Dental care designed for your whole health
From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll realize that we’re not your typical dental office. At Lake Hill Dental Care, we provide personalized, whole-body dental care in a calming environment that’s free from judgment and full of compassion. Our team takes the time to listen and explain — because what matters most is how you feel when you're here.
A new kind of dentistry
Whole-health approach
We focus on the connection between the mouth and body, using advanced diagnostics like salivary testing and oral bacterial analysis to help you prevent and treat disease from the inside out.
Truly judgment-free
Our team is trained to meet every patient with empathy. Whether you’ve avoided the dentist for years or just feel anxious about treatment, you’ll be heard, never shamed, and always supported.
Designed for anxious and special needs patients
Dr. Denning and Dr. Johnstone have built a practice specifically for patients who’ve had traumatic dental experiences or need additional support. Our entire office is centered around helping you feel safe and in control.
Personalized care, not production-driven
We’re privately owned, not corporate, which means we take our time, listen closely, and build treatment plans based on your goals, not insurance limitations or quotas.
Because your mouth is the start of your health
Early detection, better outcomes
Many systemic health issues show signs in the mouth before anywhere else. That’s why we use tools like salivary testing and full-mouth digital imaging to catch problems sooner.
Inflammation isn’t just oral
When gum disease goes untreated, it contributes to chronic inflammation that can impact your heart, brain, and immune system. Whole health dentistry treats more than just teeth.
We make getting healthy easier
By offering minimally invasive treatment, advanced hygiene protocols, and individualized education, we help you take control of your health in ways that are achievable and long-lasting.
Get to know
Dr. Joseph Denning
Dr. Denning brings a calm, grounded presence to the dental chair, especially for patients who feel fearful or overwhelmed. After earning his undergraduate degree in English and pre-medicine at NYU, he completed his dental education at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine, followed by a General Practice Residency at New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital.
He is certified in oral conscious sedation through the DOCS Sedation Program and maintains a separate NYS sedation license. He also completed the Garg Implant Seminars continuum, expanding his expertise in oral surgery and implant placement.
His clinical interests include minimally invasive surgery and helping patients avoid extractions and root canals through prevention and early intervention. Dr. Denning is also passionate about building trust with people who’ve lost faith in dentistry by using humor, compassion, and communication to rebuild that relationship.
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Hear From Dr. Denning
The Importance of Whole Health Dental Care
Interview with Dr. Joseph Denning
Get to know
Dr. Laura Johnstone
Dr. Johnstone is a detail-focused clinician with an artistic eye and a calm, grounding presence. She holds a BA in Natural Science and Environmental Studies from Fordham University and earned her DDS from Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. She completed a General Practice Residency at New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital, where she expanded her experience in comprehensive, patient-focused care. She and Dr. Denning have been together since high school and now lead the practice together with that same sense of partnership and trust.
She’s received advanced training in orthodontics and oral airway management through Progressive Orthodontics Seminars. Her care philosophy is rooted in the connection between occlusion, breathing, and long-term systemic health.
Dr. Johnstone is a former president of the Fourth District Dental Society, has represented the profession at the NYS Dental Association House of Delegates, and continues to serve on the Council for Hospital Dentistry. Her leadership in organized dentistry reflects her commitment to patient advocacy and clinical excellence.
Serious about dentistry. But we never forget to have fun.
Great care starts with great people. These moments show the team behind the work and the fun we have along the way.
What to expect at your first visit
A conversation, not a lecture
You’ll start your visit in a private consultation with your doctor. We’ll take time to hear your goals, concerns, and medical history. You’re encouraged to speak openly; we’re here to help, not judge.
Comprehensive diagnostics
We use digital X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging to look at your entire oral structure, not just the teeth. We also offer microscope-based bacterial analysis and salivary DNA testing when appropriate to assess your risk for gum disease and systemic inflammation.
Personalized care plan
Based on your results and goals, we’ll create a plan that supports your health in a way that feels manageable and clear. Some patients start with hygiene and preventive care, while others begin with gum therapy or restorative treatment. We’ll talk through each option at your pace and help you move forward comfortably.
Better tools, better care
Digital microscope
Each room has a microscope for real-time bacterial analysis, so we can show you what’s happening in your mouth and track progress over time.
Salivary DNA testing
This non-invasive lab test helps identify specific pathogens that contribute to gum disease and systemic inflammation.
3D CBCT imaging
We use this powerful scan to visualize your jaw, sinus, and airway structures for better diagnostics and surgical planning.
Comforts that support your calm
Aromatherapy and soft lighting
Neck pillows, blankets, and blue-light glasses
Fidget tools available during treatment
Extra seating for support
Nitrous available on request
Proud to support Burnt Hills
We chose to put down roots in the Capital District because we love its balance of community and culture. Our practice is proud to support organizations that help bring families together, including the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Junior Baseball League, Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Youth Activity Fund, Spartan Softball League, and the Rotary Club of Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake. Whether it’s a local game, fundraiser, or community event, we show up because this community shows up for us.
You deserve to
thrive
Our team answers voicemails within 24 hours