TL;DR: The new ownership kept the practice name and patient data, but entirely voided warranties on previous dental work. They charge exorbitant, out-of-network prices and operate with a strict profit-first mentality. Save your money and go elsewhere. I am sharing my experience to warn both returning and prospective patients about the current business practices at Stephens Dentistry. Four years ago, I had a crown placed at this office for almost $2000. Recently, the crown prematurely cracked and failed. When I contacted the office to have it addressed, I was informed that because the practice is under "new ownership," any previous warranty is completely void. They strategically kept the practice's established name, reputation, and all patient records (down to using the same email address!) to maintain business continuity, but legally shielded themselves from any accountability or warranties on previous dental work. Their idea of a "goodwill gesture" was a mere 10% discount on a replacement crown, bringing the cost to over $1,800. This is absolutely exorbitant and roughly twice the price of what other dentists in the Evanston area charge for equivalent or better work. When you pay top dollar for dental work, you expect exceptional quality and accountability for their work, but Stephens Dentistry offers neither. To anticipate the practice's likely response to this review: in addition to bluntly stating they voided all past liabilities due to the ownership change, they will probably also claim they cannot honor the warranty because I haven't been back for regular cleanings at their specific practice over the last four years. I have maintained my dental hygiene, just not with them. Why? Because Stephens Dentistry is out-of-network for basically all insurances and outrageously expensive. The previous management once admitted to me their fees were intentionally set at the 85th percentile of local practices, and it is abundantly clear the new ownership operates with the exact same "cash cow" mindset. In a university town like Evanston, operating with such an unscrupulous, profit-first mentality is deeply disappointing. If you are a long-term patient, be aware that your past warranties mean absolutely nothing to the new owners. If you are a new patient, be prepared for highly inflated pricing. I have decided to take my business elsewhere and strongly advise others to do the same. read more

I'm needing a new dentist and decided to interview references from several happy patients/friends. Dr Montoya is careful and attentive to every detail. As I have several more dentists to interview I have not arrived at a choice. Dr Montoya is definitely a top option! read more

I had an emergency need for dental work. Dr. Montoya met me at the office at 7:30 on a Saturday morning to solve the issue. His care, concern and support were hugely appreciate. read more

Very competent dentist and support staff. I was very satisfied with tooth extraction.

Adding an update here since I have now been a patient at this wonderful establishment for almost two years. I have had painless procedures every time, from old fillings replaced, a crown, teeth whitening, lots of cleanings, and even a fresh bonding for a long ago chipped tooth which looks so real, you'd never know I had a flaw in my otherwise perfect visage. (ahem.) Wish I could say I got that chip while catching a hockey puck in my gaping maw, but I got it from opening the giant front passenger door of a Crown Victoria in 1993 (aka: the Millennium Falcon) and since I'm a friggin' hobbit, the damn thing snagged my front right tooth and took an aesthetic bite outta me. I subsequently wept for 90 days. An average dentist can fix it for a bit, and then it falls off again. A great dentist like Dr. Montoya makes it look, well, refer back to my praise above. I'm prompted to write again today because a sweet person manning the front desk just responded to an email I had about an account balance and change of address. I emailed her at 10:45. She called me at 10:45 and 15 seconds. Talk about service! Everyone at this place is a kick ass human being. There's a lot of love, respect and professionalism here. Also weird... I look forward to my appointments! Truly, madly, I love the Good Ship Stephens Dentistry and all who sails in her. read more

This dental practice is amazing! My family has been with them for years and we've been happy with ALL services: cleanings, fillings, crowns, mouthguards, bonding, Invisalign, and anti-snoring devices. Everything about this practice is top-notch -- from scheduling to cleanings to the more involved procedures that require multiple visits. Knowledgeable, friendly, professional, patient, comforting, and lots of humor to ease uneasiness about possible unknowns. All questions are answered, all options discussed, and if you want to be educated on all things dental: this is the place to go! read more

You'll be under the best care possible at Stephens Dentistry. The dentists there are kind, considerate and aces in their field. Dr. Montoya and the new female dentist couldn't be more wonderful, and they're so good at what they do. My dental hygienist, Vanessa, is aces too! Not only do my teeth feel clean, I feel like I've just had a fun visit with a friend! She makes you feel like the whole practice revolves around you. read more

I have been going to Stephens Dentistry for many years. Excellent service and good quality work.

Been going to Stephens Dentistry for the past decade. Overall, they've been the best practice I've visited. They were very friendly and through, and had a good balance of giving me options for items around my dental health. Would definitely recommend them to others to visit. read more

Stephens Dentistry is awesome. Once you've been there, you won't want to go to any other dentist. Even with the upcoming retirement of Dr. Bob, I feel confident that they will continue to take wonderful care of my teeth. I met one of the two new dentists and am very impressed. The dental hygienists are gentle and always do a great job too. It's literally fun to go there, everyone is so nice. read more

I haven't been to the dentist in awhile and was nervous to go in. Everyone here was so nice and they were so informative on everything they were doing for my exam. It really felt like they cared a lot about me as an individual and they were so knowledgeable. If you are looking for a new dentist, I am definitely recommending this dentist office! I loved the experience so much that I am going to switch my daughter over to this office as well. :) read more

From the friendly greeting when you arrive to the thorough cleaning and exam, this is a great place to go for dental care.

Full service team, always on top of my dental care, using latest innovations in dentistry. Been a client for 40 yrs, and the transition w new team has been seamless! read more

I have been going to this dental practice for years, and although it has recently changed hands, the quality of work is still very high. A big thank you to Francit and Anna for assisting with my crown placement today. I get nervous at dental appointments but they were great! read more

I've been seeing Dr Ma and her team at Stephens for a couple of years now, and it'd be hard to overstate how impressed or appreciative I am for my experiences with them! I have fairly severe dental anxiety - when I first came here I think I'd been to a dentist twice in the previous decade (so as you can imagine, I had some work I needed to do...). As such I've been here quite a few times, and I'd say a big part of why I haven't dropped off the map and kept with the plan is everyone here goes miles beyond what you'd normally expect in terms of creating a comfortable, supportive, and fun environments, where I'm legitimately excited to see everyone here (even if I'm still nervous about the work that needs to happen). Also, I've always been a bit pain sensitive with my teeth, and Dr Ma is seriously MILES beyond anyone else I've ever seen in terms of making the process painless and her sensitivity to her patient's experience. I really cannot say this strongly enough, if you're looking for a dentist, you couldn't possibly do better than Dr Ma and the whole Stephens team. Everyone is just wonderful in every possible way. read more

I went to this dentist for a few years, and didn't realize just how much I was overpaying until I went to another one. The staff is nice and welcoming, and the hygienists were always great. However, there were a few instances that were more than enough reason to call it quits. I had to have a filling redone 3 times on the same tooth, over the span of 6 months. When it fell out again, I decided not to go back. They suggested a night guard for teeth grinding, but the quote was for more than $2,000. (The standard price range is $300-$800). I eventually realized that these grossly unreasonable prices were not limited to this service. My insurance actually covered a good amount, and yet I was still paying several hundred plus per visit. And yes, you have to pay $25 to get your x rays. read more

l had another great cleaning today by Vanessa. She is very gentle and informative during the procedure. Everyone at Stephens is friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about what they do for you. I feel confident about getting great service every time I come in. read more

Ok, this is a little complicated. I had a bad experience over all because I got a HUGE bill dropped on me at the end that I wasn't expecting, but it wasn't directly their fault. BUT, I do think they could have done more to prevent it, or at least to warn me. First, I should say the people there are fine and good. Very friendly, very attentive, very eager to make sure you're comfortable. The one people-related complaint I have is that the doctor was not very respectful to one of the hygienists who was helping me. She was small-talking warmly with me, but he just kept walking in and totally interrupting her to ask me the same small-talky questions as if she weren't even there. As for the procedures, they went without a hitch. I got full X-Rays, a teeth cleaning, and a small cavity filled. I was very pleased that the doctor didn't try to make me do a bunch of extra stuff that I didn't think I needed, and I was also careful when filling the cavity not to take out more than necessary. It was very good work, and he did it deftly and patiently. The problem came with the bill. They asked me to pay $350 up front, but assured me that I would get reimbursed for "much of it" by my insurance. The second day (I had to go twice because of the little cavity), they said the total charge was another $350 and that I would pay $50 of it now, but that I'd probably have to pay "a little bit more" after the insurance was through. I walked out of there expecting to pay around $120.00 total for both days. By the end of the week, rather than getting a big reimbursement check, I got a bill for an additional $300. All told, I ended up paying a whopping $650 for all this!! When I called, they were just like, "yeah, that sucks. Your insurance is stingy." I was like, "well couldn't you have at least said that might happen??" And she just said sorry, no knowing. That may be true, but honestly, I think it's fair to say you should at least warn people that there's the possibility of having to pay a huge bill out of pocket. Anyway, like I said, great people, and great work, but I can't say it was a great experience :(. Sorry. read more

They have a great staff that makes you feel comfortable the moment you walk in. From someone who is a little uncomfortable going to the dentist office, I highly recommend them to anyone! PS - I drive over an hour one-way to see them, that's how good they are! read more

The team here is fabulous. They're kind, understanding and compassionate in explaining what your process and needs are. If you are lucky enough to have Vanessa work with you, you're lucky enough! Tracy & Nicki up front will work in your schedule and chat with you whilst trying to make you not nervous. Thank you to the team. read more

I had a great experience here as a new patient. Everyone was kind and welcoming. The hygienist, Daniela, was great and very thorough. The dentist spent a lot of time with me and answered all of my questions. Highly recommend. read more

From patient Uy Nguyen. Going to the dentist had always been daunting for me and of course during Covid-19 it was amplified a little more. Stephens Dentistry was heaven sent from the moment I picked up the phone to schedule an appointment. Front desk and the management team were very courteous and helpful , they were clear and precise with all paperworks. The office was extremely clean and there were precautions taken for each customer before entering. Dr. Ma and her assistant Juana performed a filling for my chipped second Molar. They made me forget that I was at a dental office and the procedure was done before I know it. I was walked through each step of the process and we also had a great time l talking and laughing about our kids and families. I felt so comfortable that I made my second appointment for cleaning immediately , no lies! If you're scare of the dentist this is where you want to be, you'll leave your fear at the door and your mouth will thank ya! read more

Dr. Raibulet was amazing!! He is very skilled, pleasant and thoughtful. I had a crown done, and my experience was painless and enjoyable! Highly recommend this practice :). read more

I always like coming to the office. The ladies at the reception desk greet you right away with a smile. I never wait long to have my appointment begin. The dental hygienists and dentists want your appointment to go smoothly and with as little pain as possible. I like that the staff listens to you and tries to accommodate your needs. Overall, the care is excellent. This dentist office makes you not afraid to go for care. read more

I have beeen a loyal dental patient here for only 50 years, yes 50 years, and I have to say that I have been very satisfied. I travel a good distance to come here and it is worth every bit. The professional staff has always been friendly, attended to my needs, and through every transition as the team goes, they have always exceeded my expectations! I just went in for the normal 6 month checkup with the new team and they seem equally great. Pricing is fair being a private practice and they work well with my insurance. The premises is always clean and follow up is perfect whether it is for an appointment or for post-treatment check-in to see how everything is going. I can also phone and get hold of my dentist after-hours if need be. I highly recommend Stephens Dentistry. read more

Listen... going to the dentist can suck, but everyone here is amazing. They're all super friendly, from the reception staff to the hygienists and the dentists. I've never left in a bad mood or without a smile, which is always pearly white! (... sorry, I had to) read more

Everyone whom I have encountered there is always friendly. The dentists and hygienists have a light touch, and are quick and efficient. They are also always ready for me at my appointment time, and I never have to wait more than a few minutes after checking in. read more

Best staff, best hygienists, best dentists! Been going to Stephens Dentistry for approx 15 year (along with lots of friends and colleagues). The Stephens team adapts new technologies when appropriate, while keeping costs reasonable for patients. To a person, the team is committed to excellent patient care! (Plus ... Dr. Bob plays right-on-old-school rock n roll. Smile!) read more

Fantastic experience & dental team! The practice for my previous dentist, whom I saw for 20+ years, "broke up" with me because they were moving. So after checking Yelp for dentists near me, found Stephens Dental and Dr. Montoya one block from my apartment. Everyone was gracious & welcoming and my experience was really great. The first exam was very thorough, and Dr Monotya took the time to go through the photos, not just xrays, of my teeth to help me understand what was happening & what was needed. They take a team approach to your care like the Mayo Clinic, and it shows read more

Very professional and great hands. New dentists took over the practice and I was a little anxious. They are professionals and provided excellent care. The hygienist was caring and wanted to make sure I was well taken care of. And I was. They also adjusted a crown that was installed under previous team. No problem. Happily I'm sticking with this group. read more

It had been a while since I went to the dentist and Stephens was recommended by a coworker. They were very clear about costs of treatment and recommendations. They aren't the cheapest, but everyone in the office is very friendly and very competent! read more

Always such a friendly and attentive group. Very dedicated to making dentistry a positive and painless experience. Can't recommend highly enough! read more

Vanessa the hygienist was amazing, and dr Montoya was also amazing. Great customer service, and had a great experience. They were very thorough and super informative. Highly recommend! Thank you Stephens dentistry read more

Dr. Bob and the team here are fantastic. Always courteous. Their use of technology is truly impressive, whether text reminders for appointments or what they use for your dental care. They also have a great network for referrals, like the time they needed to refer me for grafting for receding gums. Can't recommend them enough. read more

I highly recommend Stephens Dentistry in Evanston. The office atmosphere is always welcoming, friendly, helpful and professional. Scheduling is easy and appointments are on time. I tend to be pretty anxious about dental work, but the fact that all the staff is consistently attentive, listens well and is customer-oriented helps put me at ease. Vanessa is a terrific dental hygienist. And most recently I had some restorative work done by one of the office's newer docs, Dr. Montoya. He's wonderful! He clearly loves his profession and is focused on doing the best job possible...and was equally focused on making sure I was as comfortable as possible. He explains things clearly, answers questions well, and followed up after procedures with a phone call to ask how I was doing. Dr. Montoya's an A+ in my book. read more

Always great care! Our whole family goes to this practice and we feel confident in the wonderful care we receive.

This was my first apt here and they were fantastic. I had severe staining and they did an amazing job. Everyone is friendly and there is a good atmosphere. Highly recommended read more

I have been a patient here for over 10 years. The excellent staff, starting with the now retired Dr. Jim, as well as the great hygienist Kayla and Dr. Ma, helped me with my dental fears. Very calm and gentle. Today I met members of the new team, hygienist Vanessa and Dr. R, and they are just as terrific. Vanessa gave me helpful tips during the cleaning. Dr. R introduced himself and gave off a very kind and knowledgeable vibe that instills confidence. The desk staff who have been with the practice for years are always super helpful. read more

I've been to Stephen's Dentistry for a regular cleaning and to have a filling fixed. Great customer care. Professional administrative staff. I really enjoy the information that plays on the displays in the examination rooms. I learned some helpful dental care tips. It may be a con for some that at least to start, they bill you upfront and then submit to your insurance. I can manage this payment structure but I recognize it would not work for everyone. read more

Had my first appointment at Stephens Dentistry yesterday. Fantastic experience. The staff and Dr. Bob were efficient, very friendly, very thorough and gave me confidence that I was getting the best care. Would HIGHLY recommend SD to anyone. read more