About Dr. Bowman – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon in Santa Barbara, CA
Meet Shelby Bowman, DDS, MD
Board‑Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon in Santa Barbara and surrounding counties
Whether you need a simple tooth extraction or a more complex procedure, having a surgeon you can trust makes all the difference. Dr. Bowman is a board-certified oral surgeon who combines surgical excellence with honesty, compassion, and genuine care for her patients.
Originally from Austin, Texas, Dr. Bowman earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Shortly after, she came to California to get her medical degree at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where she also did her residency.
Her training covers the full scope of maxillofacial surgery, from routine procedures to more complex reconstructions. After graduation, she stayed on as faculty at UCSF but later moved to join a large ENT group in Los Angeles. Just this year, Dr. Bowman bought Gregg Welsh’s practice right on La Cumbre Rd where she is dedicated to providing exceptional care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys exploring the outdoors and soaking up the Santa Barbara lifestyle. You may even find her at the local surf shop asking for lessons. She is proud to call Santa Barbara home and looks forward to serving the community for years to come. Dr. Bowman is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) and a member the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS).
Dr. Shelby Bowman is conveniently located in Santa Barbara at:
38 S La Cumbre Rd, Ste 5
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
“Whether you’ve been referred by your dentist or you’re exploring options on your own, We’re here to listen, explain, and provide confident care for your surgical journey.”
Why Patients Trust Dr. Bowman
Board‑Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon Santa Barbara and surrounding counties
Patients routinely tell us:
“I needed someone who would explain every step, listen patiently, and give me all the options.”
“I was so scared coming in for my dental extractions. Dr. Bowman and her team made me feel at ease and well cared for during the whole process.”
Dr. Bowman delivers on that promise:
- Creating personalized treatment plans for each patient’s unique needs
- Practicing evidence-based surgery with the highest safety standards
- Treating every patient with fairness, respect, and compassion
- Taking time to listen and explain so patients feel informed and confident
- Combining advanced training with a gentle, patient-centered approach
What We Treat at the Santa Barbara Clinic
Dr. Bowman offers specialized procedures including:
- Wisdom Tooth Extractions
- Dental Implant Surgery (including Bone Grafting, Sinus Lifts, Zygomatic implants)
- Pre‑Prosthetic Surgical Procedures
- Jaw Surgery for Bite, Aesthetics, and Breathing
- TMJ Surgery and Minimally Invasive Treatments
- Facial Trauma Care
- Oral Pathology Biopsy & Diagnosis
- Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Dr. Bowman’s Care Philosophy
She believes that surgical expertise is only half the story—the other half is conversation, care, and collaboration. Her practice:
- Emphasizes evidence-based surgical planning
- Partners closely with referring dentists and orthodontists
- Communicates clearly and compassionately before every step
- Champions patient involvement in decision‑making
All surgeries are performed at our fully equipped clinic in Santa Barbara or through Cottage Hospital.