Dr. Kari Blankenship,
DDS
Dentist at Smiles Family Dental · Inner Circle Pinnacle Life Member
Now Welcoming Patients in Frisco
Advanced training, artistry, and a lifelong love of learning
Dr. Kari Blankenship is a dentist at Smiles Family Dental in Frisco, bringing more than 13 years of clinical experience and one of the most decorated training backgrounds in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Drawn to dentistry for its unique combination of art, science, and biology, she has built her career on the belief that continued education translates directly into a higher standard of care for her patients.
Her academic path is exceptional. Dr. Blankenship earned dual bachelor's degrees — a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Honors Philosophy — from Hunter College in New York City, followed by her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She then completed a post-doctoral residency in general dentistry at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Administration Hospital, with an emphasis on oral surgery and periodontics, along with clinical rotations at the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Today she is a recognized leader in her field: a Board Member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners, a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and — in 2023 — was honored by The Inner Circle as a Pinnacle Life Member for her contributions to dentistry. With advanced implant training through Nobel Biocare and the prestigious Pikos Institute, Dr. Blankenship offers her patients care that blends surgical precision, cosmetic artistry, and genuine warmth.
Honored by her peers and her profession
From national recognition by The Inner Circle to a board seat with the American Academy of Clear Aligners, Dr. Blankenship's accomplishments reflect a rare depth of training and leadership.
Inner Circle Pinnacle Life Member
Recognized by The Inner Circle as a Pinnacle Life Member for her contributions to the field of dentistry — a lifetime distinction reserved for accomplished professionals and leaders.
Board Member, American Academy of Clear Aligners
Serves on the board of the AACA and is featured as a contributor — helping guide and advance the standards of clear-aligner therapy for dentists nationwide.
American Academy of Facial Esthetics
Member of the AAFE, with advanced training in facial esthetics that complements her cosmetic and restorative dentistry for natural, balanced results.
Pikos Institute & Nobel Biocare
Completed advanced implant and bone-grafting training through the world-renowned Pikos Institute and Nobel Biocare — among the most respected implant education programs in dentistry.
VA Residency & MD Anderson Rotations
Post-doctoral residency at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Hospital (oral surgery & periodontics) and clinical rotations at MD Anderson Cancer Center caring for medically complex patients.
Practice Founder & Owner
Founded and leads her own Dallas-area dental practice, combining entrepreneurial vision with clinical excellence and a patient-first philosophy.
Where art meets science
Dr. Blankenship's advanced surgical, cosmetic, and orthodontic training gives her patients access to a full spectrum of modern care under one roof.
Implant Dentistry & Oral Surgery
With advanced training from the Pikos Institute and Nobel Biocare — plus a VA residency emphasizing oral surgery and periodontics — Dr. Blankenship places and restores implants with surgical precision and confidence.
Clear Aligners & Orthodontics
As a Board Member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners, she is at the forefront of aligner therapy — straightening smiles discreetly and comfortably with the latest evidence-based techniques.
Cosmetic & Facial Esthetics
A member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, Dr. Blankenship blends dental artistry with facial harmony to deliver cosmetic results that look natural and beautifully balanced.
Comprehensive & Complex Care
Rotations at MD Anderson Cancer Center prepared her to care for medically complex patients with compassion — building trusting relationships and taking time to understand each patient's goals.
A foundation built on rigorous training
Hunter College, New York City
Dual undergraduate degrees blending science and the liberal arts.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
Earned her dental degree from one of Texas's leading academic health centers.
Post-Doctoral Residency in General Dentistry
Advanced hospital training with an emphasis on oral surgery and periodontics.
Clinical Rotations
Hands-on experience treating medically compromised and complex patients.
Advanced Implant Training
Ongoing continuing education in implant dentistry, oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry.
Professional Memberships
Honors & Distinctions
National recognition & features
Dr. Blankenship's expertise and leadership have earned her national press and professional features.
Kari Blankenship Named a Pinnacle Life Member
The Inner Circle formally acknowledged Dr. Kari Blankenship as a Pinnacle Life Member for her contributions to the field of dentistry — recognizing her dedication, leadership, and lifelong commitment to advancing patient care.
The Inner Circle — Executive Profile
An in-depth professional profile detailing Dr. Blankenship's training, philosophy, mentors, and her rise as a dentist and practice owner in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
American Academy of Clear Aligners
Featured as a contributor and board member on the AACA's official site, where she helps shape best practices in clear-aligner orthodontics for dentists across the country.
Find Dr. Blankenship online
Dr. Blankenship is listed, rated, and featured across the web's leading healthcare directories and professional organizations. Explore her verified profiles below.
Four convenient DFW locations
Meet Dr. Blankenship in Frisco
Schedule your visit with Dr. Blankenship and the Smiles Family Dental team today.