Protect Your Health by Caring for Your Smile

YOUR PATH TO HOLISTIC DENTAL WELLNESS

Discover how our personalized dental treatments can enhance not just your smile, but your overall well-being. Experience the confidence that comes with a radiant smile!

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LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPE FEAR SMILES

Holistic Dentistry in Wilmington, NC

Welcome to Cape Fear Smiles

At Cape Fear Smiles, we believe in more than just treating teeth. Our friendly and experienced team, led by Dr. Norma Cortez, is dedicated to supporting your family's journey toward lifelong oral health and overall well-being.


We take pride in offering a holistic, integrative approach to dentistry that goes beyond the smile, focusing on the vital connection between your oral health and your body's systemic health. When you choose Cape Fear Smiles, you're choosing personalized care that considers your entire health picture.

Ready to experience comprehensive dental care that prioritizes your well-being? Call us today to schedule an appointment. We can't wait to welcome you to our practice and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

Our Services

Why Choose Us

We go beyond just your teeth- our holistic approach to preventative care supports your overall health, ensuring long-lasting wellness for your entire body.

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Airway-Focused Dentistry

Your quality of sleep affects every part of your health and wellbeing. Here at Cape Fear Smiles, we offer airway focused dentistry to help you get the rest you need. Our dentists will assess your airway health and TMJ function to ensure you breathe easily while asleep, remain comfortable and get the rest you need. Give us a call to learn more!



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Integrative, Holistic Care Tailored To Your Needs

Our holistic dental care approach offers a comprehensive experience that prioritizes your overall wellbeing. Our skilled dentists use biocompatible materials and techniques to provide safe, effective treatments, ensuring a healthier smile and improved health. Schedule your appointment today to discover the benefits of holistic dentistry and take a step toward a more vibrant you!

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Cutting-Edge Technology

Cape Fear Smiles uses modern, state-of-the-art technology to ensure your treatment is precise, comfortable and effective. From laser dentistry to advanced imaging and digital workflows, our experienced dentist and team are prepared to help you receive cutting-edge care tailored to your unique needs. Call today to schedule your appointment!

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Teledentistry is Here!


Cape Fear Smiles in Wilmington, NC, offers convenient telehealth options to connect with our holistic dentists from the comfort of your home. Whether you need a consultation, follow-up, or have questions about your dental care, our telehealth services provide a safe and easy way to access expert advice and support without an in-office visit.

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Virtual Consultation


We offer free virtual consultations to provide you with convenient and expert dental advice from the comfort of your home. Our virtual consultations allow you to connect one-on-one with our experienced dentists to discuss your dental concerns, receive a visual assessment, and obtain a personalized treatment plan without needing to visit our office. This service is ideal for those seeking a second opinion, advice on dental issues, or exploring cosmetic treatments. Booking is easy through our online scheduling system, and all consultations are conducted using a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of expert dental care tailored to your needs—schedule your free virtual consultation today!

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Meet Dr. Norma Cortez, DDS, PA

Born in Peru, Dr. Cortez moved to the U.S. at 18 to pursue her education, earning athletic scholarships to MDCC. She obtained her Biology degree and Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she volunteered with community dental organizations. After dental school, she relocated to Wilmington, where she met her husband, George. As a biological and holistic dentist, Dr. Cortez believes in prioritizing overall well-being and looks forward to helping you achieve your dental health goals.

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Financial Options

At Cape Fear Smiles, we are committed to making our holistic, comprehensive dental care accessible and affordable for our patients in Wilmington, NC, and the surrounding areas. To better serve you, we proudly accept a range of offer flexible payment options, including in-house membership plans and financing through CareCredit.

Our In Office Dental Plan

Our goal at Cape Fear Smiles is to provide all our patients the affordable quality holistic dentistry they deserve in Wilmington, North Carolina. For patients who do not have dental insurance, we are proud to offer annual memberships to our low-cost, in-house Dental Health Plan.


Most dental insurances have coverage limitations, but with our Dental Health Plan, you save money on the procedures you need for a positive oral-system connection. Unlike dental insurance coverage, you know exactly what treatments are covered under your plan and there are no annual limits — no surprises! Contact us today at 910-763-0931 to learn more and meet with our experienced, integrative dentist, Dr. Norma Cortez.

Annual Membership Fees

Individual Non-Periodontal

$375.00


Two exams per year


Two cleanings per year


Four bitewing X-rays (BWX) per year


Three periapical X-rays (PAs) per year

Individual Periodontal

$799.00


Two periodontal exams per year

(every six months)


Four periodontal cleanings per year (every three months)


Four bitewing X-rays (BWX) per year


Three periapical X-rays (PAs) per year

Individual Child

(Under 14)

$299.00


Two exams per year


Two cleanings per year


Four bitewing X-rays (BWX) per year

Additional Benefits

12% discount on all other procedures

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What makes you different?

    At Cape Fear Smiles, we go beyond traditional dental care by embracing a holistic and biological approach to oral health. Our commitment to your well-being sets us apart in the following ways:


    Holistic Treatment Philosophy: We believe that your oral health is deeply connected to your overall well-being. By addressing the root causes of dental issues, we provide treatments that not only improve your smile but also enhance your overall health.


    Biocompatible Materials: We prioritize your safety by using non-toxic, biocompatible materials in our treatments, ensuring that the products we use support both your dental and overall health.


    Minimally Invasive Techniques: Our focus on preserving natural tooth structure and promoting healing means we utilize minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, reducing discomfort and promoting faster recovery.


    Focus on Prevention: Rather than simply treating symptoms, we emphasize prevention and education. We work closely with our patients to create personalized care plans that promote long-term oral health.


    Cutting-Edge Technology: Combining the latest dental technologies with our biological approach allows us to offer precise, effective, and safe treatments that cater to each patient’s unique needs.

  • Do you use Ozone and can you explain why it is important?

    At Cape Fear Smiles, we incorporate ozone therapy into our practice, and here's why it's important:


    Natural Antibacterial Properties:

    Ozone is a powerful, natural disinfectant that eliminates harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the mouth, promoting a healthier oral environment without the need for harsh chemicals.


    Promotes Healing and Tissue Regeneration:

    Ozone enhances the body's natural healing processes by increasing oxygen supply to tissues, which speeds up recovery and supports the regeneration of healthy gum and bone tissue.


    Reduces Inflammation:

    By targeting bacteria and promoting healing, ozone therapy helps reduce inflammation and discomfort, making it especially beneficial for patients dealing with gum disease or infections.


    Minimally Invasive and Safe:

    Ozone is a non-invasive treatment option that is both safe and effective. It allows us to treat cavities and infections in a way that preserves more of your natural tooth structure, while also reducing the need for more aggressive treatments.


    Holistic Approach to Oral Health:

    In line with our holistic philosophy, ozone therapy supports your overall well-being by creating a healthier balance in your oral microbiome, which in turn benefits your general health.

  • Do you do SMART and can you explain the protocol?

    Yes, at Cape Fear Smiles, we adhere to the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol to ensure the safe removal of mercury amalgam fillings. Here's an overview of our protocol:


    Comprehensive Protection for Patients and Staff:

    To minimize mercury exposure, we provide protective gear for both patients and staff, including specialized masks, barriers, and air filtration systems that ensure the removal process is safe and clean.


    Advanced Filtration and Suction:

    We utilize high-volume suction devices and air filtration systems to capture mercury vapors and particles during the removal process, preventing them from being inhaled or released into the environment.


    Isolation of the Treatment Area:

    A dental dam is used to isolate the treatment area, ensuring that mercury and debris are contained and do not come into contact with the rest of your mouth or body.


    Oxygen Supply for the Patient:

    To further protect you during the procedure, we provide an external oxygen supply so that you are not breathing in any mercury vapors released during the removal.


    Safe Disposal of Amalgam:

    Once removed, mercury amalgam is carefully collected and disposed of according to strict environmental safety guidelines, preventing it from contaminating water sources or the environment.


    Commitment to Your Health:

    Following the SMART protocol reflects our dedication to your overall health and well-being. We take every precaution to ensure that the removal process is as safe and effective as possible, in line with our holistic and biological approach to dentistry.

  • What are your thoughts on fluoride?

    At Cape Fear Smiles, we share the IAOMT's concerns regarding fluoride exposure and its potential health risks. Since community water fluoridation began in the 1940s, sources of fluoride exposure have significantly increased, now including water, food, air, soil, pesticides, fertilizers, dental products, pharmaceutical drugs, non-stick cookware, and various consumer items.

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To schedule an appointment with Dr. Norma Cortez and learn more about our financial options and your oral-system connection, contact our office at 910-763-0931.

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What Our Clients Say

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I have been going to Cape fear smiles for many years. They are excellent. They will try to get you in by notifying you to let you know if they can get you in as soon as they can. Friendly and informative. I love them


LAURA C

Dr. Cortez is caring, passionate, and goes above and beyond to fix the problem. She took great care of our baby girl who needed a tongue and lip tie revision. Would recommend!


MACKENZIE W.

I love Janet cleaning my teeth. It is always a wonderful experience. I know this is petty but I was disappointed about not getting a new toothbrush. That let's me know it's time for a new one. Been seeing Janet for 30 years. Oh well things change.


BEVERLY L.

I highly recommend Dr.Cortez to anyone who is on a healing journey and looking to improve their oral/dental health holistically. Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable but she’s compassionate. The staff members are also friendly and helpful!


JUSTINE C.

Awesome first visit to Cape Fear Smiles. Staff was very friendly and took the time to see where I am at heath-wise and explain the process. Dr Cortez takes time to explain the results of the examination and answer any questions. Will definitely be coming back.


KEVIN H.

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