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Business Details
We are the team at Cardinal Dental, a Palo Alto-based general and specialty dental practice led by Dr. Gary K. Roberts and Dr. Nathan Kalinowski. Both of our lead dentists hold staff positions at Stanford Hospitals division of Dental Medicine and Surgery, bringing deep academic and clinical expertise to every patient interaction. Dr. Roberts leads the TMJ clinic at Stanford, while Dr. Kalinowski co-leads the special needs dental clinic, giving us specialized skills to serve complex patient populations. We have decades of combined experience delivering comprehensive dental care to adults and children, as well as targeted specialty services for post-cancer patients. Our practice leverages cutting-edge dental technology including 3D cone beam CT imaging, intraoral scanning, digital x-rays, and laser dentistry to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. We prioritize full transparency with all patients, walking through every step of treatment plans and answering all questions before any procedure is performed.

Our team is trained to provide care under IV sedation for patients with dental anxiety or complex treatment needs, ensuring a comfortable, low-stress experience. We adhere to the highest professional standards in all clinical procedures, from routine cleanings and exams to full-mouth restorations and wisdom teeth extractions. We are committed to delivering consistent, high-quality care that prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and long-term oral health outcomes. Our practice serves the Palo Alto community and surrounding areas, with flexible appointment scheduling options to accommodate patient needs. We strive to build long-term relationships with every patient, providing ongoing support and care to help them maintain optimal oral health for life.
Highlights and features
  • We are led by Stanford Hospital-affiliated board-certified dentists.
  • We offer IV sedation for complex and anxiety-inducing dental procedures.
  • Our 3D cone beam CT enables precise dental implant planning.
  • We provide specialized care for post-cancer and special needs patients.
  • We deliver full-scope general and specialty dental care.
Services
All-on-4 Implants
The All-on-4 dental implant system uses four strategically angled implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth, ideal for patients with advanced tooth loss or insufficient bone density for traditional implants. This treatment offers both overdenture and full arch fixed prosthetic options to suit different patient preferences and budgets. Patients benefit from reduced procedure complexity, shorter recovery times, and long-lasting, natural-looking restoration of full oral function.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is a safe, monitored sedation option we offer for patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing complex, lengthy dental procedures. Our trained team administers IV sedation to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable throughout their treatment, with no memory of the procedure afterward. This service allows patients to receive the dental care they need without fear, stress, or discomfort during their visit.
Special Needs Dentistry
Our special needs dentistry service is designed to accommodate patients with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities that make traditional dental care challenging. Co-led by Dr. Nathan Kalinowski, who co-leads the special needs dental clinic at Stanford Hospital, our team is trained to provide personalized, compassionate care tailored to each patients unique needs. We adjust appointment lengths, treatment approaches, and office accommodations to ensure every patient receives safe, effective, stress-free dental care.
TMJ Issues
Our TMJ care service addresses temporomandibular joint disorders that cause jaw pain, clicking, difficulty chewing, and related discomfort. Led by Dr. Gary K. Roberts, who heads the TMJ clinic at Stanford Hospital, we use evidence-based diagnostic and treatment approaches to resolve TMJ symptoms. Patients receive personalized treatment plans designed to reduce pain, restore normal jaw function, and improve overall quality of life.
Dental Implants
Our dental implant service replaces missing or damaged teeth with permanent, natural-looking prosthetic roots that integrate with the jawbone for lasting stability. We use 3D cone beam CT imaging and virtual surgical planning to place implants with maximum precision, minimizing risk and improving treatment outcomes. Patients benefit from restored chewing function, improved oral health, and a seamless, natural-looking smile that lasts for years with proper care.