No products added!
Dr. Robert E. Lee, DDS
In Memoriam - Founder of OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry
Where It All Began
Every philosophy has a beginning, and for Bioesthetic Dentistry, it began with a man who saw the beauty in nature and the power of biology to restore health.
Dr. Robert L. Lee didn’t just ask how teeth fit together. He asked how we were designed to function, and what dentistry could become if we honored that design.
His work laid the foundation. His vision lit the path. And his legacy lives on in every patient whose life has been transformed by biologic, principle-based care.
Our Story – Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Robert L. Lee
Bioesthetic Dentistry began with the pioneering work of Robert L. Lee, MS, DDS, who defined it as “the study or theory of the beauty of living things in their natural forms and functions.”
Dr. Lee’s approach grew from a deep understanding of biology, occlusion, and aesthetics and a desire to uncover the root causes behind wear, breakdown, and dysfunction in the chewing system. He was a clinician, educator, researcher, and visionary and his commitment to honoring the body’s natural design gave rise to a philosophy that continues to guide dental professionals around the world.
The Origins of Bioesthetic Education
In 1990, Dr. Lee and his wife Arlene founded The Lee Institute for Oral Bioesthetics and Function, building on his earlier educational platform, Occlusion Seminars, launched in 1978. From these institutions, he taught courses in biologic occlusion and full-mouth rejuvenation, empowering clinicians to see differently, diagnose holistically, and restore long-term health through biologic principles.
Arlene Lee
In Memoriam - CoFounder of OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry
Before his passing in 1997, Dr. Lee influenced thousands through international lectures, continuing education programs, and advanced restorative instruction. He was widely respected for his academic achievements, including serving as Associate Professor of Restorative Dentistry at Loma Linda University and holding memberships in the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry, International Academy of Gnathology, and the International College of Dentists, among others.
In 2005, the teaching of Bioesthetics transitioned into a new chapter with the founding of OBI Foundation for Bioesthetic Dentistry, a non-profit organization established to preserve and continue Dr. Lee’s teachings. With the support of the Lee family and the legacy of the Lee Institute, OBI was structured not only to teach but to protect the integrity of this biologic approach for future generations.
Today, OBI continues Dr. Lee’s mission through hands-on, mentor-guided training, equipping dental professionals with the clarity, confidence, and biologic understanding to transform lives. His legacy lives on in every classroom, every case presentation, and every clinician who rediscovers the joy of practicing dentistry through nature’s design.
We are forever grateful for Dr. Lee’s vision and honored to walk in the path he illuminated.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
At OBI, we honor the vision of Dr. Lee by continuing his mission of education, healing, and innovation. His passion for restoring health through biologic principles lives on in every clinician we inspire. We invite you to walk with us as we carry this legacy into the future.