About

Dr. James Salazar, a San Diego native, has been providing exceptional general and cosmetic dentistry for over 25 years in San Diego. A graduate of San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, Dr. Salazar is known for his comprehensive, honest, and meticulous approach to patient care. He is dedicated to creating lasting oral health and beautiful smiles for patients of all ages. Dr. Salazar also enjoys evaluating and incorporating the latest in dental technology to provide optimal care for all patients.

Dr. Salazar’s commitment to continuing education is evident in his training at prestigious institutions like the Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, FL, where he studied occlusion and esthetics, and the Spear Education Center in Scottsdale, AZ. He has attended Annual Scientific Sessions with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) since 2006 and is a member of two San Diego Spear Study Clubs.

Accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) in 2011, Dr. Salazar is part of an elite group of fewer than 500 dentists worldwide recognized for excellence in cosmetic dentistry. He specializes in smile makeovers, cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers, crowns, and esthetic dental implant restorations. Dr. Salazar has been invited to attend the prestigious American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry's annual meeting for the last 6 years. This is the preeminent meeting of the top Esthetic and Restorative dentists from around the world. Additionally, Dr. Salazar is an Invisalign Premier Provider, having completed hundreds of cases that help patients achieve straighter, healthier smiles.

Dr. Salazar lives in San Diego with his wife, Dr. Marnie Schreiner, and their two children. His son is a competitive mountain bike racer, and his daughter is a dedicated dancer. In his free time, Dr. Salazar enjoys cycling, mountain biking, motocross, snowboarding, and traveling to the mountains with his family.

Professional Affiliations

Dr. Salazar is a proud member of:

• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
• American Dental Association (ADA)
• California Dental Association (CDA)
• San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS)
• Faculty Club Member at Spear Education
• Invited Attendee to the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, 2019–2025

Dr. Paul Dougherty, a second-generation dentist, has dedicated over 30 years to providing exceptional care to the La Jolla community. His commitment to personalized dentistry, trust, and long-term patient relationships has earned him a stellar reputation. Many of his patients have been with him for decades, a testament to his compassionate and consistent care.

Dr. Dougherty earned his Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology from the University of Oklahoma before graduating with honors from OU’s dental school. He further honed his expertise with a one-year fellowship at the Veteran Administration in San Diego, CA. Committed to staying ahead in his field, Dr. Dougherty integrates the latest advancements in dental technology through continued education each year.

Dr. Dougherty and his wife, Kelly, are proud parents to Ally, Jackson, and Avery, and grandparents to two new additions. The family enjoys being active in the La Jolla community, supporting local businesses, and contributing to charitable causes. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Dougherty is an accomplished athlete who loves cycling, skiing, and golf.

Professional Affiliations

Dr. Dougherty is an active member of the following organizations:

• American Dental Association
• California Dental Association
• San Diego County Dental Society
• Academy of General Dentistry
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (Sustaining Member)
• Spear Faculty Club and Study Member
• Invited Attendee to the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, 2015–2025

Dr. Bradley Asay is a California board-certified general dentist with over a decade of experience in restorative, surgical, orthodontic, and cosmetic dentistry. Originally from northern Canada, Dr. Asay brings a calm, compassionate presence to his clinical work and is known for his clear communication, thorough treatment planning, and attention to detail. His patients appreciate his ability to combine technical precision with a warm, down-to-earth demeanor.

Dr. Asay received his Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree in 2015 from the University of British Columbia (UBC), one of Canada's top three dental schools and consistently ranked among the top ten dental programs in North America. While near the top of his class at UBC for both academics and clinical skill, he was selected for a competitive paid mentorship role, providing academic and clinical guidance to junior students. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology and a Master of Management degree from UBC.

His professional journey has taken him from a busy high-end family practice in Canada where he focused on orthodontics, esthetics, root canal therapy, and surgery—to high-tech, restorative care in San Diego. Alongside private practice, Dr. Asay has spent years providing care to underserved communities, gaining extensive experience in emergency dentistry. As a result, he is especially skilled at diagnosing and treating dental pain, as well as managing esthetic emergencies.

Dedicated to continual learning, Dr. Asay has trained with leading dental education institutions and study clubs, including the Spear Study Club and the Academy of Richard V. Tucker. He is also a Certified Invisalign Provider and a current fellow with the International Academy of Dental Implantology.

Dr. Asay is married to fellow dentist Dr. Amanda Lacerda, whom he met during dental school. They live in San Diego with their two dogs and enjoy making the most of the Southern California lifestyle. In his free time, Dr. Asay enjoys hiking, biking, camping, and running-especially through Balboa Park. Dr. Asay grew up skiing, playing hockey, and spending summers on the baseball field. He still tries to hit the slopes, lace up his skates, or swing a bat when he can. Dr. Asay is also an enthusiastic Padres fan and loves catching games at Petco Park.

Professional Affiliations & Advanced Training

Dr. Asay is proud to be a member of or trained with:

• American Dental Association (ADA)
• California Dental Association (CDA)
• San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS)
• San Diego Advanced Study Group
• Spear Study Club
• Academy of Richard V. Tucker Study Club (Crown and Bridge Design/ExecutionJ
• Pacific Training Institute for Facial Aesthetics & Therapeutics
• International Academy of Dental Implantology (Fellowship, San Diego)
• F.O.R.C.E. Comprehensive Orthodontics Training

At your first visit to Refined Dentistry La Jolla, expect a warm welcome, a thorough oral health assessment, and an explanation of the current state of your dental health. Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.

At Refined Dentistry La Jolla, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for over 50 years. From participating in local health initiatives to offering emergency dental care on-site for the San Diego Gulls hockey team, our outreach efforts reflect our commitment to improving lives. Whether it’s providing care for underserved populations or sponsoring local events, we’re proud to be a trusted partner in La Jolla.