Golden Hill Family Dentistry
Dr. Grace Rudersdorf, DDS & Dr. Carson Spornhauer, DDS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can we help you?

Navigating dental care can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you're not sure what to expect. That’s why we’ve put together this FAQ page to answer some of the most common questions we hear from patients about our services, treatments, and approach to dental health.

From same-day crowns and dental implants to sleep apnea therapy and cosmetic smile makeovers, we’re committed to providing clear, helpful information so you can feel confident in your care. 

Still Have Questions? Let’s Talk! 

If you don’t see your question here or you’re ready to schedule a visit, give us a call or send us a message. Our friendly Lakewood dental team is always happy to help guide you toward the care that’s right for you.

 

General

Yes! Golden Hill Family Dentistry is currently welcoming new patients, and we would love to be your dental home. 

We are female-owned and operated, which gives us a unique perspective on patient care. We focus on comfort, connection, and clinical excellence, and provide state-of-the-art dental care to patients in Lakewood, CO, and beyond, including Arvada, Conifer, Denver, Englewood, Evergreen, Golden, and Littleton.

State-of-the-Art Dental Care for Lakewood, CO, Smiles

Golden Hill Family Dentistry is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for your comfort and convenience. From innovative same-day CEREC crowns to custom solutions for sleep apnea, we're focused on maximizing your time and enhancing your comfort during your visit with your dentist in Lakewood, CO.

Dr. Grace and Dr. Carson also offer nitrous oxide sedation for patients who feel fearful or anxious about visiting the dentist. Nitrous oxide works quickly to help patients relax in the dental chair by "taking the edge off," without leaving you with any lingering side effects. 

Scheduling an Appointment Is Simple

If you'd like to experience high-quality dentistry in a whole new way, we'd love to talk with you! You can call our team at (303) 237-1553 to schedule an appointment or request your visit online. 

We look forward to meeting you!

Yes! Walk-in patients are welcome at Golden Hill Family Dentistry. Scheduling an appointment ahead of time will help minimize your wait times, but we do our best to work walk-in patients into our schedule as quickly as possible. 

If you'd like to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Lakewood, CO, you can speak with a team member by calling (303) 237-1553 or by requesting a visit online. 

No matter how we meet you, we look forward to caring for your smile!

What to Expect When You Visit Golden Hill Family Dentistry

We are a female-owned and operated general dental practice offering patients the full range of services needed to achieve and maintain healthy, happy, and beautiful smiles. 

From preventive teeth cleanings to solutions for sleep apnea, you'll find Dr. Grace and Dr. Carson take a full-body, holistic approach to dental care. 

We use state-of-the-art technology to care for our patients' smiles, and we offer dental sedation with nitrous oxide for patients who need a little extra assistance feeling comfortable and at ease during dental procedures. 

We're here for our patients when they need us most during dental emergencies. We offer convenient morning and early evening appointments to accommodate your busy family's schedule. 

Here at Golden Hill Family Dentistry, we’re dedicated to creating a comfortable experience from start to finish. And that starts with ensuring that scheduling your dental appointment is simple and stress-free!

Whether you’re due for a routine checkup or have been putting off needed care, Dr. Grace Rudersdorf and our friendly team make booking easy so you can prioritize your oral health with confidence. 

Easy Ways to Book Your Visit

Golden Hill Family Dentistry welcomes patients of all ages from Lakewood and surrounding communities, with a focus on personalized, compassionate care unlike that offered at the typical dental office. To schedule an appointment, you can call the office at (303) 237‑1553 during business hours and speak with a team member who will find a time that fits your schedule. If you prefer digital convenience, you can also request your visit online through our practice’s website forms. Calling or submitting a request online connects you directly with someone who can answer questions, confirm availability, and help prepare you for your first visit. 

Walk‑in patients are also welcome, though scheduling ahead of time helps minimize wait times and ensures you get the care you need when you need it. 

Seamless Appointment Scheduling in Lakewood, CO

If you’re in Lakewood and want to learn more about how to schedule an appointment and begin your dental care journey, contact Dr. Grace Rudersdorf and the outstanding Golden Hill Family Dentistry team to schedule a consultation.

Life happens. Sometimes, that means dental appointments get missed or require canceling or rescheduling. 

Here at Golden Hill Family Dentistry, we understand this and strive to make adjustments as smooth as possible while respecting other patients’ schedules. Basically, we just ask for courteous communication so that every patient receives timely, attentive care. 

Guidelines for Cancelling or Rescheduling

While specific written policies aren’t published on our website, we encourage patients to provide advance notice if they need to cancel or change an appointment. This courtesy allows our team to reassign that time to someone else in need of care and keep the schedule running smoothly for everyone. If you’re unable to keep a scheduled visit, just call our office at (303) 237-1553 as soon as possible. Our friendly staff will assist you in rescheduling at a time that fits your needs. 

Open communication and prompt notice are appreciated, especially for routine visits or longer treatments. That way, your dentist in Lakewood, CO can plan appropriately, minimize disruptions, and continue offering excellent, patient‑first service. 

Flexible Scheduling Support in Lakewood, CO

If you’re in Lakewood and want to learn more about scheduling, canceling, or rescheduling visits and how Golden Hill Family Dentistry supports your care and convenience, contact Dr. Grace Rudersdorf and the excellent Golden Hill Family Dentistry team to schedule a consultation.

Bone Grafting & Sinus Lift

Our team takes a careful and thoughtful approach to every dental implant case, and that sometimes includes preparing the jawbone with a bone graft or sinus lift in Lakewood, CO. These procedures may sound intimidating, but they play a crucial role in ensuring your dental implant has a strong, stable foundation.

Why Bone Support Matters

When a tooth has been missing for a while, or if periodontal disease has caused bone loss, the jawbone in that area may no longer be thick or strong enough to hold an implant securely. A bone graft allows us to rebuild that area with natural or synthetic material, giving your implant the support it needs to last for many years.

Why a Sinus Lift?

If the missing tooth is in the upper jaw, especially near the back, a sinus lift may be necessary. This procedure gently raises the sinus membrane to make room for additional bone, creating a safe and sturdy environment for your implant.

Call Our Dental Office in Lakewood, CO

If you're considering dental implants in Lakewood, CO, and have been told you may need a bone graft or sinus lift, you can trust us to guide you. Our team of experts can help you navigate each phase of treatment and ensure your smile stands the test of time. 

Call us today to book your consultation with our Lakewood dentists.

 

Cosmetic Dentistry

In the world of clear aligners, OrthoFX is a standout solution that blends state-of-the-art technology with all-day comfort, and we’re proud to offer this advanced treatment option at Golden Hill Family Dentistry. While many people are familiar with traditional clear aligner brands, OrthoFX takes it a step further by combining smart technology, responsive materials, and truly personalized care.

Enhanced Flexibility and Comfort

So, what makes OrthoFX aligners different? First, the aligners are made from a unique, multi-layer polymer that offers more comfort and flexibility than other systems. This material allows for gentle, effective tooth movement without the discomfort that sometimes comes with more rigid trays. Patients often notice a smoother fit and faster results compared to other clear aligners.

What really sets OrthoFX apart is the full-service experience. From your first consultation to your final retainer, we design every aspect of the process to be convenient and patient-focused. You’ll even receive support via a dedicated care team throughout your journey.

Call Us for Clear Aligners in Lakewood, CO

At Golden Hill Family Dentistry, your OrthoFX treatment in Lakewood, CO, is crafted with your long-term oral health in mind. Our dental team focuses on proper alignment, bite function, and smile aesthetics, all while supporting your overall health. Ready for a straighter smile without the hassle of metal braces? Ask us about OrthoFX today!

 

Crowns & Bridges

Yes! Our dentists can design, create, and place your custom dental crown in just one visit at Golden Hill Family Dentistry. That means no temporary crowns, no waiting for weeks, and no second appointment. You can walk out of our Lakewood dental office with a new and improved smile, and a newfound sense of confidence.

What Makes CEREC Crowns Special

Traditional crowns often require multiple appointments and temporary restorations, which can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. With same-day CEREC crowns, we use advanced 3-D imaging and computer-aided design to precisely map your tooth and create a high-quality ceramic crown right here in our office. Once your crown is milled and polished, it’s securely bonded to your tooth—all in a single visit.

These custom restorations are quick, strong, natural-looking, and designed to support your bite and overall oral health. We meticulously craft every crown to fit comfortably and blend beautifully with your natural teeth.

CEREC Same-Day Crowns in Lakewood, CO

If you’re dealing with a cracked, weakened, or decayed tooth and need fast, dependable care, ask us about same-day dental crowns in Lakewood, CO. Our team is here to help you get back to smiling, eating, and living with confidence.

Call us today to schedule your consultation!

 

Dental Implants

They absolutely do! At Golden Hill Family Dentistry, we provide custom dental implant restorations that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement because they are anchored directly into the jawbone. This implantation creates a stable foundation that mimics the structure of a real tooth root.

A Comfortable, Natural Fit

Once healed, your dental implant won’t shift, slip, or feel loose like dentures might. You can bite, chew, speak, and smile with total confidence. Most patients forget they even have an implant! That’s how natural it feels. Plus, dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving the shape of your face and bite over time.

Whole-Body Approach to Dental Implant Planning

When you come to us for dental implants in Lakewood, CO, we look at the full picture, not just the missing tooth. We evaluate your bone density, alignment, bite function, and long-term oral health goals to create a comprehensive treatment plan crafted just for you.

Are you ready to restore your smile with a solution that truly feels like your own teeth? Give us a call today at (303) 237-1553

We’d love to help you feel confident in your smile again! 

 

Dental implants are the most durable and natural-feeling tooth replacements available. Like natural teeth, however, they need consistent care to stay in optimal shape. The good news is that maintaining implants isn’t complicated at all. Most patients find implant maintenance far simpler than, say, caring for removable dentures.

With the right daily habits and professional support, you can protect your investment for decades!

Daily Care That Protects Your Implants

Like all dental care, dental implant care’s primary goal is to keep plaque and bacteria at bay. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled brush, focusing on the gumline around the implant. Floss at least once daily, either with traditional floss, a water flosser, or interdental brushes, to more easily clean around the implant crown.

Good home care helps prevent peri-implantitis, a gum infection that can threaten the stability of the implant. If you notice bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity around the area, contact your dentist sooner rather than later.

Long-Term Habits for Implant Longevity

Equally important is avoiding harmful habits. Try not to bite down on ice, pens, or hard candies, which can crack the surrounding crown. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can protect both the implant and your natural enamel.

Finally, consistent professional cleanings every six months allow your dental team to monitor the implant, remove hardened plaque, and ensure your gums stay healthy! 

Effective, Comfortable Implant Care in Lakewood, CO

If you’re in Lakewood and want to learn more about caring for your dental implants and keeping your smile strong for years to come, contact Dr. Grace Rudersdorf and the caring and skilled Golden Hill Family Dentistry team to schedule a consultation.

General Dentistry

Yes, absolutely. Gum disease is linked to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even complications during pregnancy. That’s why our team at Golden Hill Family Dentistry takes a whole-body approach to periodontal care by focusing on both restoring gum health and supporting your overall wellness.

When gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is left untreated, the inflammation and bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and contribute to larger health issues. Studies have shown strong links between gum disease and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, respiratory illness, and even pregnancy complications. What happens in your mouth doesn’t stay in your mouth, and that’s exactly why early treatment and ongoing care matter.

Our Approach to Periodontal Care 

At Golden Hill Family Dentistry, we provide comprehensive periodontal treatment in Lakewood, CO, because we understand the deep connection between oral health and the rest of your body.

Our team takes a whole-body approach to dental care, including periodontal care. We focus on clearing infection and reducing inflammation in the gums, as well as identifying and addressing any related factors that may be impacting your overall well-being.

Are you concerned about your gum health? Call our dentists in Lakewood, CO, today

 

Laser Dentistry

In many cases, yes, and our patients often tell us they’re amazed by how comfortable their experience is with laser dentistry in Lakewood, CO. This advanced technology allows us to perform a wide range of dental procedures with greater precision, less discomfort, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional tools.

What Makes Laser Dentistry Different?

Laser dentistry uses concentrated light energy to treat both hard and soft tissues in the mouth. It can be used for everything from treating gum disease and reshaping gums to removing decay and preparing a tooth for a filling. Because the laser is so precise, it minimizes trauma to the surrounding tissues, often eliminating the need for stitches and reducing bleeding and inflammation.

Comfort, Precision, and Faster Healing

Patients who are nervous about dental work often find laser treatments more relaxing, as many procedures can be done with little or no anesthesia and minimal vibration or noise. The result? A smoother experience, less time in the chair, and a faster return to your day.

Get Started Today

Are you looking for a gentle, modern approach to dentistry? Call us to learn more about laser dentistry in Lakewood, CO. We’re here to make your care as comfortable and effective as possible. You can reach us at (303) 237-1553.

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive care is one of the most important parts of keeping your smile and your body healthy. Even if your teeth feel or look fine, routine dental cleanings and checkups play a vital role in catching issues early and maintaining long-term wellness.

It’s More Than Just Cavities

While spotting cavities is part of what we do, our preventive visits go far beyond that. Every dental exam includes a thorough look at your gum health, jaw alignment, bite function, and even subtle signs of teeth clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), and sleep apnea. These issues can sneak up on you without pain or obvious symptoms, so addressing them early can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Protecting More Than Your Smile

Our Lakewood dentists also consider how your oral health is connected to your overall health. For example, inflammation in the gums can impact your heart, immune system, and more. That’s why we tailor your preventive care to support your smile and your full-body wellness.

Book Your Dental Visit Today

If it’s been a while since your last visit, now is a great time to schedule your preventive dentistry appointment in Lakewood, CO. Let’s keep your smile strong and your health on track!

We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Sleep Apnea & Snoring Treatment

Our team at Golden Hill Family Dentistry often sees patients who think snoring is just a harmless annoyance, when in fact, it can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This common condition occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, which leads to pauses in breathing, reduced oxygen levels, and disrupted rest.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea: What’s the Link?

While not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, loud and frequent snoring is one of the most common signs. Other symptoms may include:

  • Waking up feeling tired
  • Dry mouth in the morning
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Irritability and mood swings

Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other serious health concerns.

How We Can Help

We offer custom oral appliance therapy as a comfortable, non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines. These devices are easy to wear, travel-friendly, and designed to gently reposition your jaw and open your airway while you sleep.

Call Us Today

If you’ve been told you snore, or you wake up feeling more exhausted than rested, don’t hesitate to ask us about sleep apnea treatment in Lakewood, CO.

Call us today at (303) 237-1553, and we’ll be happy to schedule your consultation with our team.

Smile Makeovers & Reconstruction

If you’re unhappy with multiple aspects of your smile, a full smile makeover might be exactly what you need. At Golden Hill Family Dentistry, we specialize in creating personalized treatment plans that blend cosmetic and restorative care to give you a smile that looks amazing and functions beautifully.

What Makes Someone a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates may have several cosmetic concerns, such as:

  • Stained or discolored teeth
  • Chipped, fractured, or broken teeth
  • Uneven or misaligned teeth
  • Missing teeth
  • Gaps and spaces between teeth
  • Worn enamel
  • Severe dental decay
  • Dental trauma

A full smile makeover is fully customizable, so your plan is based on your goals, lifestyle, and long-term health. 

Why Choose Golden Hill Family Dentistry?

We look at the full picture of your smile’s appearance and your oral health and how your teeth, gums, and surrounding structures work together. Every treatment we recommend is chosen with your comfort, health, and confidence in mind.

Get Started Today!

Schedule a consultation for your smile makeover in Lakewood, CO, to learn more. We’ll help you create a treatment plan that brings out the best in your smile.

TMJ & Bruxism Treatment

Our highly experienced dentists in Lakewood, CO, use BOTOX therapeutically to help patients struggling with TMJ discomfort, teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw tension. While most people associate BOTOX with cosmetic treatments, its medical applications are well-studied and highly effective, especially for muscle-related pain.

How It Works

BOTOX works by gently relaxing the overactive muscles responsible for clenching and grinding. When these muscles are constantly in motion (especially at night) they can cause various issues, such as:

  • Jaw pain
  • Tension headaches
  • Tooth wear
  • Cracked fillings
  • Sleep disturbances

A few small, targeted injections allow the muscles to rest, which can bring significant relief within just a few days.

Call Us for BOTOX for TMJ in Lakewood, CO

Unlike surgery or daily medication, therapeutic BOTOX is minimally invasive and focuses on treating the root of the issue without disrupting your daily life. We consider how your jaw function impacts your bite, sleep quality, and overall health. It’s a holistic approach to long-term relief.

If you're tired of living with jaw pain or nightly teeth grinding, ask us about TMJ treatment with BOTOX in Lakewood, CO. We’ll help you feel better, sleep better, and protect your smile for the long haul.

Call us at (303) 237-1553 or book online. 

Not Finding What You Need?
If you have difficulty using our website, please email us or call us at (303) 237-1553
View the ADA Accessibility Statement
Privacy Policy