When it comes to bringing smiles, the Center for Advanced Dentistry is the not-so-lowkey aesthetic dental clinic of choice. Among dentists to the stars, CAD’s founders — dentist-sisters Dr. Nelda Valencia-Eufemio, Dr. Mia Valencia-Angeles and Dr. Carlito Librando — have always been about genuine smiles.
And for CAD, that means delivering the best kind of dental services in a place of comfort and innovation.
In an exclusive interview with the DAILY TRIBUNE, the top dentists provided a glimpse into their journey, and the dynamic landscape of dentistry.
It all began in a small clinic where, Dr. Valencia-Eufemio recalled, their early focus on serving models preparing for commercials marked the start of their venture into aesthetic dentistry.
Speaking in an interview on Straight Talk, Dr. Valencia-Eufemio shared, “We started out in a very small clinic in Makati in Legaspi Village, to be exact. Our primary clientele were models trying out for commercials, and eventually, we secured talents for close-up commercials.”
During an era before the rise of social media, their growth relied on word of mouth, attracting talents from well-known agencies. Dr. Valencia-Eufemio highlighted, “They would bring in their talents, and we would fix them up. It’s a quick fix. If they bring in the talents today, they can shoot tonight.”
Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach is among the A-list celebrities of whom the CAD is exceptionally proud. She is one of the biggest names to have explored the cosmos, and she proudly wears the “CAD Smile.”
Wurtzbach participated in the Binibining Pilipinas competition and twice lost. She needed dental veneers as she wanted the world, the universe rather, to see her flawless smile.
She then put her trust in CAD and got that “winning smile.” Not too long after, more celebrities and beauty queens followed.
A person’s face is truly transformed by a smile. What counts is that you look better and, because you love it, you become more “confident.”
Beyond that, however, the CAD approach was truly remarkable; it was not just for the pageant or celebrity; everyone could experience the best of “what looks good on you,” and they focused their decisions on what their clients like, “spoiling” them with a high-quality dental experience.
Pioneers
The dental professionals provided insights into the evolution of dental care in the Philippines.
“We pioneered in the field of aesthetic dentistry,” said Dr. Valencia-Angeles.
Reflecting on the past, she emphasized the traditional approach to dental visits, noting, “Before, people would just go to the dentist pag masakit yung ngipin (when they had a toothache), right? Gone are those days — now they go for commercials or beautification.”
With pride, Dr. Librando added, “I’m glad to say that Filipinos now are more dentally aware than before. Kasi dati po talaga pupunta lang sila sa dentist if masakit nga yung ngipin (In the past, they would just go to the dentist when they were suffering from a toothache), but now they want a nice smile.”
Dr. Valencia-Eufemio acknowledged the positive “influence of social media,” attributing to it the increased awareness on the significance of well-maintained teeth.
Two decades of dental excellence
After 20 years, CAD now maintains two branches — in BGC and Greenhills. Dr. Valencia-Eufemio emphasized their hands-on approach, expressing plans for expansion while ensuring personalized patient care.
“We want to assure all the patients that we are going to be there for you. It’s all our hands. The hands of Dr. Lito, Dr. Mia, and myself who will really take care of you. May personal touch,” she said.
Highlighting CAD’s expertise in aesthetic dentistry, particularly in crafting ultra-thin veneers, she added, “It’s the pride of ownership that they’re going to wear. The veneers, especially CAD, are known for centering aesthetic dentistry.”
Describing these veneers as “best in Asia,” Dr. Valencia-Eufemio explained how they contribute to CAD’s global reputation, attracting 90 percent of patients from abroad.
Dr. Valencia-Angeles expanded on CAD’s popularity among international patients, citing countries like Japan and the United Kingdom. The founders acknowledged the influential role of social media in attracting a global clientele, transforming CAD into a proudly Philippine-made destination for dental tourism.
Range of treatments
Dr. Valencia-Eufemio described veneers as thin porcelain wafers, akin to fake fingernails but as thin as contact lenses. She emphasized the need for a natural tooth as a foundation. The application typically takes 10 working days to two weeks, with possible extensions for more complex cases.
While veneers are their expertise, CAD Clinics provides a range of cosmetic dental treatments, including porcelain crowns, dental implants, orthodontics, Invisalign, teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, gum re-contouring and general dentistry.
The founders shared stories about challenging patients and emphasized the importance of ethical dentistry. Dr. Valencia-Eufemio highlighted their commitment to continued education and dispelling dental myths.
Valencia-Angeles said, “Some people expect a lot because they invest a significant amount in their teeth.”
Dr. Valencia-Eufemio noted that patients sometimes want their teeth to resemble someone else’s, but they focus on the oral cavity, not just appearance.
Addressing concerns about unlicensed practitioners, Dr. Valencia-Eufemio warned about fake, unlicensed individuals ruining teeth and urged vigilance.
Dr. Librando reflected on the transition from dental school to the real world, emphasizing the need to adapt and compromise while dealing with various patient expectations.
Chemistry and passion
CAD Clinics’ founders recently celebrated the clinic’s two-decade milestone in aesthetic dentistry. Their unwavering dedication to high-quality service has been a driving force behind CAD Clinics’ success.
The founders, known for blending innovation, compassion and expertise, have left an undeniable impact on aesthetic dentistry in the Philippines.
Their shared chemistry and passion define CAD Clinics as a safe space where genuine care and expertise converge, creating beautiful smiles and lasting relationships.
Looking ahead, CAD Clinics promises continued commitment to setting the standard in aesthetic dentistry.