Call me old fashioned, but I would dread going to the dentist. It's not so much the pain and discomfort from having one's pearly whites scraped, chiseled, picked and drilled upon - but more the combination of that and having one's purse completely drained at the same time. Dental health costs seem to have entered the stratosphere lately and my insurer has turned benefit-claim denial into a blood sport. What's a smart girl to do? Dental hygiene, maintenance and the occasional repair is something that can't be ignored. For me, doing so immediately summons the Gods of Peril! So there I was, last year, like all those years before, visiting my dentist, in the all-to-familiar position of lying back, fully submitting, sucking it up, and opening my mouth - and purse - wide. And then, while gurgling on a saliva vacuum and attempting to visualize J-Lo and Tay-Tay giving me a private in-home concert (my usual go-to when I'm feeling completely out of control of a situation), I had an epiphany! I realized that if I'm to be paying this months yacht lease for my dentist - then I better freaking well like my dentist! Like a lot! Amiright? And the thing was, I didn't really like my dentist. That's not to say he was a bad dentist - he was good. Possibly very good. It was just that here he was, climbing into my mouth, staring deep past my tonsils, and I kind of felt a bit abused. I felt like I was a number - a line item. A feeling reinforced by him getting my name wrong as he left my chair on the way to another patient in an adjacent room, leaving me to clean up a puddle of drool on my new summer frock. I realized that the whole practice was a bit too 'factory' and devoid of warmth. I realized that it shouldn't have to be this way. So, I made the decision to break up with my dentist of over a decade - and begin the search for someone that I'd feel more comfortable with. Now look, I'm not expecting my dentist to be all chummy, full of smiles, chatter and pleasantries - that too, can easily rub a girl the wrong way. But I do expect my dentist to be empathic to my situation as a patient. I also really appreciate a dentist (and a doctor too, for that matter) to properly explain what's going on as if I were an adult -- a peer -- and not as if I were a nine year old. I tried another dentist here in MV and realized quickly that I had just traded the pan for the fire. I was beginning to wonder if I was the problem. Perhaps expecting too much. Or maybe I was the difficult patient and deserving only of merciless dentists consigning me to a lifetime of countless anxiety-ridden never-ending sessions where my only solace was in counting the perforations on their ceiling tiles as they ground upon me, literally, while I laid back in their articulating chairs. Shudder. But then, thankfully, by chance, I found my way to Frances Yankie. As soon as I entered her practice on Miller Avenue I knew that I'd found the right place. Established on the ground floor of an old Victorian homestead, it felt more like I was sitting in her living room. The other patients in wait were noticeably more at ease in this environ - myself included. The staff were not the usual wooden and stiff animitrons and Stepford Wives that I'd become so used to -- their enthusiasm and friendliness actually felt genuine. And Dr. Frances Yankie herself -- she made it seem as if I were her friend. A friend is not an attribute I was necessarily seeking in a dentist -- but that is how she made me feel. It's hard to explain what a game changer that was for me. My anxieties and dread just vanished. I really felt like I was in good hands. Hands that I could trust. We are all very lucky to live in a zip code that offers best-of-breed in most things -- including dentistry. There's probably not a truly bad dentist here. The value that Dr Frances Yankie offers over and above the other excellent dentists that provide service in our town is hard to quantify. But for me, it's the feeling of ease, an environment that makes me feel safe, heard, appreciated and respected all while knowing that I'm getting excellent dental care -- that's priceless. read more

What a beautiful office!!! I had the BEST and most thorough exam and cleaning with Dr. Brown, I will definitely be coming back read more

Frances H Yankie, DDS - General Dentistry Near Me - Mill Valley, California

Update is that ever since I left Dr Yankies care, I've had the worst dental problems from her "proactive" procedures she recommended. And this is coming from someone who has had a perfect dental record for 50 years. read more

I cannot thank Dr. Frances Yankie and her team enough for repairing my tooth, rejuvenating my smile and lifting my spirits. There simply aren't enough words. Attentive, calming, supremely professional, creative, confident and a true artisan of her craft come to mind, yet still fall short of how I really feel. I would recommend her many many times over. Thank you Frances ... thank you so much. read more

Where to begin with these scam artists... In February of this year I had a teeth cleaning and was told that due to my insurance I would need to pay out of pocket then wait 4 weeks for my insurance to reimburse me. The front desk person at the time cautioned me that "most times it takes longer than 4 weeks and to call if I don't receive the check". Of course, I did not receive the check after 4 weeks. I called and they assured me they would resubmit the claim. Ended up taking a total of 9 weeks. By then I had the second phase of my teeth cleaning in April. Once again, paid everything up front $268. And once again, no check arrived after 4 weeks. So I give them a call in May to ask them to resubmit my claim. Next thing I know, I am getting a notice from MY insurance stating that THEY also paid most of the cost of my visit but I still owe $45. In speaking with an insurance agent we discovered that Yankie's office signed my name WITHOUT MY CONSENT to receive my reimbursement ON MY BEHALF!!! So they took my money AND my reimbursement. Hmm sounds like insurance fraud to me! After over an hour of my time and 3 calls to Yankie's office that went to voicemail, I finally got a hold of them. Safe to say I got my money back but not after a complete uphill battle with insurance and Yankie's front desk staff. Mind you: I have been going here for years and never had an issue with my insurance like this before. Come to find out Yankie decided to cut Delta Dental and hid that information from long time patients, essentially screwing me out of more money!! On top of all that glorious crap... I got Invisalign a few years ago through Yankie and it complete damaged the enamel on my front teeth. This was due to taking it on and off to eat or brush my teeth. When I brought it up to Yankie, she looked me in my face and said "enamel is likes diamond, it doesn't scratch". I was so stunned by this LIE I was rendered speechless. She gave absolutely no mind to the fact that my teeth were noticeably ruined (despite being straight) and that my teeth were sensitive as ever before!!! No advice or solutions were provided to me. The indentation in my teeth are SO noticeable they catch shadows in every photo of me. So thanks for nothing Yankie, I will never be coming back and I will tell EVERYONE I know to stay far away from that dump. read more

Dr. Yankie and her staff are fantastic! Everyone in the office is very friendly and highly professional. Dr. Yankie is truly caring and has very high standards (exactly what I want in my dentist). Minimal to no wait time at appointments. Besides the usual dental care, I've also done invisalign and I am very happy with the result. I highly recommend Dr. Yankie and her team! read more

The administrative and billing practices are at best unorganized but potentially suspicious. Do not recommend paying out of pocket with promised reimbursement. Recommend documenting all communication regarding insurance in writing over email. read more

Great experience. Dr. Yankie is super nice and explained everything thoroughly from the condition of my teeth to after care regimen. She dialed me in with a whitening and my teeth haven't looked better. Both her and the assistant Brian were gentle. For the first time I am looking forward to going back to the dentist which is an odd feeling. read more

I have been so consistently impressed by Dr Yankie and her staff right from the beginning. I am most of the way through my Invisalign treatment and I can't believe I'm say this - but I actually look forward to going to the dentist. The staff is cheerful, efficient, helpful and kind. Dr Yankie always goes above and beyond to make sure I'm happy with the work. read more

Had a great dental visit last week with Dr.Yankie and her staff. They are so professional and thorough. I would give her 10 stars if possible. On top of the excellent cleaning, I had Invisalign done and my teeth are absolutely perfect. Thank you Dr. Yankie... read more

I thought it was worth mentioning here that I am in town, visiting family in Mill Valley. I'm a terrible grinder and of course had to break off a front tooth while away from home. I thought I was going to walk around with my front tooth like this until I got back but called a couple of places and finally was met by a friendly voice, Vanessa. She got me in today! Long story short, I'm whole again. Dr. Yankie did a beautiful job on my front tooth and I only wish this office was closer to me. My appointment was easy from start to finish, I knew what was happening, knew what I needed to pay and that was that. Thank you for taking care of me on such short notice, everyone was so nice and professional. She has so many other services there too, catch you on my next trip into town! :) read more

Dr. Yankie and her staff are as perfect as human beings can be. Their caring, high text office delivers the finest dental care imaginable. As ridiculous as it sounds the are perfect! They make their own crowns in office and have taken superb care of myself, my wife and my mother. I had a cross and under bite and Dr. Yankie cured all of it by tweaking the Invisalign retainers so that my bite and smile are fully restored. I just can't give enough praise. read more

Love the consistency on the quality service dr Yankee does she and her staff are amazing, had not been back to a dentist for several years because of COVID, I recently went back and service was amazing like always. Highly recommend dr Yankee for any dental work. read more

Today I officially realized that I'm living in a very small town... when I walked into my new dentist's office, two of the staff recognized me as the girl they work out next to at the gym. I immediately felt right at home... This dentist's office feels more like a spa than a dentist. They play relaxing music and burn sweet-smelling candles. The chair I sat in for my cleaning was even equipped with a back massager! Nice! Dr. Yankee and the hygienist were very friendly, thorough, and trust-worthy. I am thankful that Yelp and Mark's review helped me to find a great new dentist! Thank you! read more

I have been taking my family to Yankee for about 10 years. I liked her because she didn't push fillings or X-rays. However her office has seriously declined her billing is a nightmare. Many many billing issues including charging for services not performed, Saying they verified insurance coverage before the visit and then after the service is done getting random bills months later stating things not covered. BE SURE TO ASK FOR A DETAILED INVOICE OF SERVICES PROVIDED before you leave your appointment. That's how I found out she billed me for a Doc exam but I was only seen by the assistant for a cleaning as she was unavailable! Also now heavily pushes retainers and night guards even though you decline them..Anything to add more $$$ to your bill. Recently I was advised after the service that she no longer accepts insurance. After reading similar posts on here such as " The administrative and billing practices are at best unorganized but potentially suspicious" I would have to agree. You are stuck paying out of pocket with promised reimbursement that often never comes. This is not ok. I will not go back which is a real shame. She has the worst billing procedures ever but I enjoyed getting my cleanings there until she stopped taking insurance all together. read more

Dr. Yankie is beyond amazing. I can not recommend her enough. I wish I had found her a long time ago but so thrilled I have now found her. Highest quality work, spa environment, amazing staff, and best prices. read more

I only go because it's down the street from my office, I would never recommend this place to my colleagues. Frances Yankie is the best but your staff isn't up to par, I always feel like there is someone new, and on top of that there are a few occasion when something has come up and the front staff isn't so welcoming. When I get to my appointment early, you're sitting there waiting at least 15 mins, before your appt when I schedule it months prior. It's just meeh... but I only come here because I work so close. Somebody is in training, someone is new, someone doesn't tell you anything. Ok cool. read more

Our family recently switched to Dr Yankie's office. No problem with dental care (5 stars) although we find the front staff (1star) not as nice as others have commented on...bordering on arrogant . Not saying hello to patients as they enter the practice? A busy practice indeed, however they seem to have difficulty keeping to appointment times. Waiting 45+ minutes past an appointment (scheduled a month in advance) without an explanation? Some friends love everything about Dr Yankie's practice. Our expectations were high but a bit disappointed so far. Will update if things get better...or worse. Update! After many apologies for the prior visit a return appointment was scheduled and all went smoothly! Everyone was gracious and friendly! Update of update! Recent appointments have left us curious why an unfriendly, rude receptionist can continue to work there. Writing a scathing review improved things briefly but the icy, arrogance of the woman at the front desk has returned. Unpleasant and unwelcoming. Hoping you all catch her on a good day! read more

Hi there, I started my experience with Dr. Yankie in a dire situation several years ago. Inge, the office manager who I learned has been with Dr. Yankie for almost 20 years, had great empathy and worked me into the schedule. From that beginning, I have partnered with Dr. Yankie to triage my situation, coordinating with multiple dental specialists so that I can have the best possible outcome. Dr. Yankie is the BEST at leveraging the science of dental medicine with the latest technology, combined with her artistry and eye for perfection. You will have the best possible results you can have with her, and she will strive for your best interest and will take your input to heart. Is it a perfect practice? No. Sometimes I have to wait a little longer than my appointment time. But having been on the other side on the chair, I have come to appreciate how Dr. Yankie will take time to know you as a person, listen and consider your wishes to work out the best possible outcome for you. And if Inge, the office manager, is not fully engaged, that's because she's probably working little miracles for me or the next patient with acute needs. I'm a real person who has had lots of positive results from Dr. Yankie and her office. I'm happy to answer any real questions so you can email me on Yelp. Thanks and happy smiles to all... read more

I haven't been to the dentist in forever. Because going to the dentist is awful. Clearly Dr. Yankie and her staff didn't get the memo. Walking into the office is like visiting your friends ski chateau. You half expect them to offer you hot chocolate and a wool blanket. Fully equipped with a lovely Dutch ( but for our ski chateau analogy we'll pretend she's Swiss) practice manager who knew everything about my insurance plan. My RDA was fantastic, and thorough. Really, really thorough, so thorough in fact that my teeth woke up with a huge ego and now think they're Karsahians. The big bonus in this ( aside from the stellar photos for Facebook) is it cut down drastically on the amount of poking and prodding I've always experienced with dentists. Now about Dr.Yankie. I don't know if she always wears a black lab coat, but it's very hip. Aside from the obvious fashion merits, it adds to the feeling that you aren't in a dentist office at all. Her exam on my neglected grill was thorough and very gentle. I was prepared to be admonished for my lack of oral upkeep, and hence prepared myself for a massive expense for my treatment plan. So imagine my surprise when Dr. Yankee made it seem completely normal that I hadn't been to the dentist in years and a treatment plan where I actually said out loud "That's it?" . Seriously, people. It' a homey ski chateau-y dentist in Mill Valley, and I am a complete tightwad. The only drawback I can see is they don't seem to have a treasure chest of toys. Maybe it's hidden. read more

I'm not going to lie. I hate dentists and not in the way that everyone says they do because it's not their favorite place to go to or not their ideal type of health appointment. I have anxiety and aversion resulting from a root canal from when I was 4. I didn't take nitrous, I was not adequately numb before injections, and I didn't get the right dosage so it was painful...All while I was strapped down. At 4. Growing up, I had dentists that would lie. You know, "oh, don't worry, I won't touch it". What do they do next? THEY TOUCH IT. Fast forward 10-12 years and I hadn't been to the dentist in that long. The fact that I even had any teef left is a miracle. Enter Dr. Yankie. My initial consultation consisted of x-rays, photos, and a consultation with Dr. Yankie. She asked me about my dental history and listened to my worries and concerns from my scarred childhood. She made her suggestions and was never pushy about them. I have since been there for 3 cleanings and dare I say it was actually relaxing. Going to her is like going to your friend's Tahoe cabin or some ski chalet, candles and music included. Sometimes I expect Fabio to pop out but that's for another review. Everyone is super warm and friendly from Inge, the receptionist, to each of the RDHs. The RDHs explain everything thoroughly and what to expect. They are incredibly thoughtful and are very conscious about my stress levels. Everything can't be good, right? Imagine the dread that overcame me when I was told I had cavities and that it would take 2 appointments to complete at about an hour to an hour and a half each.. Every possible bit of fear and the thought of running from the chair came to me. I'm the patient that gets sent down to the lab for blood draws and never shows up. I'm also that patient that might not come to a cavity filling appointment because I'm not ashamed to say that I'm scared at my age. Seriously, Dr. Yankie worked on me like a boss. I was offered nitrous and it was FANTASTIC. If you are ever offered or can ask for it, take it. I was high as a kite and they made sure to adequately numb me. I didn't even feel the injection or the procedure. I'm going back for another cavity fill today and that's the thing I'm most excited about! Peeps almost had to kick me out to get out. Inge, the soft-spoken and soothing voice behind her office, is incredibly helpful. If an appointment is not available, she will put you on the wait list except she actually remembers to call you when something pops up. She calls with appointment reminders that are perfectly timed. The best part? They know the arrangement I have at work regarding my dental plan and instead of making me pay right away, they are totally fine with me paying when I get reimbursed at each paycheck. The flexibility, openness and friendliness of this practice is second to none. Trust me when I say I have issues with dentists and that you cannot go wrong with Dr. Yankie and her team. read more

I HATE THE DENTIST! ok I said it! and while nobody is ever going to convince me that going to the dentist will ever be without stress; I will say, that I have at least made a promise to Dr. Yankie that this time, I will keep up with routine check-ups... Dr. Yankie clearly is passionate about what she does and it shows. She takes the extra step and takes her time to do it right! After my appointment, she spent a good 30 minutes going over how she was going to help me have not only better hygiene, but better overall appearance and smile, something I have been self conscious about for most of my adult life. I kinda got the feeling that I was going to be a "special project" for her, but then again, I'll venture she makes all her patients feel this way! She has a very attentive staff who take their cue from the top - Dr. Yankie you rock! read more

Wonderful staff, and great dentist. I call Dr. Yankie's office the Zen Den. Integrity thats hard to find. A lost art that is hard to find in modern day business. Great for your whole family. read more

Dr Yankie's office and staff have been a pleasure to work with every time I visit Dr Yankie. Their pleasant demeanor and welcoming attitude is just wonderful considering I'm not a big fan of the dental visit anyway! Dr Yankie and her staff are very professional yet a comforting force every time I visit with my "past due" appointments. No judgements, no lectures, just fair and equitable assistance during every visit. read more

When I first consulted with Dr. Yankie, she assured me that my fear of pain in the dentist's chair was something she understood and that I wouldn't have to worry about with her. So true! I had to have a lot of work done back then and it was never a pain -- literally. Not only is she a talented dentist but she goes to great lengths to make sure you understand the work that's being done. The whole staff is friendly and courteous, making you feel welcome even when your mouth is full of dental implements. And the office is set in a very relaxing environment -- I've rarely been there when I haven't caught sight of a deer or squirrel out the window. And, of course, I've gotten great mileage for years from the fact I get to tell people that my dentist's name is Yankie. read more

Dr Yankie's passion for her work and her true concern for her patients and for the care & value they receive is second to none. I switched Dentists about 8 years ago and have been extremely happy ever since. Dr Yankie's team is very professional - and alway address clients politely and rationally. Super caring and professional - a model for modern dentistry. read more

For me, comparing a visit to the dentist with anything other than complete misery, would be take an act of God. But I have to say that Dr. Yankie has changed my thinking. Aside from her being a super talented and competent dentist, she has a very classy and hip vibe, that I really jive with. She takes the "clinical" aspect out of it, and makes the visit more enjoyable. That's not to say that she isn't a total professional, which she is. It's just that she brings a little something extra. read more

My husband and I both see Dr Yankie even though she's out of our network because she is absolutely the best!! I made the mistake of going to an orthodontist for invisalign and my treatment involved 48 trays! Dr Yankie took over my invisalign care and after a few tweaks it turned out I only needed 14 trays. I was able to get the same beautiful results without spending a year in aligners. Turns out she was far more knowledgeable about invisalign then the orthodontist! For us she has been a one stop shop for cosmetic dental work and of course regular dental work. She genuinely cares about her patients and her work is meticulous! I actually look forward to my teeth cleanings because her hygienists are so thorough and still manage to have a gentle touch. Also her office feels like a spa which is not why we go but it is a nice perk! read more

I never bother to write reviews...ever...good or bad. But this time I have to. I am terrified of the dentist and avoid it as much as possible. Not a good thing, I know, because by the time I finally go, there's usually an issue that could have been prevented or handled early. Anyway, I finally got my courage up to go for a check up because one of my top molars was hurting pretty bad. I knew it wouldn't be good news, because by the time a tooth hurts, it's never good news. First the exam was the most thorough I've ever gotten and everything was explained every step of the way. Dr. Yankie and her staff both were aware of my fears, and handled me with great care, gentleness and concern, and really took the time to answer every single one of my questions. I found out that one of my wisdom teeth needed to be pulled asap. Pretty much the worst news for a girl who's terrified of the dentist!!! I decided to wait until after the tooth pulling to write this review and here I am telling you how great her practice is. I walked in that dreadful day, and was greeted with a smile. I started crying when Dr. Yankie asked how I was doing, and she held my hands, looked me in the eyes and reassured me. The whole procedure took about 20 minutes from first sitting in the chair to walking out. There was very little discomfort, and she explained everything every step of the way. Once the numbness wore off there was no pain at all afterwards. I am so glad I found Dr. Yankie, I completely trust her and her team. I highly recommend her!!! read more

What can I say from the moment you walk in, it's not your "usual" sterile dental environment. It's warm, inviting with beautiful trees to look at while you're in the chair or a beautiful fountain. Classical music plays gently in the back ground, not elevator music and next thing you know, you're not nervous you are grounded and feel at easy. Dr. Yankie is everything you'd want your dentist to be. She is professional, thorough, gentle, and easy to talk to and wants you to be and feel your best and will work to make that happen for you with confidence! Being over 40 I thought I'd never find a dentist like her but I'm so glad I did! You want the best dentist who gives the best treatment and wants the best for you? Call today! You won't regret it! Don't forget to ask about Invisalign! You'll be smiling with confidence for the rest of your life!! read more

Dr. Yankie has been my dentist for over 15 years. She is the best dentist I've ever had (and I've had a lot of them). She's thorough and attentive and very professional. Her staff is professional and friendly. Inge at the front desk is always helpful and pleasant. I always dreaded going to the dentist, but Dr. Yankie makes it worthwhile. read more

My daughter sent me to this exceptional professional. The result? Fifteen years of superb dental care and TLC! I look forward to my visits with Dr. Yankie and staff. Always will. How often do you hear that? Pete Abrahams read more

I have been going to Dr. Yankie-Marsh for a few years now (before she moved from San Francisco to Mill Valley). I could go to a dentist closer to home, but I wouldn't. I have always found her to be very concerned, attentive to my dental needs from a health and cosmetic perspective. Her hygienists are always fast, friendly and professional. Her office has always been flexible for appointments / rescheduling. Her office is well worth the drive and tolls for me. read more

Dr. Yankie and her entire staff are outstanding! From the moment you walk into her office, you feel calmed by the surroundings (like stepping into a friend's living room with aroma therapy). Dr. Yankie takes the time to hear your concerns (and fears, in my case), and listens! Her treatment rooms are comfortable and state-of-the-art. Her work is impeccable. She fixed a bonded tooth that two previous dentists messed up. She fixed several old fillings, and made me a night guard. Her hygienists and dental assistants are also excellent and her receptionist is the sweetest person. As someone who dreads going to dentist (and is mildly phobic), I can say that going to the dentist never felt so relaxing. The other outstanding Yelp reviews are spot on! Dr. Yankie is the best of the best. read more

I absolutely love everything about my experience when I go to Dr Yankee's from the warm and competent Inge at the front desk to my gentle and thorough Hygienist to the wonderful Dr Yankee herself , I highly recommend . read more

Dr Yankee is clearly the best dentist I have ever seen. She pays close attention to all of her clients. Her focus is on prevention as well as treatment. I was surprised that after she worked on several adjacent teeth on my lower jaw that my bite was so much stronger. Beforehand I did not know that it was compromised. She also saved several of my teeth from root canals. To all those of you out there who delay going to the dentist, know that it will catch up to you eventually. The receptionist is very helpful and takes good care of everybody. I had my teeth cleaned by Gina. She is also excellent and taught me more about taking care of my mouth. I highly recommend Dr Yankee office. If you have to wait a bit in the office, remember that it is because the person before you is getting the great attention that you will get when it is your turn. read more

I LOVE this office. Going to the dentist scares me. I really don't like it. But Dr. Yankie and her staff are so competent, friendly and professional that it helps me relax and lessens my anxiety. I've been going for over 2 years and the quality of service is always excellent. Highly recommend. read more

While an appointment at the dentist's office is not something that I look forward, I can honestly say that I am always excited to see Dr. Yankie, Maria, Shawna and the rest of the staff - everyone is so caring and they subscribe to the school of painless-dentistry which I happen to be a strong believer in :) I first saw Dr. Yankie when I lived in Mill Valley over 8 years ago. I have since moved to SF but would NEVER consider another practice. They are professional, on-time and make me feel comfortable and cared for. When I leave the office, I am always smiling (and that has nothing to do with the fact that my teeth look great and/or painkillers that may have been administered :) ) Dr. Yankie and your awesome team - thank you! read more

Awesome dentist! I broke a crown and she had me smiling the same day.Great staff too. I am a bit stressed usually to see a dentist but Dr. Yankie and her staff took care of me with aplomb. Dr Yankie is an artist with your smile the canvas. Nuff said! read more

I am new to Marin and was in need of a dentist. I hopped online, read some reviews, and was sold on the positive feedback posted for Dr. Yankie and her team. Three appointments later, I can say with confidence that the treatment I received was absolutely stellar. Hands down the best dentist I have ever been to! read more