Patient Portal
Cypresswood: 
Skilled, Compassionate Care
From a Team You Can Trust
Our dental team blends advanced technology with genuine care, providing full-service dental care in Houston that’s designed around your needs. Whether you’re visiting for preventive care, restorative treatment, or dental implants in Spring, TX, we take the time to understand your goals, help you relax, and create a plan to improve your smile and oral health.
With two convenient locations—Cypresswood (281) 320-2000 and Auburn Lakes (832) 843-6619—you can expect seamless, comfortable, and high-quality care wherever you visit. Each dentist contributes unique strengths, working collaboratively to ensure every experience supports your comfort and confidence.
A Thoughtful,
Patient-First Approach
Your comfort and understanding are our top priorities. We design every visit to be efficient, transparent, and stress-free.
- Personalized treatment plans created with your input
- Clear explanations of every option before we begin
- Comfortable care with sedation options when needed
- Focus on long-term oral health, not just short-term fixes
This approach helps patients of all ages—from young families to those seeking advanced restorative care—feel confident throughout their dental journey.
Dr. Jack Stephens
D.D.S., University of Texas Dental School in Houston (1984)
Dr. Jack Stephens
D.D.S., University of Texas Dental School in Houston (1984)
Dr. Jack Stephens combines experience, precision, and a calming demeanor to help patients feel confident in their care. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Dr. Stephens focuses on treatments that restore both beauty and function.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Stephens believes that the best dental results begin with listening. He spends time understanding each patient’s goals and expectations before creating a plan that balances aesthetics, comfort, and health.
Focus Areas
Dr. Stephens enjoys helping patients with:
- Advanced restorative dentistry, including crowns and bridges
- Implant planning and full-arch solutions such as All-on-4® dental implants
- Smile enhancements that look natural and last
Education & Affiliations
A graduate of a leading Texas dental program, Dr. Stephens stays at the forefront of modern dentistry through continuing education. He is an active member of professional organizations such as the ADA, AGD, AACD, and TDA
When not in the office, Dr. Stephens enjoys spending time with family, staying active outdoors, and contributing to the Spring community.
Dr. Jack Stephens combines experience, precision, and a calming demeanor to help patients feel confident in their care. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Dr. Stephens focuses on treatments that restore both beauty and function.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Stephens believes that the best dental results begin with listening. He spends time understanding each patient’s goals and expectations before creating a plan that balances aesthetics, comfort, and health.
Focus Areas
Dr. Stephens enjoys helping patients with:
- Advanced restorative dentistry, including crowns and bridges
- Implant planning and full-arch solutions such as All-on-4® dental implants
- Smile enhancements that look natural and last
Education & Affiliations
A graduate of a leading Texas dental program, Dr. Stephens stays at the forefront of modern dentistry through continuing education. He is an active member of professional organizations such as the ADA, AGD, AACD, and TDA
When not in the office, Dr. Stephens enjoys spending time with family, staying active outdoors, and contributing to the Spring community.
Dr. Robert Gatewood
D.D.S, University of Texas Dental School in Houston (1996)
Dr. Robert Gatewood
D.D.S, University of Texas Dental School in Houston (1996)
With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Robert Gatewood brings expertise in restorative and cosmetic dentistry combined with a friendly, easygoing manner. His precision and patient-centered communication help patients feel informed and comfortable at every visit.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Gatewood believes every patient deserves an experience that is as efficient as it is personal. He takes pride in using advanced techniques to provide durable, natural-looking results in fewer visits.
Focus Areas
Dr. Gatewood focuses on:
- Comprehensive restorative care, including same-day crowns with CEREC (in many cases)
- Clear aligner orthodontics using Invisalign
- Preventive and family dentistry for long-term oral wellness
Education & Affiliations
Dr. Gatewood earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas Dental School in Houston. A U.S. Navy veteran, he has continued to advance his expertise through extensive coursework in digital dentistry and esthetic reconstruction. He maintains active membership in the ADA and the Academy of General Dentistry.
With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Robert Gatewood brings expertise in restorative and cosmetic dentistry combined with a friendly, easygoing manner. His precision and patient-centered communication help patients feel informed and comfortable at every visit.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Gatewood believes every patient deserves an experience that is as efficient as it is personal. He takes pride in using advanced techniques to provide durable, natural-looking results in fewer visits.
Focus Areas
Dr. Gatewood focuses on:
- Comprehensive restorative care, including same-day crowns with CEREC (in many cases)
- Clear aligner orthodontics using Invisalign
- Preventive and family dentistry for long-term oral wellness
Education & Affiliations
Dr. Gatewood earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas Dental School in Houston. A U.S. Navy veteran, he has continued to advance his expertise through extensive coursework in digital dentistry and esthetic reconstruction. He maintains active membership in the ADA and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Dr. Christopher Pagano
D.D.S. West Virginia School of Dentistry (1998)
Dr. Christopher Pagano
D.D.S. West Virginia School of Dentistry (1998)
Dr. Christopher Pagano blends clinical skill with compassion to help patients find relief from jaw discomfort, sleep issues, and restorative concerns. He is known for his thorough explanations and approachable chairside style.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Pagano’s goal is to improve both oral and overall wellness through treatments that enhance comfort, function, and sleep quality. His patient-first mindset ensures that care always feels collaborative and supportive.
Focus Areas
Dr. Pagano’s experience includes:
- Evaluation and guidance for TMJ treatment
- Dental sleep medicine with custom oral appliances
- Comprehensive restorative and preventive care
Education & Affiliations
After earning his dental degree from West Virginia University, Dr. Pagano pursued advanced training in TMJ disorders and dental sleep medicine. He is an active member of national and state dental organizations and frequently attends continuing education seminars.
Dr. Christopher Pagano blends clinical skill with compassion to help patients find relief from jaw discomfort, sleep issues, and restorative concerns. He is known for his thorough explanations and approachable chairside style.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Pagano’s goal is to improve both oral and overall wellness through treatments that enhance comfort, function, and sleep quality. His patient-first mindset ensures that care always feels collaborative and supportive.
Focus Areas
Dr. Pagano’s experience includes:
- Evaluation and guidance for TMJ treatment
- Dental sleep medicine with custom oral appliances
- Comprehensive restorative and preventive care
Education & Affiliations
After earning his dental degree from West Virginia University, Dr. Pagano pursued advanced training in TMJ disorders and dental sleep medicine. He is an active member of national and state dental organizations and frequently attends continuing education seminars.
Dr. Wendell Dela Cruz
D.D.S., F.A.G.D., UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry
Dr. Wendell Dela Cruz
D.D.S., F.A.G.D., UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry
With a passion for excellence and a friendly, approachable manner, Dr. Wendell Dela Cruz brings advanced expertise in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to Stephens & Gatewood. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and energetic approach, he helps patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in their care.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Dela Cruz believes every patient deserves dental care that is comprehensive, precise, and compassionate. He is committed to using advanced techniques to provide minimally invasive, natural-looking results while making each visit efficient and welcoming.
Focus Areas
Dr. Dela Cruz focuses on:
- Comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry
- Clear aligner orthodontics with Invisalign
- Implant surgery and advanced restorative procedures
- Minimally invasive gum grafting using the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)
- Preventive and family dentistry for long-term oral health
Education & Affiliations
Dr. Dela Cruz earned his DDS from UT Health San Antonio and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry—a distinction held by only 6% of U.S. dentists. He has advanced training in cosmetics, implants, Invisalign, and minimally invasive procedures. Active in the Houston dental community, he has organized city-wide charity dental events and supports continuing education for young dentists.
Raised in Cy-Fair, Dr. Dela Cruz enjoys travel, staying active, exploring Houston’s food scene, and DIY projects at home.
With a passion for excellence and a friendly, approachable manner, Dr. Wendell Dela Cruz brings advanced expertise in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to Stephens & Gatewood. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and energetic approach, he helps patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in their care.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Dela Cruz believes every patient deserves dental care that is comprehensive, precise, and compassionate. He is committed to using advanced techniques to provide minimally invasive, natural-looking results while making each visit efficient and welcoming.
Focus Areas
Dr. Dela Cruz focuses on:
- Comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry
- Clear aligner orthodontics with Invisalign
- Implant surgery and advanced restorative procedures
- Minimally invasive gum grafting using the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)
- Preventive and family dentistry for long-term oral health
Education & Affiliations
Dr. Dela Cruz earned his DDS from UT Health San Antonio and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry—a distinction held by only 6% of U.S. dentists. He has advanced training in cosmetics, implants, Invisalign, and minimally invasive procedures. Active in the Houston dental community, he has organized city-wide charity dental events and supports continuing education for young dentists.
Raised in Cy-Fair, Dr. Dela Cruz enjoys travel, staying active, exploring Houston’s food scene, and DIY projects at home.
Modern Tools for Comfortable, Accurate Dentistry
Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry uses advanced technology to improve precision, comfort, and efficiency. These tools help our doctors provide faster, more predictable outcomes.
Our technology includes:
- CBCT 3D imaging for precise treatment planning
- CEREC for single-visit crowns (in many cases)
- Digital Smile Design to preview results before treatment
- Identafi and CariFree for early detection and prevention
- SomnoMed and ProSomnus appliances for sleep apnea therapy
These innovations support everything from Invisalign therapy to implant planning and cosmetic smile design, helping appointments feel smoother and more efficient.
Or call (281) 320-2000
Relaxed Appointments
From Start to Finish
We know that visiting the dentist can feel stressful for some patients. Our team offers several forms of sedation to make your visit more comfortable and worry-free.
Sedation options include:
- Nitrous oxide for light relaxation
- Oral conscious sedation for deeper comfort
- IV sedation when additional support is appropriate
Each method is monitored carefully to help ensure safety and comfort. If you feel anxious about treatment, ask us about sedation dentistry during your visit.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and help you take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Ready To Meet Your Dental Team?
Experience personalized dental care in Houston that feels personal, precise, and comfortable. Relax knowing your smile is in skilled hands as Dr. Stephens, Dr. Gatewood, and Dr. Pagano create a plan to improve your health, function, and confidence. Explore solutions like dental implants, full-mouth restoration, and sedation options for a truly comfortable experience. With two convenient Spring, TX locations—Cypresswood (281) 320-2000 and Auburn Lakes (832) 843-6619—we make it easy to get started.
Oral Health Resources
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