Core Smiles
Creating confidence, one smile at a time.
1182 Broadway, 4th Floor.
Let’s be honest. Going to the dentist is rarely something people look forward to. It’s a checkbox on the to-do list, a necessary evil in the pursuit of good health. But step inside Core Smiles, and suddenly, you’re not walking into a sterile, anxiety-inducing dental office. You’re entering a space that feels more like a boutique spa, one filled with stunning art, state- of-the-art technology, a team of friendly (and, let’s be real, incredibly attractive) doctors, and, best of all, Enzo, the chillest therapy dog in NoMad.
Dr. Michael Gulizio and Dr. Steven Cordoves aren’t your average dentists. These two dental powerhouses met while establishing their respective careers, bonded over their shared vision, and in 2009, launched Core Smiles. Their philosophy? A strong foundation — whether in oral health, business, or life — sets you up for success. And that’s exactly what they bring to their practice: a strong core of expertise, technology, and patient care.
Both doctors call NoMad home, and their love for the neighborhood runs deep. Dr. Gulizio, a Brooklyn native raised on Long Island, originally planned to be a veterinarian before falling in love with dentistry. Dr. Cordoves, a first-generation Cuban American, was drawn to the field after spending childhood summers in his aunt’s medical school in the Dominican Republic.
Together, they’ve built a practice that redefines what it means to go to the dentist. Core Smiles isn’t just about routine checkups — it’s a place where patients come to transform their smiles. With digital scanners (goodbye, messy impressions!), 3D-printed crowns made in-house (no waiting weeks for a temporary), and even laser technology that eliminates the need for anesthesia for simple fillings, they’ve taken the “yikes” factor out of dental visits.
The office itself is a sleek, modern sanctuary. It started as a model apartment for The NOMA building before the doctors transformed it into the ultimate dental experience. When the lease on their previous office on 40th Street expired, their longtime residential landlord, Mr. Calvin Haddad, made sure they landed in the perfect space. And they’ve made the most of it, ensuring patients feel at ease from the moment they walk in.
Of course, no Core Smiles visit is complete without Enzo, the five-year-old Jack-chi, therapy dog. A pandemic pup turned professional comforter; Enzo’s job is simple: bring the calm. And he takes his work very seriously.
NoMad through their eyes
When they’re not perfecting smiles, Dr. Gulizio and Dr. Cordoves fully embrace the NoMad lifestyle. Their go-to spots?
- The Ned. Perfect for rooftop summer evenings.
- The Smith & Hillstone. Classic staples for a great meal.
- Cecconi’s & La Pecora Bianca. Top choices for a night out.
- Todd Snyder & Dover Street Market. Because style matters.
- Empire Diner & Cecchi’s. Weekend brunch favorites.
- The Virgin Hotel & The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad. For a great cocktail and city views.
And because they’re always on the lookout for the next big thing, they’ve recently joined The 22, a new social club set to open soon on East 16th Street.
The core of Core Smiles
At the heart of it all, Core Smiles is about more than just dentistry — it’s about relationships. Most of their patients come through word of mouth, often recommended by local concierges, Broadway performers, and fellow NoMad residents. Their ability to handle everything from TMJ treatment to cosmetic makeovers in-house means patients receive seamless care with an artistic touch.
So, if you’ve been putting off that dental visit, maybe it’s time to rethink things. Core Smiles isn’t just about fixing teeth; it’s about creating confidence, one smile at a time. And with Enzo by your side, what’s there to be nervous about?