Amazing dentist with excellent bedside manner, even with my elderly grandfather. Friendly and warm office staff. Thank you!

TL/DR: Look elsewhere if you want a dentist who isn't dismissive of your pain and believes you when you tell them of previous experiences. I have been coming here for about 5 years. Cleanings have been fine, and I have gotten three fillings taken care of here. The first two were with Dr. Hagan. The one I got today was with a new dentist, I believe his name is Dr. Shah (I'm not positive of the spelling.) I have weird teeth. Other dentists have commented that I have long tooth roots and long nerves, and nerves that connect to each other in weird places. This means that over the years I have been able to feel a drill when I "shouldn't" be able to. This happened with my first filling appointment with Dr. Hagan. When I felt the pain he stopped and was apologetic. He left and took another look at my chart and x-rays, and confirmed that I have what he called a rare "extra" nerve that needed to be numbed in a different place. He numbed it, waited longer than usual, and continued. Everything was fine. At my next filling years later, I reminded him of what happened the last time. He confirmed that he had already seen his note in my chart and that he would give me the extra numbing shots and wait longer for them to kick in. There were no problems that time. Today I had a filling with the new dentist. I told him about my history and that I usually needed extra numbing and more time. I said that another dentist here had made a note of it and asked if he saw it. He was dismissive, saying something to the effect of "I'm very good at this/I've done this a lot". He didn't mention whether he had seen the note in my chart. I was not trying to infer that he isn't a good dentist, I was just telling him about my history. He assured me that the numbing would work fast. He then started drilling, which I fully felt. I cried out in pain and raised my hand and he stopped. He seemed shocked that I could feel it. (Like I said, I am aware that my teeth are unusual, but I told him about it to *prevent this from happening*. And I assumed he would have seen Dr. Hagan's note in my chart.) I was crying at this point. He said sorry and gave me another shot and waited a while. When he started drilling again everything was fine. He then had to stop and leave the room for about 15-20 minutes for what seemed like an emergency with another patient. Fine, that is not something he can control. But when he came back I could feel the drill again after a while. Again he seemed surprised and skeptical, but numbed me more before continuing, and finished the filling. I will not be returning to this office after this appointment. I am not exaggerating when I say it was traumatic. It is horrible to feel a drill going into your tooth. It is extremely frustrating to be dismissed and treated like you're being dramatic or lying about pain. I have no reason to make up the fact that I am not numb enough. I don't want to feel a drill. I just want the filling to be over with. I don't care how "good" you are or how many fillings you have done. A patient is an expert when it comes to their own body and their own past experiences. And medical professionals should listen to their patients. The dentist apologized at the end of my appointment, but the damage had been done, and if he had read my chart before my appointment, or taken me seriously at the beginning of my appointment, this wouldn't have happened and no apology would have been necessary. read more

Best dental experience ever!! I've had a cleaning and a crown put in and both experiences were 100% positive, and I mean really positive. The staff is super friendly, efficient, and professional. The team I had for the crown, Luis and Dr. Shah, were incredible in terms of their expertness and empathy for my well-being. Dr. Shah let me know precisely what was going to happen, he took great care while the procedure was underway, and he made sure I was comfortable throughout. I usually hate going to the dentist because of an earlier bad experience elsewhere, but I can't say enough good things about this team of specialists. read more

First of all, it must be stated that I am absolutely petrified to go to the dentist so, when I went onto my neighborhood's FB group and noticed several recommendations for Lakeshore Dental Studio, I gave them a call immediately. Of course, the staff was so nice and we scheduled my (emergency) appointment to occur within the next three days. Once the appointment was made, a gal called me again to gather my insurance information. She was so nice! She assured me that everything would be okay. The doc would remove my old (cracked/painful) crown, put in a temporary crown, and place my permanent crown within a short time period following my initial appointment. I honestly felt so relieved and, although still very nervous about my upcoming appointment, I felt good about the whole thing and was able to concentrate on my day-to-day, albeit the tooth pain I was feeling. Low and behold, the evening before my appointment, someone from the office called me again. It was 4:45pm, so very late in the day to be calling so, I assumed it was just to confirm my appointment but, NO...it was not. And, NO, she was not "so nice." This particular call was to "inform me" that they are not within my dental insurance network. I was baffled, like, "Okay, well, whatever, I have tooth pain, we'll figure it out when I get there, right?" Um...NO...not alright. She began to ask me questions about my crown that is cracked, asking me about potential infection, blah blah blah. THEN, the call shifted from insurance to whether or not they would even be able to help me at all. I was stunned! So, I asked her point blank (after being made out to be some bottom-feeder, lower class human being), "So, is this about insurance or is this about the dentist's capability of helping me?" By this time, my head was spinning and my anxiety started to creep up to my throat, making my eyes water uncontrollably. I hung up, confused and even more scared than I was before I made that initial call. Plus, it is now almost 5pm and I had already mentally prepared for my 9am appointment...not to mention that I had already taken the time off work for it! Oh, and did I mention that I am in pain????? This morning, when I should have been at this dentist, I ended up spending hours on the phone trying to locate another dentist who actually wanted to HELP ME. Long story long, do NOT trust the "kind" reviews of this place. They clearly only distinguish a person's worth, based solely on their insurance plan, full stop! p.s. It should be noted that I was more than ready to pay a few thousand dollars out-of-pocket for this procedure because kindness matters. This place should be ashamed to have put me in such a stressful position, literally hours before I was to be seen/HELPED read more

I have been going to Lakeshore Dental and seeing Dr Hagan for almost 5 years. They are by far the best Dental office in the Chicago area. The staff is friendly, professional, courteous, Dr Hagan is the absolute best provider I have had in all my years. He always takes the time to explain everything, he never rushes, and makes sure things are perfect before I leave. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, friendly dental care. Rod Houston, RN read more

This is the place to go TO in the area! Professional staff, talented dentists, and great atmosphere. I have recommended Dr. Kella to my friends and neighbors and will continue to do so. read more

The effort that this office puts into ensuring that patients have an outstanding experience is unmatched. I called them to schedule a check-up/cleaning during the end of the year, with limited availability, and with pretty complex insurance and they went above and beyond to get me scheduled and handled everything with my insurance. Maria, the dental hygienist, set the tone for the entire visit. She was extremely kind, warm, and took great care to make sure that all of my questions were answered and that I was comfortable. Dr. Hagen was also kind and friendly. He did a great job of explaining everything during the check-up, including showing x-rays on the TV screen and talking through his recommendations. He was honest and transparent about next steps and his recommendations really made me feel like he had my best interest in mind. I also highly recommend this office if you have any dental anxiety or phobia. Aside from their help with scheduling, the next thing that made me realize that this office is different is that they ask you about any dental anxiety or phobia on the intake forms and actually offer different options to make the experience more relaxing. The office was clean, modern, and they are really taking COVID precautions seriously. You text them when you arrive (I also love that they offer the option to text back and forth instead of calling/emailing) and they let you know when your exam room is ready. The receptionist has you use hand sanitizer and checks your temperature before leading you to your exam room where you take an anti-bacterial mouth wash. I felt welcomed here and it was one of the very few dental experiences that did not have any surprises after the visit (both in terms of dental care and billing). Highly recommend! read more

I have been coming to Lakeshore Dental Studio and Dr. Kella since they opened. Now my entire family including mother in law and nanny has! We arrive at each visit with utmost confidence and leave with that much satisfaction. The doctors, hygienist, staff and receptionists are very cordial, respectful and accommodating. Can't say enough good things about out experiences and outcomes. Keep it up Lakeshore Dental Studio!! read more

1. Took additional x-rays (my insurance only allows 2) without telling me I had to pay for them 2. Consultation with dentist mostly consisted of him trying to sell me on the idea of implants (not covered by my insurance) 3. Assistant called a few days later to follow-up on the implant idea; when I told her I wasn't interested, I never heard from then UNTIL 4. Several months later, the dentist himself calls me telling me I should come in as my biannual exam/cleaning/x-ray benefit will expire soon. I'm not sure what the trend is with dentists pushing the implants. I mean, I understand they get more money for them, but it really feels more like going into a used-car lot than a dentist's office. read more

I've had a difficult time finding a Dentist that I felt cared for me instead of talking down and scolding me. From the moment I walked through the door the staff made me feel at home and welcomed. They have the latest tech so taking x-rays was extremely easy and Netflix on the wall and ceiling is a great distraction. I met with Dr. Hagen who was calm, patient, made sure to hear all my concerns and what I want out of my smile. I've been to many dental practices and none of them are at the level of service of Lakeshore Dental. Thank you! read more

if you have a fear of the dentist, highly recommend lakeshore. all of the doctors and hygienists are awesome and kind. front of house is amazing too. can't recomend enough. read more

Avoid at all costs! Lake Shore Dental had my insurance information (Lake Shore dental ran my insurance on January 11) well before my first appointment on January 19th but acted other wise, even having me pre pay for services which I still have not been reimbursed for. LSD insisted that I had great insurance only to repeatedly come back to me with more excuses after I had paid for services. The final straw was being told I had a waiting period and being sent the posted document on February 18th. It shows clearly LSD had my insurance information on January 11th and lied to me about what was covered and what prices would be. More detailed review on Facebook. Absolute con artists. read more

Lakeshore Dental Studio of Chicago - Insurance information - Cosmetic Dentists Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Beware! This dental office charged me and my dental insurance for more services than was provided, and currently we're investigating their possible fraudulent behavior. Avoid at all costs. read more

Dr. Kella is a good dentist! He gets you in quickly when you have an urgent problem....like toothache! His assistants are very nice and helpful, along with the receptionist! I have been in 3 times and 2 have been urgent and my needs were met. This office is very clean and up to date, and every measure is taken to make you comfortable with any procedure! I have recommended Dr. Kella to my best friend who was seeking a second opinion on a procedure and she was very happy....sobyes, I would send my friends or relatives to this office! read more

You have to wonder about a business when the staff changes constantly. Did an implant, it took 18 months and was short. But what can you do at that point. Also he's very loud. read more

I was pretty nervous to go anywhere for a dental appointment both because of the pandemic and because it had been about 2 years since my last visit but this place was amazing. The staff was very friendly, and I appreciate being able to fill out new patient forms on my phone. The space is clean and inviting, and I got to watch the Great British Bake Off while I waited and while I was having my teeth cleaned. I love when dental offices have a television on the ceiling! I had questions that were all answered by the dentist, who does the cleaning, and pricing options and information was given at the end of my appointment for some possible future work I want done. I didn't know I needed a new dentist until I tried to schedule with my old place, but couldn't get in. I wouldn't want to go back now, this place was great. read more

Punctual, immaculate offices and thorough exam, definitely recommend. I came here because of the convenient location and was very pleased with my appointment. They're very thorough, so the appt takes longer than I'm used to, but the attention to detail is great. Dr. Hagen measured my gums for signs of inflammation, which I've never had before. They pull up your X-rays on the tv screen to walk you through the treatment plan, so impressive. I felt well informed throughout. The tv placement is thoughtful too: one on the wall, one on the ceiling! Great experience, just make sure you allocate enough time read more

I work with dentists as my career. I talk to thousands of them, and Dr. Kella is world class. I visited his office last year while I was in Chicago, and it's top notch and you're in extremely good hands. To the other reviewer, that 'DSLR Xray camera' is cutting edge technology, and there's nothing to upgrade to. A panoramic xray isn't diagnostic, so he's doing the absolute right thing by taking individual xrays. In short, he's being a good, honest doctor. read more

Let me start by saying I can be a problem patient: I have anxiety, panic attacks, and a pretty strong gag reflex. In addition, I adrenaline spike when I get injections. Fun, right?! Well, not only is Dr Kella absolutely amazing working all around my issues, his entire staff is on point when it comes to patients with anxiety and gag reflexes. The hygienists and assistants are so patient and have all sorts of hacks to help anyone through cleaning, x-rays (my personal nightmare), and procedures. Everyone in the office has been so kind to me, and I mean everyone. Side note: I don't carry dental insurance, and I signed up for their annual membership. It was absolutely worth it for me. Plus, it comes with a discount prescription service you can use at any major pharmacy. read more

Staff is very nice! The hygienist and dentist are gentle. The office has a thorough system in place to protect everyone from covid and I felt very safe going to my appointment. read more

We were referred by a friend, and set up appointments. The staff is very friendly and helpful, with a special shout-out to the receptionist Wendy who makes just walking in the door a comfortable experience. Dr. Kella is the best dentist we have ever experienced. He talks you through everything during the visit step by step. The facility is state of the art technology. If you're looking for a great Dentist do not hesitate to check out Lake Shore Dental Studio. FYI, we did not get a discount for giving this review. LOL Rick and Dave-Edgewater read more

While on assignment in Chicago for a month, I had some tooth discomfort and needed a dentist close to where I was staying in Evanston. I didn't have set expectations, but needed to see someone asap, and am extremely thankful to have come across Dr. Kella and his wonderful staff. Dr. Kella diagnosed where and why I was having pain and provided a game plan to help reduce pain in that area. He also gave me valuable tips on which areas of my teeth I need to lookout for to avoid future cavities. It's now been 4 months and I have had no pain and after a cleaning with my local hygienist, she pointed out that I have reduced the soft spots which could have turned into cavities because of proactive tips that Dr. Kella provided. Highly recommend, and would definitely see again next time I am in need of a dentist. read more

I moved to Chicago recently and went to Dr. Kella for a routine dental checkup and cleaning. The facility by itself leaves you in awe! Everything from the waiting area to the patient rooms are clean, modern, and state-of-the art. I was particularly amazed by the high-tech tools the hygienist and Dr. Kella were using such as a portable x-ray imaging device, large tv screens that display your teeth, and ultra comfortable cleaning tools that don't have the terrifying drilling sounds. Everything looked and felt hygenic. Dr. Kella is truly a skilled professional. He was very gentle with my teeth and took his time to answer any questions I had. There is a high quality of care that you don't find at other dentists. The staff is super friendly and will make you feel right at home! read more

Moved to Chicago a few months and put off finding a dentist until I was referred to Dr.Kella by my fiancé's mom. Everyone from reception to the hygienist to the doctor was extremely friendly, easy going and professional. The office is very clean and they have coffee, snacks, and water while you wait. Dr. Kella took the time to get to know me and was extremely genuine during my check up. He was knowledgeable and answered my questions with ease. Chicago feels more like home now that I have a dependable dentist! read more

Lakeshore Dental Studio of Chicago - Jason getting his X-rays done - Cosmetic Dentists Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I scheduled my appointment with Rui's assistance, and since he is such a sweetheart I felt immediately more at ease about going to a (way overdue) dental visit. I still get nervous before going to the dentist, but I'm pleasantly surprised to say that I had a genuinely enjoyable experience at the dentist today. Like, I actually had a *good time* during a routine dental visit. How crazy is that??? This place is amazing and everyone who works here is so, so kind. I'm actually looking forward to coming back (something I have never ever said about a dental office before). read more

Per Kapil, typical way of a mansplainer to undermine my reviews. Obviously I reviewed three dental clinics, two of which proved to be of poor service. Also, please note that I was able to find a fourth dentist to perform a basic cleaning, and nothing more. The fact that I found someone only serves to prove that their dental office is in fact on BS. Kapil, nobody asked you for your opinion. Who are you, the Yelp patrolman?! Let Yelp do what it does best: help consumers make better choices and stop businesses like yours from ripping them off! read more

I was recommended to try Lakeshore Dental studio by a couple of friends who had gone in before me and the certainly did not disappoint! It's had been a while since I had gone to the dentist and I had some anxiety about being judged for it. The opposite was true. Every staff me eve made me feel so welcome and comfortable. Dr. Kella sat with me and went through a treatment plan that he though would be best, making sure I understood why he included each step in the plan. I will absolutely be telling friends who need a dentist about this wonderful office. read more

Dr. Kella and his staff were excellent.They were all very personable and friendly and made me laugh and smile again. Glad I heard about them and would recommend them to anyone looking for a good dentist. There place was clean and contemporary. Dr. Kella went over with me all the xrays he took with great ease. read more

Dr. Kella is a great person down to the core. As far as experience is concerned; I have to be honest with myself, and everyone else on 'YELP' looking for experienced dentist's. I believe Dr. Kella needs more practice hours in general. He is still finishing his hours to become a fully licensed oral surgeon. Very nice person. Very friendly. Very benign. Very benevolent. He is definitely more than capable of taking care of kids teeth and young adults. On the contrary, when it comes to tooth decay and seniors with bigger problems; this is where Dr. Kella falls short (so to speak). Practice of many years should make a professional. Timing and experience level's may differ for each individual. Dr. Kella is fresh to the scene/a neophyte. I hope no one person gets upset/hurt/mixed emotions/feelings with me stating what I have personally observed from my own experience. Along with someone else (senior citizen) who was getting his/her teeth done with me examining Dr. Kella alongside. Overall, if one has small tasks to get done. By all means use this dentist. Everyone has to start somewhere. Right? However, if it comes to a lot of meticulous work on hand. I would look into other dentist's that have been in 'the gig' for some time with great reviews. Side note, beautiful office and very tidy; along with aesthetically pleasing t.v. screens in each room for getting your teeth done above and in front of one self. Also, not a huge deal, but they need to upgrade their X-ray device. They have some sort of DSLR X-ray camera. It takes about 10 minutes for the 'assistant' to take the X-Rays inside the four quadrants of one's mouth. It is a bit tedious to be completely honest, as one could imagine biting down on the plastic piece every time an X-Ray is taken. If I can help one person in my lifetime; I am so very happy I can do so in any way, shape or form. Anyways, good luck to every one person in your search, and as always stay safe out there. Big hugs. Never EVER forget to smile =). Live every day & moment in time like it could/may be your last. One never knows what could be or is awaiting around that corner up ahead. Love to ALL!!! read more

I had a great experience with Dr. Kella and his team. Very modern and clean office. The staff was very nice and went above and beyond to make sure everything was going okay during my cleaning process. Never seen this at the dentist before but Dr. Kella's office had a tv on the ceiling with Netflix for patients to watch something while going through their procedure. This definitely made the cleaning process easier as I was able to focus on something else. I will definitely be going back in the future read more

Excellent experience so far with Dr. Kella! I've been looking for a new dentist and with their office opening in the Aville, I figured give it a try. Dr. Kella and his entire staff were super friendly from the moment I walked in. It's definitely a nice office, extremely clean, and bonus - TVs with Netflix! The ability to distract yourself from the work at hand with some Law and Order SVU makes the time go by quickly. Dr. Kella was very thorough during my two appointments so far, taking the time to explain everything that he saw and what should take priority, especially because we all know things add up! Great add to the neighborhood. read more

First day as a new patient and the welcoming was superb, vibrating with positive energy and politeness made my visit very pleasing. Very friendly and helpful as well. read more

Just got back from my appointment! I was originally planning on finding a dentist before I signed up for my University dental plan, but after calling the office, decided to opt for their new customer special ($77 for X-ray and cleaning) and they were able to schedule me the next week! Super prompt and friendly service. My entire visit basically took place within an entire episode of The Great British Bake-off. I know this bc they saw how utterly engrossed I was in the waiting room, and put it up for me in the exam room so I could continue the episode. Everyone I met was super nice and friendly, and they even have a special handheld X-ray device so you don't have to go to some separate room for the X-ray. I was a bit bummed that I couldn't get the cleaning bc I had some gum disease (alas, no one's perfect), but they talked me through some different payment options for deep cleaning. Would definitely recommend! read more

This is as one of the best dental experiences I have ever had. Their customer service is amazing, they are extremely thorough and detailed. They explain everything every step of the way. I could not offer a higher recommendation for this practice. They now have a loyal patient. read more

I've had many unpleasant trips to the dentist, so when I scheduled my appointment at Lakeshore Dental Studio I expected it to be similar. I couldn't have been more wrong!! My appointment was scheduled as a regular 6-month cleaning. Dr. Kella and his assistant, Adriana, were gentle, upbeat, and respectful. They started with taking x-rays and images where Dr. Kella showed me where I had two cavities. They continued with the cleaning and fillings, where it was completed painless. The process was made better with the TV screens above the chair, allowing you to watch anything on Netflix! How cool! Luckily, the office was able to accommodate me to get my fillings done during my visit. If you are looking for a Dentist I would definitely recommended Lakeshore Dental - Dr. Kella and his team are amazing! I think they accommodate children as well, I noticed a kids area filled with toys! read more

Dr Kella and his team were a pleasure to work with! Everyone from the front desk to the hygienist were friendly and helpful. Best part were the two TVs in the room (one on the wall and one on the ceiling) which made the appointment fly by. I wound highly recommended coming here for all of your dental needs! read more

Dr. Kella and his staff are amazing! They are friendly, informative, and accommodating. They explain each step along the way to ensure you understand and feel comfortable. They are upfront about costs and will come up with a payment plan if needed. The Netflix is also a plus. I highly recommend them! read more

I think I found a great new dental clinic. Great staff, state of the art facility, gentle touch, straightforward assessment and friendly dentist/owner. read more

This is a very pleasant office, geared to patient comfort. The staff all go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable at all times. They are gracious and professional. Dr. Kella is very gentle but thorough. My entire experience in the procedures I've had done by Dr. Kella was a pleasant surprise, because I've had dental phobia my entire life. I sent my husband to Dr. Kella and have also recommended him to my daughter. read more

Brought all 3 of my kids here and they loved it. Dr. Kella was great with all my kids. It is hard already as it is to take kids anywhere without it being hectic. The assistants were super nice and let my kids pick out a movie to watch on Netflix. The appointment was stress free, the kids were happy and they all got a coin at the end so they could get a toy from the toy machine. Everyone there is super friendly and welcoming. Thank you very much. Definitely will recommend. read more