After earning his dental degree at Loma Linda University, Dr. Rick Hardt came home to Porterville in 1989 to practice beside his father, carrying forward a way of caring for patients handed down through the dentists in his family. Today he is joined by Dr. Irene Cruz and Dr. Jackson Lewis in welcoming patients of every age to our office on North Villa Street.
Our job, as we see it, is simple: examine carefully, explain clearly, and put every treatment option in front of you so the final decision is always yours. We measure success in relationships that last for decades, not in quick sales, and that outlook shapes every visit, whether you come in for a checkup or a complete smile restoration.
Meet Our DoctorsA philosophy of patient care shaped by the fathers and grandfathers who practiced before us.
Complete information about your oral health and every option, never a hard sell.
CEREC restorations, intraoral scanning, soft-tissue lasers, and implant care in one office.
Preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and sedation care for the whole family, backed by ADA and CDA membership.
Dr. Richard Hardt, Dr. Irene Cruz, and Dr. Jackson Lewis bring three perspectives and one shared commitment to every visit: honest, unhurried dentistry for each generation of your family.
Dr. Richard "Rick" Hardt has cared for Porterville-area families for more than 30 years, continuing a practice and philosophy passed down through generations of dentists in his family. A graduate of Loma Linda University, he is known for combining advanced, technology-driven dentistry with a gentle, patient-first approach.
Dr. Hardt is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the California Dental Association (CDA), and is trained in digital dentistry, including CEREC restorations, intraoral scanning, soft-tissue lasers, and dental implant placement and restoration.
Dr. Irene Cruz is a general and cosmetic dentist who delivers exceptional care with genuine warmth — in English and in Spanish. Bilingual and culturally attuned, she makes sure every family in our diverse community understands their options and feels at home in our office.
Dr. Cruz earned her degree in Biomedical Science at La Sierra University and her DDS at Loma Linda University, where the Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity recognized her with its Excellence in Academic Achievement Award. She has cared for Porterville families since joining the community in 2019, and as a wife and mother of two, she has a special touch with young patients.
Dr. Jackson Lewis is a third-generation Porterville dentist. His grandfather, Dr. Ed Lewis, founded a beloved local practice, and his father, Dr. Steve Lewis, cared for our community's families in the same office for more than 30 years — the very office where Dr. Lewis practices today.
After earning his bachelor's degree at Walla Walla University and spending a year teaching as a missionary in the Marshall Islands, Dr. Lewis completed his DDS at Loma Linda University in 2024. He carries his family's tradition of gentle, thorough care forward with fresh energy and modern training.
Comprehensive, gentle care for the whole family — and a warm welcome for every new patient in Porterville. Request a visit online or give us a call.
From preventive checkups and restorative work to cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, oral surgery, and sleep & TMJ care — all supported by modern, digital technology right here in Porterville.
Cosmetic dentistry has evolved dramatically, offering personalized smile transformations through digital smile planning, advanced veneers, professional teeth whitening, clear aligners, and minimally invasive procedures. These innovations ensure natural-looking results tailored to each patient's unique facial structure and preferences, making high-quality dental care accessible to all. Explore how modern techniques can enhance your smile and boost your confidence.
September 4, 2026
Losing a tooth can have significant consequences, including bone resorption and changes in facial structure. Traditional solutions like bridges and dentures offer temporary fixes but come with limitations such as altering healthy teeth or feeling unstable. Dental implants provide a modern alternative that integrates with the jawbone, offering unmatched stability, preserving adjacent teeth, and mimicking natural teeth. They represent a significant advancement in restorative dentistry, prioritizing long-term health over temporary solutions.
August 28, 2026
Restorative dentistry has evolved dramatically with advancements like CEREC digital dentistry and CBCT imaging, allowing for precise, efficient treatments. These technologies enable same-day restorations, reducing patient discomfort and enhancing overall care. Live Oak Dental leverages these innovations to offer personalized, high-quality dental solutions that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.
August 26, 2026
