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Dental Illusions Dr. Moukarim has been creating confident smiles since 1998. Individual attention, dedicated care using top technology, and a commitment to helping you achieve all that you want - and deserve - for a confident, healthy smile await when you visit Dr. Moukarim for your family's dental care needs. Your smile is the first thing that people will notice about you, and if you have problems with your teeth it can significantly impact your self-confidence.

As a full service dental clinic in Houston specializing in cosmetic dentistry, the team members at Dental Illusions are the professionals you can trust when it comes to enhancing and beautifying your smile.
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Dr. Basil Moukarim always knew that he wanted to be a dentist because he loves the instant gratification of creating beautiful esthetics and helping people. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1998 from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Before attending dental school, Dr. Moukarim attended the University of St. Thomas where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology with a minor in philosophy.
When you're looking for a new dentist in Houston, you're probably looking for an office that provides all of the services you need so you don't have to worry about driving all over town for your care. As a general dentist, Dr. Moukarim and his long-term team offer the wide range of services you'd expect from your family's dentist.
If you've been told by your dentist that you need a root canal - or if you've been experiencing tooth pain, extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or have discomfort when chewing and suspect you may need one - it's important to know that this restorative treatment can not only remove pain, it can also preserve your smile!
While a small percentage of people can retain their wisdom teeth without issue, most patients will need to have their third molars removed at some point in their lives. And while you may wonder if removal is necessary for you or someone you love, it's important to consider that there are several benefits to having wisdom teeth removed.
Reviews (27)
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Zach Grafe
Jun 21, 2022
Dr. Moukarim is very professional and great at what he does. I've been a patient here for a few years now and I am very pleased with Dr. Moukarim and the staff!
Allison Beauvais
May 16, 2022
Always a great experience here with Mychael, Becky and Dr. M! Enjoyed my cleaning today with Raul! He was very informative, professional and gentle during my cleaning!
Nikisha Parekh
Mar 25, 2022
Just completed my orthodontia treatment at Dental Illusions after about 2 years. Everyone that works here is absolutely amazing. Mychael is so nice and helpful and was great about explaining the costs to me. I have consulted on orthodontia a few times before, and no one else has even come close to how great Becky is. She has been patient with me and has been incredibly accommodating with my schedule, going as far as doing virtual visits when I went home during Covid. She made sure to keep going until we were both happy with how my teeth look. I can't say enough good things about my experience here.
Fairdale Place Reserve Hoa
Mar 12, 2022
Dr. Moukarim and his team of Dental Jedi Knights are always a pleasure to visit. They get down to the heart (or teeth ) of the matter and advise you of what's necessary. I've been a patient since 2009, which should tell you all there is to know.
Freddie Durr
Feb 14, 2022
Dental Illusions I use as my primary dental about 10 years ago and there customer service was on point. I recently went back to them for dental treatment. The customer service had never changed! Dr Moukarim is a very nice man who care about his patient's if you are looking for dental care I endorse Dental Illusions. From the receptionist to the dental assistance they're A 100. You want be disappointed. I left his office filling confident & esteem to the highest.
Gregory Hamby
Feb 08, 2022
Dr. M and his staff are excellent and they provide top quality dental care at a very competitive rate. They are always friendly and helpful. We live in Katy and our whole family now goes here. We are all extremely happy!
Amin
Feb 08, 2022
My family's been going to this location for years and it has never disappointed. This is probably the best dental office in the greater Houston area and is well worth the visit. Kudos to Raul for his exemplary dental service and I hope to see him in my next trip!
Elias Nasr
Jan 16, 2022
This is my first visit to Dental Illusions and definitely not my last. Dr. Basil is so knowledgeable and makes you feel so relaxed. Mychael and Becky are exceptionally hospitable and friendly!
Vishal Bansal
Jan 14, 2022
Outstanding and warm friendly staff. Easy to communicate with and flexible with scheduling. Dr. Moukarim took the time to thoroughly explain the clinical visit and what to expect next.
Natalie Nichols
Nov 27, 2021
Dental Illusions is a fantastic dental office. They have availability, communicate clearly and are friendly and helpful. Most importantly for me is their compassion. They don't make you feel embarrassed or rushed in the decisions you have to make about your dental care. They are honest and help you through your treatment plan. I love this team. Dr Moukarim, Mychael, Becky, and the whole team are just fantastic, you'll love them.
Ruth Taylor
Oct 27, 2021
I am very pleased and happy with the work Dental Illusions is doing for me. My cousin was my dentist for 40 years and he retired. I was heartbroken when I had to get a new dentist because I need a lot of reassuring when I am having dental work. My youngest sister and husband referred me to Michal at Dental Illusions and I am so pleased.
Marla Maharaj
Jul 18, 2021
Dr. Basil and his techs were amazing! They always make you feel so extremely comfortable even during uncomfortable times. And just wanted to say a special thank you to the woman with the beautiful eyebrows- you all are awesome!
Skeen Mathias
Jun 11, 2021
I am blessed to be a patient at Dental Illusions! Everyone is so kind and makes me feel welcome - like family! The quality of my care from Becky is beyond great - I could not be more pleased!
Steven Duesterbeck
May 14, 2021
I spent a few days reflecting on my recent experience at Dental Illusions. Prior to my visit I always dreaded going to the dentist. Most dentists I found were not personable and tried to soak their patients for as much money as possible. My experience here was. AWESOME! Mychael got me in as an emergency patient the NEXT DAY. Everyone was so polite, caring, personable, knowledgeable and upbeat. Dr, M. led me through the procedure step by step and Brittany was outstanding. She was so upbeat and engaging while working. I have NEVER looked forward to a visit to the dentist but I do now. An AWESOME group of professionals and people!
Eric Burrell
Jan 31, 2020
My mouth was saved by Dr Moukarim and Shante'. The price was reasonable and the Team of professional have always been amazingly friendly & helpful. I highly recommend Dental Illusions to anyone in need of dental work. Talk to Michael she will get you end for the services to save that smile! Dental Illusions FIVE STARS IN MY BOOK!
Mario V.
Sep 21, 2019
First off I would like to thank the team at Dental Illusions for taking such good care of me. The office manager Mychel was really nice and mad sure I was informed and kept me up to date about my procedure. Dr Moukarim and his assistant (forgot her name)did an excellent job extracting my wisdom teeth I honestly didn't feel a thing. Thank you to the whole team at Dental Illusions for taking such good care of me. Dental Illusions is second to none in my book!
Nayra S.
Sep 06, 2019
They were recommended to me by a coworker and its the best recommendation I've had. Dr. Mikarum(probably spelled it wrong lol) is amazing. He answers all of my questions, makes sure that I'm comfortable and does a great job on my teeth. Michael along with the other staff is so helpful, sweet and professional. Highly recommend them!
Lisa D.
Jul 16, 2019
Ended up in the hospital for 5 days after Moukarim failed to timely diagnose an abcess - a delayed diagnosis. When I complained of a severe toothache, he thought it was coming from a newly-installed pontic bridge that needed adjustments. After 3-4 visits to his office for continued pain, he decided to tap on my teeth to see where the pain was coming from and take an x-ray.

Why did he not do this 2-3 weeks earlier? I didn't think about that and, besides, it's not my job to tell him how to perform dental work. Turns out it was an abcess around the back molar on the other side of my mouth. I began taking Ketoralac for pain and antibiotics for the infection On the Friday after Thanksgiving 2015, he saw me for the last time (my head was hugely swollen) and commented tha the antibiotics were not working and I should go to a 24-hour clinic. Well, what I thought would be a quick trip to a 24-hour emergency clinic turned into an ambulance ride to the Texas Medical Center, 5 days in a private room with intensive care, and $50k in hospital bills (no insurance).

Upon check-in at Memorial Hermann I asked the admitting clerk why she was being so nice to me - someone that was uninsured. She said "Because, honey, you are about one (1) day from death. This is a gravely serious conditon and if I were to send you to Ben Taub you would not survive. I could offer you last rites." That is the SHORT version of the story but guess what?

I obtained a complete copy of my dental records from his office and his records were so shoddy he never even reported the abcess in his office notes, nor did he report to certain dental authorities that a patient of his was hospitalized after leaving his office. I am currently working on a formal Complaint against him with the Texas Dental Board. Apparently, the Plaintiffs' lawsuits are not easy these days and my $50k+ dental malpractice case wasn't appealing (not large enough in $$) to any of the countless lawyers I tried to hire. The 2-year statute of limitations expired. I am, however, currently working on a formal Complaint with the Texas Dental Board. Truth.
Haley A.
Feb 16, 2019
Dr. Saliba is awesome! Before I met him, I went to a dentist who told me that I severely grinded my teeth, and I needed very expensive night guards. She would not fix my chipped/bonding front teeth, because without buying a $500 night guard my front teeth could not be fixed, due to the excessive grinding. I met with Dr. Saliba and his staff, he told me I did not grind my teeth, they were just really small teeth.

I have been very self conscience of the chips and broken bonding/teeth. I was embarrassed to smile and talk. My job is sales and the one thing I must do is smile, talk, and look good. Dr Saliba brought my smile, and confidence back. There is not enough ways to say thank you for giving me back the one thing I lost, my smile. I thank you Dr. Saliba, for giving my confidence back!
Carol L.
Jun 01, 2017
This is my first review for a dental office but both times I've been there has been very pleasant. I like Debbie. She is gentle yet very effective and most importantly she used the suction tool often. I hate having extra saliva in my mouth.she told me the areas I should work on but she wasn't lecturing or judging in anyway. I definitely would go to her again.
Megan M.
May 24, 2017
I've been going to dental illusions for 24 years. That has to count for something! Absolutely adore the dentists. The staff is hit or miss but overall I'm loyal for a reason. And I have some good lookin teeth because of them. A true rags to riches story.
Sam A.
Feb 18, 2016
This was the first time I've been to a dentist in about 5 years. I had an appointment today for a routine check up/teeth cleaning and I can not be more satisfied. The staff there is SUPER friendly and easy to talk to. The environment was comfortable and relaxed. I briefly met with one of the dentists and he was very kind and friendly as well. I know how important reviews are in determining which dentist to go to so that is why I am writing this one. I would definitely recommend this place :
Nick A.
Feb 17, 2016
Dental Illusions Indeed! After changing insurance, my wife and I had to find a different dentist. We go regularly, so we thought we'd just get some cleanings and give a new dentist a chance. After meeting with the dentist, his recommendation was for my wife to get a crown and few fillings, and for me to get two crowns and a filling. We were shocked, because that had not been discovered from our regular dentist visits.

Our previous dentist is of some repute. And the quote was in the thousands of dollars due to our insurance plan and the normal cost of crowns. I did not like my experience there, nor did my wife, so we vowed to upgrade our insurance and get back to our previous dentist and get a second opinion. After a visit yesterday, we both discovered that we did not need crowns nor fillings! - My previous dentist has a digital x-ray machine, Dental Illusions still used film, which looked horrible and low resolution when I saw them as the dentist reviewed them beside me.

I also had to sit in the hallway to get the x-ray, which seemed awkward and ill conceived. - My hygienist was leaking water down my cheek during the entire cleaning and didn't seem to have good equipment, seen by the leaking suction tool hooked in my mouth. - The dentist had a very brief consultation, wasn't very personable for a new patient meeting, and didn't tell me about the recommended crowns and fillings.

I had to learn of it from the front desk person, Mychael, in a moment of disbelief. Based on my wife and I getting expensive crown and filling recommendations on our first visit, after years of dental checkups and monitoring, and after yesterdays updated x-rays and dental review by our normal dentist - 3 months later, with a clean bill of health, I think this Dental Illusions has a habit of giving pricey procedures to unwitting clients. Take a look at other reviews and you may find other examples.
Pat R.
Jan 10, 2015
Mychael is the best office person I have ever come across! She has great customer service and has helped schedule me several time at this location. I've always had positive experience with Drs. Saliba and Moukarim. If you must go to the dentist, or like me actually crazy enough to like going to the dentist, it may as well be a pleasurable experience. I've never had any complaints.
Michelle G.
Jun 05, 2014
Patient Beware! I went to Dental Illusions knowing that I was in need of some work. I was really impressed at first. Michael, the receptionist/office manager, is really great. The staff for the most part is nice. Both dentists I felt were a little in and out with not enough time for you, but I get it. After x-rays, I was told I needed a crown on one tooth, an onlay on another, and a couple of fillings.

The crown cost $300 something I believe, and the onlay a shocking $1100 after insurance! I would have preferred just to get a crown since it was covered by insurance more. Regardless, I've had issues with all of the work they've done ever since. I had to have a couple of the fillings adjusted multiple times because it would hurt to bite down.

The crown still hurts to bite down on (over a year now since the work was done. I'm about to go to my new dentist for the problem. The WORST part.the onlay that cost $1100 out of pocket.wasn't done correctly (even after two times of going in for it and hours spent with my mouth shoved open)! I was constantly having food stuck behind it and sore gums around it.

I learned from my new dentist that the onlay and/or crown should have contact with the teeth on either side. There was a big gap on the side of my onlay, and as a result, my gums were exposed and getting infected. Fortunately, I caught it early enough with my new dentist, and they were for the most part able to fix the problem. Although I'm still dealing with sore gums around it every now and then. Lastly, one of the hygienists decided it would be smart to blast cold air into my exposed tooth that was about to receive the crown.and didn't deaden it first!

I almost jumped out of the chair. Complete waste of money and time with Dental Illusions. I will never be back. I've since moved to Chicago, but wanted to warn the rest of the Houstonians!
Damian D.
Nov 22, 2013
If you're looking for a new dentist, look no further, these are the people to go to! They make going to the dentist a trip to look forward to, I kid you not. I've been going there for years, and recommend them to all of my friends, my entire family now drives into town to go there. Even since I have moved out of state, I prefer to fly back to Houston to get treatment as well!

Everyone at this practice is incredibly professional, super friendly, and very caring about your comfort. They are also dedicated to getting you the treatment that you need done right. If you are having problems with your teeth, they conservatively develop a treatment plan which will preserve your natural teeth as much as possible. Whenever I've had emergency painful situations, they have always strived to work me into their schedule ASAP. After many years of struggling to find a consistently good dentist, it's incredibly refreshing to find a practice of such great people.
Mrs. V.
Feb 01, 2012
We are new patients. Both my husband and I have had poor experiences at other dentists, so we have been looking around for awhile. We had cleanings and fillings done at West U Family Dental. They are prompt, efficient, good prices, accept insurance, courteous with a personal touch, and have clients such as the Houston Texans. My husband was so comfortable that he fell asleep during his cleaning.

There was only slight discomfort when I had my fillings, and a few hours later I went to the gym and had a nice family dinner outing. Thank God we found great dentists and great hygenists!