When most people think of cosmetic dentistry, they naturally focus on the dentist—the artist who plans and shapes the smile. But what many don’t realize is that creating a truly remarkable, natural-looking smile is a team effort, and one of the most critical—but often overlooked—members of that team is the ceramist.
At Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, both Dr. Kathy Sanders and Dr. Erika Lovett are known for their eye for beauty and precision. But one thing that truly sets their work apart is their commitment to working only with the most elite professionals in the field—including their ceramist. Because just like all cosmetic dentists are not created equal, the same is true for dental laboratories.
What Is a Dental Ceramist?
A dental ceramist is the highly skilled technician responsible for handcrafting the porcelain restorations—such as veneers, crowns, and bridges—that complete a smile makeover. The quality, detail, and natural artistry of a ceramist’s work make all the difference in the final outcome.
While some practices may send cases to high-volume labs or use generic materials, Dr. Sanders and Dr. Lovett insist on working only with the very best. That’s why they’ve partnered with Dwight R. Rickert, CDT, FAACD, and his team at Preferred Dental Ceramics.
An Accredited Fellow Working with an Accredited Ceramist
Dr. Kathy Sanders holds the distinction of being Tennessee’s first and only Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)—an honor achieved by fewer than 100 dentists worldwide. This title reflects her dedication to excellence, ongoing education, and rigorous clinical standards.
Because she understands what it takes to achieve that level of excellence, Dr. Sanders chooses to work with a ceramist who holds that same rare credential. Dwight Rickert, CDT, FAACD is not only one of the most respected ceramists in the country—he’s one of the few technicians to also be an Accredited Fellow of the AACD, representing the highest level of technical and artistic mastery.
“Dwight has been a trusted colleague for decades,” says Dr. Sanders.
“His eye for detail, his artistry, and his integrity are unmatched. I trust him completely—not only to bring my vision for each case to life, but to elevate it. Working with Dwight means my patients receive restorations of the highest quality, every single time.”
Excellence from Start to Finish
From your very first consultation to the moment your new smile is revealed, every step of your experience at Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry is shaped by intention, expertise, and craftsmanship. Dr. Sanders and Dr. Lovett don’t cut corners. They choose premium materials, collaborate with elite partners, and treat every smile as a work of art that deserves excellence—not just in the planning, but in the execution.
That commitment is evident in their long-standing relationship with Preferred Dental Ceramics, where each restoration is handcrafted with precision, natural beauty, and longevity in mind.
Why This Matters to You
When you choose Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, you’re not just getting a beautiful result—you’re getting a smile built to last, created with world-class materials, and designed by professionals who are leaders in their fields.
Your smile deserves more than “good enough.” It deserves the very best—from the hands that design it to the hands that craft it.
Experience the difference of excellence—at every level.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanders or Dr. Lovett, or to learn more about our cosmetic smile design process, contact us today. We’d be honored to help you discover the smile you’ve always dreamed of.