Dental Education Center

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which course should I take first?

    See Which course is right for me section


  • At what level are the courses given: beginner to advanced?

    The Comprehensive Esthetic Residency program is designed so beginners will have a lot to learn and more advanced dentists will have progressively less new things to learn. This program however will take every resident to a higher level than they currently are at.

    The Advanced Fixed Prosthodontics Residency is appropriate for any general dentist, but will focus on teaching residents on how to do advanced reconstructive dentistry.

    The Occlusion, Pain Management & Technology - Introduction to Advanced Residency has content that covers a broad range of topics and ranges from an intermediate to advanced content.

    Mini and one day courses are all at an intermediate to advanced level. Please inquire if you have specific questions.


  • Is there actual patient care?

    All residency programs and some mini-courses require or encourage live patient treatment in Esthetic Professionals state-of-the-art clinical facility.


  • What if I do not have a patient?

    Ideally, you will maximize your clinical experience by finding your own patient to work with. Some factors, including travel distance for the patient, may make it difficult. A clinic patient candidate’s acceptance may also be largely influenced by your presentation. We can offer you suggestions for some very convincing reasons as to why they should consider participation. Although we cannot offer a guarantee, Esthetic Professionals has a limited number of patients who seek us out for treatment in the clinic and we may be able to find you a suitable case.


  • Are there clinic fees?

    Clinic fees are charged for restorative and implant services. The fees are comparable to or below dental school clinic fees. The treating dentist is billed and can charge the patient any fee they feel is appropriate. It provides an opportunity to subsidize all or part of the course tuition if desired. A clinic fee schedule is available upon request.


  • Is a California license required?

    Yes if a patient is treated.


  • If I do not have a California license, can I still take the course?

    If you do not have a California dental license, you may apply for licensure by credential. The process will take 90 days or less from when you apply. You can find information about California licensing requirements including an application for licensure by credential at the California Dental Board website, www.dbc.ca.gov If you do not meet the criteria for license by credential, you can still take a course. The clinic experience can still be invaluable as you observe and assist others.


  • What if I have to miss a particular weekend in the residency program?

    Any missed sessions can be made up the following year upon written request. Some hands-on exercises may not be available for make-up sessions. In some instances, an alternative session may be set up in the Advanced Fixed Prosthodontics Residency.


  • Is there any preparation for Esthetic Professionals hands-on programs?

    For the Advanced Fixed Prosthodontics Residency you are encouraged to find your own patient. Treating a patient is a significant part of this residency. You will need study models, x-rays, and photographs. Contact us for details.

    For the Implant Placement mini-course you are encouraged to find a patient. Contact us for details.

    For the Comprehensive Esthetic Residency you will need patients but not until April.


  • What if I sign up with a colleague?

    Discounts may be available for group sign-ups. These offers vary and there may also be special time-sensitive promotions available for the course you are interested in. Please contact us for details.


  • Can my assistants take the residency with me?

    We always encourage dentists to bring their staff. There is a small tuition fee and currently space is limited.

    For future reference, we are expanding our teaching facility to more than double its current size. This expansion will allow us to provide a complete curriculum for assistants. (summer 06)


  • Are references available for former residents?

    Yes. We encourage you to talk to former residents. Most of our course enrollments come from referrals by former residents, or residents who are taking additional course offerings with us.


  • What follow up programs exist?

    One of the most common follow up is dentists taking additional programs.

    Esthetic Professionals prides itself as a servant to the dental community. Dr. Kristi and Bruce Crispin are available and often contacted by former residents or laboratory clients for additional information.

    New courses are also currently being developed to serve the dental community.


  • If I take the Comprehensive Esthetic Residency can I call myself a cosmetic dentist?

    You do not need to take this residency to call yourself a "cosmetic dentist". The goal of this Residency is to expand your level of competency and confidence in predictably treating cases with an esthetic outcome.

    Cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as a dental specialty and we do not issue any credentialing. Accreditation in cosmetic dentistry can be obtained through the American Academy of Cosmetic Denstry (AACD). As a member of the AACD’s Private Education Advisory Council (PEAC), Esthetic Professionals offers programs, including the Comprehensive Esthetic Residency, which can help prepare you for accreditation.