I never thought that I would be writing a glowing review for any dental practice after having a…read moredetailed procedure, but this was truly the best dental experience I ever had...and I'm the daughter of a dentist!
I just moved to the area and have been busy setting up new medical appointments. In the middle of all the chaos, I suddenly lost a large filling. While this may not be earth-shattering to many people, I have very small teeth and potentially dangerous allergies to many dental products. While my former dentists had worked around these issues with some (not glowing) success, I found my "issues" were definitely not welcome in this area. I went to a dentist recommended to me, not far from my house, and he was very nice; however, I was treated like a hot potato when he learned of my potential allergies. He couldn't get rid of me fast enough, and told me to find a holistic dentist, who could "better deal with my problems". Before I disclosed this "bombshell", I was told that, in addition to the first visit to assess the issue (about $200 out of pocket), it would additionally cost considerably more than $2,000 to do a crown. Additionally, it would cost much, much, MUCH more if I needed a root canal, which he said was likely, as he said he saw decay. The decay shocked me, as I have never had any in my life, and there was no sensitivity in the affected tooth. This $2,500++ would be cash only, due prior to the procedure.
Fortunately, after some research, I was able to make an appointment with Arnica, and was understandably anxious about the procedure and its cost. The dentist, Dr. Anna Vasilev, was able to get me in quickly. I brought the X-rays and photos from the other dentist, and Dr. Vasilev said there was NO decay, that she saw no reason for a root canal, and that she could do a more modern procedure the following morning. My cost, after insurance, was likely to be about $140. I discussed my allergies, and she felt sure there wouldn't be a problem. They showed me their full cost estimate, including a longer-lasting ceramic crown, and the total was about half of what the other dentist quoted, and included the more expensive ceramic crown.
Her more reasonable and modern approach was to cover the remaining tooth with an overlay (rather than drilling out the remaining tooth to a point), then fashion a ceramic crown for it right there and then. The entire procedure was comfortable and painless...and only took just over an hour...including making and applying the ceramic crown! They were all extremely helpful and knowledgeable. My husband couldn't believe I came out so fast!
And I haven't even mentioned the Arnica office...it was beyond beautiful, spotless, quiet, and quite luxurious! The restroom by itself was a work of art...floor-to-ceiling marble walls and fixtures, an 8' polished mahogany door with gold trim, a "smart mirror"(!), and monogrammed disposable hand towels...spectacular! The same was true of the beautifully appointed and comfortable waiting area, where drinks were provided.
Dr. Vasilev was kind, considerate, and carefully listened to my concerns. That, in itself, was amazing...that I could freely talk during the procedure, and not sound unintelligible from the numbing agent. I had a 9am appointment for the procedure, and was out before 10:30... and I was able to safely and comfortably eat lunch...right after having a crown!
So, for me to say a dental procedure was a good experience, was unusual, to say the least. I will return to Arnica for all my routine dental visits and care, as will my husband. I highly recommend this practice to anyone who wants to banish the spectre of old-fashioned dental horrors once and for all... this place will change your mind!
It did mine, and my father was a dentist.