Welcome To
La Costa Dental Excellence
You deserve a dentist in Carlsbad who treats you like family, not a chart number. La Costa Dental Excellence has cared for North San Diego County smiles from our Rancho Santa Fe Road office since 1984, and many of our patients have trusted us for 10, 20, even 30 years. Whether you are looking for a gentle family dentist, a sedation option that finally makes the dentist feel calm, or the cosmetic artistry behind a full smile makeover, our multi-generational team blends advanced technology with a genuinely personal touch. From the moment you walk in, every visit is built around you: your comfort, your goals, and your peace of mind.

We Believe Great Dental Care Begins With Listening
We understand that caring for your smile goes beyond mere aesthetics, and instead enhances your quality of life and overall wellness.
“At La Costa Dental Excellence, we make it our mission to blend skill, care and communication to create an unmatched patient experience,” shares Dr. Kimberly Dankworth.
We pride ourselves on our standards of quality and safety and perform every procedure with diligence and expertise. Empathy is at the heart of our practice. Here, you are treated with the utmost compassion and kindness; And, we believe in clear communication and working closely with you through every dental decision you make.
What Makes La Costa Dental Excellence Different in Carlsbad
Families across Carlsbad, Encinitas, and San Marcos choose us because we are independent, not corporate, and it shows in the time we take with you. We are one of the pioneers of sedation dentistry in North San Diego County, so patients who have avoided care for years finally feel safe in the chair. Our doctors trained at the Kois Center, one of the most respected advanced dental programs in the world, and our team is known for the kind of cosmetic and veneer artistry other dentists notice. We rebuild full function and confidence with dental implants and complete smile makeovers, and when a dental emergency strikes, we make room for you the same day through our emergency care. We believe every patient deserves our very best, at every age. Because your smile, and the confidence it gives you, matters.
Expert Dentistry With a Calm, Spa-Like Experience in Carlsbad
From the moment you arrive, La Costa Dental Excellence is meant to feel less like a dental office and more like a calm, unhurried retreat. We built the experience around you: a warm, spa-like setting, appointments that are never rushed, and a team that remembers the details that matter to you. For anyone who has felt anxious about the dentist, that comfort is not an extra, it is the reason they are finally able to say yes to care they have put off for years.
Behind that calm is serious expertise. Our dentists have pursued some of the most rigorous advanced training in the profession, including the Kois Center, the California Implant Institute, and leading programs in sedation and wellness dentistry, with hundreds of hours of continuing education between them. That depth is what lets us care for you with the same precision and artistry whether you are here for a gentle cleaning, a complete smile makeover, or full-arch dental implants.
Most of all, your care here is personal. We take the time to understand your health, your goals, and what a confident smile would mean for your life, and then we design a plan around you rather than a template. You deserve the very best, and a team that treats you like family rather than a number. Come experience the difference for yourself.
Meet The Dentists
You Deserve A New Beginning: Explore Our Dental Services






We Picture A World Where People Smile With Confidence
Are You Accepting New Patients?
Absolutely, yes! We are thrilled to welcome new patients to La Costa Dental Excellence. It’s exciting for us to help you on your journey toward your best dental health. Whether you’re new to the Carlsbad area or simply looking for a dental practice that values you, our team will make the transition smooth and welcoming. To schedule your first appointment or ask any questions, please call us at (760) 633-3033. We look forward to meeting you and being a part of your dental care journey!
At your first visit, we start with a friendly chat to understand your dental history, any concerns you have and what you hope to achieve with your smile. We then proceed with a comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays if necessary. Our team will discuss your oral health status and suggest a personalized care plan. We want you to feel informed and excited about your journey to a healthier smile.
Yes, we understand that dental anxiety is a real concern for many people, and we’re committed to providing solutions. We offer several sedation dentistry options tailored to you. We prioritize your comfort and peace of mind so that you enjoy a relaxed, stress-free experience every time you visit us.
We offer a variety of cosmetic dental services to enhance the appearance of your smile. Whether you’re interested in teeth whitening, veneers or Invisalign, our experienced dentists work with you to design a smile you love. We believe everyone deserves to beam with confidence and joy.
At La Costa Dental Excellence, dental emergencies are treated with urgency and care. We allocate time each day for unforeseen circumstances so we can provide timely care whenever you need it. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, we encourage you to call our office right away at (760) 633-3033. Our team will assist you as quickly as possible and provide whatever care you need to alleviate your pain.
It’s very simple! Schedule an appointment by calling us at (760) 633-3033 or visiting our website to request an appointment online. We pride ourselves on a scheduling system that respects your time and works around your busy life. Our team is eager to find a convenient time for your visit and answer any questions you have. We look forward to welcoming you to La Costa Dental Excellence in Carlsbad, CA.
You Deserve A Doctor You Can Trust
We believe in the power of knowledge and community in transforming your smile. Because your peace of mind matters, we will guide you with insights, tips and stories that resonate with your life. With our expert advice, your bright, beautiful smile is only a blog post away. Join our community today to make your dental dreams come true.
Is Sedation Safe for Dental Procedures?
If dental anxiety has kept you from scheduling treatment, sedation dentistry may help you feel more comfortable and confident. Learn how safe, personalized sedation options can make dental visits easier with Dr. Kimberly Corrigan-Dankworth at La Costa Dental Excellence in Carlsbad, CA.
What Happens If I Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth?
A missing tooth can lead to shifting teeth, bone changes and daily discomfort over time. Learn what to expect and explore treatment options with Dr. Stephen Dankworth, DDS, at La Costa Dental Excellence in Carlsbad, CA.
What is the Fastest Way to Stop a Toothache?
Get quick relief from toothaches with Dr. Stephen Dankworth of La Costa Dental Excellence. Our patient-focused approach in Carlsbad, CA ensures your comfort and peace of mind. Call us today at 760-633-3033!


