End of July, did work that they didn't need to do (I went for two additional consultations), botched 2 of the 4 fillings, and I've had severe tooth pain as a result since. I asked Dr Nguyen if I really needed the work done and he insisted. Now I need additional work to fix the bad job Dr Nguyen did, and I need to pay out of pocket. I didn't even need the initial fillings according to other dentists. Seems like a nice spot for your x-rays and a cleaning, but stay far away for any serious work. Get a few additional consultations, and I would recommend going to a specialist. read more

Dr. Nguyen was my dentist during the four years I lived in SF. He did a fantastic job with my teeth. I had one emergency in which I emailed him during the weekend. He responded immediately and was able to squeeze me in first thing on Monday morning. Really appreciated his promptness as well as his care. He followed up multiple times to make sure that my dental emergency was being monitored. Dr. Nguyen doesn't try to upsell you or sign you up for medical procedures you don't need. I've had a terrible experience in the past with another dentist who was trying to tell me I had two cavities that needed to be filled (I knew it wasn't true because I take good care of my teeth and haven't had a Cavity since I was 8). Dr. Nguyen is very honest and doesn't do that kind of stuff. Wish I could stay with Dr. Nguyen forever! I recommended him to all my colleagues in SF who were looking for a dentist. The only reason why I can't stay with Dr. Nguyen forever is because I'm moving out of SF. Thank you so much for all you've done for me Dr. Nguyen!! read more

This dentist convinced me that he should do a root canal. A week later, I complained of pain in the tooth. He insisted it was because the tooth had been traumatized. A few months later, I still had pain and he insisted that I needed to give it more time. I called a few months later with the same problem, and got no return call. An endodontist looked at it and said, "I've seen worse." Fast forward a few years and I'm spending a lot of money to have surgery to save the tooth that has had an infection festering in it for quite some time. No, I don't trust this dentist. read more

As I sat in the chair, nervously awaiting for the Dr. to remove all 4 of my wisdom teeth, I stared at my cute shoes that I wrote to work that day. Dr. Ted walks in. Dr. Ted: Hey Katie. How are you? Me: Good, how are you? Dr. Ted: Good. I can't believe how old you are. I used to carry you on my shoulders when you were a baby. Me: (awkward laugh) Dr. Ted: So are you ready to snap your teeth out now? I walked out of there with 4 holes in my mouth where my wisdom teeth used to be. I called my mom and asked her why she had not mentioned that he used to take care of me when I was in diapers. She said she forgot. Good times. read more

This guy is the best dentist I have had in years. Like other reviewers, I chose him randomly from my insurance's list and I've been completely satisfied: His office is clean He's a nice guy His cleanings are thorough WITHOUT being masochistic read more

Ted and Alice are just great. After avoiding the dentist for 2 years, I decided it was time to face the music, and found Ted through Yelp. He is thorough, patient, and very communicative regarding what he's doing and why. I had two fillings and it was totally painless - even the shot, which is my least favorite part. He actually caught a cavity that I knew was there (a little pain while flossing) that a previous dentist had missed. No unnecessary work, no guilt-trip. The office is small and does not smell like a dentist's office, which makes it all the more pleasant. How they pull this off I don't know, but they do. So glad I found someone I trust! read more

You have to understand that I have not changed dentists since I was a kid so I definitely felt like I cheated on my old dentist today. However, I had recently moved and it just didn't make sense for me to travel so far to see him anymore. So I went on Yelp and lo and behold, I found Dr. Nguyen who is literally a block away from where I work! I called yesterday and was able to get an appointment today because someone had canceled. Dr. Nguyen was not only super thorough with the cleaning but very gentle as well. My teeth has never felt so clean before! Me: Wow...it didn't hurt at all. Dr. Nguyen: It's not just the technique of the dentist or hygienist. It also has to do with how well you take care of your teeth and gums. He was so humble! But I definitely attribute the painless cleaning to his skills. I am so glad that I made the switch...I guess sometimes infidelity pays off ;) P.S. The receptionist, Alice, is very cool as well. read more

When I moved to the city in 2006 I needed to choose a dentist that was within my plan. I went to my plan's website and searched for someone close to me. I found Dr. Nguyen and figured "hey what's the worst that could happen?" And then immediately realized, "oh right, he could completely destroy my mouth and ruin my beautiful face forever." So I went to him and what do you know, he's the best dentist I've ever been to! His office is clean, his front-desk assistant is friendly and gives reminder phone calls. I was late once because Muni was being Muni and they still were able to fit me in! I have changed jobs once and he is still within my (different) network, leading me to believe he participates in quite a few. I've never had to pay a dime (except for my premiums), so he definitely isn't shady and saying I need something when I don't. Plus he gives you a free toothbrush, floss and toothpaste! I simply cannot ask for anything more from a dentist. I will continue to go to him as long as I live in the bay area. read more

Really great rates and friendly service. I referred a friend to this dentist a couple years ago, and he liked the service so much that he still drives all the way from the East Bay every 6 months to the Outer Richmond to see THIS dentist! read more

I grew up with a dental hygienist who constantly scolded me for not flossing enough and prodded my gums until they bled. When I moved to San Francisco, I vowed to find a non-sadistic dentist. Enter: Dr. Nguyen I love everything about Dr. Nguyen and Balboa Dental in general. The office is small, so appointments actually run on time. It also means you can schedule an appointment without going through the automated circle of hell and without having to call months in advance. Dr. Nguyen actually does all the work himself, so no rude hygienists and awkward quick consults from the "real" dentist, like in other offices. Both he and Alice, the receptionist, are so nice that achieve that feeling Starbucks strives for - you know, where you feel like they remember who you are and care about your likes and dislikes. Balboa Dental...where everyone knows your name. Seriously, though, the office is so welcoming and it's such a great experience I really look forward to having my teeth cleaned. The little toothpaste and floss samples at the end don't hurt, either. read more

This review is not about their dental skills but rather about their business practices. I have left several phone messages over multiple weeks asking for an appointment. My daughter, who is a current patient, also left a message. None of these phone calls have been returned. If the practice is full, I don't think it's too much to ask for the courtesy of a return phone call. read more

I don't understand all these 5 stars review. First: they are highly disorganized. I went there twice for cleaning, and after the second time they didn't book any future visit, neither told me when would be a good time to future to go back. Enough for me to change dentist. Second: the place is decadent. You are in this white room that needs restoration. Not a good impression. Third: second time I was there for a deep cleaning. Total time spent there: 50 minutes. Total charged: 1260$. I think it's ridiculous. I have a good insurance and my pay was only 50$, but the price charged is way too high. Summary: there are plenty of other dentist in the area, why come here? read more

Dr Ted is amazing. I have been going to him for years now - and he is consistently kind, professional and thorough with cleaning and dental work. I would give him 10 stars if i could : ) read more

Dr. Nguyen is a great dentist, one of the most sensitives and thorough cleanings. If you have coffee stains, tea stains, coke stains, etc., Doc will get them off. He is extremely friend and the receptionist very animated. They are very accommodating with appointments and reasonably prices if you are a self pay patient. I recommended my friends and they loved them as well. read more

Dr. Nguyen was referred to me by a long time patient (who had 2 boys as well as herself going to him for years). Long story short all my kids go to him now - very personable and Alice is fantastic. If you are looking for a long term relationship with a very talented and kind Dentist and staff, search no further. read more

I've had quiet a bit of dental work done, and far and away the very best dental work that I've had done was by Dr. Nguyen. I'm really lucky to have found him. read more

got my wisdom teeth pulled out there. he was really gentle and always assuring me its ok and i'm doing good. dentists are scary, but i really trust Dr. Ted. receptionists is cool too. the job was done and done. great job. Dr Ted rocks read more

So going to the dentist is not the most fun thing in the world, but I think this place does a really good job making it bearable. The people are super nice and understanding. And PLUS, Ted knows what he's doing! There's a good amount of parking as well! Overall, just a great place to get your teeth looking good. read more

Very happy with Dr. Nguyen. He does his own cleaning which is great. He is careful, friendly and does very nice work. It's always a very relaxed feeling in his office. His pricing is also very fair. read more

I went for a cleaning & routine check-up today and was impressed with Dr. Nguyen's gentle technique, thoroughness, and willingness to answer my questions. He explained to me clearly the state of my teeth and let me know what my options are for dealing with a couple of small cavities. The cost for a check-up, including standard bite-wing x-rays, is very low. Highly recommended, so far, and I will post a follow-up after I return to have a filling or two done. read more

simply put, the scheduling is easy, they give reminder calls, dr. nguyen is clear and efficient, and the rate is nice for those without insurance. general cleanings and check-ups go on without a hitch. you need a local dentist, check this place out. read more

Great dentist! I don't have insurance so the rate is great, the cleaning was quick and painless and I highly recommend him. Just a small office so you are not one of a number, you actually get to see him. read more

Dr. Nguyen is a really good dentist. He is gentle and kind. He remembers past conversations. The best dentist I have ever had.

I've been going to Ted for about 3 years. He is awesome! His teeth cleanings are really thorough and the most relaxing, gentle teeth cleanings I've ever had. I even kept him as my dentist when I moved from San Francisco to Greece (I just schedule my dental appointments around visits back). Highly highly recommend! read more

Kind and caring dentist! Finding a dentist was as hard as finding a good hair stylist. I've found our family dentist and I'm so happy! Thank you Dr. Nguyen-you are a gem to our neighborhood. read more

I have been going to Balboa Dental for nearly 4 years. His practice is small and he does all of the cleanings himself. He seems very thorough and I always feel relaxed during the cleaning. My 3 children (ages 3,5 and 7) also go to Dr Nguyen. I feel very fortunate that they have no fear of going to the dentist and actually all get excited when it is time to go. Dr. Nguyen is patient, soft-spoken and makes us all feel good about our teeth. I have no experience with any of us having cavities, so I don't know how the kids (or I) would do in that situation with Dr Nguyen. However, his general cleanings are well received by the kids and they enjoy holding the mouth vacuum while he cleans. Unlike pediatric dentist offices, he doesn't give toys and there aren't special cartoons playing. I personally don't like that sort of thing, so I am pleased that the toothbrush and new toothpaste are the "reward" afterward. With the exception of one visit, I have never had to wait for my appointment. This is so important when I am in a hurry or bring all 3 kids in. read more