Call me old fashioned, but I would dread going to the dentist. It's not so much the pain and…read morediscomfort 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.

She said I had cavities and then my other dentist said I did not she wanted to drill more and my…read moreother dentist said I had no cavities I'll never go back.

This is the best Dentist ever, for families or individuals. Dr. Little is such a great dentist,…read morebecause he is technically very competent, but also is an artist with teeth. Crowns come out beautiful, because he puts in the attention to detail. He has a delightful personality. It is difficult to get in as a patient now, because Dr. Little is so in-demand. So, put your name on the list, and keep your fingers crossed. You will hopefully get in! Also, his staff and dental assistants are excellent as well. My Dental Hygienist there is Janet, and I think she is great. So are the other hygienists there. In every area, Dr. Little is so artistic, caring, careful, and wonderful in every way! Highly recommended!!!!

Ever since I found this office, I cannot thank Dr. Little and his staff enough for helping me feel…read morecomfortable to come in and get dental work done without extreme fear and anxiety. Dr. Little, you are hands-down, the best dentist I have ever met and I will forever be grateful for your gentle touch, for your fun and great sense of humor, and for everyone's ability to make me feel comfortable and safe. If you are looking for a dentist that you can trust, that is kind, fun to talk to and gentle, you have found a hidden gem. I have never hugged any other dentist, but Dr. Little. I always am happy to see you. Thank you for that! I have had some big work done and never left in tears or pain and dreading to have to come back! You are amazing at what you do!!!

I actually look forward to coming here!…read more My first visit was incredibly welcoming, friendly, and productive. The staff are knowledgeable and kindly educated me on their processes (I'm a curious George). Most of my dental experiences before coming to this office made me feel rushed to get in and out. I feel like I receive high quality of care from this office because they take their time to provide me care, and I love how good my mouth felt after the visit!

The staff at this office are helpful and knowledgeable. I had a lot of questions about my treatment…read moreand cleaning that was provided to me by my insurance. Would highly recommend. There's parking but it's tight - overall was satisfactory.

I have been going to this office for years now and always have a pleasant experience even with my…read moredental anxiety. The dental hygienists are always so understanding with, gentle, and thorough in their work. Dr. Frade is great as well. Very warm opening reception and homey but clean feel inside the office. Love the x ray machine/ 3D Tooth scanner machine here that plays classical music and is super comfortable for getting the procedure done. Best experience getting x rays done I've ever had at any office.

Very competent and professional, from the front desk to Dr. Frade himself. This is a well run…read moreoperation and they are very accurate with appointment times. I think Dr. Frade is an excellent dentist.

My children and I have been lucky enough to have Dr. Smida as our dentist for the past 8 years…read more During that time they have gone from being terrified of the dentist to asking when they can go see Dr.Branko again! As a TMJD patient I have never had a dentist go above and beyond to make sure I'm comfortable and give me adequate breaks. He doesn't upsell, he and his staff don't make you feel less than for lack of frequency with cleanings or cavities. Additionally, he calls to follow up on his treatments, making sure we feel okay, giving instructions for healing. There is nothing better than going to a modernand high tech dentistry office where retainers, bridges, etc. are made in house. My daughters have always said the hygienists are like Disney princesses! They are so kind, sweet, and gentle.

Very disappointed with this dental office. Dr. Smida discussed a child's dental information in the…read morewaiting room, which I found extremely unprofessional and concerning regarding patient privacy. My husband was treated here as well, and it always felt like there was another procedure waiting around the corner. At one point, I started wondering if we were at a dental office or a subscription service because somehow there was always a "next thing" to pay for. I strongly recommend getting a second opinion before agreeing to additional treatment. Based on our experience, we will not be returning. Save yourself the headache and possibly your wallet.

This morning I got lost on my way to my dental appointment. I was upset about my sick dog, thought…read moreI knew the way but didn't, and have really sensitive teeth so always have a little anxiety about going to my appointments anyway. By the time I got in the chair I was close to tears. However within moments of my exam with Dr. Ghafourpour, I was already feeling better. She and her assistant were extremely gentle and thorough. We were even having a few laughs together about this crazy pandemic life we're all living. The bottom line is, I was all smiles when I left and felt determined to finally write her a review, especially as I have been her patient for years. Here it is: 1. Their COVID protocols are top of the line and they have the system all worked out. I've been twice during this pandemic and any fears I had before the first time were quickly resolved. The office is lovely and light and modern with easy parking. 2. The whole team is really friendly and organized. From Jill at the front desk to the dental assistants and Darya herself. 3. Dr. Ghafourpour is a really gentle, warm, efficient and thorough dentist. She won't recommend unnecessary procedures, (or shame you for not flossing! ) She is a creative problem solver and has an excellent mind. My whole family is delighted to have found her years ago!!

I I felt compelled to update my initial review of Dr. Gharfourpour due to her continued exceptional…read moreservice. I find her entire office to be fantastic. The office is clean, cheerful, and well-run. In my 50 plus years of going to a dentist. Dr. Darya is the best. Her attention to detail and skill are unparalleled. She utilizes the latest technology, but only if it makes sense after diligent research. Speaking of research, she continually updates her education on the latest breakthroughs in her field. Her manner is so gentle that I have referred a few people to her who have significant dentistry fears, and they have all followed up with me with deep gratitude for the referral due to her gentle touch and skill. The highest of recommendations!

What a lovely office. I am in town for a couple weeks and they got me in right away and referred me…read moreto an awesome oral surgeon. Thanks Ross Valley Dental.

Ross Valley Dental is a great option if you are looking for a dentist in the Marin area…read more I have been going to Ross Valley Dental for almost two years now. I have always felt the hygienists have been great. and Dr. Kazak is always quick but personable. As others have said, I never felt like I was being sold on any procedures especially for stuff that I did not need. I do appreciate the complimentary fluroide solution that they apply after the cleaning to ensure tooth health. They also have been super accommodating for fitting me in even with a last minute change in my schedule. When you go for the first time, it may be a hard to find as it is a little tucked away and shares a parking lot with a church. However, I have not had any issues parking in front to the office. Overall, I would recommend checking out Ross Valley Dental if you are looking for a dentist in the Marin area.

Dr. Goldstein did an AMAZING job with my L1 autistic toddler who HATES having his teeth brushed…read more His last dentist's attitude was, "if he's screaming, then I can get to the teeth!" and he tried very little to make my son feel comfortable. Dr. Goldstein, on the other hand, eased my son into the appt and had him lie down on top of my husband while he held him. There was no screaming or crying! My son even said "I got this" as she looked at his teeth. It was a world of difference and I appreciate it so much! It was such a relief after dreading dentist appointments with our son.

I chose this dental practice when I first moved to Marin County 11 years ago based off of its…read morestellar Yelp reviews, not realizing that it is a bit of a drive from my home on the other side of Marin. My fellow Yelpers were right and it's been well worth the drive, as Dr Costella, Dr Goldstein, Patient Care Coordinator Raquel, hygienist Mahnaz, and every staff person I have interacted with over the years has been kind, gentle, and thorough. I have changed jobs a few times in the past 10 years, and I appreciate that all of my employee-sponsored dental insurance plans have been accepted at this practice.