Gerard T. Ortner Jr., DDS

Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry Esthetic Smile Design

"As a cosmetic dentist, nothing is more professionally and personally rewarding than seeing the transformation of a patient's self-esteem and confidence through a new smile."

School: Creighton University, School of Dentistry, Omaha, Nebraska
Graduation Year: 1981

Gerard T. Ortner Jr., DDS, a founding partner of Designs In Dentistry, is passionate about creating the smile his patients have always desired. Patients near and far seek Dr. Ortner's expertise in esthetic smile design, and his passion is translated into beautiful, dazzling smiles. His reputation for excellence, calm and friendly demeanor, and high quality of patient care are evident in the beauty of his work and his outstanding record of returning and referral patients.

Dr. Ortner was selected as one of the 5 top cosmetic dentists in the area to form the Sacramento Valley Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and is a past president and a current board member. The SVACD is the local affiliate of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and Dr. Ortner is a contributing writer for a local health and fitness magazine and is featured locally as a dental health care expert for television news programs.

Dr. Ortner knows that excellence in cosmetic and implant dentistry requires more than technical expertise and state of the art equipment. It requires the gift of an artist's touch and an eye for beauty and symmetry. It also demands staying on the cutting edge of technology, surgical skills and the latest in dental materials and innovations. Dr. Ortner travels nationwide to learn from the best of the best. He studies with cosmetic and implant specialists from around the world to offer his patients the latest in cosmetic and implant dentistry.

Dr. Ortner believes that patient education is essential for optimal oral health and spends much of his appointment time explaining all of the options available for his patients' dental needs. Through the use of intra-oral cameras, dental photography, digital x-rays and educational videos, his patients can visualize their new smile before treatment begins. Dr. Ortner offers advanced techniques and skills in all restorative procedures, implantology, family and cosmetic dentistry, while enjoying a friendly relationship with his patients of all ages.

Dr. Ortner founded the "Giving Smiles" Children's Dental Program to reach children who had no other means of receiving quality dental care. Over the years, he has helped more than 3,500 underprivileged children receive dental treatment, totaling over two million dollars of free dental care. Believing that, "Women robbed of their smiles are silenced," Dr. Ortner donates his time and talents to survivors of domestic abuse by confidentially assisting with their physical scars. Dr. Ortner has been honored both locally and nationally for his outstanding service to the community.

Dr. Ortner is a past president of the Sacramento Valley Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Sacramento District Dental Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Sacramento Valley Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Born and raised in Sacramento, Dr. Ortner attended Burbank High School. He received his undergraduate education at San Diego State University. Dr. Ortner holds a masters degree in biology and graduated from Creighton University Dental School, Omaha, Nebraska, in 1981.

Dr. Ortner and his wife, Nancy were married in 1979. Together, with their children, Kasey and Jared, they enjoy a wide variety of family activities including wake boarding, snow boarding, golfing and traveling. Dr. Ortner is an avid golfer and competes in local charity and men's club tournaments. Another favorite past time activity is fly-fishing. As a member of Rancho Murieta’s ETC group, Dr. Ortner supports theatre, music and family entertainment in his community.