I've been spoiled. I've had great dentists over the years. However, ever since I moved to Oahu to be with my husband's family my luck ran out. Luckily, I have a friend who knew about Dr. Takai and mentioned she had heard good things about him. After seeing Dr. Takai for the first time I drove straight to Tamura's and bought her a nice bottle of wine. He and his staff are amazing and I'm never going anywhere else unless he retires - and them I'm screwed because I will have gotten used to being spoiled again. The front office is spacious, lots of different magazines - and hardly anyone waiting, which tells me it is run efficiently. The dental rooms are well maintained and they use state of the art equipment. I LOVE that I don't have to get out of my chair to get an X-ray - who knew there was a hand held one? And in pink! Monitors are in each room. I like that any changes in my health are updated on the in room monitor I can see, it's cool to look at the X-rays of my teeth too. I will often ask questions about what I see, which are always answered in a way that I understand. I like that I am always greeted with a smile and hello, and the hygienists are fantastic. My hygienist is gentle, knowledgeable, efficient, accommodating (I had to bring my son who was two once and the whole staff was VERY helpful in keeping him occupied, including Dr. Takai). My hygienist is also hilarious (we bonded over the distinct taste of tooth whitener; you'll get it if you tried it, hahaha). By the time I see Dr Takai my mouth is clean as a whistle, and I'm in a good mood. Dr. Takai always greets me with a fist bump and a smile. He is patient and thoughtful when he talks and it is easy to see that he really cares about the well-being of his patients. He always feels my face to see if there are any issues that may affect my teeth (he noticed swollen lymph glands from my allergies and asked me about it). Once I had to get old fillings fixed and he took the time to discuss the pros and cons of doing them sooner or later on. He also discussed which ones needed more immediate attention, which was helpful for financial reasons. I have found that he truly has the best for his patients (and me) at heart. He is also a really likeable guy who is honest in how he presents himself and runs his practice. I have recommended Dr. Takai to several people, I forget who they are, but I'm guessing that they love him and his staff as much as I do. I will NOT recommend my hygienist to you though, if I do then I won't be able to get an appointment with her anymore and I'll be all bitter about it. I like being spoiled with a great dentist and hygienist. read more

I have been going to Wai Kahala dentistry for 18 years (since moving to Oahu), Dr Mason Savage has been my dentist for that entirety. I am always greeted with warmth and helped promptly by reception. The office is always clean and inviting, as well as the treatment rooms. They send email and text appointment reminders which I appreciate. Jan has been my hygienist for several years now and she is wonderful. We always have a lovely chat before she gets started, she always remembers my daughter and asks about her, and is genuinely a kind person. She does a very thorough cleaning and X-rays are not torture with her. Dr Savage does an exam with each cleaning and he is such a delightful person! He's very warm, funny, upbeat, personable, and I've never gotten the feeling like I'm just another patient in his day. It's always very easy, relaxing, and the time flys by. Dr Savage has also done a number of fillings and crowns for me. When he does the numbing for these it's so quick and relatively painless which is a huge bonus. He knows I have a lot of anxiety around the whole Dentist thing, so he talks me through what I can expect from the visit. Yesterday I had a cleaning from Mari and she was exceptional. She was very warm, calm, and kind. She gave me a great cleaning and introduced me to a new product, "expanding floss". If you haven't heard of it, google it. She was professional, easy to talk to, and was very sweet to my daughter who accompanied me to my appointment. I had the pleasure of meeting Dr Lauren Weiss for the first time and she was fabulous! Extremely warm and I was immediately comfortable with her. We chatted about Seattle, she performed an exam, told me a couple of places to keep an eye on and then I was done. I always have great experiences here and now I am comfortable knowing I have options if Dr Savage is out of office etc. I highly recommend this business, my husband is also a patient. We would never go elsewhere. I trust them and have always been taken care of with kindness and professionalism. Make an appointment today! read more

Best dentist ever! If you just want to go to the best, go to Dr. Takai. His staff is amazing as well. They make you smile, they really care, and they feel like friends after just one visit. At my old dentist, I routinely had my teeth cleaned every 6 months. It always hurt & I always asked for numbing gel, and it still hurt. My gums would bleed every time I flossed. I also felt like I cracked a tooth or a filling - and my old dentist told me to just keep an eye on it and to come back if it still hurt. I decided to get a second opinion - and my best friend recommended that I go to Dr. Takai. Best move ever! First, Christine cleaned my teeth - a really deep cleaning - and it didn't even hurt! She made me laugh and she even stayed late to finish my cleaning (because my teeth needed it so badly!) My gums have not bled once since she cleaned my teeth! They also have the best technology at this office. Christine took digital images of my teeth - then enlarged them on a big screen, and we could see that at least one filling was cracked - in fact, all of my fillings needed replacing. I'm deep into the process of replacing my fillings & fixing a cracked tooth with Dr. Takai - and all I can say is that I'm definitely in the best hands & getting superior care. Dr. Takai takes the time to do it right. It never feels rushed - and it's the nicest experience it can possibly be. Julie, the dental assistant, has great energy & puts my mind at ease with her good vibes. And Cherene & Toni at the front desk will do whatever it takes to get you the appointments you need with a warm smile & loads of patience. I want to have my teeth for the rest of my life, and now I know that I will. Thanks Dr. Takai!!! read more

I'm delighted to share my positive experience with Wai Kahala Dentistry From the moment I stepped into their office, I felt welcomed and at ease. The team's commitment to quality and compassionate dentistry is truly commendable. Here's why I highly recommend them: 1. **Pleasant Cleaning Experience**: My recent dental cleaning was an absolute breeze. The hygienist was gentle, thorough, and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the process. It's rare to leave a dental appointment feeling relaxed, but Wai Kahala Dentistry achieved just that! 2. **Timely Appointment**: I appreciate that they value my time. My appointment started promptly, which is a rarity in the world of healthcare. No waiting around--just efficient and professional service. 3. **Friendly Dentist**: Dr. Derek Takai is not only skilled but also genuinely friendly. He took the time to listen to my concerns and answer any questions I had. It's reassuring to have a dentist who cares about both oral health and patient well-being. 4. **Clear Communication**: During each step of the cleaning process, the team communicated clearly. Whether it was explaining what they were doing or providing post-cleaning care instructions, I felt informed In summary, Wai Kahala Dentistry is a gem in Honolulu, Hawaii. If you're seeking personalized, caring dentistry, look no further. They've earned my trust, and I look forward to my next visit! read more

My favorite dentist, next to my uncle (because he's my uncle). I LOVE Dr. Takai and his staff!!!! Dr. Takai is honest, down-to-earth, professional, and an excellent dentist that I have full confidence in. When I visit the office, I know that Dr. Takai has my best interests in mind and approaches dental issues cautiously and conservatively. He is up and versed on the latest dental procedures and very knowledgeable, providing options for his patients as he feels necessary. Care is always comprehensive. His words firm, but gentle and always honest in regards to how to care for teeth properly, how to manage issues, and how to convey bad news. I had an emergency with my tooth #8 (front right) and Dr. Takai gave me the best possible recommendations and treatment with this tooth. I feel like he practices out of love for his patients and love of dentistry. I highly recommend him and already have to friends and family. I am very satisfied with the oral care I have received from this office. Lastly, the staff at the office are absolutely fantastic and treat me like family when I visit. The tooth cleaning I received by Star was thorough and not rushed at all (best I've had). Jenna also worked on a oral device for me and did a stellar job! So grateful to everyone at this office for taking care of me and taking care of my health. Thank you, staff and Dr. Takai at Kahala Mall office!!! read more

Switching to Dr. Derek Takai's office has been the one of the best decisions I've ever made! I initially came in to have Dr. Takai fix a mistake that another dentist had made and have stayed on through many years of cleanings and procedures since. Dr. Takai's manner is gentle, confident, knowledgeable and reassuring. His attention to the small details is what makes him stand out. He really takes pride in the quality of his work. He keeps his office on the cutting edge of technology, so you can be sure that you are getting the best care when it comes to dental procedure/equipment. Recently, I had some reservations about putting in a new crown, however Dr. Takai walked me through the whole process and put my mind at ease. Any apprehension that I may have had were calmed by the friendliness, confidence and professionalism displayed by Julie (awesome mold making!), Cynthia (awesome color matching!) and Derek. Completely pain-free process and am really satisfied with the results. His staff is professional and friendly. From the front office managers (Cherene and Toni are super knowledgeable and always able to assist me in navigating my confusing dental benefits) to the hygienists (Starr and Christine are awesome!), my high expectations are always met. I highly recommend a visit with Dr. Takai and his staff! read more

My family and I have been Dr. Takai's patients for several years and we would never consider any other dentist. Dr. Takai and his staff get to know their patients on a personal level and are truly concerned about their oral health. Dr. Takai conducts a careful examination and clearly explains problems and options. Through various procedures including a dental crown and filing replacements I have always been pleased with the results both structurally and cosmetically. A few days after these procedures, Dr. Takai personally follows up with a phone call to assure there are no problems. The office is bright, spotless and employs the most modern equipment to assure patients are comfortable and safe. The dental hygienists are well trained, experienced, efficient, and very personable. Appointments are almost always exactly on time. The front desk staff is friendly and efficient. I have never had any billing problems. Dr. Takai is usually booked a good deal in advanced but the staff is adept at finding appointment space for emergency situations. There is always a good deal of free parking in the adjacent Kahala Mall lot. No one enjoys going to the dentist but Dr. Takai and his staff make those visits as least intrusive as possible. read more

It took me 6 years of feeling indifferent about the care I was receiving from the previous practice to realize that I cared too much about my dental health to feel mediocre about the service I was receiving. I decided that I would search for a new dentist, but didn't know where to start. So I asked my friends (the ones with the best teeth) if they had any recommendations, and I am thankful that Dr. Takai was the first one I decided to try. The office staff kicked it off by working around my schedule to find a time to get me in for my first visit. They were proactive about ensuring that I had everything they needed from a records and insurance standpoint. They passed it off to my awesome hygienist, Christine, who fixed me up, told it to me straight where I needed to improve on my end, and fielded all my random questions like a champ. Dr. Takai brought it home and gave me a complete assessment of where I was at, and we came together on a plan for fixing up a couple trouble spots that needed attention. I now find myself on the other side of the table, and am the one recommending Dr. Takai's practice to my friends! ps. I appreciate that they appreciate my time, and that if my appointment is scheduled for 3, I am in the chair at 3. read more

Aloha! I am very pleased with my first experience at the Kahala Dentist office of Dr Takai and Dr Weiss. The office staff, Shareen and Toni were warm, friendly and informative when first calling to make my appointment and continued on my arrival. I have HMSA which will be accepted by Dr Weiss in January. Toni had the insurance forms prepared and ready to mail (which she mailed for me) before I even left the office. HMSA will then reimburse me directly. Super nice that Toni took this on even though the office has been paid and not being reimbursed! Masumi, the hygenist was super professional, poised, unhurried and extremely thorough. My teeth and mouth feel amazing! Masumi did a nice job recommending flossing and brushing maintenance tips for best outcomes! Masumi also did the full xrays. I also noticed how Masumi kept the work area clean and sanitized before and after my use. Dr Weiss was excellent! Dr Weiss is easy to communicate with and feel she is current with recommended best dental care practices. I am very comfortable with Dr Weiss and her recommendations.The office was clean, nice natural lighting with large windows, and comfortable dental chairs.The overall experience makes going to the dentist more comfortable. Mahalo! read more

Awesome staff! My visit started at the front desk with Cherene Ching. She was very pleasant and offered me water, an opportunity to use the facilities, and inquired about my day.Lwt me preface my review by say this, I am a dentist's best friend: braces, root canals, mouth guards, etc. So I am well versed on what constitutes excellent dental care: timeliness, skill, and a pain free experience, replete with HONEST AND professional recommendations. My hygienist was Christine. She was very gentle and accommodating of my need to have my cell phone nearby. She flossed, cleaned, and polished my teeth very quickly and in the process saved my an additional visit. Her choice of music was awesome too! I didn't feel rushed, and my mouth felt great after the cleaning. Dr. Takai and Christine were very professional and down to earth. I am confident the plan Derek has laid out for me will benefit my smile and my overall health. I actually saved money by going, if that even makes sense, lol. My appointment started EARLY, which never happened to me in all my years going to other dental offices. The office is in a nice area adjacent to the main Kahala Mall. There is ample parking at the mall or in my lucky case, directly in front the building. read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Takai's for some years, and continue to be impressed by his professional approach, friendly demeanor, and great staff and colleagues. Among the many not-so-small details: the worst part of any procedure is often the shot of anesthesia. In the bad old days, dentists would simply jab us with a horrifically long needle and shoot away, causing no small discomfort and pain. Dr. Takai has an exceptional approach: he deadens the area with a topical, which reduces the immediate pain; he slowly applies pressure to release the anesthesia; and he counts down from ten, to give the patient a sense of how long they have to hold out. (An old Navy SEAL advice: if I drop you in the middle of the ocean and tell you I'll be back in twelve minutes, chances are good you'll hang in there...but if I just leave you, chances are good you'll simply drown right away. Expectations are important.) For this reason alone he should be featured among dentists as to how to conduct a basic procedure. Finally, as I happen to have some resistance to the anesthesia, he is especially careful to apply more, with a neutralizer, and check on the progress. A hearty mahalo to Dr. Takai and his equally fine staff. read more

I went to Dr.Takai & Dr.Weiss' dental office on Wednesday, May 5th for my dental cleaning with Masami and an exam done by Derek. I've been with this office since 2018 and each time I've went, it's been nothing short of perfection. Masami was very thorough with explaining to me what I need to upkeep my dental hygiene and make sure that my gums are healthy, she also taught me new tricks and tips on how to floss better . She was a great conversationalist and made me feel comfortable. Toni (receptionist) came in to help with my charting for my gum depths afterwards . Lastly, Derek came in to examine my mouth for any cavities or need for restoration. I really enjoyed their hospitality and warmth. This office is great at making sure their patients are 100% satisfied with their service. The front office ladies Jenny and Toni were very friendly. It was easy scheduling my appointments. I also wanted to point out that they did an excellent job on screening each patient (COVID19) before taking them into their office, they sent out a questionnaire, took my temperature, and had me wait in my car until they were ready to take me into the back room. If you're in need of a dental family, this is the office to go to. read more

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Wai Kahala Dentistry for a routine check-up and cleaning, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. Everyone I had interacted with were professional and attentive, from the dental assistants and hygienists, to the front office coordinators who had helped with scheduling the appointments around my time constraints. Their office is clean, modern, and equipped with the latest technology, which makes the entire process smooth and efficient. I was particularly impressed with the thoroughness of the dental imaging and cleaning conducted by the lovely hygienist Mari. She took the care to ensure my comfort throughout the process, which made it a pleasant and positive experience. Dr. Weiss is very knowledgeable and took the time to go over the images of my teeth and explain treatment plans in detail, ensuring that I understood what was happening and felt at ease. She provided thoughtful answers to my questions, and her gentle approach and attention to detail were truly appreciated. Overall, I was pleased with my visit at Wai Kahala Dentistry, and I look forward to my next appointment! read more

I had the privilege of being a patient of Dr. Takai's mentor Dr. Vogt for many years. I regarded Dr Vogt as setting the gold standard for dentistry as a high healing art. At first I was skeptical of Dr. Takai's youthfulness, but he quickly gained my respect, and then amazement me as I saw him take Dr. Vogt's legacy into a new era in dentistry. He was a prize winning student (American College of Dentists) and his surgical excellence was recognized by his peers when he was asked to serve as faculty at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Dr. Takai and his staff create a caring community attuned to the patient's experience. You feel cared for as soon as you walk through the door! The dental hygienists are excellent--experienced, dexterous and perceptive. Dr. Takai explains treatments carefully and executes them in way which almost eliminates anxiety and discomfort. There are times when I can honestly say I enjoy my visits to the dentist! We are fortunate to have his services on the Island. read more