Dr. Lara and her team, including Evita, are absolutely amazing. I haven't been to the dentist in over 10 years because I'm so afraid of getting any dental work done. I cracked a tooth months ago but tried to ignore the pain for months until it got really bad. So, finally I had to go. All things considered it was a good experience. I've been going ever since. read more

I have had my braces for over 13 years with them. No luck or help has been provided in effort to get them removed. Im left with the horrible pain of mental health & depression i feel from having them for so many years. Its sad and embarrassing. No proper plan was ever done or no importance just scheduled every month a wire change...year after year after year. I was given a 2 year time frame but its now been over 10 years with the same braces on. They are all very nice im the office and they offer great payment plans but if money is all you care about because for the past 13 years since i started going there at age 15 im now 27 i have been making payment. Maybe since i never went with a parent they thought it wasnt ever important. Im scared to think how much money & gas since i live over an hour away now after 10 years. I believe i was quoted 5k im high school but im sure i have paid them well over 10k with my gas and time. I hope somebody else has a better experience than me. im afraid to think of all the gum disease i may have after so many years with braces and all the harm this place has truly done to me. read more

One of the stranger experiences of my life. I came here because going to my last dentist was a pretty traumatic and ongoing experience. I'd been meaning to come in since I moved to this coast but, it hadn't happened. Finally made the commitment to come in this past July. Called at the start of July after I had broken a tooth in the so called "aesthetic zone". Was told to wait two weeks for an appointment. Ok, two weeks waited. The receptionist then calls me two days before my appointment and says she needs to move it. Ok. Appointment moved. The receptionist then calls me the day before my appoint. And says the appointment needs to be moved again. Ok. Moving an appointment twice for something booked weeks in advance felt a little to a lot odd to me. But, whatever. I really liked the idea of being unconscious for dental work because that seemed far more manageable than my previous experience of being awake. Finally saw Dr.Grimaldi on July 21st. The office staff was pleasant enough and understanding of my extreme anxiety. However, because I was so anxious, understandably I was having a hard time processing directions. One should think understanding that would be par for the course? Dr.Grimaldi offered a couple options for restorations but, without seeing anything written out or in print, how am I going to make heads or tails of what you're saying to me? I don't process things well while anxious. And I don't process things well not in print. So, I asked the office for a written treatment plan and was assured it would be sent to me later the day or tomorrow. The night passed. It wasn't sent. The next day passed. It wasn't sent. Gave the benefit of the doubt for the weekend. It wasn't sent. The next week passed. So, I figured Friday-Friday, surely NOW the treatment plan will come. But, it didn't. I called the office again. I was assured "Dr.Grimaldi is really busy and your treatment plan is long. We'll send it right after this phone call." It wasn't sent. I called again three more times over the next couple weeks and then began calling other offices. It has been 62 days. And the receptionist has told me multiple times the treatment plan was going to be sent "right after this phone call". Including asking me "What was your email again?" and then repeating it back to me correctly. Guys, you had it anyway, *I* emailed *you*. I have also never received a reply to my emails. Despite staff acknowledgement they were received. I don't know what in the world was going on here but, if you expect people to consent to extensive restorations, it'd be nice for you to convey to them *what* they're consenting to in a format they can process through anxiety. The whole thing was just odd. If you're not taking new patients, don't have time or don't want me as a patient for whatever reason, a simple communication of this fact would be doing more responsible business than continually lying to me and saying "You're sending the treatment plan right after this phone call." Multiple times. Dr. Grimaldi himself seemed nice. Still no idea why this did not go in a straightforward manner. Edit: As of today, 11/28, two other dentists have requested the digital xrays billed by this office to my insurance (using up the annual allotment) and in both cases neither office was successful in obtaining them (they called right in front of me - so I know they asked). Leading to me being exposed to unnecessary extra radiation and out of pocket cost at another office. What the heck? read more

For years, and I mean like 17 years, I refused to go to the dentist. Why? I had a terrible childhood experience that left me literally dental-phobic. I really wanted to go, but every time I got in the chair I would start shaking, sweating, crying... I had actually told several dentists I had to go to the bathroom and then run for my life. And then I met Frank Grimaldi. I first met Dr. Grimaldi at UCSF. They have a clinic where they will put you under general anesthesia to do dental work. Unfortunately, it takes months to get an appointment. Once I found out about it, I called and got an appointment with the clinic for about 7 months later. Once I got there, Dr. Grimaldi met me. He didn't make me sit in the chair. We sat in his office and just talked about who I was and why I was coming to UCSF. At the end of the interview, he told me that I should come to his private practice. So, I did. And an incredible thing happened. Dr. Grimaldi told me that I didn't need to sit in the chair until I felt comfortable. He gave me nitrous to calm me down, and I was able to sit in the chair. Sure, I still got a little nervous, but I certainly didn't need to run. He did an exam, cleaned my teeth (which I was NEVER able to do) and sent me on my way. I had to come back a few weeks later to get cavities filled, which he did under IV sedation. Those first two visits were life altering. Now, though I still need the nitrous, I religiously go to the dentist every six months. He's also gotten me to get braces, a miracle! Without him, I probably wouldn't have any teeth, seriously. The man has changed my life. No matter how afraid you are of the dentist, I would recommend you go to Dr. Grimaldi. He will cure you. I promise. There is NO ONE as afraid as I was. read more

Wow, had a great experience at the dentist this morning! I bought a kgb deal for Smile Authority and choose Dr. Grimaldi by his 5 star yelp review. When I called the office, I was pleased to find out that I would be able to schedule an appointment right away. When I arrived, they promptly brought me back for x-rays and a cleaning. The hygienest, Myline, was gentle but thorough. She was very conscious about sensitive areas of my gums and advised me to brush a little more carefully in one spot, as I was starting to get a little tartar build up. I was very pleased when they said that I had no cavities, since the last dentist that I saw recommended THREE fillings. Dr. Grimaldi was friendly and calm. He specializes in patients with anxiety, so he made an effort to put me at ease. All in all, a GREAT experience, and I would wholeheartedly recommend! read more

I have to agree with Sybil, all of the reviews about Dr. Grimaldi are true. I don't have massive fear of the dentist, but I do have some anxiety about it. When I found out I needed a root canal AND a crown, I was pretty upset in the office, and the anxiety started to kick in. Dr. Grimaldi was so very kind, just started asking me about my personal work and life to change the subject and cheer me up. He also went out of his way to make sure my dental plan would be pain free and comfortable for me. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone. read more

I just visited Dr. Grimaldi today to use my Groupon for a dental exam, cleaning, and x-rays. From beginning to end, my experience with Dr. Grimaldi's office was a breeze. I had no problem scheduling my appointment, which is a miracle considering how bombed his office must be by the Groupon. In fact, I was even originally offered times for that same week. Mylene handled my cleaning and x-rays. She was very, very sweet and personable, not to mention very thorough and efficient with the procedure itself. I'm looking forward to having her again next time! Plus, Dr. Grimaldi's office is really outfitted with the latest technology - I was definitely impressed. And when Dr. Grimaldi came around to see me, I found him to be helpful in answering my questions. Side note: From seeing the artifacts, art, and certificates decorating the office, I think Dr. Grimaldi may even do humanitarian dental work in communities in China, Nepal, etc. So bonus points for bringing your business to his office. All around, an easy, great visit to a dentist I'd recommend! read more

ALL of what other reviewers have said is true. However, I want to mention that you don't have to be highly anxious or dentist phobic to see this dentist. He is simply a great dentist who wants you to be comfortable and be happy with your teeth. To me, he does what all doctors and dentists should do; he listens, answers questions, explains if you don't get it, and doesn't proceed unless you are ready. He works WITH you, as does his professional and courteous staff. I've been seeing Dr Grimaldi since 1994. And like most of Dr Grimaldi's patients, I had a dental phobia. Notice the word HAD. Because of his attitude and skill, I now let him do things I never would have even thought about having done, let alone actually allowing it to happen. I now actually look forward to seeing my dentist and his staff. And there are even times where I no longer need nitrous. For a woman who had lost all her teeth but 4 because of her phobia, to be getting implants and be OK with it is nothing short of a miracle. read more

For me to give a dentist five stars means a lot. I have hated dentists and anything to do with dentistry ever since I was badly traumatized from a wisdom teeth extraction in my early teens. Since then, I would go four or five years before finally seeing one because I had so many cavities that it became painful to eat. Dr. Grimaldi specializes in highly anxious and dentist phobic patients. The entire staff is trained on dealing with anxiety and making you as comfortable as you can be. They constantly monitored me and checked in with me about my anxiety levels. The IV sedation technique, which Dr. Grimaldi has been an expert in for close to thirty years, is a life saver for someone like me. I just float away to LALALand and by the time I get back, everything is done! I think for the first time in my life, I actually trust a dentist and I'm no longer afraid to get dental treatments. And the staff is wonderful - they had to sedate me for a procedure unexpectedly and they drove me and my car back home. Folks, it doesn't get better than this. I highly recommend Dr. Grimaldi and his staff to any patient - dentist phobics or not. read more

I bought the Groupon deal for Dental Exam, Teeth Cleaning, and X-Rays for $35 ($300 value). I booked an appointment quickly on the phone and received a confirmation email. I had my visit this morning at 450 Sutter on the 26th floor at 11AM. I waited about 5-10min listening to their Christmas music, and then seen by Mylene. She started with the x-rays which was super high-tech and took x-rays of the left, middle, and right palette. She explained to me each section and gave me recommendations for wisdom teeth removal and filling in a gap. After the x-rays, she cleaned my teeth by removing the tartar and plaque buildup, and then polished them. I was out by 1pm. Doctor Grimaldi couldn't see me because he stepped out for lunch, I was told he was going to see my x-rays and they me a call. Not to be bias that Mylene lived in Florida and I'm from there, but she's awesome! She was extremely patient and explained step by step what she was doing. She was gentle, gave me great tips, a toothbrush, and floss. I look forward to my next visit in six months. My teeth look fantastic now and I can't stop smiling, thank you! read more

I went here yesterday for a diagnostic appointment. The staff was very courteous and helpful. Due to traffic I had to make a couple changes to time, and Marta was gracious in helping me reschedule. The space itself is small, but clean and well-organized. It also had incredible views of Union Square, as the office is located on the highest floor of one of the tallest buildings. It was an incredible touch for a dentist office. Lastly, Dr. Gramdli was incredible. I met with him for only 10 minutes, as he chatted with me about a dental issue, and he was kind, insightful, and sensitive. In answering my questions, he took out a pen and paper and took time to draw out the concepts. I was impressed by his patience and his clear communication skills. I would very strongly recommend coming here for your dental needs. read more

He is an extraordinary dentist and he is compassionate and gentle at ALL times. I have never found a better dentist.

The best Dentist in the bay area. He's caring and knows what he's doing. He gave me my smile back. I worked in the dental field for many years so I can tell you he is the best hands down!!!! read more

I'm stuck. If I had written this review at anytime in the last 10 years, it would have been 5 stars with a glowing review. I would have run out of synonyms for wonderful. Unfortunately my last visit happened. First Dr. Grimaldi is not at 450 Sutter anymore. The new office that he shares is across the city on Ocean in West Portal. The office staff had been very patient with me I kept having to cancel and reschedule appointments at the last second. I had moved to Vallejo since the last time I had been there. Since I saw a local dentist for an emergency visit, I knew what was wrong and knew I'd be sedated so I had trouble finding rides. They didn't tell me until I mentioned this problem that they would let me use Uber or Lyft as long as they saw I was going straight home. First, the guy in front of me was supposed to be after me but scheduling problems and they asked me if he could go first. Of course, they'd been so patient with me. I could hear that this man was in pain during his procedure. He left looking horrible. Then Dr. G says the gas tanks aren't working properly so they couldn't get the previous patient comfortable, would I mind waiting 20 more minutes while they switched out the tanks, cut to an hour and a half later. The only reason I was annoyed was I knew I'd now be going home during the heavy commute. But patient with me so me with them. Then couldn't get the nitrous right. Barely felt like anything. Then they tried several times on 4 different places in my arm to put in an IV for the sedation. When they gave up, I was ready to give up too. They said no it'll be fine. It wasn't. First round of numbing shots didn't work, nitrous is still not working. Second round of numbing shots kinda works. Nitrous works a little a couple more numbing shots and then they start. And I mean they start doing something that feels and sounds like someone is trying to hammer a tooth (this was a tooth removal) into my head. I start crying and shaking and I can't breathe. Dr.G. tells them to give me something through my nose that calms me down. While I'm calming down I'm left alone until the nurse comes back with a couple permanent crowns that had come in for me and they want to do them now. Ok. Then they go back to the hammering. Then I'm shoved full of gauze, told to eat clear liquids given pain meds then walked to Lyft and sent home. I don't hear back from them. After every other procedure I would hear back usually a few times. This whole time there's problems with there phone's and when I do get Marta I only got one of my requests for an anti nausea med answered. I asked for sublingual and said sublingual sooo many times. An anti nausea med can't work if you can't keep it down. Also explained not a controlled substance. I got the swallow pills and was told they could only prescribe 10 because it was a controlled substance. Zofran or its generic is NOT. After another couple weeks I gave up until there was painful swelling with a bump above the permanent crowns they'd put in. When I called to get an appointment about it the receptionist M. said ,You want to see him about this? Yes, yes I did. Then I needed to reschedule but couldn't get through to them. Tried that day and the next 2. Dr. Grimaldi and his staff were always so kind and patient. They put up with a lot of my scheduling issues that would have had me fired from other practices. I understood paying thousands in late cancelation or as they would call them no shows when their phones weren't working which M. admitted to me they knew about. But I'm never going back. My visit is the reason people go to highly trained and regarded dentists like Dr. Grimaldi. I had been getting better too. Now I have to go to a new dentist to take care of the abscess on top of the abscess on top of the tooth next to the permanent crowns they put in because it needs a root canal. The bump and swelling they didn't want to schedule for and then I couldn't reach 5 mins later to reschedule. read more

Early experiences with dentists involved an allergy to Novocaine and a certain dentist who apparently thought a filling disintegrating in my mouth for three days post-drilling was normal. Needless to say, I have a wee bit of anxiety associated with dentists (basically, I avoided going for years out of fear of panic attacks). This gives a little bit of context for why I love this dentist, who, incidentally, is known as the dentist for people with "dental anxiety"....he actually prints it on the business cards. Not only do they never yell at you for being a bad flosser, if you are a basket case like me, you get nitrous for cleanings (and Valium/Demerol for fillings). I have referred so many people who now use this dentist, they really should be providing me with some sort of frequent flier program. read more

Very patient and caring dentist. Worked very well with my son (who is autistic) getting his teeth cleaned.

Dentist = overwhelming anxiety and fear and pure panic...If I had only found Dr. Grimaldi and his staff years ago that might have been the case! I have always (it seems) needed root planning in order to even clean my teeth. And maybe it's in my head, but I just don't get fully numb and even to do the root planning or deep cleaning - I would constantly be jumping out of my skin cause it was like volts of electricity!! And o.k. I even cried! My teeth have gone from bad to worse because I just don't go - all experiences have not been good and have even been told you need to calm down and figure it out! Then came Dr. Grimaldi - only two visits so far but my God what a difference. I opted for sedation (like I had a choice:)) (had to have a tooth pulled today) and did not feel any pain... zero... no lightning bolts zipping through my roots! His staff are exceptional beyond words and I have not been lectured either. I would imagine I am in for many more visits and I hope that with each the anxiety will be less. But to have not one but two positive dental experiences...Life altering. Thank you Dr. Grimaldi and staff!! read more

Wow Wow Wow I am one of those people who has severe anxiety when it comes to dentist. I recently moved to Pacifica chipped a porcelain crown and although not bad it was a front tooth and I wanted it fixed. After careful research I decided on Dr Grimaldi. From the minute I had my first consultation it was a great experience. Today I had my crown repaired with sedation he was great. He explained everything from the sedation to the initial work being done. I would recommend him for a dentist and he did a excellent job on my porcelain crown. His office staff is awesome the girls are so helpful and caring. Hands down one of the best dentist I have ever been to oh and very reasonable for his work. I need another crown replaced and I am so confident my next visit will be great.. read more

Very calm and patient dentist, did a teeth cleaning for my 14 year old son who is severely autistic.

Dr. Frank Grimaldi is a master dentist. You are in good hands when you become his patient.

Pretty high tech dental office. I got a lot of attention while getting exam, X-rays, cleaning, and oral health screenings read more

I was referred to Frank Grimaldi because I suffer from severe dental anxiety. When I attempted to describe my dental history and medical problems, I was very disturbed by his poor listening ability. I'd expect that someone who claimed to specialize on patients with dental anxiety would have compassion, patience and exceptional skill. This man doesn't even come close to having any of these things. If anything, he's exacerbated the situation. Mr. Grimaldi gave me his business card and said his cellphone was written on the back. After a difficult appointment, I was told to call if I had problems over the weekend. I was frantic and in pain, yet my husband's and my calls went ignored. My denture plates never fit correctly and I spent a fortune trying to find an adhesive to stop my teeth from falling out. I felt like Mr. Grimaldi opened a drawer, shoved his arm into a denture graveyard and then gave me the first dental plate he grabbed. I was advised to wait for at least a year for my gums to "settle". The only settling that should have been done was with an attorney for dental malpractice. He is responsible for my suffering an emotional trauma from which I may never recover. The dentures NEVER did fit and I was never able to find an adhesive to secure them. Recently I was referred to another dentist where I learned that my inferior dentures weren't even a permanent type. WTF? I believe Mr. Grimaldi takes advantage of those who have severe dental anxiety and are intimidated by him. He certainly has done so with me. read more

The best in the bay area for dental phobics like me. I was so bad that i could not even drive to the dentist office, didnt go for 10 years. He basically cured me while fixing my teeth. Hv been to other dentists who have commented on the quality of his work. I now drive 40+ miles from the south bay because of his excellent work, service & staff. My highest recommendation especially if you have dental phobia. read more

After extensive searching and consultation with multiple dentists I finally found Dr. Grimaldi. To be clear, my need was not for myself, but my cousin, a decorated veteran suffering from early onset dementia. Though my cousin is 100% service connected with the VA, and living in a SNF in a VA home, one specifically for memory care, the VA, at neither the state nor federal level would handle his dental needs; the VA, as it turns-out, does not provide preventive (i.e. Cleaning/x-rays) sedation dentistry for non-cooperative dementia patients. For over a year I was working with the VA for a solution, with many failed attempts, but finally had to go outside, with no compensation from the VA. Dr. Grimaldi handled my cousin in a wonderfully professional manner, only using nitrous oxide, though I was expecting I.V., and had prepared my cousin for that by having a heplock placed prior to his appointment. The procedure included minimal physical restraint, actually at my suggesting, and incorporated full film, a tooth extraction and cleaning. Dr. Grimaldi is a dentist with decades of experience in sedation, and very enjoyable to observe - he's exceptionally calm and methodical. I felt, given the office's SF location, that the pricing was quite reasonable, esp. compared to an OR with separate anethesiologist which would likely have cost more then twice what my cousin paid. In conclusion, I have been very impressed with Dr. Grimaldi, and his office staff; they are quite competent, and pleasant to work with. read more

My special needs son has longstanding anxiety about dental visits. Dr. Grimaldi and staff put him at ease, treated him with patience and professionalism, and provided the needed dental care. The interaction between dentist and support staff was remarkable in that each reflected familiar anticipation of the next step by the other. Dr. Grimaldi's attention to providing appropriate anxiety relief was excellent. I recommend this dental practice. read more

Terrible dentist. I complained about my toothache and he didn't even ask me any questions. Very insensitive and treats you like cattle. Get in get out. He's in it for the money and does not care about you at all. Plus he slurs his speech. You can hardly understand him. Stay away everyone. read more