The winner for the “new build” category is Toothbar in Austin, Texas

Going to the dentist can be a stressful experience. Worry about potential pain and discomfort may lead people to avoid dental care altogether. In fact, the CDC estimates that over a quarter of American adults are walking around with untreated tooth decay.

Drs. Lauren Jacobsen and Kimberly Barclay sought to reduce anxiety about going to the dentist when they opened the Toothbar in Austin, TX. Their design goal was to create a welcoming space that would remind patients of a spa or fine hotel. When clients arrive at the practice, they are greeted by an open-floor reception room with stunning views of the downtown area. As they wait for their appointments, they can enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and light refreshments.

This dental practice also embraces innovation. Patients walk down the all-white sterilization hallway and arrive at examination rooms with expansive outdoor views, overhead televisions and soundproof partitions. The whole arrangement seeks to replace the clinical feel of many practices with a warm, comfortable atmosphere.

As a sign of the success of their efforts, Drs. Jacobsen and Barclay won the 2019 Design Innovation Award at the ADA FDI World Dental Congress in San Francisco. Participants voted for the winner based on categories such as aesthetics, use of technology, functionality and efficiency. It was a great honor to be recognized by their colleagues.

However, the Toothbar is more than just an attractive space. The staff knows that untreated dental issues can have serious effects on a person’s quality of life. Chronic mouth or tooth pain will change the way that people eat and limit their diet choices. A misaligned smile can make a person less confident during job interviews or social interactions.

The Toothbar seeks to provide advanced solutions to remedy common dental problems. In addition to traditional tooth care such as cleanings, fillings and crowns, this practice seeks to be a resource for Austin cosmetic dentistry. It provides procedures such as in-house dental implants, Invisalign straighteners, dental veneers and teeth-whitening services.

Outside the main practice suite, Drs. Jacobson and Barclay developed the Toothbar Lounge to offer Austin cosmetic dentistry in an elegant setting. This unique area has three massage chairs and a bar. Small groups can reserve the lounge for a group teeth-whitening session in preparation for weddings or other special events. Individuals can use the space for a quick cleaning called the Detox, a brief session that consists of tooth polishing, flossing and mouthwash. Clients will enjoy a clean feel in between six-month appointments.

Professionals in downtown Austin know the importance of a confident smile. The Toothbar caters to this need by offering advanced dentistry in a calming space. If you want to improve your smile or simply maintain your dental health, contact the Toothbar in Austin to schedule an appointment.