About Us
At Highlands Ranch Dental Care, we combine advanced technology with genuine compassion to deliver general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for the whole family.
Our Practice & Core Values
We believe exceptional dentistry goes beyond technical expertise—it's about creating meaningful relationships built on trust, respect, and genuine care for each patient's unique needs. Every person deserves personalized attention in a comfortable environment where their oral health goals become our shared mission. We combine advanced dental techniques with compassionate care, ensuring every visit leaves you confident about your smile.
Vision Statement
At Highlands Ranch Dental Care, we are a distinguished and forward-thinking practice dedicated to unlocking our patients’ full potential through Digital Smile Design (DSD). Our commitment to excellence is evident in our cutting-edge dental techniques and conservative approach to tooth removal. We prioritize health and beauty, continually refining our skills through ongoing education. Inspired by a passion to serve, we deliver unparalleled customer service, treating every patient and team member with the utmost respect and dignity.
What We Strive For:
- Patient-Centered Care
- Excellence Through Innovation
- Transparent Communication
- Community Connection
- Comfort & Compassion
Meet Dr. Lynelle Zabel
Dr. Lynelle Zabel enjoys the Colorado lifestyle with her family, spending time traveling, reading, playing tennis, and fly fishing. A graduate of UCLA Dental School with over 30 years of experience, she is passionate about the connection between oral health and overall wellness.
Dr. Zabel leads a Digital Smile Design Clinic, helping patients visualize and achieve natural, beautiful smiles guided by facial esthetics. She also provides advanced care with CEREC/CAD-CAM technology and implant restorations.
Dedicated to a relationship-based practice, she emphasizes lifestyle, health, and wellness through conservative, state-of-the-art dentistry delivered in a comfortable, fear-free environment.
Meet Dr. Makenna Fopma
We are excited to introduce Dr. Makenna Fopma — affectionately known by her patients as “Dr. Fop”—to our Highlands Ranch Dental Care family!
Dr. Fopma is a Colorado native from Broomfield. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology while playing collegiate volleyball at the University of Sioux Falls, before completing her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. She was honored with the Predoctoral Student Prosthodontic Achievement Award for her excellence in restorative dentistry.
She has spent the past 3 years practicing in Aurora, where she is known for her compassionate care, focus on preventive dentistry, and dedication to patient education. Dr. Fopma believes that dentistry is not just about teeth — it’s about people.
Our Amazing Staff
Beth
Hygienist
Beth moved to Colorado from Georgia in 2022 with her husband, Cody, after his retirement from the U.S. Air Force. Together they share a blended family of five adult children and a full house that includes two dogs and two cats. With over three decades of experience as a dental hygienist, Beth brings a holistic approach to patient care—something she’s developed alongside her passion for fitness and wellness. She enjoys exploring Colorado’s natural beauty and staying active year-round.
Lisa
Lead Cosmetic Dental Assistant
Lisa brings over 30 years of experience in dentistry, with a special interest in cosmetic transformations through Digital Smile Design. She enjoys helping patients achieve confident, radiant smiles using advanced technology and a personalized approach. Outside the office, Lisa enjoys skiing, hiking, and biking with her husband, son, and their dog, Annie, as they take full advantage of Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle.
Kenza
Office Manager
Kenza is originally from Morocco and has called Denver home since 2017. After earning a degree in Physics, she transitioned into dentistry in 2018 and quickly discovered a deep passion for oral health and patient care. She continues to expand her skills and knowledge in the field. In her free time, Kenza enjoys dancing, hiking Colorado’s scenic trails, and spending quiet moments in nature.
Michelle
Cosmetic Dentistry Assistant
A Colorado native, Michelle has worked in dentistry for over 20 years and finds fulfillment in helping patients feel confident through cosmetic dental care. She enjoys being part of a team that makes a positive impact on people's lives. Outside of work, Michelle can often be found camping, paddle boarding, or exploring mountain towns with her husband and their two children, especially during the summer months.
Jill
Senior Dental Assistant
Jill relocated from Chicago to Colorado in 1993 and has spent the last two decades living in Highlands Ranch. With over 30 years of experience in dentistry, she continues to find joy in helping patients feel comfortable and cared for. When she’s not at the office, Jill enjoys camping, boating, and making the most of Colorado’s beautiful outdoor spaces with her friends and family.
Frankie
Therapy Dog In Training
Annie
Therapy Dog
Latest Techniques
We stay current with the most advanced dental procedures through continuous education and training. Our commitment to learning the latest techniques ensures you receive the most effective and comfortable care available in modern dentistry.
Innovative Technology
Our practice features cutting-edge technology including Digital Smile Design and CEREC CAD/CAM systems. This advanced equipment allows us to provide faster, more precise treatments while giving you a clear preview of your results.
Certified Experts
Dr. Lynelle Zabel brings over 20 years of experience with UCLA Dental School credentials and hospital residency training. As a member of professional dental associations, she delivers expert care you can trust.
"I spent many years as a patient with Dr. Zabel and the rest of the amazing staff here. I'm not a big fan of the dentist's office, but everyone always went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable. Dr. Zabel constantly goes the extra mile for her patients (seriously, she almost missed her flight once to finish my crown). I'd give more than 5 stars if I could!"
"I have been a patient of Dr Zable for about 15 years. I was in the dental field for many years and she is a wonderful dentist. She cares about her patients and always asks about family and things going on with personally. She does a great job with all the treatment I have had. I trust her judgement on anything I need to have done.
Such a great lady!!!"
"Best dental experience possible! Dr. Zabel went to a top dental school and is not only excellent technically, careful and perfectionistic in her absolutely feel no pain approach, she is also very kind, as are each of her team members. Added Bonus: If -- but only if -- you like dogs, sometimes there are therapy pooches Annie and Franky who may come by to say hi!"
You're In good Hands
Caring for Smiles for Over 20 Years
Look, we get it—nobody really wants to go to the dentist. But here's the thing: after more than two decades of practice, Dr. Zabel has perfected the art of making dental care actually comfortable. She's seen thousands of patients walk through these doors feeling nervous. They leave with genuine smiles (and we're not just talking about their teeth).
What makes the difference?
It starts with really listening to you. Whether you're here because something's bothering you, you haven't been to the dentist in years, or you're dreaming of a Hollywood smile, we take the time to understand what you need. Dr. Zabel's training at UCLA and her hospital residency means she has the technical skills to handle anything. But it's her approach that patients remember most. She explains everything in plain English. Never makes you feel rushed. And genuinely cares about your comfort.
Proceeds To Those In Need
At Highlands Ranch Dental Care, we believe that giving back to our community and supporting those in need is fundamental to who we are as healthcare professionals.
Our commitment to improving lives extends beyond the dental chair—we're dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families facing various challenges. Supporting these organizations reflects our core values of compassion, service, and community connection.
We proudly support the following charities:
Outreach Uganda
Empowers impoverished Ugandan communities through education, economic development, and healthcare initiatives, including women's income projects and educational scholarships.
Hydrocephalus Association
The largest organization dedicated to eliminating hydrocephalus challenges through research funding, family support, and advocacy for improved treatments.
Redemption Row Crossfit
Transforms lives through fitness and mentorship, particularly supporting individuals overcoming addiction and incarceration to build healthier communities.
ALS Association Rocky Mountain Chapter
Provides comprehensive support to ALS-affected families through patient care, advocacy, and research funding to find a cure.
Tall Tales Ranch
Creates inclusive communities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through residential programs and opportunities for growth and independence.
(303) 470-0017
Reach out anytime.
Open Hours
Monday – Thursday: 8AM–5PM
Fridays: 8:30AM – 4PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Free Consultation
It all starts with a chat.
