Rick L. Kline, DDS

Dr. Rick L. Kline, a Loving Father, cherished brother, generous husband, ever-patient mentor and highly respected oral surgeon, passed away unexpectedly on the 5th of May, 2024 at his home in Houston, Texas at the age of 59. He was born on the 21st of September, 1964 to his late parents Max and Peggy Kline in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Rick was an over-achiever in all facets of life, and the only person we know to openly brag about never missing a day of school his entire K-12 school career. Rick excelled at every subject and earned his B.S. from Indiana University in 1987 and then his D.D.S. from the Indiana School of Dentistry in 1991. Rick furthered his education at the prestigious Misch Institute of Advanced Implant Technology where he earned the distinction of graduate with honors in 1996. This was the crown jewel achievement in his educational pursuit.

Dr. Kline’s pursuit of dental excellence was never-ending as evidenced by his professional accolades, which included his fellowships with the International Congress of Oral Implantology, as well as the American Society of Osseointegration, thus cementing his place amongst the esteemed figures in the field. Rick later enjoyed teaching these techniques to promising dental students and other doctors. He packed educational lectures and standing-room-only symposiums highlighting the vast experience and groundbreaking techniques he pioneered in the cosmetic dental profession. Dr. Kline performed revolutionary cosmetic and implant procedures for his patients at Smile Texas, the innovative state of the art practice he founded over 20 years ago. Embedded within the Smile Houston practice is the Rockstar Dental Lab where 3D digital design, 3D printing, and CAD/CAM milling enabled the fabrication of the finest quality full arch implant prosthetics.

Notably, Dr. Kline served as the official dentist for the Miss Texas USA Pageant and was among the first dentists in the United States to offer Teeth-By-Tonight ™, a revolutionary procedure that brought beautiful smiles and renewed confidence to countless individuals. Dr. Kline was cherished by his colleagues, employees and patients alike for his kindness, warmth and dedication to his craft. His passing leaves a profound void in the dental community but his impact will be felt for generations to come.

In addition to his work at Smile Texas, Rick Kline was actively involved in giving back to his community. He participated in numerous charity events and volunteer efforts aimed at improving oral health education and providing access to dental care for underserved populations. His generosity and philanthropy were unparalleled and left a lasting impact on the community he served.

Rick was a beautiful soul, he had a charismatic way about him and a real zest for life. He shared his passion for travel with his beautiful daughters, Taylor and Brittany. The three of them were always ready for a new adventure and excited to experience the best the world had to offer. Rick’s family and friends all knew too well the generosity of his heart. This earned him many affectionate nicknames (if you're know, you know). He was always there for a friend in need and his love and kindness will endure in the hearts of the many that he touched.

Rick leaves behind his daughters, Taylor and Brittany Kline; his wife Jennifer Kline; his brothers, Roger Kline, and spouse Brenda, Dwayne Guy and spouse Lorene, Gary Guy, Mike Kline and spouse Sue; sister Darlene Workman and her spouse Steve; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother Phil Guy.

A memorial service is to be conducted at half-past ten o’clock in the morning, on Saturday, the 11th of May, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

Immediately following the service, all are invited to join the family for a reception in the adjacent grand foyer.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolences with his family by selecting the “Add a Memory” icon below.