I retract my previous review. Once I spoke with the office manager, I understood that I happened to hit upon a few unfortunate events in their staffing and systems -- power outages knocking the answering service out, for instance -- and in fact they took pains to help me know I am a valued patient. I really appreciated them taking the time to talk it out. I've been meaning to rewrite this review for a while, but am doing so tonight after the office and Dr O'Connor went above and beyond to squeeze me in on a Friday night after a cycling crash. I was in pain, uncertain what to do next, and she saw me without rushing me, giving me options for both emergency and long-term care. It was great to have a familiar place to go back to. Support a neighborhood business and go here! read more

I've been going to Dr. O'Connor for nearly ten years and I couldn't be happier. She is honest about what is needed, and more importantly, about what is not needed (or what is not needed immediately). I've had various procedures done by her and never had any problems during of afterwards with any one them. Her office staff through the years has been inconsistent - a few billing issues now and again , nothing major - but the excellent dental care more than makes up for things. I appreciate any medical care where the doctor is straightforward about what is going on. I also admit that I enjoy her sense of humor too, even if it's hard to laugh with a mouthful of dental instruments! read more

Dr. O'Connor is the best. She is more highly trained than other dentists I interviewed when I was shopping around almost 10 years ago. She is fast and thorough and pleasant to chat with. My daughter and wife also enjoyed visiting her office and getting excellent care. I have been seeing her for at least 10 years and look forward to many more years. She is more than willing and able to explain everything and has the latest low-energy digital Xray equipment. I love being able to bike to her office right on Valencia. And as a bonus I can grab a treat at the Co-op bakery nearby after my visit! read more

I hate to admit it, but I hadn't gone to the dentist in almost 10 years. My previous dentist was so rough that the experience made me break out into a cold sweat just thinking of going to the dentist again. Even though I have never had a cavity I dreaded sitting in the dental chair. I finally worked up the nerve and scheduled an appointment with Dr. O'Connor to have my teeth cleaned. She immediately set me at ease by listening to my childish fears and promising she would be gentle. Her great sense of humor, mixed with the friendly staff added to the relaxed feel in her office. She was very thorough and kept a light dialogue going to keep my mind off the whole experience. The constant complimenting of my teeth may have gone to my head just a little and could have added to my complimentary view. EIther way, Dr. O'Connor lived up to her promise to be gentle and even skipped doing the flossing after I told her I really, really didn't like the dentist to floss my teeth. She joked with me and made me promise her I would floss them when I got home. I've made my appointment for another cleaning in 6 months and am glad to have finally found a dentist I can trust. read more

Lorraine is a nice dentist, unfortunately everything is pretty slow, including the almost 45 minute wait every time for your appointment. I was satisfied with everything, even okay when Lorraine's hand accidentally slipped and she drilled my lip, but I got a crown today, which is supposed to last almost your whole lifetime, everything was great...and 2 hours later it just fell off and I almost choked. It was already 6 pm, I called the office, they were closed and the message machine was full so I couldn't even leave a message, the urgent telephone number is always out of service, so have to wait until Thursday to make an appointment to fix their mistake. Very unsatisfied and should I mention that I will not be able to eat until Thursday? And there is nothing I can do about it. Terrible. So if something goes wrong during non business hours - you are screwed. EDITED: I appreciated that Dr Lorraine O'Connor and the staff took my comment seriously and did everything I could to improve, I never saw anyone look after their reputation so much, so now I know that it's a keeper. And as I mentioned before dentist-wise I was and am very satisfied. read more

Just to start, this review is long overdue. About a year and a half ago, I broke a tooth. This was horrifying mainly because I hadn't been to a dentist in 13 years (I know!). Not only was I scared of the dentist, but I had to face the fear of being judged or talked down to because I had been so irresponsible with my own health. Luckily, I stumbled onto Dr. O'Connor. She didn't judge me, or even ask how long it had been. Our first visit, she noticed how tense and terrified I was and prescribed me Ativan for what would be the many visits to come. She is a life saver! I don't know how many times I had to see her, but my teeth are finally normal and it was painless. Just some things you might want to know before going in: - Dr. O'Connor is extremely friendly and talkative. That includes when she has instruments in your mouth. -The receptionist (I really should know her name) is wonderful and really good about explaining insurance issues. -Dr. O'Connor takes her time with patients which means you might have to wait a bit before she gets to you. If you hate that sort of thing, get the first appointment of the day and you'll be fine. read more

I'm a horrible dental patient. I had my first root canal at 17, others followed, as did a really finicky crown on a molar that 3 different dentists fiddled with to keep from popping off unexpectedly. I started seeing Lorraine 6 years ago. Super friendly, very detailed, and very effective at fixing up the sins of my prior dentists. (From looking at the crown she knew one of my prior dentists had been trained on the east coast... creepy... anyway, she stopped it from being a trouble spot years ago.) She enjoys her patients' company so much she has a bad habit of not letting her hygienist do anything. Don't see her if you're a sticker for punctuality -- If it's not 9am she'll doubtless be a few minutes behind schedule making sure her earlier patients are in good shape. Do see her if you appreciate demeanor and customer service, or if you think you dislike dentists (you'll find out you were wrong all these years). read more

I must echo what everyone else has said... Lorraine O'Conner is a fantastic dentist. I was so dreading finding a new dentist in San Francisco that for about a year or more I kept going down to Santa Cruz every 6 months to get my cleanings with the dentist I'd been seeing since I was about 8 years old. It was hard to leave him after such a long and rewarding relationship, but I sure am glad I did! A friend's co-worker recommended Lorraine, and my visits have been the best dental experiences of my life. She does everything herself. No dental hygienists or receptionist (aside from some people that seem to come in to help with data entry now and then)... so she greets you when you get there, cleans your teeth, then schedules your next appointment when you're done. She reminds you to floss without making you feel guilty about not doing it... and I think, for the first time, this has actually gotten me to floss MORE! She's all about positive reinforcement... if you didn't know you had a beautiful lower left molar, you will after a visit with Dr. O'Conner. On my first visit, she was 15 minutes late. She came briskly walking down the hall saying, "Oh, I'm sorry... I'm always late for my first appointment." But she quickly made up for it with her quick and painless cleaning, fantastic music selection, good conversation, quaint office, and hands-on approach. I actually LOOK FORWARD to going to the dentist now, and once you experience Lorraine O'Conner, DDS for yourself, you will too! read more

Still 5 stars. I forgot to update this before, but I'm definitely not on vicodin now, and still feel the same way. Dr. O'Connor's very nice, and amusingly chatty while she's doing work. Although the office is very clean, and she's very organized, with an efficient staff, it doesn't feel sterile. Still a happy camper, and still my best recommendation for a dentist. read more

For someone who never writes Yelp reviews, I had to write one today. I don't like going to the dentist as the next person (who didn't have childhood tooth trauma?) but if I have to go, I'm glad its here. For one: she's really sweet, personable and professional. She always has stories and makes you forget your in the dentist chair. Bonus. They moved locations within the last year and today I headed to the older location a few minutes before my appt started. I called, and they told me they were on Valencia now. Oh no!! I caught a Lyft and got there a few minutes late. To apologize for the confusion, they paid for the cab, and then some, which was extremely generous. I mean, who does that?! Add to the great experience before, and I left smiling (which probably doesn't happen usually when coming out of a dentist office). Double bonus. read more

Best dentist EVAR! Lorraine is not only a great dentist, but she is also sweet, kind, caring, funny, and a snappy dresser to boot! She is conveniently located in the Castro and I've never had trouble getting an appointment. Her assistant, Natalie, is also a total doll. read more

Dr. O'Connor is by far the coolest and best dentist I've ever been to. -Conveniently on Castro at 18th -She's the only one there who works with teeth (I think she mentioned a bookkeeper), so you know you're getting professional and personal service -She's extremely friendly, talkative (but not annoying), and hip (good music, cute dress- yes I'm shallow and I pay attention to my dentist's outfit) -quick, gentle cleaning -able to answer all my tooth-related questions and dole out advice as asked (I have one word for you, people: fluoride) -the coolest goody bag ever: usual suspects like floss and a toothbrush are accompanied by lip balm, a flossing tool that looks like something I might actually use, and Tom's of Maine toothpaste and mouthwash (both with fluoride, in case you were wondering) I don't know what she's like for any dental work besides cleanings, but as far as everything else goes, she cannot be more highly recommended! Can't wait for the next time... and how often have you ever said that about your dentist? read more

Lorraine O'Conner is a great dentist. She's really personable and easy to talk to. Her office is cute, sort of retro/art deco-ish. Music is good too. She's only the second dentists I've ever been to (saw my childhood one up until age 21). My last dentist did all of the work with very little assistance, and so it was nice to find another dentist that does the cleaning and heavy work if you need it. I think my former dentist was a real stickler, so when my gums didn't bleed after Lorraine's flossing I was a little skeptical. But nonetheless satisfied. Her take-away bag is full of great stuff. Quality tooth brush, Tom's of Maine mini mouth wash, floss, and some really nice vanilla mint chapstick (which I totally used every night for 4 months). I told her that I heard about her on yelp and she mentioned that she gets a lot of business through the reviews on this site. What a powerful referral tool! read more

Admittantly I'm a little afraid of dentists. I'd been living a six year punk rock odyssey and dental care was not part of it --- so in my return to the chair, I was a little apprehensive. Saying that, Dr O'Connor assuaged my fears and I had a really pleasant experience. Her office is small but very stylish and she has great music. She is friendly and professional, sincere and happy to show you what she is doing. There are no assistants or hygienists, she does all of the dental work and cleaning herself. I was able to get an appointment quickly. Another highlight for me was the futuristic x-ray machine. You don't have to wait for film to develop and are exposed to a lot less radiation. After your picture is taken, you see your teeth right there on her laptop. The paranoid environmentalist in me approves. Maybe no cavities makes everything sweeter, but I look forward to going back in six months! read more

Dr Loraine is the best dentist I have ever hand hands down! She is so gentle all the time I sometimes have to remind her I like it rough! Doc takes the time to understands each concern and sets in place a program to make sure all the items are taken care of. I have no hesitation in recommending Dr O as the best dentist ever! S read more

The BEST dentist I have ever had in my entire life, have been coming to her for years. One of the rare dentists (not to mention individuals) who loves her job and is so ever competent at it. Also the best bedside manners - we've chatted about books, life, etc. My old dentist kept on trying to get me to adopt Invisalign even though I didn't think I really needed it but Lorraine just thinks that my slightly crooked (barely noticeable) bottom teeth are cute and she's straightforward and honest in saying that Invisalign isn't needed unless it's what I want. She genuinely cares about her patients and her team is exactly the same way - culture comes from the top down. I can't imagine seeing another dentist after her! read more

Every experience I've had at this office has been pleasant and comfortable -- Dr O'Connor is quick, thorough, and most importantly, gentle! One of my favorite aspects of this dentist is that she does not guilt the crap out of all of her patients. Even though I take great care of my teeth, other dentists still manage to find something to make you feel bad and dirty. I always feel good about myself when I leave her office, so I never hesitate when making my next appointment. read more

I was referred here by a colleague and Dr. O'Connor is the best! My first visit I got there and she had to reschedule me for another day because another patient had some complications, but she sure made up for it. All of the associates in the office are professional, friendly, and fun. I would never have imagined enjoying a dentist office. read more

Lorraine O'Connor, DDS is the BEST thing that ever happened to me! I lost my beloved dentist ages ago when they stopped taking my dental insurance and I've been on a quest ever since to find THE perfect replacement... I'm a complete fanatic about my teeth. I believe in preventative care and not messing with something unless it hurts. I believe most dentists are just out to make a quick buck doing unnecessary work and I went through a number of flimflam dentists who gave me lousy fillings that fell off/out after a couple months, who tried to get me to buy a mouth guard (the biggest sham EVER!) or who left me sitting out in their waiting rooms for 20-30 minutes after my appointment time! Then I stumbled on Dr. O'Connor! After reading all the posts here I gave her a shot, and everything everyone positive has said is true! I've been to her office twice now and both times it's been clean and attractive (I like the butterflies on the ceiling!). She's been on time both times. She is cute as a button and we have great talks! She herself does my cleaning (I really, REALLY like that!) and I feel she goes the extra mile to get rid of the staining I get from the copious amounts of coffee I drink! No guilt trips (like someone else said, it seems like most dentists can seem to always find SOMETHING you're doing wrong!), she ASKS if I want to fix anything cosmetic and doesn't get huffy when I say, "no thank you"... The both times I went to see her I left feeling great, and not like I'd been through some sort of medieval torture! Parking is not bad in the Castro during the weekdays either! Which really helps! Do yourself a big favor and book an appointment with Dr. O'Connor! read more

Adding my voice to the awesomeness of Lorraine O'Connor. One of the few sane non-greedy dentists in San Francisco. read more

I'm one of the rare few people who actually doesn't mind a trip to the dentists. I've always been lucky since being a kid that my dentist has always been amazing and professional. After recently moving to the bay area and needing to find a dentist I looked via my insurer and Dr O'Connor was on the list. After reading all the positive amazing reviews here on Yelp I booked an appointment and I have to be honest... the reviews don't do enough justice! Dr O'Connor is amazing. I can't recommend her practice enough. read more

Dr. O'Connor is a very nice person but neither competent nor professional. After getting a second opinion from another dentist and periodontist in San Francisco, they confirmed she let something go untreated for way too long. read more

The coolest dentist I've been to since I was 8. And I only liked that guy because he made elephant noises and pretended the chair was a roller coaster. I actually am kind of excited about my next appointment with Dr. O'Connor. She has cool art on the walls, she's got a sense of humor, she's quick and efficient, and most importantly, she doesn't guilt trip you about not flossing 18 times a day. Brilliant. She also gave me love life advice: "Don't settle. You're a catch. You have a good job, you're cute, you're smart... and you have great teeth." Ha! Thanks Dr. O'connor. read more

A perfect match made in heaven. Now I know why unstable women fall in love with their therapists. Lorraine O'Connor has got to be my favorite dentist by far. I used to go to a particular dentist on Montgomery St. Who shall remain nameless (last name rhymes with Semen) that was always up charging me and trying to sell me everything under the sun. $1000.00 night guards anyone? Lorraine's office runs a tighter and more honest ship. I always feel calm and safe when I'm there and her work is impeccable. She lets you know exactly what you need and nothing more. She plays good music and before you know it your done. It also helps that she is full of conversation the whole time so the procedures just fly by. When your done you get a gift bag to take on your way and a a mouthful of clean teeth to show your friends and family! read more

I don't know what's going on in this practice, but I tried twice to make an preliminary appointment. The first time I called, I got voicemail. I never received a response. The second time I called, I reached a person who apologized for my not getting a call back initially. They said things had been busy, and that they'd call me back again shortly. They never did. Perhaps Dr. O'Connor is a good dentist. I'll never know - in my book, two strikes and you're out. read more

Dr. O'Connor was great. I would highly recommend her. The only downside was that the office building was a little sketchy looking, but her office was neat and clean. We had a great time laughing and talking (she is from the east coast too). I think her jealous husband was there, he kind of gave me a dirty look on my way out the door. I'm GAY, duh.... She had a great sense of humor, and I have nothing bad to say about the experience. A+++ read more

Awesome to the max, for the following reasons: - professional and knowledgeable - extremely friendly and fun - did an extremely thorough cleaning - she actually saved me some cash. She recommended that I get my x-rays from my last dentist, so that she wouldn't need to take any new ones - her staff is also friendly I am pretty picky about dentists, and she passed with flying colours. read more

Dr. O'Connor is a dentistry gem. She works alone (not even a dental assitant or office manager) and therefore you only get the best, first-hand service. She's very friendly but also professional (Columbia U. grad)...but that doesn't stop her from letting you bring in your own music. (Or you can go with her Nick Cave, or Emmylou Harris/Mark Knopfler - just a few of her selections). She's definitely chatty, but very, very sincere and GOOD. I honestly don't think you can find a "dentiste" like LOC anywhere else! PROS: -"neighborly-like" service -takes most insurance plans -low-key/easy going -can bring your own music -can learn about what she's doing (she let me follow along while getting a filling) -gives you a kick-ass goody bag (with really nice tooth-brush, mouthwash, floss, and floss-pick) after each cleaning -located in the heart of the Castro (easy to get to via bus/Muni) CONS: -NONE! read more

I had a slight emergency yesterday when some sticky candy ripped an existing crown off. Out of the 5 dentist offices I called her's was the only one that got back to me. She fit me in that afternoon. Dr. O'connor had a great bedside manner: she was as gentle as possible and listened to my concerns. She is a keeper. read more

Ok I was looking for dentist around my area on Yelp last week. Usually I know when you call a dentist the first time. They make you wait months. I just want it cleaning. I called few. They never even call back. Then I call Lorraine. And the lady at the front desk was so nice. Friendly. And cool. She say it will be cleaning and X-ray I say ok. She give me an appt for the next 4 days. Witch I was. Wow. Great. The day before the call for follow up. I ask if that ok if I do cleaning only. Not the money is the problem. I also have another dentist that I work with in another state. So I didn't want to change him. Just want to make sure I do cleaning on time And she say. Sure. That is not a problem at all. I went to my appt. I was waiting no more then 2 min witch was wow. Then Lorraine got me to the room for the cleaning. Any thing I will say on here. It's nothing compare the amazing service I got. First she was so friendly. Nice. Funny. Easy to talk and deal with. To start with. Then the job she done was just perfect. 45 min after I was out of there. I don't think I ever in my life actually enjoy my self seating at the dentist office. Amazing. I finally find a good place in San Francisco. Very very recommended !!! read more

I was looking forward to my appointment, however I got the runaround of my lifetime from this office. When I called 3 weeks in advance to set up an appointment, I first asked if they accept Blue Cross. I was told yes. i wouldn't have made the appointment if they did not. I then proceeded to take the day off of work. On the day of the appointment, I was called and asked to move my appointment to the evening. A little irritated that I missed a day of work, I agreed because I was going to be out of town for two weeks and needed to get in. An hour later, I received another message requesting to move my appointment back. At that point, I couldn't so I called in to confirm my evening appointment. Upon identifying myself, I was given a sob story about how changes going on in the front office and that they don't accept Blue Cross and that if I come in, I'd be paying out of my pocket in full, and that if they took me in, they'd get nothing from Blue Cross, so they couldn't help me. Funny that they completely wasted my time for the past few weeks, KNOWING that I have a plan they do NOT cover and waited for the day of my appointment to tell me so. They waited until they moved my appointment around and I had an hour to find a dentist that would take my insurance policy. What bothered me even more was they were surprised the receptionist told me they accepted Blue Cross. How could they think I had insurance that they DID NOT accept and would go to them anyway? Who does that? It wasn't comforting when I was told surely I'd find someone else quickly to take me in such a short notice. "You never know- (nervous giggle)" I understand miscommunication. What I don't get is making a mistake, sitting on it for 3 weeks then telling a patient at the last moment, "oops, our bad, now shove off." I'm sure Dr. O'Connor is a fine dentist. Too bad her front office is ill-informed, irresponsible and indifferent. read more

Dr. O'Connor really is fabulous. I really can't say enough about her. She is extremely sweet and friendly. Dr. O'Connor will not judge you if you don't floss and goes out of her way to make you feel comfortable. On a side note, because of Dr. O'Connor, I have been cigarette free for two years now. How many people can say that about their dentist? read more

As others have said Dr. O'Connor is the best! Wonderful best side manner and truly compassionate about both her patients and the care they receive. She always takes the time to explain the current state of your dental health, and the plan going forward to improve or maintain. She's supported by an equally talented office staff. Everyone from the technicians, to the front desk are a pleasure to interact with. I'm grateful to have found such a solid dental practice. read more

If you're searching for a dentist, I highly recommend you visit Dr. O'connor and her staff. Trust me, you're in good hands.

Dr O'Connor is an outstanding dentist and a person whom just gets it. When I walked into her office, I found the environment pleasing and classical. She proceeded to ask me about my dental history and what I needed to have done. I explained that I was very interested in having a deep cleaning and that pain was not an issue. She gave me the best teeth cleaning I have ever had and she took her time to make sure it was as best as possible. Thanks Dr O'Connor! read more

i went in for a simple filling replacement, the one from my old dentist had fallen out on friday. i called, and got an appointment right away. i found her front desk person to be super friendly and helpful. they told me how to find parking nearby, and even filled the meter when my appointment ran late. in the end i got the filling replaced, as well as a full cleaning, x-rays, and some other work. i found her easy to talk too, super knowledgeable, and very skilled. i hate dental work, my teeth are super sensitive ... but she worked with me, and it was overall an excellent experience. i've already recommended a colleague and my girlfriend! i also always appreciate small quality operations where its not lots of overhead, assistants, hygenists, etc. it was great to get to see her from beginning to end. i'm happy to have a new dentist in town! read more

Dr. O'Connor is the GREATEST dentist ever! SHE IS THE BEST! She is extremely skilled, and knowledgeable, professional yet extremely personable. She understands what you are talking about, she listens, and then she advises the best method to proceed forward. SHE DOES HAVE GREAT MUSIC! read more

Dr. Lorraine took her time with me. I haven't been to a dentist in the bay area and she totally was gentle and made me feel at ease. Dentist visits are not the most favorable but the way she treated me made me feel very relaxed. Can not wait to go back in a few months. read more

Dr. O'Connor is the best dentist I've ever head! Normally I have aversions to dentists and I've had some awful experiences in the past. However, Dr. O'Connor creates the most welcoming experience a patient could ever want. First off, her office is gorgeous and decorative. This really sets the tone of the visit. Next her staff is always attentive and friendly. Once you finally get into the chair for your cleaning, Dr. O'Connor gabs away with you putting your mind at ease and most importantly of all, she does a phenomenal job cleaning your teeth. I would recommend Dr. O'Connor to anyone who wants a truly special cleaning experience. read more

The location is great but I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE. Lorraine is pleasant but she talks way to much! I was getting a crown and she kept asking me questions when I have all these machines in my mouth. Another problem is they NEVER ANSWER THE PHONE! I have called to reschedule an appointment for a few days and no one would answer. The old receptionist always answered and returned back my calls. This new one billed me wrong! She's very rude about it as well. I told her about the bill and she says, "sorry but there is nothing that can be done. We can try to reimburse you but it won't be a full refund." WHAT THE HELL??? I had to pay THOUSANDS of dollars for this crown and that's all she can tell me? I'm utterly disappointed in this place read more