Get to Know Dr. Yashashri Urankar, Chief Dental Officer
Dental care is an essential part of whole-person health and for many patients across our clinics, Dr. Yashashri Urankar (Dr. U) is a familiar and trusted face. You can find her caring for smiles across Central Texas at our Bastrop, Gonzales, Lockhart, Luling, Seguin, and Victoria clinic locations. To better serve our diverse communities, she also provides multilingual care in English, Hindi, Konkani, Marathi, and Urdu.
“I am passionate about improving the oral health and overall well‑being of the communities we serve. I lead our dental team with a focus on compassionate care, evidence‑based practice, and continuous improvement.”
With more than 30 years of clinical, academic, and public health experience, she is committed to building strong, patient‑centered dental programs that advance access, quality, and health equity. As Chief Dental Officer, she mentors future dental professionals, strengthens partnerships, and creates innovative approaches that bring whole‑person care to life.
Outside of work, she values mindfulness, community service, and supports our veterans.
Her philosophy is simple: “Every day, I am inspired by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference— one patient, one team, and one community at a time.”
That commitment to making a difference starts the moment you walk through our doors. Below, Dr. U shares what patients can look forward to when they come in for their visit.
What To Expect During a Dental Visit
Dr. U provides preventive and general dental services for patients of all ages. Her work centers on helping people maintain healthy teeth and gums while preventing small issues from becoming larger concerns. She emphasizes that the patient’s comfort is the top priority.
“Our dental clinic is designed to help you feel safe, calm, and in control during your visit. You can expect a welcoming environment, kind staff who listen without judgment, clear explanations before anything happens.”
During a routine exam and cleaning, Dr. U and her team provide:
- An evaluation for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns
- Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing can’t reach
- Clear explanations and guidance on brushing, flossing, and oral care routines
We believe that a healthy smile is the gateway to a healthy life. By focusing on comfort and confidence, Dr. U ensures that every visit is a positive experience. To those hesitant to book an appointment, she offers this reassurance:
“Your care will move at your pace with options as you like it. Our team respects your background and experiences, offers support when needed, and ensures you are never blamed or shamed. We’re here to take each step with you, together.”.
Why Dental Care Matters for Overall Health
Good oral health is directly connected to overall health. Dr. U notes that dental health and physical health are inseparable:
“What happens in your mouth affects the rest of your body. Healthy teeth and gums support better nutrition, lower the risk of chronic diseases — such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, — and reduce inflammation throughout the body.”
Regular dental checkups and cleanings help:
- Detect problems early
- Prevent infection and tooth loss
- Support long-term health and wellness
- Build positive dental experiences, especially for children
- February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and there is no better time to prioritize your child’s smile. Dr. U and her team are dedicated to making a child’s first dental visit (and every visit after) a stress-free experience. By starting early, we help children establish healthy habits that protect their smiles for a lifetime.
In addition to these physical benefits, a healthy smile plays a big role in a patient’s emotional well-being. Dr. U sees firsthand how improving oral health can transform a person’s self-image.
She explains, “Good oral care also boosts confidence, reduces anxiety, and supports positive mental health. At our dental clinics, we focus on whole‑person care because your smile, your health, and your peace of mind are all connected.”
Affordable Dental Services Available in Central Texas
Dr. U and our dedicated dental teams across Central Texas provide the following services to help you maintain your best smile:
- Cleanings and routine checkups
- Fillings and cavity treatment
- X-rays and diagnostic imaging
- Sealants and fluoride treatments
- Extractions when needed
- Dental care education for patients and families
Whether you’re visiting for a routine dental cleaning or taking the first step toward healthier oral care, our team is here to support you with compassion, respect, and expert care (no insurance required!). Patients are encouraged to learn more about our services here or contact their clinic directly for details. Call 800-343-1577 to schedule a visit today or find your clinic here!
