The thought of having dental surgery for a implant made me uneasy. Not just the idea of drilling into my jaw - but, also the photos of the implant screw-like device made me think of my mouth as becoming "Vampire-like" with a metal spike protruding from my gums. But my trusted Bellevue dentist (Dr. David Knopf - see my YELP review) referred me to Dr. Thomas Maring in Seattle. Thanks to the expert, outstanding work by Dr. Maring, the operating assistant Kim and also staffer Paul, my fears proved completely unfounded. The quick appointment took only 35 minutes from the moment I sat down in the dental chair to the moment I walked out of the office. With local anesthesia there was no pain and I appreciated the excellent interpersonal - as well as dental skills - of Dr. Manring and Kim who both asked me how I was doing throughout the surgery. Written instructions on what to expect and followup at home (ice pack, mouth rinsing, ibuprofen, etc) were clearly written on a provided handout. I had no swelling, no pain and it was all so easy. I go back in a few months for the short, final procedure. So this is to very very highly recommend Dr. Maring for anyone who might need implant surgery. Outstanding medical expertise and efficiency coupled with excellent interpersonal skills in a "caring" environment! (plus, the mental in my mouth is hidden in my gums - so I don't feel Vampire-like! ) read more

Had a great experience with Dr. Maring in removing 4 wisdom teeth! Will recommend to all my friends.

After writing a number of restaurant reviews on Yelp, this one will be a little different. The staff at Dr. Maring's office are all very helpful and courteous, and (as other reviewers have noted) Paul is one buttoned-up assistant. Dr. Maring, himself, while pretty businesslike, clearly knows what he is doing. I went in for an extraction and the entire process took no more than about 20 minutes. There was absolutely zero pain afterwards, and Paul did call to check up on me the next day. So, as much as I'd rather go to restaurants than have teeth extracted, I have to give Dr. Maring and his staff a big thumbs up. read more

I've now had an implant done by Dr. Maring, and my opinion of him and his office has only gone up. He's very competent and his staff is great too. I can't recommend him highly enough. read more

I had a great experience with Dr. Maring removing four of my wisdom teeth. He was quick (procedure took about 45 mins), and his team works flawlessly together. He does many procedures each morning so you don't get a chance to talk to him much during the day of the procedure (he was very thorough with his consultation at the previous visit), but it just speaks to his high efficiency and wonderful surgical skill. Also his dental assistant team- Fabi and Jordeen- were also amazing! They made me feel comfortable and kept me updated without me having to ask. Much appreciated. read more

Had three wisdom teeth extracted last week and I could not be happier with the results. It was an emergency situation, the third wisdom tooth was cutting my cheek and needed to come out weeks before i actually did something about it. Dr. Maring was VERY accomodating, fitting me in his schedule shortly after consultation and did an expert job. I procrastinated wisdom teeth extraction for years and the smooth experience made all the waiting seem foolish. Recovery and follow up instructions were also comprehensive and took the guessing out of pain relief. I highly recommend this doctor. read more

I went into Dr. Marring's for my wisdom teeth removal. I was recommended by my dentist and she made an excellent choice sending me here. I came in for a consultation, just to see what needed to be removed. I filled out some paperwork and turned it in. The office actually looks up your dental insurance through your social security number so if you don't have your dental card on you, it's not a problem. The receptionist was extremely professional and courteous. I actually filled out the paperwork incorrectly and it was fixed in a jiffy. I was called into the back, the dental assistant takes some x-rays and then they bring you into the office and they'll go through the x-rays with you. Turns out I needed all 4 of my wisdom teeth extracted and it needed to happen ASAP. They go through all the paperwork with you. The risks, the procedure, aftercare and all of that jazz. Before I left the office, I made an appointment for the removal. You talk to Cindy and she schedules you, she also sends in a request to your insurance for you then you'll get an email in a few days with how much the procedure would cost. I think it took about 2 days. Dr. Marring also writes you a prescription for amoxicillin and Percocet to pick up before surgery so you don't have to go after. It's extremely convenient. On the day of the procedure, I was so nervous about getting an IV. I hate, hate, HATE needles and I always have this fear that the doctor can't find my veins (I've had friends who've had nurses insert the needle multiple times to find their veins). I was talking to the dental assistant and she assured me there was nothing to worry about. I came in at 8:20, paid my bill for the operation and I was tended to immediately. So they give you some mouth wash, then you head into the operation room. They put some heart monitors on you, Dr. Marring comes in, puts an IV in your arm and injects some medication and you're out like a light. I was asleep but conscious during the surgery because every couple of minutes, I would be woken up because I would stop breathing through my nose. You would think it's terrifying waking up and hearing your teeth being removed but you're so loopy, you don't even care. I honestly felt like I was in the chair for 5 minutes, the operation took only 20 and I was out the door after another 20 (recovery time). I was told that one of my wisdom teeth would have to be broken in 2 to get removed but Dr. Marring was able to remove it whole, and I only had stitches on one socket which was awesome (stitches dissolve on their own). I would say that getting my wisdom teeth removed was easier than getting me teeth cleaned. I would definitely recommend Dr. Marring, not only because he's an excellent surgeon but his staff is phenomenal. From his receptionist to his dental assistants. Everyone was warm, welcoming and knowledgable. Everything was so professional and prompt. My gums healed at a remarkable rate and I'm soooo glad I finally glad I got my wisdom teeth removed. read more

Dr. Maring is awesome. I got my four wisdom teeth (2 impacted, 2 non-impacted) taken out this morning at 7:30 and I am feeling surprisingly well now at 3PM. I know recovery time is mostly about tooth placement, reaction to meds, etc. but I appreciated how efficient and straightforward the wisdom tooth extraction was. Dr. Maring doesn't mess around- he knows exactly what he's doing and his staff team help him accomplish successful surgeries. I would highly recommend Dr. Maring to anyone needing oral surgery. read more

Just done the operation. So far so good -- except I have to wait for the feeling of my tongue and chin coming back LOL

I am going to see Dr. Maring for my 2nd implant. Dr. Maring and his staff are top notch, I wouldn't go anywhere else. And quite honestly, I always dreaded getting an implant, but it wasn't that bad. Honestly, and I am one that hates going to the dentist. A deep filling from my dentist actually hurt way worse afterwards. I opted for IV sedation for the extraction of my tooth etc... but the pain afterwards was manageable and I am quite pleased with the results. If anyone has to get an implant, I will only recommend Dr. Maring - he and his staff are simply the best! read more

I thoughtfully waited to post my review until after my surgery and my follow up. Didn't want any slip-ups to happen. I went in for my consultation last December and was completely underwhelmed by everyone in Dr. Maring's office. The receptionist was on a personal call and rolled her eyes, sighed and said "Hold on, I have to do my job." I was then taken back by another employee who took some x-rays and then let me to an exam room. Once in the exam room she gave me a two minute speech about how 18-26 is the optimal age to have wisdom teeth removed. I will admit that I am over 26, but not by that much and my wisdom teeth weren't even a glimmer in my eye when I was 26 and I have the x-rays to prove it. Way to try to make someone feel bad about being a late bloomer. Eventually the guilt tripper left and Dr. Maring came in. The best I can say about his attitude is that he was cold and a little snide. He asked me about 10 times if I had pain from my wisdom teeth. Apparently the first 9 No's weren't enough. As he was fishing around in my mouth some other random guy came in and sat at the desk in the room. No "Sorry I'm late," or "Hi, I'm ..." nothing. Dr. Maring pronounced all four wisdom teeth to come out gave me a pamphlet from 1982 about wisdom teeth and a few prescriptions to fill before my surgery. Flash forward to April as my husband is a CPA and couldn't get time off to take me home after my surgery for four months. I went in last Tuesday to get the teeth removed. I have great veins anyone that isn't blind can see that, but apparently they were super tricky because after five minutes of poking around in one arm we had to switch and poke around in the other arm for five minutes. Finally, the drugs kick in. A short time after that I get up from the chair and go to the recovery room. I was freezing and thankfully they did get me a blanket. My husband came in to get me and we requested that they call us a cab since you have to leave in a car. One of the employees takes us downstairs (me in wheelchair) and no cab. Eventually I flag one down and I get home. In reality I could have walked the five blocks because apparently I'm the only non-loopy person leaving the doctor's office. My husband who is a very easy going person tells me when we get home that he was getting a little annoyed at the person that came to get him because they kept calling me Irene. Nope, that isn't my name and while it does have some of the same letters really Erin and Irene aren't close enough to screw up when you are getting paid $1600. Hell the ladies at the nail salon can say my name and they aren't from this country. All in all, I think I have been very lucky to have very little pain over the last week, but since all of my teeth were in or partially in I chalk the painlessness up to that. Overall, I feel like when I walked through the door I was treated like I was in a cattle car. Get them in and out as quick as possible so we don't waste any extra time. If anyone from Dr. Maring's office actually reads Yelp, I would say work on your customer service. It is nice to be treated like a person and not money. read more

Dr. Maring handled both my wisdom teeth and my corrective upper and lower jaw surgery. He is did an amazing job and was so attentive throughout the whole process. I would see him again for any and all oral surgeries. read more

I can't give 5 stars cause that would imply I enjoyed getting my wisdom teeth out. But as far as oral surgery goes, it was good. Dr Maring told me he is one of maybe 4 surgeons in the state who does both dental and jaw surgery, so he is uniquely qualified. Also, before I had my wisdom teeth out, I expressed great concern b/c my teeth were impacted sideways and the roots were entangled in my nerve endings, and similar conditions left my mom with a numb lip many years ago (not this doctor). He called me at work and was refreshingly honest as we discussed the risks and benefits. After about half an hour we agreed upon a compromise. I know he's a busy guy so I really appreciated both his honesty and the time he took to talk to me. The surgery and healing went by with no complications. Dr Maring was referred to me by both a friend and my dentist and I recommend him as well! read more

Ok so after my review and after expressing my feelings with his staff, he actually took the time to call me and apologize. For a doctor I imagine this to be difficult, so even though my experience was less than perfect I'll give the doc an A ok rating for at least apologizing and committing to me he would try harder to be on his game. read more

Dr. Maring is great and Dr. Maring isn't so bad, either. I have had work done by both Dr. Maring, the oral surgeon, and Dr. Maring, the periodontist. Yes, they're married and share an office. Dr. Maring is one cool dude. He's pretty quiet, but so strong and steady that he helps calm your nerves during the procedures. I have had 3 teeth taken out by him, one under general anesthesia, the other two local. I was nervous with the general, but everything went fine. Next decision is whether to get an implant--I have every confidence in his care, tho it does bother me I am becoming a fixture at his office. :) read more

I had 6 wisdom teeth pulles (yes 6). Went in a bit nervous due to all the horror stories i heard from family and friends. I was a bit shocked after the surgery, pain was minimal (out of 1 to 10, i would rate the pain a 4 at the most) and i was actually able to eat soft foods without any issues. I was given percocet for the pain but only used half of the bottle before i switched to ibuprofen. Overall it was a great experience and i would definitely prefer Dr. Thomas. PS - the only thing that sucked is coming off of the laughing gas high. Apparently i was a bit flirtatious and talkative...kinda embarrassing but whatever, i enjoyed the experience. :) read more

If I could give Dr. Maring more stars I would. The long awaited double-jaw surgery is complete and despite a challenging recovery, our teen came through with flying colors due to the excellent care received by Dr. Maring. We honestly felt as though he treated our daughter as if she were his own. He has been very caring and very informative throughout the entire process. IMHO its tough to find doctors who are not only highly technical but have an amazing "bedside manner," and Dr. Maring is a wonderful and unique combination of both. We are very grateful to him for giving our daughter the lifetime ability to bite and chew properly - something most of us take for granted. He is most highly recommended!! read more

Dr. Maring is great. An honest doctor who does a great job. The whole staff was great too. My husband and I have both seen him and cannot recommend him enough. Honest and straightforward. read more

I had four wisdom teeth removed and it was a breeze from start to finish. I find that a lot of doctors and dentists make you wait forever only to spend 3 minutes with you, but Dr. Maring and his staff run on time (if not early). The 4x I've been I was in and out in 40 mins or less...that includes the surgical removal of all 4 of my wisdom teeth! Paul is a gem of a medical assistant and his bedside manner is impeccable. Dr. Maring is very professional and has a calming presence;o) If I could give 20 stars I would! Stellar! read more

Thomas Maring made this horrible procedure I have been pushing back for years an actually descent event. The idea of getting my wisdom teeth removed terrified me, but after my wisdom teeth were out, it made me realize how silly I was to wait so long. Everything was practically painless... From making an appointment to the actual removal of my wisdom teeth. He was calm, professional, and nice. I was up and active right after surgery. The second day I was a little bit more tired, but I have to say I barely bled and only swelled up the second and third day. (which is better than normal). I remember starting to panic once he and his staff arrived in scrubs the morning of my "surgery", but Dr. Maring helped me relax by informing me of what was happening (which I actually like- some would rather not know) and talking to me about other things to get my mind off my nerves. All in all, if you have to get your wisdom teeth out- go to Dr. Maring. I would do it all again if I had to with no hesitation. read more

Spoke to Dr. Maring's office staff who were pleasant enough, except. He is NOT a maxiofacial surgeon, he specializes in ONLY extractions and implants. Also, you can ONLY get an appointment via a referral from a SELECT group of orthodontists. After all, Dr. Maring runs a VERY exclusive practice for a very SELECT group of patients. I felt extremely insulted and excluded. The staff was very dismissive and really did not understand or care to understand the reason for our call. read more

I just had my upper wisdom tooth pulled out by Dr. Maring. The whole process, including anaesthesia and pulling the tooth only took 5 minutes. It was very quick and painless. His staff are very friendly as well. Paul, his assitant, did a great job calming me down and making me feel at ease. I highly recommend Dr. Maring's clinic. read more

I had all 4 of my wisdom teeth removed and it was a surprisingly great experience. Some of my friends had recently had their wisdom teeth removed (by a different doctor) and made me nervous with their horror stories. All of my questions were answered at the consultation (I was able to make an appt. the very next day after I called for one and the surgery was only a week later). All of the staff were really nice and personable. The surgery itself only took 40 minutes and afterwards, I barely had any pain at all! I would highly recommend Dr. Maring. read more

I was referred to Dr. Thomas Maring by my dentist and went for an initial consultation after reading great reviews and checking to make sure that Dr. Thomas Maring was in my Premera provider network. Dr. Thomas Maring attended the consultation for a few moments, and proceeded to tell me that the majority of my work would be done by his wife, Susan Maring, also an oral surgeon. I was fine with this and scheduled the next appointment before receiving my dental estimate from Dr. Maring's office or Premera. After receiving both estimates I noticed some discrepancies in the calculations. The estimate from the Marings' office calculated the insurance benefit as in-network from both Dr. Marings, but Premera only did so for Thomas Maring's portion of the estimate. Upon reading the fine print from Premera, it seems that Susan Maring is not in-network and charges considerably more than the allowable. I called the Marings' office and let them know what had happened and instead of apologizing for the mix-up the secretary told me that she talked to me personally about this when I visited the office weeks ago, which she did not. Her instinctive and obviously defensive posturing implies to me that this sort of 'mix-up' happens not infrequently. I am very disappointed to have wasted my time and consultation fee on this office. My dentist was also disappointed to hear how I was treated. read more

I had Dr. Maring remove a wisdom tooth that was in a wierd spot and my dentist wasn't comfortable removing, I did not get anesthsia, bad idea. The assistant and Dr. Maring were both very friendly at the consult. Everthing went down hill from there. The sedatvie they prescribed me did not kick in until after the procedure. I had a diferent assistant during the procedure and she did not introduce herself to me and acted like I wasn't there while she prepped me for the procedure. Dr. Maring came in pulled my tooth and left without ever speaking to me. I followed all post op rules and was very diligent with cleaning, icing, ibuprofen, diet, etc. 4 days later blood pours from my mouth and I rush to the dentist and Kim the nice assistant helps me she is very kind and caring; Dr. Maring can't be bothered to come and see me. They tell me no dry socket, jelly clot everything should be fine after they remove and clean. I leave the office in more pain, pain gets worse; I call a couple of days later to see if this is normal Kim isn't there and I have to talk to someone else she tells me "I'm just healing it's normal". 7 days after the procedure I am in so much pain I think I might need a hospital. I go back on day 10 for my follow up. Turns out somehow I got a sprained jaw and now I'm not suppose to talk and am on a liquid diet for 7 days. I will not be going back here. If it wasn't for Kim the nice medical assistant I would've only given one star. read more

Very professional, good bedside manner. Made you feel confident you were in good hands from the initial meeting onward. Surgery went well and according to plan. Would recommend him to anyone. read more

Dr. Maring and his staff are professional and attentive. Like many others, I have had traumatizing experiences with dental work in the past. I knew I needed all my wisdom teeth extracted before having a consultation and I knew at least two of them needed to be surgically removed so I wasn't surprised when I was told that exact information during the initial appointment. What I am most appreciative of is how very straight forward Dr Maring is and nothing is sugar-coated. I was quite nervous about the procedure and as soon as I sat in the chair, ready to begin, i felt relaxed and that I was in good hands. It took 20 seconds or less before I must've fallen asleep and the next thing I remember is waking up in recovery sitting next to my boyfriend. One of the teeth that needed to be extracted had the nerve running across it instead of under it. This was a cause for concern for having permanent lip numbness (that in combination with my age). This is what I was most nervous about, but knowing the risk was there before hand made all the difference in the world. He gave me the choice of leaving the tooth or having it extracted. Despite the risk, I did have it extracted and there's no numbness. Great experience for the nature of the visit. Highly recommend. Thank you Dr Maring and his wonderful supportive staff. read more