728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.

Catrise Austin

Cosmetic and General Dentist


Creating Hollywood Smiles in the Heart of Manhattan!

Dedicated to changing lives with a smile, Dr. Catrise Austin is a cosmetic and general dentist that is "Creating Hollywood Smiles in the Heart of Manhattan"! Consistently dubbed one of the most influential women in business, this award-winning dentist is becoming one of the most well-known and highly regarded dentists not only in the New York/Tri-State region, but nationwide. In a field traditionally dominated by men, this young female dentist is breaking all gender and racial boundaries by establishing her own ground with innovative operations and a unique business strategy. The savvy entrepreneur is the architect of VIP Smiles, a modern dental practice that boasts an impressive loyal following, including some of the warmest smiles in the entertainment industry: America's Next Top Model Eva Pigford, The Apprentice's diva Omarosa, R & B singer Toni Braxton, South Park's "Chef" and music legend Isaac Hayes, Broadway's Bridge and Tunnel sensation play write Sara Jones, and Grammy Award winning rappers Missy Elliot and Common have all placed their teeth in her capable hands. In addition, The Discovery Health Channel, The Queen Latifah Show and The Ricki Lake Show have all called on her services. She's been a guest expert on radio programs across the nation speaking about the importance of dental health, and frequently makes public speaking appearances to spread her message. In March 2007, Dr. Austin became a spokesperson for Aquafresh promoting their latest teeth whitening product-Aquafresh White Trays to help consumers learn how they can have a brighter smile. Throughout the entertainment industry as well as communities across the nation, Dr. Austin is truly cultivating a reputation as a designer of great smiles.

Dr. Austin discovered her passion for dentistry after being transformed by her dental experience in high school. Often the victim of jokes about her front teeth in both grade and middle school, Catrise went to get braces at the age of 15. By the time she graduated high school she was voted prettiest smile; completing a tremendous boost to her self-esteem. After receiving her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Michigan, Catrise went on to receive her Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland.

After getting her start tempting as a dental hygienist Catrise's entrepreneurial spirit grew very strong and led her to quickly build a highly successful private practice through shrewd networking and employing guerrilla-marketing tactics in lieu of conventional methods. Dr. Austin never misses a good marketing opportunity and her bold endeavors - her chutzpah as one reporter termed it - has paid off handsomely. VIP Smiles' success can be attributed to her smart business skills and commitment to quality service. The office is equipped with the latest advancements in technology and customer care, and installed with a complete entertainment center that allows patients their choice of watching their favorite DVDs during treatment, listening to their favorite music or enjoying the soothing benefits of aromatherapy. Licensed to practice dentistry in the States of New York as well as California, with her mobile dental unit, Dr. Austin is equipped to deliver her Hollywood Smiles in an intimate setting for special "VIP" clients.

Marketing aside, Dr. Austin is serious about oral hygiene and actively promotes preventive maintenance techniques among her patients. "In today's image-conscious society, a person's smile is very important," Dr. Austin says "A smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and a beautiful smile can have a long-lasting positive impact on your life - socially, economically and psychologically."

Have a question for Catrise Austin?
Ask it at the Q & A desk!

View more Q&A by this Expert