Stop reading, and just go. Go see Dr. Baliwas. He is a dream dentist in so many ways. But if you want to read on and find (and see) why.. -- incredibly attentive to patient goals. He listened carefully to what I wanted, and was transparent with short-term and long-term ways of getting there. No BS. We weighed tradeoffs together, talked about financial implications of each option. He helped me make the decision that was right for ME. -- trust & care: This takes time to build with people. Every step of the way, Dr. Baliwas was communicative and kind. He cares about his clients and it shows in how he treats them. -- Communication: Dr. Baliwas goes out his way to make sure I understood my treatment plan and that I had full confidence moving forward with it. -- Innovation: He's a problem-solver. When there's a deadend, he digs in to find a solution. I observed him applying creativity (and safe) ideas to get you to your goals. He's a trusted voice in the dentistry profession with dentists looking to him for techniques and innovation solutions. And the result? A huge transformation that didn't require surgery (despite many people telling me I should do jaw stuff, or just shortcut to veneers). We worked my real teeth, exposed what was hidden underneath my gums, and took careful, smart steps to get me to my dream smile. I used to be afraid to smile big....now I can't stop cheesin'! read more

Brian M Baliwas, DDS - General Dentistry Near Me - San Francisco, California

Dr. Baliwas is the best. He truly his. I've learned in life that having a dentist that you can trust and who truly cares about his/or her patients is paramount. Having a dentist who you can easily book appointments with - is key. Having a dentist who is skilled at what they do - is beyond important. Dr. Baliwas fits all of this criteria. I know that I'm in superb hands whenever I walk into Dr. Baliwas' office. Dr. Baliwas is currently out of my network (which means that I have to pay up front - but I often get reimbursed accordingly by my insurance later)- but he's worth it. His attention to detail is inspiring. When you go into his office - you get his full attention. And even before going into his office - him and his staff are exceptional at answering any pressing concerns or questions one may have - through E-mail. During this pandemic - Dr. Baliwas and his staff have made sure that their downtown office is as safe as possible. Every one of their staff members is well prepared with a mask and they also make sure that anyone entering the office is wearing one as well. In addition they have efficient air filters in the office and require that patients fill in a brief questionnaire they day before the appointment. The day of the appointment they take your temperature at the door (and additionally before you sit down in the dentist chair), have you wash your hands thoroughly, and have you rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide. I felt exceptionally safe throughout my recent time here. As I said in my previous review - you can't put a price on your oral health. It's so important to take care of your teeth and to have someone that will help you to do that. I'm so glad that I discovered Dr. Baliwas and I can't recommend him enough. Trust. read more

Wow! Dr. Baliwas did an absolutely A+ perfect job rebonding a significant corner of my front tooth that had been chipped and repaired 35 years ago but was starting to look yellowed and decay-funky. Baliwas expertly matched and cured the resin material to the tooth with a pleasing end result of a seamlessly gleaming smile! read more

Brian M Baliwas, DDS - Dr. Baliwas rebonded a decades' old, yellowing chip repair and gave me back a perfect front tooth! - General Dentistry Near Me - San Francisco, California

Brian Baliwas deserves more than 5 stars. He isn't your usual dentist. His approach and philosophy about dental work is educational and effective. He explains each and every part of the "routine" check up and is very professional about his work. He was gentle throughout the exam and cleaning process and explained where I needed to put more effort when flossing or brushing. The office is state of the art with relaxing music and professional staff from the time you enter. If you are in the city or even close by - stop in and see Brian in action. You won't be disappointed. I will be going back in 4-6 months, and this time I actually look forward to the visit! read more

Brian M Baliwas, DDS - State of the art facility and top of the line equipment. - General Dentistry Near Me - San Francisco, California

From what my coworkers have told me, and from what I have read online, Dr. Baliwas seems like a great dentist, but I will never know. I was 15 minutes late to my first appointment with him and was told that they could not see me and that I would have to reschedule. Lame. Most doctors offices run 10-15 minutes behind on the regular! Apparently, this one doesn't. read more

Brian is friendly and will tell you repeatedly he doesn't care about making money from dental procedures and wants you to take good care of your teeth. However, he ended up recommending a ton more dental work than anyone ever had. And I have severe issues and a team of 4 specialists. I went to Brian for a second opinion and ended up with a ton more work to do. I also asked for a detailed treatment plan and never got one. So I will be looking for yet another dentist I can trust. read more

I drove almost 4 hours round trip crossed 3 bridges to see Dr. Brian Baliwas and I WILL do it all over again. After having what I considered a dental emergency I contacted his offices and was able to make an appointment the next day to be seen. I hadn't been to a dentist in close to 6 years and when I shared my fears and worry with him he confidently, and calmly assured me that I was going to be okay. Unlike any other dentist-patient experience that I have had before, Dr. Baliwas displayed a level of meticulous patient-focused care and rare transparency that allowed me to feel like I was in control and in amazing hands. I received a couple of quick and painless x-rays, a temporary filling, an action plan for getting my oral health back on track, and tons of reassurance that I was going to be okay. Dr. Brian and the staff truly went above and beyond to make me feel welcome, comfortable, and safe. I 100% recommend him to anyone who needs any form of dental work. read more

My grandfather was my childhood doctor, so it's hard to say that Dr. Baliwas is the best dentist I've ever had but alas it's true! I've been going to Baliwas and Union Square Dental Group for about four years and can say I appreciate every experience I have had. His expertise comes off as nice recommendations rather than admonishments when it comes to taking care of your oral health. My teeth are cleaner, healthier and I'm quite happy! After I had been going to Baliwas for a few years, my boyfriend finally started going and ended up with a full cosmetic procedure for veneers. I am in awe of the improvements and LOVE LOVE LOVE his new smile (#HotBoyfriendAlert). Yes, he may be out of network but it's absolutely worth it. Frankly, that's the insurance companies bad - not his. read more

Dr. Baliwas is the best dentist I've ever had. He is very knowledgeable in his practice, up to date with the latest technology in dental medicine, and is very transparent with his process. He explains everything to you step by step so you know what's going on. He is also very gentle during procedures. I recently had several fillings put in by Dr. Baliwas, and it was remarkably painless. He made sure I was very comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In addition to being good at what he does, he is very calm natured and nice. He actually cares about his patients well being and will ensure they are taken care of. His office is up to date with modern equipment, and his staff is friendly. I didn't have to wait for my appointment. I arrived on time, and was seen immediately. Would recommend to anyone in need of a new dentist or looking for a second opinion on a dental procedure. read more

Without a doubt the best experience I have ever had when it comes to Dentists. Brian fixed my broken tooth quickly and painlessly. The office is extremely clean and comfortable. I will without a doubt be getting ALL of my dental work done here in the future read more

I had a teeth cleaning and whitening service with Brian Baliwas and it was an overall fantastic experience! I have very sensitive teeth so I was dragging my feet to make an appointment but he made me comfortable and his assistant was very gentle! I've had dentists in the past who were rough, rude and seemly not up to date with the latest technology. Brian's passion for his work really shows! I trust him with my life at this point and am actually looking forward to my next visit. Highly recommend! :) read more

Brian M Baliwas, DDS - The office glasses hit my lashes so I asked to wear my own sunnies! - General Dentistry Near Me - San Francisco, California

Dr. Baliwas was friendly, professional, and very open/honest with his exam and findings. Ada was delicate and efficient with her cleaning. The office was spotless, and the administrative folks were great about getting me in fast and setting up my next appointment. Definitely recommend this place to anyone who lives/works in or near downtown SF. read more

I am so happy to have chosen Dr Baliwas as my dentist! He is very professional and knowledgeable, he takes time to explain everything about your oral status and health. I went in for a first appointment to do x-rays and book a cleaning and since everything was OK he proceed with the cleaning service too, which was done impeccably and with great care. My husband sought Dr Baliwas' services for more advanced repairs and he is also super happy with the results and with Dr Baliwas' approach. Highly recommended! read more

Brian has been the best dentist I have been to since I moved to this country. His office is top notch quality with the best equipment. I've been here for cleaning and also to get my cavities filled. He does a quick job with cavities and also educates you on how to clean your teeth and take care of them better. Highly recommend him! read more

Not big on yelping. First time. But I gotta say....Dr. Baliwas is great. Hadn't been to a dentist in quite some time and he made the process fun. Explained to me everything that was happening as it was happening so I didn't feel like he was just "working" on me and talked everything through. If you're looking for a dentist - you should try (if he's accepting new patients as I imagine it will quickly come to a point where he can't anymore) and get on his books. A+. Couldn't be happier Also their office building is beautiful and the staff was friendly. P.s he called me in the evening after the appintment to check in. What a guy. read more

Best dentist ever! I'm surprised that I don't actually dread going to the dentist now. State of the Art facilities, really friendly staff. Stop looking and book an appointment with him! read more

My teeth are clean. Not just clean, but cleaner than they've been since I came kicking and screaming into this world 30 short years ago. I heard about Dr Baliwas from a friend, and I'm glad that I followed up and went in. Now, I tend to be fairly picky when it comes to the people I let in my mouth, but Dr Baliwas ('please call me Brian') did an amazing job with my cleaning, so he's definitely on the short list now! Just a few of the many reasons to make Dr Baliwas your new dentist: - Meticulously attentive to detail - Very personable - Made the time fly by with great conversations, or even lack thereof - Pays attention to long term health and preventative measures If you're looking for a new dentist in SF (or even if you aren't) check this guy out. He's the boss of floss. read more

I was referred to Dr. Baliwas by a good friend and I am stoked I finally made my appointment. Really honest and upfront with treatment plans and preventative options. I have a lot of sensitivity in my teeth and around my gums, so the specific areas that were painful to clean, he took extra time to manually clean them with tools instead of the motorized ones that were hurting a bit. Went to the Marina office - easy to get an appointment, clean environment and even got to test out a new wireless tooth polisher. read more

My recent visit to Dr. Baliwas' office inspired me to write my 1st Yelp review! I've been to more dentists than I can remember, and Dr. Baliwas was hands down the best. A week before my cousin's wedding, I had an accident which, on top of numerous facial wounds, caused my front tooth to chip as well. Dr. Baliwas came in on his day off, and had me in and out in 45 minutes with a treatment that looks and feels amazing. Throughout the entire procedure, he made sure I was comfortable, had a clear understanding of what he was doing, and in virtually no pain (which given my state that day, takes some serious talent). It's clear that this is his passion, with his attention to detail and incredible patient care and follow up. Truly inspiring to see someone doing something that they love so much. I have nothing but great things to say about Brian! read more

Dr. Baliwas is seriously the best dentist I've ever gone too. You can seriously tell he is way into what he does. He works quickly and lets you know exactly whats going on and is super detailed in his work. I recently had a super sore tooth, asked Brian for help, got some X-rays that took no time and he explained exactly what was going on, and why, and where to go from here. Came back a couple days later to have some cavities filled, and to be honest i was really nervous, I've had some super painful cavities filled. But this, this was painless and quick! I literally have never had dentist work done so professionally. As far as the office goes, its beautiful. Located on the third floor, you walk into a beautiful lobby room with super nice receptionists. When you head back for your appointment you hop into these super comfy dental chairs with an awesome view of San Francisco. Everything looks brand new and clean. Ive never been in a dental office so nice. Overall, this practice is no joke. They are seriously the best. Ill never go anywhere else. read more

Dr. Baliwas has earned the elusive 11 out of 5 yelp stars from me. He's a fantastic dentist and person, and the rest of his practice (receptionists, assistants, and hygienists) is great too. Highly recommended - in fact, I've referred multiple of my friends, all whom have been extremely happy. read more

If I could rate him any higher, I would! Dr. Baliwas has been, hands down, the best dentist I've had. Every time I visit, he educates me as he works and lets me know what it is that he is doing and why. Throughout all procedures, he has asked if I am feeling any pain or discomfort, and adjusts if so. He always follows up with a call or an email and makes himself available for any questions/concerns! Thank you, Dr. Baliwas! You have given me a reason to smile! read more

Dr. Baliwas is a fantastic dentist who really went above and beyond to make my procedure as stress-free and pain-free as possible. His office gave me a last minute appointment to address some minor pain, right before I had to go out of town, and Dr. Baliwas solved the issue right away. He talked me through everything he did, step by step, which is a nice change from many dentists. Other reviewers have already covered the high points thoroughly, but I just wanted to emphasize that you can't go wrong if you're looking for a pleasant, informative, communicative, and incredible knowledgeable dentist. read more

My recent visit was at Dr. Baliwas' Marina office. My emergency visit turned into a routine dentist appointment, much to my relief. Dr. Baliwas was great from start to finish. read more

I called to schedule a consult for veneers and was told that they won't see me. Aparently I've cancelled too many appointments at the last minute within their 48 hour time limit. It was only twice! I guess I'll have to look elsewhere for cosmetic work. read more

Dr. Baliwas was pretty much the best dentist I've ever been to. I will start by saying that I dread going to the dentist, I feel like some of them lie about how many cavities you have, and aren't very good communicators about what is happening during the visit. Total opposite experience with this dentist. Dr. Baliwass is very personable and friendly, always smiling, immediately makes you feel at ease. He explained everything he was doing during my visit, went through my x-rays with me, showed me the difference between a tooth with cavities and one without. As a dentist, he is very thorough, gentle and pleasant. I highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a dentist! read more

Let me start this review by explaining how afraid I am and always have been of going to the dentist. It's not that I've had terrible experiences (well maybe one) but my pain tolerance isn't anything to brag about and I find most dentists to be stuffy and not understanding of my apprehension. Dr. Baliwas was my idea of a teeth cleaning dream! He made me feel so comfortable and actually explained everything that was going on with my teeth. Instead of being trigger happy with potential cavity fillings he showed me preventative ways to keep my teeth healthy and even reverse some damage! The dental swag that came in my goodie bag was pretty exciting as far as visits to the dentists go and i even prebooked my next appt! If that isn't progress I don't know what is! read more

Brian M Baliwas, DDS - Thanks Dr. Baliwas for this clean smile! - General Dentistry Near Me - San Francisco, California

Update: I checked out a few different offices and found one I was comfortable with but it was definitely not the same as this office. I decided to return and get the rest of my work done back with Dr. Baliwas. I'm not used to paying a small out of pocket cost for my appointments but I think it's worth it considering what I've experienced at other places. read more

If I could put 10 stars I would! Dr. Baliwas is the best dentist I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. He has the most professional and friendly bedside manner that has you feeling reassured and confident during any procedure. He goes the extra mile to explain everything about your teeth care from your pH balance and diet to dental insurance policies that work to your advantage. He took one look in my mouth and explained in detail why I was more prone to cavities than the average person, the specific chemistry of my mouth, and personalized teeth cleaning regime and diet recommended for me; A seminar for my own dental care. He is so knowledgable about latest research and technology in dentistry, making him extremely reliable with individual treatment plans. I trust him all the way and would be more than happy to pay extra to put my smile in his hands. read more

I went in for a dental checkup with Dr. Baliwas and was very satisfied. Dr. Baliwas took the time to look over the state of my dental health and explain to me everything he saw and his recommendations. I feel like Dr. Baliwas was collaborating with me on my dental health and he was interested in my long-term dental health. For example, there was a tiny cavity that he chose not to fill and to monitor for the time being. Even though this was his professional opinion, he still made me aware of this, in case I felt strongly and wanted it filled in anyways. I feel that there are dentists that would assumed this choice on my behalf. Dr. Baliwas was very professional and friendly and I felt very comfortable with everything that was going on, no pressure to do any work and didn't feel like he was dismissive of any questions I had. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a dentist. read more

This office has been great, except now Dr. Baliwas is out of network with my dental insurance. I was told about the change ahead of time, but now my cleanings and exam visits costs me $30 charge out of pocket. I had a good experience at this office. Its very clean and modern and Dr. Baliwas does a nice job of explaining EVERYTHING that he does. I hate to leave but now I'm paying more than what my dental insurance covers so I have to look elsewhere. read more

Dr Baliwas is the absolute best! Not only is he super friendly, but he is very thorough and takes the time to explain everything to ensure you understand all of your options before committing to treatment/prognosis. He also uses all the high tech equipment that's out there! First time in my 36yrs of life that a trip to the dentist was actually pleasant. Will definitely make the trek into SF from here on out! read more

I highly recommend Dr. Baliwas. He has been my trusted dentist for a while now, and I will not be going anywhere else. I recently had some fillings work done and (as always) it was a quick and painless process. I always get the feeling he ensures the work is done perfectly. And he candidly shares detail that conveys a very high level of integrity and professionalism. read more

Dr Baliwas has been my dentist for more than a year and I couldn't be happier. Is an awesome dentist and person and his work is phenomenal. He is kind and very patient Staff is excellent and his office super clean I have found him to be the best I would highly recommend! read more

I came to see Dr. Baliwas for a cleaning and was told that I had a cavity in one of my teeth. I didn't believe it, but Dr. Baliwas took the time to show me my X-rays and explain why I needed a filling. He even used a camera to show me what the cavity looked like before, during the drilling, and after he filled it. The filling looked just like a tooth and WAY better than the other fillings I had done by my previous dentist. It looked like a perfect tooth! I asked Dr. Baliwas if we could make those fillings look like the one he did, but he said that doing so was unnecessary at this time. His honesty and having everything explained to me was really comforting, and even more importantly, the entire procedure was completely painless. The office is super clean and modern and everyone working there was friendly and helpful. I'd give him more than 5 stars if I could. read more

Dr. Baliwas and staff are superb! Best dentist and dental staff we've encountered ever. We've never trusted a dentist until now. The lifelong search is over! Thank you! Superior chair-side manners and office is consistently responsive to all my emails and calls. Transparent on the insurance front before work is done. Clean and well-designed office using the latest dental technology. Thank you for all that you do! read more

I've never known a more passionate, dedicated, hard working and approachable dentist in my life. Dr. Baliwas is incredibly knowledgable and treats all his patients with care. He takes the time to answer any and all of your questions and he is always going above and beyond. Dr. Baliwas is very compassionate -- even under the most invasive procedures Dr. Baliwas has an incredible ability to make you feel comfortable and calm. I've been to many dentist in my life and every time I walked in somewhere, I felt like the dentist was in a hurry, never really cared to get to know you and educate you on your options. This is absolutely not the case at Dr. Baliwas' office. Lastly, after years of being indecisive about fixing a chip on my tooth and frankly feeling really scared, uncertain and insecure about it... Dr. Baliwas fixed the problem, exceeded my expectations and I could not be happier with my new smile. He's an incredible dentist, the best in the business! read more

Dr. Baliwas 100% deserves my first Yelp review. And it's 5 stars! He is a fantastic dentist - friendly, professional, thorough, and always available in a pinch. I can't recommend him highly enough! read more

My experience with Dr. Baliwas was nothing short of exceptional. His office is very easy to find, and all of the receptionists warmly welcomed me as this was my first visit. I very soon thereafter met Dr. Baliwas, who introduced himself, shook my hand, and thanked me for coming in today, Throughout my appointment. Dr. Baliwas had an amazing bedside manner, carefully explaining to me an action plan for today, what he was going to do next, and his plan for my dental health. Dr. Baliwas personally oversaw my cleaning, and took the time to show me specifically where I should focus on flossing and brushing moving forward. He constantly asked if I was experiencing any pain, and was especially sensitive throughout my cleaning. At the end of my appointment, he also wrote me an entire email, explaining his diagnosis, so that I could have an exportable record of my dental health. I would highly recommend Dr. Baliwas to anyone looking for a dentist in San Francisco. I think the fact that I'm looking forward to my next appointment speaks volumes about him! read more

I tried to make an appointment for a teeth cleaning and I was told that Dr. Baliwas doesn't do cleanings on the first visit. To get a cleaning you actually have to get a full exam+X-rays first. Reviews look great but I just need a cleaning. read more