be at the heart of what we do.
What other advances are helping to ensure more effective dentistry for 2025?
Dentistry is evolving fast, and 2025 is bringing even more exciting advancements. We’re seeing major improvements in digital scanning, AI-driven diagnostics, and 3D printing, which allow for more precise, customized restorations with faster turnaround times. Minimally invasive techniques are also becoming more sophisticated, helping us preserve more of the natural tooth structure while achieving incredible aesthetic results. We’re experimenting with digital wax-ups as a more efficient preview of the patient’s new smile. Ultimately, the goal is to make treatments more efficient, long-lasting, sustainable, and patient-friendly without compromising on quality or artistry.
