Cosmetic Dentist
Meet Dr. Lodding
Dr. Dean Lodding loves the transformative power of modern cosmetic dentistry, which gives his patients an inner and outer glow. He has dedicated his career to:
- the pursuit of utmost patient satisfaction
- continuing education
- the latest technology
- charity and community dedication
- contributing to the forward progress of the dental industry as a whole
- enhancing the lives of his team and encouraging their personal growth
- being a light of optimism and encouragement in the world

Enhancing the smiles and the lives of my patients is my passion. I love being able to provide excellent dental care in a nurturing environment surrounded by the greatest team in the world.
Education And Professional Memberships
Former President, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
Memberships & Affiliations
- Board of Directors, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Accreditation Committee, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Chairperson of Accreditation Committee, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- National Chairperson, Give Back A Smile Foundation
- Editorial Board, Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Founding Member, Board of Directors, American Academy of Oral Systemic Health
- Certified Member, American Academy of Facial Esthetics
Education
Dental School:
1980 – Doctor of Dental Surgery
University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentists
Undergraduate:
1976 – Bachelor of Science
St. Norbert College
Honors & Awards
- America’s Top Dentists Award (2009-2021)
- Consumers’ Research Council of America
- Humanitarian Award, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Partner in Peace Award, Community Crisis Center, Elgin, IL
- President’s Award, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Reader’s Choice Award for Best Dentist, Daily Herald Newspaper
“Dr. Lodding is professional, kind, honest, personable and above all a great dentist. I’ve had many mediocre experiences with dentists in the past until I found Dr. Lodding at Smile for Life Dental. He really cares about his patients. The rest of the staff is great too. You will always be greeted by beautiful, friendly smiles from his front desk team-Ree & Joanna. I look forward to coming here for many more years.”
Cosmetic Dentistry In The Spotlight
Dr. Lodding is a much sought-after national and international speaker on cosmetic dentistry and practice management.
What Does It Mean To Be Accredited By The AACD?
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is one of the largest and most respected cosmetic dentistry organizations in the world. It places emphasis on the importance of continuing education, quality patient care, and strictly upheld ethical standards. Members are required to demonstrate proficiency across an array of subjects, in addition to continuously expanding their knowledge within the field of cosmetic dentistry. Only those with the requisite skill, experience, passion, and knowledge become Accredited Fellows, the highest level of distinction within the organization. This title is awarded to an extremely selective number of clinicians in recognition of their superior academic and clinical expertise. In addition to being an Accredited Fellow, Dr. Lodding also had the honor of serving as a former President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He believes deeply in the AACD’s mission of clinical excellence and ongoing education, and he maintains an active role within the broader cosmetic dentistry community.
How Do I Find The Best Cosmetic Dentist Near Me?
Finding the best cosmetic dentist for your needs can be challenging, but some important factors to keep in mind include:
- The education and experience of your chosen dentist
- The dentist’s professional affiliations and accreditations
- The quality of the dentist’s past results (as seen in before-and-after photos, patient testimonials, and online reviews, which should be readily available)
- The overall office environment and the technology offered by the practice
You should also ultimately feel comfortable with your chosen dentist, and they should readily and honestly answer any and all questions you may have about their background or the procedure(s) you are interested in.
Advancements in dental technology have made it possible for a wide range of dentists to offer cosmetic treatments, but the overall quality of your results is still dependent on the skill and experience of your dentist. Incorporating these factors into your search can help ensure that you are making an informed decision that you can feel confident about.

Get To Know Dr. Lodding
In order to further aid your search for the right cosmetic dentist, we have compiled a list of possible questions to bring up during your consultation. The consultation is an invaluable opportunity to get to know your prospective dentist and learn more about the procedure(s) you are interested in. Topics to discuss include:
What Was Your Inspiration For Becoming A Cosmetic Dentist?
I love all aspects of dentistry, and the advancement of the discipline has been my mission throughout my career. I view giving amazing smiles to others as one of my purposes in life.
What Do You Love Most About Being A Cosmetic Dentist?
I love being able to give someone a smile that elevates their sense of self and helps them to be all they can be.
What Sets You Apart From Other Cosmetic Dentists?
I have a deep love for all of my patients and I strive to ensure that I provide them with the best possible treatment for their needs. I also prefer to approach each case conservatively, taking into account how to give someone their best smile with the least amount of work. Furthermore, my almost 40 years of experience provides me with a level of skill and insight that is unmatched by anyone else operating in the area.
Are There Certain Accomplishments Or Patient Cases You Are Particularly Proud Of?
I am most proud of those cases where someone who has been hiding their smile for years begins to love smiling following their treatment.
Do You Have A Favorite Cosmetic Dentistry Procedure?
My favorite procedure is always the procedure that best fits the needs of the patient.
What Are You Most Excited About In Regards To The Future Of Cosmetic Dentistry?
I am most excited about being able to create beautiful smiles for our patients using less invasive methods that require less prep-time. Making cosmetic dentistry procedures easier and more accessible to patients definitely excites me.
President Award From AAOSH
- American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH) presented the President Award to Dr. Lodding for his involvement in increasing awareness of the mouth’s connection to overall health.
- AAOSH aims to elevate the standard of dental and health care by increasing communication among physicians and educating the public on the oral-systemic health link.
Charitable Work
Dr. Lodding strongly believes in the importance of giving back. Over the years, he has contributed much of his time serving on the Board of Directors for the Community Crisis Center in Elgin, which provides shelter, care, and support for victims of domestic violence. He also served as the national chairperson for the AACD’s Give Back a Smile program, which connects those who have suffered dental injuries as a result of domestic violence with a volunteer cosmetic dentist.
In addition, Dr. Lodding has also been heavily involved with One Collective, an international missionary organization that provides food, faith, and freedom for those less fortunate around the world. He was on the board of directors for One Collective for three years. Faith and service are a very critical part of Dr. Lodding‘s life. He lives to use the gift of his skills in dentistry to provide dental care for those who, in exchange, pay it forward to others using their own abilities.
Schedule A Consultation
You deserve the best care, by the best doctor, using the best treatment available. Putting the care of your oral health into the hands of Dr. Dean Lodding and his Smile for Life Dental team is the best choice for your smile. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lodding, please contact our office today.