I think most people can agree - It is difficult to find joy in going to the dentist, whether it's for more serious work or a mere cleaning - and my perspective is no different. I have always dreaded the dentist. And while my fear of dental work certainly hasn't been entirely eliminated during my time with Gateway, it has, indeed, been TREMENDOUSLY diminished - all thanks to the sensitivity, professionalism and high quality of service offered by the Gateway Dental Care team. Furthermore, I can broadly attest to their quality and caliber of services as it relates to all of the following: standard cleanings, filings, crowns and dental guards - and if your gag-reflexes happen to be as touchy as my own, well, for better or worse, I've given them a lot of practice working more cautiously around that, too, over the last couple of years! If this sounds like you, just mention being inspired by my "working around strong gag-reflex" referral, and I'm sure they'll give that much extra care to you, too! ;-* read more

As a long-term patient of Dr Francine Kitagawa, I can vouch for the office's professionalism and care through the past two decades. She has seen me through dental crowns, fillings, tooth chips and even an emergency visit to get a temporary crown. (The temporary crown was a work of art itself!) Dr Kitagawa and the staff are always mindful of my comfort, with continual check-ins if anything hurts. During my last visits this week, they even turned on the AC and supplied me with a soft blanket. The dental hygienist, Kat, is thorough yet gentle even when poking me with needles and drills. Dental visits are never fun, but the friendly and caring staff helps me get through it every single time. A shout-out to Maria at the front desk for her patience in scheduling and billing questions. Thank you to all of you! read more

i've been going to Gateway Dental Care for 15 years. They've done everything for me crowns cavities cleanings bridges I have never had anything but exceptional service Francine Kitagawa DDS it's gotta be the best in California no doubt thank you very much. read more

Best dental office I've ever been to. From the front office staff to the dentist, everyone is gentle and thorough. Only staff to finally figure out why it's so hard to numb me instead of getting frustrated and act like I'm lying. I do not enjoy getting stabbed repeatedly and still feeling a drill, but had so many other dentist and hygienist tell me I wasn't feeling pain I thought I was or that I would just have to suck it up. Turns out it's my weird nerves and not something I made up for attention. All it took was the staff here listening and looking closer to find out how to make me comfortable every time. They are detailed and do everything they can to work with insurance and payments to get the care you need. I recommend them to everyone I know. read more

Phenomenal dentist! Dr. Kitagawa has been my dentist for a number of years providing top notch care. Her office staff, especially Maria, goes above and beyond to accommodate patient needs and requests. Highly recommended!! read more

Always great experience at Gateway Dental. The entire staff is friendly and helpful. Reception, hygienist and Dr Kitagawa is awesome. Friendly and honest. Doesn't try to up sell you unnecessary work and she doesn't "guilt or scold" you for not doing everything you're supposed to be doing. Big 5 from me read more

This is more for review on the kindness of a human soul rather then a Dentist. Dr Kitagawa has done something so out of the box of human compassion for me I will always have a piece of her heart with me where ever I go in this world. What you have done for me was the most kind gesture and heart warming thing someone has ever done for me. I want to simply say thank you. Now as far as Dentist and all her staff is simply the best I have ever been to. Most people cringe with the thought off going to the Dentist. Believe me I have one of the worst mouth full of teeth we are working on making me have a nice smile again. I have a big tolerance of pain but still does not silence the anxiety of a dentist appointment I have never felt more comfortable seeing a dentist ever. I would love to give you 6 stars. I will tell everyone that I now about how great you are Dr Kitagawa. Thanks Jimmy read more

Overall pleasant experience! Staff was very nice and Dr. Kitagawa is very though. Highly recommend

First time patient, service and hospitality was superb. The staff really makes you feel comfortable and the office was very clean. The staff did an awesome job following Covid protocols by implementing air purifiers, sanitizers and fully masked staff and patients. Dr. Kitagawa did an amazing job explaining what was performed and on going observations regarding my dental care. I would recommend Gateway Dental Care! read more

Huge shout out to Dr. Francine Kitagawa! No only is she an amazing dentist but she is also a compassionate and generous human being ! She donated many masks cleaning supplies and PPE to our frontline urgent care clinic as soon as the pandemic broke out. So much gratitude from everyone in my clinic !! read more

I decided to try this place out for an extra dental cleaning. My dental hygienist was super thorough and knowledgeable in making sure my teeth is super clean. She even suggested in detail how to maintain a set of clean teeth. Thank you May for the cleaning! My teeth feels like a million bucks! I will definitely be coming back! Thank you assistant Maria for arranging my care. read more

They always make time to see me! I was able to get in the same day, since I was headed out of town. The massage chair takes your mind off what they are doing in your mouth! Love Dr. K and the entire team! read more

Good honest dental practice. I've been a patient there for a few years. Dr Kitagawa won't stick camera in your mouth nor will she recommend any procedure you don't need. No hygienist on staff the doctor does her own cleaning and exams. She is very personable and pleasant. This is a smaller practice not like your other McDental Offices. Everything is clean and well maintained with all the latest tools and technology. My only compliant is I don't like the neck rest on her dental chairs. But I keep forgetting to tell her! read more

Moving from Boston, I wanted to find an office in my dental network at MetLife. And perhaps I'm not used to California dentistry, but it was superb. This is coming from someone who hates dental work done. NOTE: First time drivers not familiar with the area, she's actually the first left-turn from Stoneridge, then into the shopping plaza if you're going South on Hopyard. Coming in: - Her office sign says, "Walk-ins welcomed." - Francine Kitagawa greeted me herself. - The waiting area are plush dark sofas, and the presentation was nifty. - There are slogan "graffiti" on the walls, one that was made by herself! - Plus, I found out Halle Berry was 43 from her magazine selections. 1st Times: - Francine gave me glasswear to shield my eyes from the "strobe light." - She gave me lip calm. - FINALLY Francine provided Pandora with my own pair of headphones. I think the only thing she missed was a cash bar, and this was beyond any dental atmosphere I have ever seen. It was fate when U2's best song played first (yes, yes, /flame). Clean-Up: - Her work was THOROUGH. To the point Francine was the first dentist to actually FLOSS my teeth as clean-up. - NOTE: Francine doesn't offer the cup to spit out, if you're that kinda person. I didn't bother asking, because it doesn't bug me, but just fyi. - GENTLE. She kept asking how I was doing. - If you have bad news, she breaks it to yah like a pro. And oh, she gave me this traveling bag take-away with a toothbrush and the toothpaste, that was the 10th nail in the coffin, so much so that it has led me to come home and write my first review..for a dentistry clinic. Wow. As long as I'm in the East Bay/San Fran area, I've locked down my dentist. read more

Dr. Kitagawa and her team are really good. It took me a while to find a dentist I liked in the East Bay and I'm pleased I now have. It's never nice going to the dentist, but I appreciate the efficiency and friendliness very much and above all I appreciate the gentleness of the treatment - Something that hasn't been apparent from other dental practitioners in the area. read more

I don't know anyone who likes going to the dentist and I'm no exception. Ever since I was a kid I've been embarrassed by my teeth but not enough for me to take better care of them. I've even gone over 12 years avoiding the dentist at one point. That being said...Dr Kitagawa wins the award for gentlest experience. The office also wins for the cleanest. I've only had about 5 dentists throughout my life and she's the best hands down. Dr Kitagawa gently cleaned my teeth and even fitted me for two pain-free crowns I've been avoiding for years. I don't get lectured or cross sold on cosmetic enhancement like some other places. Most importantly I'm not made to feel embarrassed about my teeth. That alone is worth the commute from Alameda to Pleasanton. Other pluses... Got my teeth whitened for FREE! Located in a strip mall so tons of parking. read more

Awesome service great dentist and team Got a thorough cleaning done easy and fast The RDA was great and was very detailed The dentist took her time to explain the X-ray and what she was saying This is the office you should go to for dental check up for sure!! read more

Dr. Kitagawa gave me a new PERFECT smile! I was a little nervous about having something done that would completely change my smile, but i have no regrets! I would never go back to my old smile! She did 8 Lumineers on my top front teeth and they look amazing!! The whole procedure was painless. The best part is none of my friends could even tell until I told them what I had done, everyones response is "wow, they look so natural!" and I love to show them off! I LOVE my new smile!! read more

Gateway Dental Care - My new smile thanks to Dr. Kitagawa! The left is before and the right is after she did 8 lumineers! I feel amazing! - General Dentistry Near Me - Pleasanton, California

Connie was so gentle and took great care of me. I cant say enough wonderful things about Gateway staff and the way they make their patients comfortable. I am taking my daughter this week for the 1st time because she has outgrown her pediatric dentist and they are happy to care for her and any anxiety she may have. read more

Hug your dentist! That's how I feel after a visit with my dentist, Dr. Kitagawa. Okay not to tell everyone about my dental history but the first time I saw Dr Kitagawa was an emergency extraction. I cracked one of my molars and needed quick attention. In short, she was professional, made me feel comfortable and got the job done. I've never been a fan of dentistry given the associated pain but I can say I'm visiting my dentist more regularly because of her. Since then I've had regular cleanings, a chipped tooth repaired, a filling replaced and teeth whitened. Best of all my 3year old daughter went in for her first cleaning (technically her 2nd) and she was all smiles. - No fuss (unlike her other visit to another dentist) and all of the sugar bugs were cleaned out! Aesthetics are also important and the office is pleasing to the eye. The equipment are up to dste. There is even a playroom for toddlers and kids while you get your teeth done. Glad to know Dr Kitagawa is my familly's dentist. read more

Super awesome dental practice! With Dr. Kitagawa and her staff's extreme care for every patient, I've never had a single bad experience here. Everyone here is super respectful and knowledgeable. I'll for sure be coming back here for as long as I can. read more

Dr. Kitagawa and her assistant Maria are so nice! I'm a big baby when it comes to the dentist (who isnt really?) due to my teeth being so sensitive and I feel fortunate to have found a dentist and team who are very patient and gentle. I highly recommend this office if you're looking for a dentist in the Pleasanton area. read more

The staff was so accommodating to my needs. They immediately got me in for an appointment as soon as possible. The staff is wonderful. If you are in the market for a dentist, please consider them. read more

The best dental office in town !!! I've been going to that office for 6 years now and they never changed - friendly , professional and understanding . I never felt rushed . I will recommended Dr. Kitagawa to anybody. I even took my mom there twice already . And Maria at the front desk always has her smile on ! Thank you Gateway Dental Care ! read more

Wow! I've been trying to get a dentist to repair my teeth for a few years! It was too expensive-- two dentist insisted I needed cosmetic care with repair of the cavities -- very expensive! I couldn't afford that and they refused to repair the cavities without cosmetic care-- expensive veneers ! Finally I met Dr Kittigow I called my sister and said " I love my dentist!" My sister said " I never thought I'd hear you say that" Dr Kitagawa has repaired a number of my teeth I've been trying to get treatment for 3 years! She's wonderful! Her staff is excellent! My teeth look fabulous! Smiling all the time now! Thanks to Dr Kitagawa and her staff!!! read more

This is the best dentist I've been to. Dr. Kitagawa doesn't try to do expensive and unnecessary work. She doesn't push anything on you. The office is clean and modern, but not so flashy that you suspect you're financing your dentist's expensive hobbies. If you have an appointment at 11:00, you're in the chair at 11:01. Rachel, the hygienist, is very thorough and gentle, and Maria at the front desk is awesome. You always get texts and reminders about your upcoming appointments and rescheduling (which I have had to do WAY too many times) is a breeze. I've been going to Dr. K for about 5 years and have not had one negative experience. read more

My family & i see no one else but Dr. Kitagawa in Pleasanton. Thank you for your great business, Dr. Kitagawa, Maria & May!

Dr. Kitagawa and staff have always been great to me. Maria explains any billing questions I have and has even worked with me to get the right charges out to my insurance. The office is clean and my appointments have always been on time. Dr. Kitagawa even responded to an emergency call I placed after new year's (party time), and made sure I got the care I needed. Can't speak highly enough. I even live in Walnut Creek now and I still choose her. read more

My review is overdue but nevertheless Dr. Kitagawa and her team (Maria, Jenny, & Connie) are the absolute best! I would definitely recommend Gateway Dental Care to anyone searching for a great dentist and caring staff. My family & I will surely miss them since we are no longer in the area. read more

The dentist & her assistant were so sweet & caring I almost slept through my cleaning because it was so peaceful. I truly gave what I felt like the service was given to me. 5 STARS !!!!!! read more

Jana W. Dr. Kitagawa has given me my confidence back. She explains everything in detail and she is very gentle, I haven't smiled this much in years,I thinks she's the Best dentist ever!!!!! She desires 50 stars yelp:) read more

Always a good appointment, cheerful greeting when you arrive, a very short wait time and your in. Great Dr. and staff.

Dr. Kitigawa and the entire team at Gateway are fantastic. Going to the dentist can as always cause nerves but they make 100% comfortable and never pressure or over sell on anything. I would not go anywhere else! read more

We recently moved to the area and I made an appointment for a routine check up and cleaning with Gateway Dental based on several Yelp reviews. I get regular check ups and cleanings every six months and have a history of good dental health with only 2 fillings in over 40 years. I was shocked when Dr Kitigawa informed me that after her review of my X-rays and exam that I had three cavities. How could these have developed so quickly? After a week of worrying about what may be the underlying cause of a rash of adult cavities I decided to get a second opinion from a dentist recommended by my new neighbor. This new dentist could not find any evidence of cavities on my right side. He did have to patch a previous filling on my left which he said looked like it was flipped out during Dr. Kittigawa's exam. I called Gateway dental after my second opinion and offered to discuss the findings with Dr. Kitigawa. I have not received a return call. I am both shocked and angered at what appears to be a for profit only diagnosis from Gateway Dental that would have resulted in a significant out of pocket cost for me and a time commitment for two separate appointments for unnecessary fillings. read more

I've been with Gateway Dental for over 5 years now and I love the service. Dr. Kitagawa is honest and doesn't try to push unnecessary dental work on you. The staff is also really friendly and on top of their work. They are accommodating with schedules, makes your experience as comfortable as possible and sends you reminders in advance. Great dentist and office! read more

Dr Kitagawa is fantastic. She is the most thorough dentist that I have ever been too. She is very personable and my entire family likes going to her. Her assistant Maria is also great. She is very gentle and is always helpful. I like that the office texts you reminders for your appts. We wouldn't go to anyone else! read more

Seriously the best dentist I've ever been to. The dentist is so nice, knowledgeable, and very courteous and aware to patients needs. They even put lip balm on my lips, I've never had a dentist do that!! They are very affordable too, and not opportunistic. I had a dentist tell me I needed a bunch of work done and gave me a price. She recommended the same work at a much lower cost. read more

My husband and 6 year old son goes to Dr Kitagawa. She's very gentle and doesn't over charge. Especially since we don't have insurance. She's very patient with our son and gave him some snazzy sunglasses to wear while he had his teeth cleaned which relaxed him quite a bit. My husband has to get the deep cleaning and he's very happy with the results. read more

The office was conveniently located. Dr. was very nice and thorough with my exam. One of the better experiences at a dental office, can't wait to go back in 6 months!! read more

I have been her patient for two years and I am very satisfied with her work. She is very professional in her job. She pays attention to the patient's feeling while working on the teeth, take extra time to make sure her work is very satisfactory. I strongly recommend to those who are usually not very comfortable with dentists try her out. read more