Rick Ross has expanded his entrepreneurial empire into the world of cosmetic dentistry with the launch of Smiles by Mario Montoya, a premium dental practice in Sandy Springs, Atlanta. The March 20 grand opening marks a significant milestone for the rapper-turned-businessman, who has joined forces with acclaimed Colombian dentist Dr. Mario Montoya to revolutionize dental care in one of America’s cultural capitals.
Bringing international expertise to Atlanta
The new upscale facility aims to serve both everyday clients and celebrities seeking top-tier dental transformations. Already counting T-Pain, Safaree, and MoneyBagg Yo among its clientele, the practice offers a comprehensive range of services designed to create what Ross calls “Billion Dollar Smiles.”
Patients can access reasonably priced essential treatments including root canals, gum bleaching, and gum contouring. For those seeking more dramatic transformations, the clinic provides permanent implants starting at $4,400, while complete porcelain veneer sets — the premium option — run approximately $25,000.
Ross’s trust in Montoya stems from personal experience. In October 2020, the music magnate traveled to Montoya’s Cali, Colombia practice for a six-hour procedure that resulted in the gleaming porcelain veneer grills he proudly displays today.
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Cultural significance and strategic location
The decision to establish the practice in Atlanta was deliberate and meaningful. Ross considers the city an iconic cultural hub, particularly significant to the African American community.
Ross believes that when it comes to the culture, when it comes to his people, when it comes to investing in themselves, the level of artistry is unmatched in Atlanta.
The venture also addresses a practical need—many Atlantans have historically traveled to Colombia for premium dental work. By bringing Montoya’s expertise directly to Georgia, Ross and his partner have eliminated this inconvenience while maintaining the exceptional quality that made the Colombian dentist famous.
Self-investment philosophy
For Ross, whose business portfolio already spans fast food restaurants, real estate, and spirits, this dental venture represents a natural extension of his personal philosophy about self-investment.
The rapper’s journey into cosmetic dentistry began with his own dental challenges. Ross reflects that it was all about investing in himself. Running around and smoking had caused his teeth to turn nearly brown, which motivated him to invest in himself.
This transformative experience convinced Ross of Montoya’s exceptional talents. Ross considers Montoya the best in the field. He sought out the dentist because of his superior equipment and machines. Ross admires that Montoya is truly dedicated to his dental care practice.
Changing cultural aesthetics
Growing up in Miami, Ross witnessed firsthand the evolving standards of dental aesthetics in the African American community, particularly the once-popular gold teeth trend. Now, he advocates for a different approach—one focused on healthy, bright smiles that can change perceptions and create opportunities.
Professional impact
Ross believes strongly in the professional advantages of dental improvements. He encourages others to consider quality dental work as a strategic investment rather than merely cosmetic enhancement. Ross urges people to invest in themselves, smile bright, and walk into business meetings showing others they are serious and not playing games.
Community empowerment through accessibility
At its core, the Smiles by Mario Montoya venture represents more than just another business for Ross—it embodies his commitment to community empowerment. By making world-class cosmetic dentistry more accessible to Atlanta residents, Ross and Montoya aim to transform both smiles and confidence levels throughout the region.
The practice balances luxury with accessibility, offering services across multiple price points to ensure that quality dental care isn’t exclusively for the wealthy or famous. This approach aligns perfectly with Ross’s broader business philosophy of creating pathways to success and self-improvement.
As the venture takes its first steps, it stands poised to redefine cosmetic dentistry in Atlanta while further cementing Ross’s reputation as a diversified entrepreneur with a genuine interest in community enhancement. By bringing international dental expertise to a city he deeply respects, Ross continues to demonstrate his commitment to investing not just in businesses, but in people.
