I had not been to a dentist in over 6 years. Finally a chipped tooth forced me to seek out a reputable dentist. I asked one of my clients who she went to, and she highly recommended Dr McElroy and his staff. After 2 visits with Monica (best hygienist in the World), I decided to commit to on-going care with Smiles By Design. I've always hated going to dentists for cleanings and/or exams, but I honestly can say I'm looking forward to future visits and finally taking care of my teeth and I've already referred a client of mine. Thank you Monica for changing the way I've always viewed dentistry. Truly grateful!!!! read more

I had an urgent need to remove my impacted wisdom tooth but the original Oral Surgeon referral i received from my dentist could not see me until a couple weeks later. So when i was searching for my other options I found McElroy Smile by Design. They were able to arrange an appointment, examined me and even extracted on the same day. The stuffs were excellent, everyone made me feel comfortable. Thank you to Dr. Mac, Madison, Charisse, Susan, and Christine the quick response yesterday. read more

Dr McElroy is the best dentist I've ever been to. And the team at Smiles are organized and a pleasure to visit. I feel I am in the most professional hands there. I am lucky to have found such a great dental office! read more

Wonderful office with awesome staff! Was able to get in - in no time. They emailed me the "new patient" forms before my visit - really liked that. Didn't have to sit around and wait. Everything went super smooth, was able to get my crown during the same visit (!) awesome! I left super stoked! Thanks Smiles by design and Dr.McElroy read more

Like so many others I have always been petrified to go to the dentist. That all changed when I visited Dr McElroy and Smiles by Design. I had to have a tooth pulled and prepped for an implant and I actually have to say that I was not nervous they made me feel comfortable and so very well taken care of. Absolutely love everyone there from Susan the receptionist to Charisse the doctor's assistant and then of course many many thanks to Dr McElroy for taking the fear out of going to the dentist. read more

I have been going to Dr. McElroy for several years and feel that I am always in the best hands with him and his caring staff . I had a crown come out on Thursday at 3:00 and by 4:30 on I had it repaired. I appreciate how well they take care of me . A personal touch these days means so much !! read more

I've been with Smiles By Design for many years. They never disappoint. The older I get, the more problems I've had with my teeth and gums, but the staff always knows what is needed and does an excellent job of both making me feel well taken care of and doing a professional job on my teeth. read more

I'm back at Smiles by Design for dental work. It's been over a year and they have a new beautiful office. The Dentists and staff are both efficient and professional. They give excellent advice then back it up with top notch dentistry. Looking forward to my next appointment. read more

Smiles By Design is a great dental office! So clean and up to date. Monica who is my hygienist is just a wonderful person and she really takes time to explain everything. I am very happy to find this office and recommend everyone to check it out! Thanks and see you soon!!! read more

I went for a new client checkup that included X-rays and a cleaning. They told me that a crown needed to be replaced on a tooth that didn't even have a crown on it. They also said there was a cavity on the tooth directly behind it he tooth they alleged had a broken crown and said that I needed to watch another tooth as it is close to becoming a cavity. At the end of the visit, they tried to tell me it would cost 1372 for a crown replacement and a filling. They also separately charged for crown buildup which apparently is against board practices as a dentist has a duty to ensure a person isn't left walking out with a hole in their mouth, legally, whether you pay or not they have to finish the job and put a crown on, it's unethical to charge that separately from the crown. The price and the fact I haven't had a cavity in 10 years made me get a second opinion. Also because right after my initial client visit they asked me to write them a positive google and yelp review even providing me with a printout on how to submit the review. A person shouldn't be giving a review when they haven't even had proper dental work done and let me just say I am so happy I didn't do it with these guys. I WENT TO MY OLD DENTIST IN LA HE DID X-RAYS AGAIN AS THIS PLACE REFUSED TO PROVIDE ME WITH THE ONES THEY TOOK OF ME AND MY DENTIST SAW THERE WAS NO CROWN IN EXISTENCE ON THEY TOOTH THEY SUGGESTED I NEEDED A CROWN. THEY ARE SCAMMING PEOPLE INTO PROCEDURES THEY DO NOT NEED. My old dentist even checked to see if they were is taken by the side of the mouth, but no, also no crown there. My dentist proceeded to check every crown in my mouth, all were intact. THE TOOTH THEY SAID I NEEDED A FILLING DIDN'T AS THERE WASN'T EVEN A CAVITY ON THE TOOTH IN QUESTION. Unless you want to burn your own money and inflict self-harm I recommend never going to this place. I hope they are reported to the board. BE CAREFUL WHEN PICKING A DENTIST NOWADAYS DENTISTS GOT RID OF PEER REVIEW SO MORE AND MORE SCUMMY UNETHICAL DENTISTS ARE APPEARING. I certainly am not taking any chances after this experience and will just make the extra 2.5 hour trek to LA to see my old dentist. Thanks for destroying my faith in other dentists... read more

Excellent Doctor and staff! I have had nothing but amazing experiences. Will continue to recommend to all my family and friends.

Best dentist in town!!! Thanks Dr.McElroy and Charisse for all my fillings and other dental needs, I am very glad that I chose Smiles By Design. The Staff is great and everyone is super friendly! I recommend this dental office to everyone!!! Thanks again! read more

If I could give negative stars I would. I won't get into crazy detail but I went to see Dr. Greg McElroy to get a regular check up and cleaning. I picked him randomly because he had good hours and his office was super close to home. I got my cleaning done by his dental assistant and then he came in to go over my x-rays, etc. He told me that I had to get a bunch of crowns plus a root canal and also to get a mouth guard for my grinding at night. The crowns and the mouth guard were going to cost a couple thousand even though I had insurance and he hadn't even priced the root canal yet. I felt somewhat sketched out by the whole experience so I decided to get a second opinion. Guess what? None of the work was needed. The dentist said my teeth were in great shape. The only thing I needed was a mouth guard and he said I could probably get one from the pharmacy for about $30. Can you believe the nerve of some health professionals? What if I didn't think anything of his recommendations and just got them done. I'd be in the hole about $4000 and I didn't even have to get the work done. Lesson learned? If you are concerned, get a second opinion. Another appointment with someone for another $100 or so will save you several thousands in the end. **Late add: The dentist I went after Dr. McElroy was not only a dentist but also a professor of dentistry from a big university. ** read more

Great customer service! Highly recommend this dental office for anyone looking for a good dental experience. The Staff are very friendly and addressed all questions/ concerns I had about my teeth. read more

Just broke an old crown chewing hard candy this week. Going back to Dr. Mcelroy. The 4 stars for not hurting me, thanks for offering me Nitrous (laughing gas) during my "basic" cleaning. I must have been too nervous. I personally don't think there is anything basic about a cleaning and I have nightmares about them. I like to space out for 30 min 1/2 asleep until it is over. I feel like this guy takes my comfort and the quality of his work very seriously. I knew I could get $250 crowns somewhere else, but I don't want cheap, rushed dental work in my mouth. You can tell the difference when a professional is giving you the best they've got and that's what he does. Update: Just got my old broken crown fixed. I was able to get it done in one visit at his office. He's got this killer machine that makes the crowns while you read a magazine. It takes an extra half hour or so, but you don't have to come back and get shots again. 5 stars for that! Good job, it feels perfect. read more

I have been meaning to write this review for a month now, and while usually I'll just forget about it altogether, I'm compelled to come back and let everyone in So Cal know this is the best dentist EVER. In fact, this is the best dental OFFICE ever, too. The staff is friendly, calm and reasonable. Dr. Mac is no-nonsense, while being really friendly and practical. Where he could have charged me thousands, he saved me thousands instead. And the procedure was relatively pain free. Oh, and the welcome present isn't bad either! This office rocks read more

Went to see my favorite medical professionals yesterday. Sadly it was to remove a tooth. It was deep cleaned a couple of years ago but developed a "pocket" anyway, it had to come out. As usual, Dr Mac and Charisse took excellent care of me. They are Such a good team, working flawlessly together. The tooth came out (reluctantly) with a good deal of pressure but without incident. In addition to implanting bone to strengthen socket, they did something new, a new procedure where they harvest some of your platelets and put them in the socket to advance healing. Great team, latest techniques, fair pricing. read more

Going to the dentist isn't usually something people look forward to. Fortunately I've never had a cavity before and so other than the teeth cleaning/whitening - I'm always in and out. Until today - found out that I have 3 cavities! BUT I have to say that - for hearing this unpleasant news, it was the best office to hear the news in. Upon arrival I was greeted by Susan, who I had exchanged polite email correspondence with to set up my appointment. She was even more friendly than her emails. I filled out my new patient forms and didn't wait more than a couple of minutes. Next I sat in the chair for x-rays - I cannot remember the girl's name for the life of me - but she has a cute short brunette hair cut and was so nice. She took her time and made sure I was comfortable. Then I got to meet the infamous Dr. Mac. I'm not sure why there are bad reviews on here - he is great! Not only is he a warm, funny person, but he also is very knowledgeable and through. I sometimes feel that at the dentist the actual exam done by the dentist is quick and speedy. But Dr. Mac took time to examine me and then reviewed my xrays and photos in front of me, explaining things as he went along. For me that was important. Upon hearing the bad news that my 29 year old no cavity streak has been broken, he explained how he would fill them and why I need to fill them. I did not feel scammed or that he was upselling me at all! Next I got to meet Carrie who performed the teeth cleaning. I have never met a more friendly, warm Dental assistant (I could be wrong on the title!). She took her time and explained everything she was doing. By the end of the cleaning I had felt like I made a new friend! Overall I highly recommend Dr.Mac. Once I drop the "un" in front of my employment status then I will be back to get my cavities filled. They have great payment plans and discount options available if you don't have insurance as well. read more

I broke a crown and needed a rush job repair. There was a lot of discomfort. I had never been to Dr. McElroy but I have a few friends and family members who use him. We called at 10:30 A.M. and I was meeting with him by 1:00 P.M. The price was fair and the fact that he could actually build the crown on the premises in less than an hour was music to my ears. What a cool machine! I was done by 3:15, with no follow up visit required. Great experience, very comfortable, pain free, fast and professional. I have a new dentist! read more

I went in for some dental works and get a second opinion. This dentist, you need to STAY AWAY!! He doesn't' have the time NOR the day to discuss my work. He is those type that before he sat down, he's ready to jump to the next client! What a waste of my time going there. I really regret taking time off from work to make this appointment. read more

I went to their location in Carmel Mountain! OMG! I was so impressed! The dentist went to New York University and I was always scared of dentist and all the drill tools they use. One day I finally called the store and they quoted me a very competitive price. I used to think dentistry sucked, but it was my previous dentist that sucked!! The dentist was so nice and smooth, I was really impressed!! The staff is real nice too! read more

The best doctors office ever. If you want the hospitality and genuine care that is dying away in new generations visit this office! They connect with you personally, on social media and whenever you need anything above and beyond. I recently lost my mother and the office there knows my father and I from visits just like any other client. I received this in the mail today and my jaw dropped. They are the family business values in a corporate world of clients as numbers. I adore their techs, the doctor, the secretaries and everyone. I've never left without a smile. Which sounds cheesy. read more

Dr McElroy and his staff are so welcoming and friendly!! From the moment you walk into the office you are greeted with beautiful smiling faces and treated with the upmost care. Dr McElroy is straight to the point and gives you the answers you are looking for. He explains your needed treatment with honesty, excitement and assurance. I love how much the office does with the community and philanthropy work for others!! What a blessing they are to their patients and people they have never met but want to reach!! Book an appointment , you won't regret it! Such a promising feeling and you will leave looking and feeling the best you ever have!! read more

What a great guy! Consummate professional from beginning to end. He has the latest technology, and delivered a crown same day with the Cerec machine. Susan, his Office Manager was very knowledgeable and very accommodating. A truly great experience...thanks guys!! read more

Dr. McElroy is an excellent dentist recommended to me by multiple friends. I'm very impressed with the professionalism and utmost care this dental office has to offer. The staff is wonderful, appointments are quick to book when you need it and I truly feel like I'm attended to at every visit. I would highly recommend anyone in the San Diego and Encinitas area to go to Smiles by Design. I'm certain you won't find another dental office like this in the area! read more

I went to Dr. McElroy for a teeth cleaning when i was visiting some family down in san diego. it was my first experience at this office and i find myself becoming anxious whenever i visit the dentist and specifically new ones. however, his staff and himself were extremely kind and friendly and made the overall experience very comforting and i felt at ease the whole time. i had a great experience and would definitely recommended him to anyone! i know be back for another cleaning when i'm in the area! read more

Was recommended to Smiles By Design by a close friend. I felt comfortable, relaxed and valued as a patient. Dr McElroy and his assistant are quick, efficient and professional. I have referred two friends at work to this office and they were also impressed. As long as I have teeth, they have a loyal patient. read more

Dr. McElroy and his team are absolutely fantastic! They are very professional and very friendly! I've been with Dr McElroy for 7 years and I have no intention of leaving! I've been coming for scheduled appointments every year and they've done an excellent job cleaning up my teeth to keep them in pristine shape. The office itself is very clean, has tons of amenities and great views! I highly recommend him to everyone. If you're looking for the most knowledgeable, friendly and professional dentist, look no further! read more

Dr. McElroy is one of a kind! The best there is and his entire staff is amazing! This is by far the best dentist and staff I've ever been too in my life! read more

Always been well taken care of here. Not too late to focus on me so I'll these folks do the work needed to get my full smile back!

Dr. McElroy is an artist and a talented doctor combination! He does take the utmost care of each of his patients. My family members go to him, too. He chose a wonderful location. Easy to park. Easy to get to. He is friendly and accommodating. He listens. And, he advises. Highly recommend! Charrise is amazing too! Thank you so much Dr. McElroy and Charisse. read more

The staff at Smiles by Design in Encinitas, CA are always so nice and helpful. My family has been going for years and everyone has only good things to say. I wouldn't trust anyone else. McElroy Smiles By Design's team is the best in town! read more

Dr McElroy's practice is wonderful. With a comfortable setting upon entering their facilities and a clean, professional environment, Smiles by Design make for the perfect place to have your dental work done. I had not been to the dentist in many years and this is the first place I did a check-up with. I was able to get a full evaluation and free x-rays in just a short few hours on my first visit. I was pleased with the professional services of each staff member from the front desk, to the dental assistants. I look forward to returning to Dr McElroy's office to have my dental work completed. read more

All the staff here are so kind and caring! They have been so helpful to explain to me my questions and always make sure I am okay and comfortable. I definitely suggest coming here! Only dentists family and I personally trust. read more

Doctor McElroy did a great job on my teeth. The front the desk was welcoming and informative. As a new customer I really enjoyed doctor McElroy and will be coming back whenever I need excellent dental work. I recommend their KOR whitening! read more

I recently moved to the area and was referred to Dr McElroy/ Smiles By Design by my daughters orthodontist and I am so thankful for such a great referral! First, let me start by saying I have always had significant anxiety of going to the dentist and getting work done ( I have had many poor experiences with not only dentists, but incomplete or incorrect/poor work being done that's had to be re done etc, etc) And this trip was no different as I knew I needed a significant amount of work done/redone, so my anxiety was high. I can't even explain the level of compassion and care the ENTIRE office has given me through the past few weeks as I began getting work done (and completed once and for all!). I am so impressed by this dental practice. I can't thank you all enough for being so kind and caring and explaining everything to me As thoroughly as you have!!! For the first time in my life, I love my dentist and even though I'm still nervous about the procedures, I take a lot of comfort in knowing I'll be taken care of and the work being done is top notch!! I will/would refer anyone looking for a dentist to this practice. read more

I am so happy to find this office! They make the crowns right there during your visit!!! It saves so much time and it is super easy and comfortable. Thanks Dr. McElroy and your wonderful staff! Smiles by Design is the best!!! read more

I came to visit San Diego and had a dental emergency. This place, Smiles by design took me in ASAP and helped me! I was in so much pain and they made it possible for me to be seen right away. Thank you so much Dr. McElroy and all the staff. Daniela looked up all my insurance information and made my visit so easy. They all helped me make the rest of my visit to San Diego much better! read more

Had my teeth cleaned at Smiles by Design. My Hygenist, Izzy, was very professional and thorough. Far more personable than other hygienists I've had. I recommend Smiles by Design for routine hygiene, dental issues, and especially crowns. I love having the crown made while you wait. No need for a return visit! read more

Dr. McElroy and his staff are amazing! This has been our family dentistry since our daughter was a toddler. We now have two daughters who love to go to the dentist! The technicians are great with children of all ages and the front desk personnel is kind and helpful. I am a big baby about going to the dentist and Sean is extremely accommodating to my extreme dislikes about getting my teeth cleaned. The doctors and technicians use cutting edge technology to keep your teeth super healthy. My husband has had veneers with Dr. McElroy and I have had Invisalign! We are both extremely satisfied with the outcome. Smiles by Design is a fabulous dental office that can help people of all ages with all of their dental needs! read more