Both Kevin and Stephanie are amazing . I have been a patient here for over 15 years. Kevin is a great dentist and Steph is a great dental hygienist. I had very bad gingivitis when I first became their patient And my teeth have been in great shape for years now. The office is small but they all provide great service and has a family vibe Their receptionist Michelle is great also. Definitely recommend them if anyone asks me for a dentist. I got my husband and cousin to come here as well read more

There is just so much good stuff I can say about the Creative Smiles team but it is nearly impossible to articulate all the good that I have experienced and have been witness to. Honestly, I wanted to write a review as soon as I got out of my first visit. That is how positive my experience was. Dr. Salgado, Stephanie and Michelle has made their office such a warm, friendly, and amazing environment. I never thought I would ever say those words about a dentist office. Let me start off by saying that in the 40 something years I've been going to the dentist, I have always had an enormous fear and anxiety over going. I remember white knuckling the chair just about every appointment and TONS of pain. So when the money became a problem, it was the perfect excuse for me to stop going, because I couldn't afford it. I never had great teeth but needless to say, it got worse. Even taking medication for that anxiety didn't help. That fear became so profound, that I skipped going for years. Prior to going to Dr. Salgado, I tried to get back into this and take care of the problems that I was having. The prior office seemed so aggressive in their handling and they stated that I needed work that turned out to be not necessary. Fast forward to the present day. After all of that neglect on my part, I ended up developing a pretty painful tooth infection and had to find another dentist. In my first visit to Creative Smiles, you can tell right off the bat that every staff member genuinely cares. Michelle has such a friendly demeanor when you walk through the door that it automatically puts you at ease. She has gone above and beyond in ensuring that I have all the info I need but most importantly, she ensures that I understand it. I've been to other offices where they don't even to explain and they even get mad if you ask too many questions (because they did not explain). . I truly appreciate the whole team's attention to detail. I have not had the opportunity to work with Stephanie directly but I'm looking forward to it. She has already been a wealth of knowledge. She recently explained something to me regarding my flipper tooth. I know this should have been common sense on my part but she never shamed me for not knowing. It was not explained to me by my prior dentist, the ramifications of not wearing your stay plate consistently. As with Michelle, Stephanie is always friendly. Her positive energy makes for a warm inviting environment. As for Dr Salgado, there are not enough words to explain what a stellar doctor he is. When I came in for the first time because I had tooth pain, initially it was supposed to be a consultation but he ended up going above and beyond to try and do some of the prep work so I can go to the Endodontist to get some relief. He provided a treatment plan and options but what I appreciate a lot is that he did not tell me I need things that were unnecessary like another office did. Dr Salgado takes you every step of the way during the process which helps so much and curbs any anxiety that might come up. One thing I appreciate very much is that he knows I am working with a limited amount of funds. Not once has he tried to steer me toward the more expensive option or take the easy way out and just pull them. I was told by another office pulling them would be the best way to go. Dr Salgado is trying to save my teeth. He has made me aware of my options and has tried to help me stay within my budget. Dr Salgado has a way of putting patients at ease. I can honestly say that there has NOT been a time when I was not petrified of going to the dentist. But during my first visit and each subsequent visits I can say I was not nervous and had ZERO anxiety which has never happen before. He is very thorough every visit and does everything he can to save your teeth. I know I said this earlier but that Dr. Salgado and team truly cares about their patients and they try very hard to improve oral health and change lives. I'm very happy with the work that has been done so far. The whole team is passionate about what they do and it shows exponentially. Dr Salgado is energetic and enthusiastic about his work which in turn makes me more motivated to take care of myself. A step at a time, I will be able to face the world with confidence and a better smile. read more

I see why Dr. Salgado has 5 stars his knowledge and customer service is above 5 stars. I picked his office because it was closest to my house and I had a sheet of paper with over 50 offices so I was over it and overwhelmed. The office reached out to me once they got all my information and we scheduled appointment. The front office staff was awesome they new everything that needed to be done and explained it all to me. My treatment was 4 crowns I was super nervous because I have never had a crown. I walked into the office it was bright and relaxing and smelled good. Dr. Salgado greeted me and Lacey explained the forms that I would need to fill out. I went back and we got to work! I was so scared but he made it painless and explained every step to me so I was part of the process I found my self relaxing because he was gentle and precise. When it came time for the part that I hate the most numbing of the mouth! I started to ask a lot of question and he answered them all. He started the process of numbing my mouth and he is the best, I did not feel a thing it was fast and painless. Dr. Salgado explained that if you go slow then it's more comfortable for the patient and it was. He started to work on the crown and it was fast I was out in under 2 hours, he talked about the whole process as he moved on to each new step. Over all I'm super excited I picked his office I had the best dental experience I have ever had and can't wait to get the rest of my teeth fix. read more

Impecable work & amazing service. Kevin & Stephanie Salgado are honest, professional & go above & beyond to provide excellent care & service! I'm very happy my friend referred me to them. read more

Dr. Kevin, Steph and Michelle are almost like family to us and the boys now. They always do great work and are always willing to work around our schedules to get the boys in and get their dental work done. I highly recommend you get down here and have them take care of your family like I did. They explain everything thoroughly and actually make going to the dentist an enjoyable experience all the while maintaining a high level of professionalism. Great job guys, keep it up, see you in a couple weeks:) read more

Thank you so much to all of the previous Yelp reviews for helping my family and I choose Creative Smiles Dentistry. Dr. Kevin and Stephanie are so caring, personable, talented and extremely knowledgable. Michelle at the front desk is amazing too. She helps me understand insurance/billing and she's always happy to schedule/reschedule my appointments. I was nervous to switch my 2 year old, 6 year old, and 9 year old from a strictly pediatric dentist office, but my kids love Creative Smiles and have never asked to go back to the old place. Creative Smiles makes the kids happy with the tv in the waiting room and tvs for each patient chair. They also have kids' books and a toy box, but I think the main reason why my kids love Creative Smiles is because they feel so comfortable with Dr. Kevin and Stephanie. When I was nervous about my upcoming appointment to get some fillings, I called the office and Dr. Salgado answered the phone. He listened to my concerns, empathized, and comforted me. I kept my appointment and he talked me through every step of the process, always making sure I was ok. And you know what? All of my anticipatory anxiety was for nothing! Dr. Kevin and Stephanie really made what I thought would be an awful experience a piece of cake. THANK YOU, CREATIVE SMILES DENTISTRY!! read more

WOW! Talk about being lucky! I just moved to Oceanside, and I was running some errands in the Vista area. I was at the nail shop a few doors down from Dr. Salgado's office, and I randomly asked the woman doing my nails if she knew anything about that Dental Office "across the way". To my surprise, she said "Yes! They are great people and have been taking care of me and my family for the past 2 years! Very friendly!" Honestly, I didn't expect that response. I mean, how often do people rave about their dentists? Certainly not a topic of conversation among my circle of friends! So, after I was done there, I walked over to check it out. The receptionist was so friendly and very helpful. I just happened to walk in right when Kevin and Stephanie finished with a patient, so they were able to talk to me for a bit. I noticed when that patient was leaving, Kevin and Stephanie were talking to this woman as if she was a long time friend! The woman seemed very pleased and as she walked out said to me " first time? you found a good spot!" I set an appointment for a regular cleaning and routine check up two weeks out. My appointment went well, and they of course recommended what other work I should get done, but did not pressure me to make any sort of follow up appointment right then and there. "Just call us when you're ready. We'll be here!" If you look through my reviews on here, you'll see I don't write reviews often. And all of my reviews are POSITIVE. I truly believe when you have a "WOW" experience with a business, they rightfully deserve some recognition. Some people are so quick to come on here to write a nasty review over something so lame. A cancellation fee? Did you really need to get your panties in a bunch over that? In this life you need to learn how to be considerate with people's time, especially when it comes to the health of other people. Keep crying a river dude. Best believe that review did not keep me away from here! ANYWAY, take a chance on Creative Smiles and you won't be disappointed! Thanks Kevin and Stephanie! I wish you continued success! read more

By far the best dentist my husband and I have ever been to! I would recommend to ANYONE! I know I am in good hands here

Hands-down best dental office around! Everyone in the office is great. They truly care about each and every patient and get to know you as if you were an old friend. Highly recommend this dental office to everyone! read more

Wow! I am impressed with both Stephanie and Kevin's level of professionalism in the field and their hospitality. They will recommend only what is needed and not take you for your time or money! They are very personable, too, and make every visit feel like you are a guest in their home! I am a new patient of Dr. Salgado, but I feel like I've known them for some time and can honestly say I enjoy seeing my dentist and hygienist! I HIGHLY recommend Creative Smiles Dentisty to anyone looking for a genuine and friendly dentist!! Trust me, you will not regret! And they're super cool people! read more

Truly doesn't get any better then these guys, wish I could give them 10 stars. As a small business owner myself, it's great to be able support other small businesses that you know their business model is based off honestly and integrity. They show and explain your dental needs in a way that makes sense to the average person, there is zero pressure, and their rates and financing are very fair. Kevin and Steph are an awesome team and as sweet as can be. I read the bad review from the one star, that guy made himself look bad, not these guys. Any professional that has someone cancel a three hour appt last minute would charge a cancelation fee. you wouldn't be able survive or stay in business if you didn't. Thanks Kevin and Steph for all your hard work and knowing I can always trust you, your the best!! read more

We (the whole family, even the kid that is away at college 300+ miles away but still will only see Dr Salgado) have been patients of Kevin and Steph for years. Every staff member is personable and professional. They always treat us like family. They laugh with us, share stories with us, ask about the kids and most importantly always give exceptional care. I always enjoy going to the office and interacting with everyone even when I need to have work done. That's because I know my family and I are in good hands and it's pretty much a given that I'll have a good laugh with someone in the office, usually Kevin. Not many people can say they like to go see thier dentist, but I do :) Now on a more serious note, this office won't treat you like you are stupid. I have worked in the medical field for years, YEARS, and there is nothing that is more aggravating then when someone in a medical office treats me like I am stupid and can't make my own decisions. Kevin and staff will always give you the information you need to be able to make an informed decision about your care and then you actually get to be an adult and decide how you wish to move forward. Kevin has always given me his professional opinion and recommend a course of treatment but he and his staff have never pressured me into treatment with scare tactics. If you are looking for a new dentist or even a second opinion don't hesitate to call them you won't be disappointed. And who knows you may even run into me in the office one day :) read more

I was referred here by a good friend of mine and I hadn't been to a dentist since I was a child. I was so afraid of going to see a dentist, but I called the office and set an appointment, they took the time to listen to what I had to say and I let them know my situation. When the day of my appointment came, I was so impressed when I went in. The office is small and I was the only patient in there at the time. Dr. Salgado and his wife Stephanie took the time to explain everything to me, they didn't make me feel bad for neglecting my teeth for so long, instead I felt encouraged that they could be fixed. The amount of work I needed done came to a large amount of money and I got overwhelmed until Stephanie sat down and helped explain that I did not have to do it all at once and showed me how it could be manageable and broken down into different visits, prioritizing each tooth for me. I truly felt like they cared about me as a person and not just a dollar sign. I was so afraid that going to a dentist I would be ripped off or told I needed more work than I actually did but this office was amazing and showed me every single X-ray and explained everything as well as they charged a very fair price for the work they are doing. I would never go see another dentist after finding this office. They truly go above and beyond for their patients. read more

Kevin and Stefanie Salgado are amazing! We have been going to them since we moved to vista (4 years now) and have zero complaints. They are always incredibly gentle, to the point where my 6 year old LOVES going to the dentist now. They treat us like we are family, and they always make sure you are comfortable and at ease. After being with them for 4 years I couldn't imagine going anywhere else. read more

Awesome dentist !!!! Very friendly!!! Very good prices!!!! Very good job!!! They took care of us like we were family. After driving around looking for someone to help us we found a very good dentist. Thank You Creative Smile!! read more

My wife and I have been coming to see Kevin and Stephanie for a few years now (seven maybe?), and have nothing but positive things to say. Both of us have never been so comfortable having our teeth cleaned. Stephanie and Kevin have that special touch with the tools - no pokes or scrapes on the gums. The part that keeps us coming back though, is that they really care about us as patients. We have never felt like we've been "sold" on products or procedures, and they recommend things for us that they would (and have) for their own family. Give Creative Smiles a chance, and you'll find a group to take care of you and your teeth for years. read more

I'll be the first to admit I don't care much for the dentist. I needed a crown and a bridge and had been putting it off for years. I finally had Kevin and his team do the work and I couldn't be happier. It wasn't as bad as I thought and I love being able to chew on both sides of my mouth. I'll be sure to keep up on my regular checkups and cleanings from now on. Thanks Creative Smiles! read more

I have been a patient of Creative Smiles since I moved to Vista in 2007. I now live in Encinitas and am still a patient. The drive is more than worth it have a dental practice that I TRUST. Dr. Salgado and Stephanie are absolutely amazing. They are consummate professionals. They treat you like a person, not just a customer. That is very hard to come by these days!! read more

Today I had a dental emergency. My stay plate was eaten by my dog late last night. I realized it this morning when I woke up and it wasn't where I left it. Miraculously, I went to his office after calling a few times because it went to voicemail and nobody answered. Dr. Salgado was opening the front door to his office. My girlfriend Alex who's his regular patient approached him and told him what emergency I had. On his day off the Dentist took an impression then called his lab tech and requested a pickup. Dr. Salgado said ok there's a possibility the lab will have it ready later tonight. Worst case scenario tomorrow. Well thankfully Alex got a call from the Dentist at 8:30 pm tonight and picked up my dental piece he made for me! By the way, the dental piece fit like a glove. I absolutely will refer anyone who needs a honest professional quality dentist. Creative Smiles Dentistry is hands down one of the best in San Diego. read more

Kevin Salgado's wife is his assistant so there is no other staff on hand. Most times she does the receptionist work as well. I will admit it is a very nice looking office with modern furniture and modern technology. As far as a dentist, he is ok. Nothing special. The real reason I am giving only 2 stars is because of the prices and "suggestions". He quoted me for $1,700 for some cavities in my bottom front teeth. I had them filled about 4 years ago and he told me they NEEDED to be replaced. After dumping over $3,500 in the last two years from work he preformed on my mouth, I was a bit skeptic. I brought his quote with "fancy dentist lingo" to a very reputable dentist a few towns away and had him look at it. Apparently my fillings are perfect and do not need replacing. After that, I requested the rest of my files and xrays from previous work Dr. Salgado had done to be reviewed. Much of the work he did was not necessary or could have been put off for a while (even though Dr. Salgado insisted it was an emergency). His prices were also significantly higher than any other dentist in the area. If you just go to the dentist twice a year for cleanings, Dr. Salgado is fine. But if you need any work done on your teeth, stay clear of this place!!! read more

First, I feel it necessary to address the two negative reviews. Someone is apparently computer savvy enough to create a yelp id and write a review but not savvy enough to google the phrase "dentist cancellation fee" to realize it's a common practice. The ones that don't are the true money mills as they charge the rest of us more to absorb the money they lose when YOU cancel. Thank you very much. I'm sorry to say you come across as a little self-entitled. And yes, you did cancel. "Rescheduling" the day of your appointment is the same as cancelling as they don't have the opportunity to service someone else in your place. Also, they fairly apply this cancellation fee that they very clearly tell you about up front. We've had to cancel before and we've paid the cancellation fee. I don't think I deserve special treatment when I inconvenience others. The second one about taking your invoice somewhere else. I'm going to be a little nicer on this one, because it seems you legitimately tried to do the right thing. Here's the thing though. If you take your car to one auto shop and get an estimate, then take it to a second shop and show them the invoice of the first, I guarantee they are going to try to beat it and say things like "you don't really need that". That's how every business works (see DirecTV, Time Warner Cable, etc.). Once they "earn" your business, they'll start charging you the normal price. I urge everyone reading those two negative reviews to apply a little common sense and look past them. Most of the other reviews describe what the experience actually is - excellent. They work with me on work that needs to be done. They're approach is very consultative and genuine. I truly trust their expertise. I've moved around a lot for business, though now I'm a lot less migrant. That being said, I've had a few dentists from all over. This team is by far the best I've ever dealt with. We recently moved again a little further away. The thought didn't even cross my mind to get someone closer. They are worth the extra driving. read more

I had to get in ASAP because of a dental emergency, and Dr Salgado was absolutely wonderful. He treated me with respect, was able to see me promptly, and really took the time to find out what the problem was and how what caused it. He didn't try to talk me into any expensive and unnecessary procedures, and really treated the problem. My teeth are fine now and I'll definitely be returning to him as a regular patient. read more

I'm a returning Patient here, this staff is great, they make you feel like your family instead of a patient. They work with your insurance to make sure you as a person get taken care of. No doubt about it, this place is a 5 and if you are looking for a Dentist look no further, Dr Salgado and his staff are the best of the best they will take care of you. read more

This place is amazing. I have never received anything other than excellent care in a friendly and professional environment. I am glad they continue to be fair priced for those of us that keep our appointments and charge people who cannot keep a 3 hour appointment. I recommend this office to everyone in need of a great dentist! read more

Excellent work,care about their patients and are straight up. Also cool which doesn't hurt. I first met Dr. Kevin over a year ago. I was preparing to leave on a several day dirtbike ride in Mexico. The night before departing, one of my molars broke in half and fell out exposing a nerve. GREAT... I was really looking forward to the trip and was sure I was going to have to cancel. A friend recommended Dr.Salgado so I gave him a call and explained my situation. He came in on his day off, after hours by himself and helped me out BIG TIME. I made the trip and had a blast. Been going here ever since. Had some overdue pre-existing dental issues (ie. cavities, crowns, etc.) that Dr. Kevin has taken care of for me and I couldn't be happier with the work and find he and his wife Stephanie to be really nice people. I've been to other dentists that try and upsell you on all kinds of useless procedures and that has not been the case with these guys. They're straight up and honest. read more

All I can say is WOW! Amazing customer service and atmosphere! I don't think a lot of people can say they love going to the dentist because let's face it... It's the DENIST! There's someone's hand in your mouth with all these different instruments that make terrible screeching noises. Who would like that? But after today's experience I can say that when I have to go to the dentist I can't see myself going anywhere else but here! Kevin and Stephanie Salgado are amazing and very professional and honest! Most of the time dentist try to sell you more than what you actually need. Dr. Kevin Salgado did my X-rays and exam told me what I would need done and what to look out for. Then Stephanie Salgado the hygienist came over and did my deep cleaning, she was incredible and such a pleasure just as Dr. Kevin! They were both very sweet. I was recommended treatments but I didn't feel like someone was shoving it down my throat. Like I've felt plenty of times when looking for a good and honest dentist. Since I don't have insurance that covers their place they gave me an estimate (quite reasonable) and said that if I wanted to visit a dentist that takes my insurance and see their prices that it would be a good idea too. They are honest and great people. I'm actually thinking of just waiting until October when my open enrollment comes along to switch my dentist plan to theirs! That's how much I liked coming to this dentist! Thank you Michelle (receptionist) for your kind and amazing customer service on the phone and in person and THANK YOU KEVIN AND STEPHANIE for your AMAZING WORK! I feel like a million bucks!!! read more

Kevin and Stephanie are terrific, and Michelle at the desk is great. I had major work done, and it was handled as painlessly as possible. The call the next day to see how I was doing was nice. They always tell me to say hi to my husband David. It's like having a neighborly friend work on your teeth. I highly recommend them! read more

Best Dentist and hygienist ever. Professional and caring. We have been going here for 5 1/2 years. Both Dr. Salgado and Stephanie create a compassionate environment when you enter their office. They took excellent care of me the moment I just walked in and asked for a appointment, I was starting chemo in a week and needed a cleaning. The accommodated me the next day. I know they really care about me and that is the best thing you could feel, going not to your favorite activity. Love you guys and we are going to miss you as we start our new adventure in Arizona. read more

Stephanie and Kevin are awesome. Best dentisty team ever. I moved to Chicago for a couple of years and missed them tons.... I mean my teeth were jonesing for some Creative Smiles Dentistry. read more

My husband and I have been coming to this dental office for 9 years now. Kevin and Stephanie have been friendly, knowledgeable and thorough. My 6 year old, 4 year old and 2 year old feel comfortable coming for their annual visits, and this is not an easy feat for a dentistry office. I couldn't ask for better care in regards to how they take care of their patients. read more

A few things stand out that set this dental practice above the others that my family and I have used. First and foremost, everyone in the office is so friendly and welcoming! They do a wonderful job of making my kids (who tend to have a bit of dental anxiety) feel relaxed and at ease. The TV's above each dental chair also provide a nice distraction for anyone who is nervous about getting dental work. The fact that we have NEVER HAD TO WAIT is amazing! They are always on schedule without making us feel rushed. We also feel that they have our dental health in their best interest. We always feel that they are being honest in regards to the dental work that we need done, and are understanding and patient with us. Most definitely a very professionally run dental practice that makes you feel like family! read more