He's nice, and extremely talkative, but didn't do a good job with a filling that deteriorated and I had to go elsewhere (Lynch Dental) to get a crown. read more

AN INCONVENIENT TOOTH Trying to make (and keep) an appointment with this Oak Park dentist is like pulling teeth, but more painful and prolonged. About a month ago, I called Dr Yee's office to schedule a general cleaning. They were close to where I used to live in Oak Park, were within my network, and had decent patient reviews. I showed up early for my appointment on 6/29/20 and noticed no other staff were in. According to him, one girl was out to lunch and the other had a car breakdown. Okay....... I had to wait until Dr Yee finished with a patient before he assumed his own secretarial duties and handed me a small stack of paperwork. These forms were pretty ghetto and clearly photocopied into oblivion; some of the text wasn't even legible so it's entirely possible I ticked the 'yes' box for "have you recently had a brain transplant?" On this first visit -- which also happens to be my last -- Dr Yee was running a one man show. He had to check everyone in/out, and as a result my appointment ran late. Everything was so disorganized, it immediately left a bad impression and we were only getting started. Things didn't improve once I was in the dentist's chair. At one point, he made small talk which quickly veered off the rails (he stated that my last name was "kinda weird" and asked if it got made fun of in school). What on earth?!?! What dark force possessed Dr Yee to ask a FIRST TIME PATIENT if they got bullied as a kid because their last name seemed unfamiliar to him?? Pick a different topic dude, like literally anything else. Those aren't exactly warm memories. The tooth cleaning itself was fine, practically the only thing that went off without too much of a hitch. He found a small crack in my upper right bicuspid and scheduled me to come back in 2 weeks for a filling. Now here's where things go from somewhat suspicious to what-the-flippity-f*ck: Dr Yee (once again, himself, not an assistant) leaves me a voicemail 24hrs before my follow-up and explicitly tells me not to come in because his staff were in absentia.....for the second time in as many weeks. This instance, one of them had a medical emergency, the other an undisclosed pet issue. And thus my appointment to repair a tooth was abruptly canceled, never rescheduled. His tone in that voicemail was very off-putting too, maybe it was the way he overemphasized the "DON'T" in "definitely don't come in tomorrow". Thankfully the crack in my bicuspid is so small, it's not noticeable unless I chomp down hard on a popcorn kernel. But what if it were a more urgent matter, like a cavity? Would Dr Yee's office try to accommodate me among all the other clients they've had to cancel on? Or would they drum up another excuse as to why they've been severely understaffed on multiple occasions? To paraphrase a great Jedi, "care to find out, I do not". * TL;DR * It's probably a good thing my wife and I fled Cook County for greener pastures in sprawling suburbia. Oak Park has its charms, but my luck with healthcare providers in the area was nothing short of horrible (a botched biopsy in 2014, now this dental debacle). I've heard some people go years without seeing a physician, and now I can understand their logic. Something strange seems to be happening with Dr Yee's staff on a deeper level--I've still yet to see any evidence they actually exist. For all I know, his "assistants" could be ghosts, aliases (Rusty Shackleford is that you???), or nocturnal mole people. Until proven otherwise, I'm going to assume that Dr James Yee DDS has zero office support and in fact does everything himself, all the time. From start to finish, my experience here was bad enough to keep me away from a dentist's chair until at least 2025. You can randomly cancel on me OR throw shade at my surname, but you can't. do. both. Dr Yee managed to accomplish this in the short time I knew him, a feat that's as impressive as it is upsetting. And I still have a cracked tooth. read more

Dr James Yee is a straightforward, no-nonsense kind of dentist. I went in recently, for the first time, for a cleaning. Dr Yee had personally called me to set up and confirm the appointment, which was on a Monday night. He was ready even before I got there! That's right. Dr Yee performs routine cleaning himself! My former dentist in Elmhurst had recommended an expensive procedure for removal of my #31 tooth (the lower-right corner, next to your wisdom tooth if you still have it!), an implant, and a crown. It would've cost me thousands as my dental insurance doesn't cover it - very few do, I don't think. A few minutes of close examination and X-Ray later, Dr Yee told me with great caution that the surgery was really unnecessary. Sure, there's bone loss and tartar buildup around #31, but if I continue to take good care I'll be okay, he said. He recommended using this 'inter-dental brush' for deep-cleaning the gum. He then gave me a sample brush, and suggested I buy 'em from Walmart etc. instead of specialized drugstores. Much cheaper but same quality. My teeth and gum have been fine since then. Of course, I brush, floss, and interdental-brush more diligently than ever! (Like Julia Roberts says in Pretty Woman, "You shouldn't neglect your gum.") read more

Dr. Yee is the man. Hard to believe that I would ever say that about a dentist, but he has wiped away decades of hating the dentist to actually alleviating any nerves or anxiety I'd have about going to the dentist. He is a jovial, personable guy that clearly enjoys the profession he's chosen. I like that he's been in the business a while, was a professor of dentristry and practiced in various areas not just general. I've been to him a few times over the past 6-weeks and enjoy seeing him. He takes an honest and deliberate approach to his work not trying to force treatments or procedures on you if you don't need to. I have never had to wait one minute past our scheduled time to get into the chair, that means the world to me. I can't stand when someone is off schedule. One thing I'd love to see, is Dr. Yee to hire an interior decorator and remodel his office. The decor is a bit dated but I can live with it. If you are looking for a new dentist, Dr. Yee is your man. read more

This was my first time seeing Dr. Yee. I made my appointment based upon all of the rave revues here on Yelp, and I wasn't disappointed. The place was a bit difficult to locate - the 1010 entrance behind the Oak Park Visitors Center, up a floor and all the way to the end of the hall... While approaching the office door that had no lettering, logo, or window to identify it - just a small sign with the number to the side, I briefly wondered what kind of guerrilla dentistry I had signed up for. My concerns dissolved, however, once I pushed through the door to the small and outdated, but tidy lobby area, where I was greeted by a very sweet receptionist. Dr. Yee was attentive and thorough and made a point to get to know me before starting - and not just my dental history. While he was working, he informed me of things going on inside my mouth that I had never had explained ("so, do bite wings generally mar your gums a bit? I'd imagine so... It's because of your..." *whatever he called it* - the shape of my gums below my jawline, which, apparently, not everyone has....."if you ever have to get dentures when you're old, you'll be in for a lot of trouble!" ... And... "Wow, you see that root there? Look how twisted it is under this molar... Make sure you take good care if that one - it would really hurt if you ever had to remove it!") In all, the visit was outstanding. The only reason this is a 4-star review instead of a 5-star one, is because when he was taking the time to get to know me (appreciated, but not essential), he mentioned that the exam might take up the rest of the time, meaning the cleaning (my main goal, since I had been over a year without) may have to wait until next time - that would not have been okay with me. As it were, we were able to chat, do my exam, and get the cleaning done all because my teeth were in pretty good shape, so it worked out nicely. This is definitely the guy to see if you have dentist anxiety - he is super chill. That has never been an issue for me, but I can see how he would make a big difference to those who do. read more

Dr. Yee told me last time that he was referring all his patients to a specific dentist, but he never told me who. Does anyone know?

I went to Dr. Yee based on the other reviews here and thought he was as good as advertised. It is obvious that Dr. Yee truly enjoys his profession and it is reflected how much time he takes to get to know his patients. He goes out of his way to make sure you are comfortable and explains what he is doing and why he is doing it. I will be back and recommend Dr. Yee without hesitation. read more

Dr. Yee lives up to all of the kind words that have been posted here. He pretty much runs the place from top to bottom. From what I can tell, he handles everything from scheduling to root canals and everything in-between. He was very honest and upfront about my dental issues, communicating the reality and options without making me feel shameful. I usually dread seeing the dentist, but I'm not worried at all about my follow-up with Dr. Yee. read more

Dr. Yee himself is phenomenal. I went in for a cleaning and went back a week later for a small filling. The filling turned out to be a lot larger than he expected, and I was given novocaine to numb it. He made sure I was comfortable and did a great job grinding it down when finished. This small filling was not the one I expected or wanted to have done, and after mentioning a soft spot that irritated me a few times on my initial visit, I gave up. Dr. Yee was only focused on the small cavity he found and did nothing about my other side (-1 star). He did complement my teeth and ask how I kept them so shiny. He's a fun, friendly guy that definitely knows his stuff. His assistant is hit or miss. At times, she seems very happy and upbeat, and at other times she can come off snarky and even rude. read more

I have been going to Dr. Yee for about 4 years now. Today I went for my cleaning and it reminded me that I have such a great dentist! He is friendly, truthful and gentle. He does not do unnecessary work and I trust what he says. I can honestly say, he is the best dentist I have ever visited in my life. read more

I am so glad I found Dr Yee as my dentist! I hadn't gone to one in a little over 2 years (yikes) so I was very nervous. As a new patient, I was able to make an appointment for myself and my son. Dr Yee is so pleasant and honest, which I like. He gave me some pointers on how to keep my teeth clean and all that good stuff. And also told me what can happen if I don't floss daily. he and his assistant were vey nice with my son. Made him feel super comfortable on his first visit. Dr Yee was just so easy to talk too but most importantly the work done on my teeth was pain free!! read more

I'm logging into my Yelp account after years of inactivity just to update my review of Dr. Yee and his wonderful assistant, Dorota. Although I no longer live in Oak Park, it's worth the time and effort to get from the North Side of Chicago to Oak Park to see Dr. Yee. His waiting area has received a lovely update. The old "before" and "after" pictures have been replaced with adorable drawings from young patients. The office is bright and airy and the new decor highlights the windows that face the park. I was able to book a double appointment for myself and my spouse. We arrived early and the appointment started a few minutes before schedule. Another O for Outstanding! The great Yelp reviews haven't gone to their heads, ha. read more

I have been going to Dr. Yee for years. It is a small, unassuming office because it is only him. That works for me. I am never rushed, and he explains everything he is doing. He never pushes me into doing or getting anything I do not need and offers multiple options. He is patient and kind and when I need an appointment, he is accommodating. No one can ever be happy all the time, but Dr. Yee has always been a great dentist to me and my family. read more

Dr. Yee is an awesome dentist. He never runs late, which is key for me since I hate waiting. He's great with kids and adults alike, and since he has a day job at County (I refuse to call it Stroger) Hospital, he has plenty of convenient weeknight and Saturday hours at his Oak Park office. He has a nice "wait and see" philosophy, not running in with the drill unless it becomes necessary. read more

I am a younger guy, that needs a lot of work done. And I have always hated Dentists. I was always scared and nervous and very embarrassed. To be honest, I chose this dentist based on the yelp reviews. Let me tell you, this guy is the real deal. He's young, modern, hip, the office needs a serious uplift, but this dude knows his stuff! Never ever have I felt the slightest discomfort under his care. He is funny, is non stop talking, which I love. I will be sad, because for the first time in my life, I finally felt really confident. And now I am moving away! He has this new tool that vibrate, you would NEVER ever guess it was a needle! And the pain, there is non! And the time it took to be numb was instant without making your whole head go numb! And his assistant is the sweetest thing on two feet. Highly recommended! read more

Very rude staff and doctor! Not even by phone they were pleasant to speak with. when i scheduled my appointment as a New Client, they were very quick to rush me off the phone. Called a week before my appointment regarding some questions i had regarding my procedure and never got a call back about that or even to confirm my appointment. I Wanted to try them because they are closer to me. But i will be going back to my regular dentist office even if i have to drive further, atleast there i can get excellent patient care and treated with respect. read more

Great guy. Great dentist. Reasonable for the uninsured. Best experience I have ever had. Really great. read more

It's easy to get a Saturday appointment, which I appreciate. His assistant is friendly and on top of things, the office is organized and I've never had to wait more than a few minutes to get into the chair. Dr. Yee has a gentle touch and his friendly patter kept me relaxed during both cleanings and more intricate procedures. The only reason I didn't give him five stars is I can't say how responsive he is in emergency situations. So far -- thankfully! -- I haven't needed him for that. read more

Another very pleased client. Dr. Yee is prompt, honest, and doesn't try to sell you fancy procedures you don't need.

Today was my 1st checkup with Dr Yee, and I'm so glad I found him through Humana website. He's close to my apartment, and he explained that every time a tooth is drilled on causes harm to that tooth. So he doesn't believe in a lot of unneccessary work being done. I thought I needed to replace a few crowns that are wearing away and or chipped and he said I did not. Wish I would have found him sooner as to avoid replacing every silver filling I had which is explained in not necessary either read more

Nice guy Big talker damn near ruined my mouth.. He cleans your teeth, he is not a hygienist and caused me to have excessive gum problems even after I brought them to his attention over 2 years, Find a real dentist with a hygienist not Mr. yackety-yack..I now have bone loss from his inattention to my problem and might need an implant thank you Dr. Yee read more

My two daughters and I have been going to Dr. Yee for about two years now. He is very thorough and explains everything. He is sincere and professional and dare I forget honest. I highly recommend this dentist to anyone. read more

Six month check up and all went smoothly. I don't like to wait and there is really no wait with Dr. Yee. The cleaning went well and was not painful. I like that he talks while doing the cleaning-it makes time go by fast and puts me at ease. Looking forward to my next apt in 6 months! read more

Dr James is unlike any Dentist I have ever been to. He's so down to earth and friendly. His sense of humor is refreshing which makes your visit completely bearable. I'm happy we found him! read more

Best dental experience I've ever had. Good experiences for my kids and partner as well. I highly recommend Dr. Yee. Short wait time, personable experience, gentle hands and great patient rapport. read more

I've been going to Dr. Yee since I was 12 years old and hands down he is the best dentist ever! Nothing more to say when you have the best, stick with it! read more

My brother highly recommended Dr. Yee to me after finding the wonderful reviews of him on Yelp. So I just had my first visit. The positives: Totally quick and efficient cleaning, without the pain and discomfort I have had historically. He even filled a cavity (very early stage) in under a minute, and without discomfort. Negatives: Not opposed to Mercury fillings, when Mercury is a known, terrible neurotoxin. He took at least 20 x-rays of my mouth, which seems excessive, although I had not had a full x-ray panel for at least 3 1/2 years. The negatives are why I give him 4 and not 5 stars, but overall I was impressed with him. read more

Dr. Yee rocks! I've sent my mom, dad and brother to him. He does what's smart and necessary - has definitely saved us all time and money. Great chair-side manner, easy to get in and out, friendly staff. Office is old school with a great view of Austin Gardens. read more

Both my husband and I have been going to Dr Yee for about 3 years now. I totally agree with all the reviews. He is just a great person who is funny and makes you feel at ease. I hate going to the dentist (am scared to death) and he puts me at ease. I've had different procedures and he always informs me of what he is doing and why. I'm planning on calling him tomorrow and hoping he sees kids, my 2 year old is ready for her first dentist appt. Anyway, he's a great guy and very caring. I highly recommend him. read more

Recommended through my insurance for Dr. Yee who is personable, friendly and gentle for first-timers/people with bad dental experience. Overall my teeth are pretty good but got a cleaning, two cativities filled, left one impacted wisdom teeth untouched and another wisdom teeth pulled which took over a six month period. The office is nice and cozy located downtown Oak Park always finishing up at our next appointment seemingly attempting to utilize all my insurance coverage. It was mentioned that meeting every two weeks between November-April seemed excessive due to their limited evening and weekend appointments. Give Dr. Yee three stars for efficiency and frequently taking too long. The office can improve in the time they take completing procedures possibly stretching appointments out over Time for a profit. read more

I saw Dr. Yee a few years ago and moved out of state since but I have to say how great he is. He really takes the time to get to know his patients and to make sure they are happy and comfortable with each experience. He has a witty sense of humor and is very passionate about his dentistry and takes it very seriously. I get a little anxious about going to the dentist but he instantly makes you feel relaxed and is great and explaining everything he does. Unfortunately I moved so I had to leave his office but I would highly recommend him! read more

I've been going to Dr. Yee since, well, before I can remember - it's been about 25 years at this point. He's incredibly laid-back and friendly, a total sweetheart, really helpful with advice and concerns, and just an all-around good dude. Part of it probably has to do with me not getting cavities till my teen years, but going to Dr. Yee's as a kid was something I remember fondly. I'd sit on his big comfy couch, reading books, being thankful I wasn't my sister with her braces. Our family and his were friends-of-friends, so my mom would chat up his wife (back when she worked as an assistant), and all three rooms in his office look out over a big park, so it was just generally peaceful. He used to play 70s-80s-90s Top40 stuff on the radio, and make jokes about how old he was when such-and-such song came out. Just a generally all-around good dude. I know this is overly-squishy for a Yelp review, but I'm just kind of embarrassed I never wrote one, considering I'm 29 now and I still go see him. read more

Dr. Yee is one of those contradictions in life...a dentist that you actually don't mind going to see. In fact, he seems to not only sort out your problems, but he also teaches you how to look after your teeth and gums and take care of your oral health (he does it without sounding patronizing like some dentists do). Jim (as his patients call him) has a wonderful sense of humor and a great bedside manner. I have been going to the dentist for over 50 years and he is by far the best dentist that I have ever been to in my life. My wife is also one of Jim's patients. read more

My favorite dentist in Oak Park, wish I found him sooner. Has the latest equipment for a pain free experience, and is very responsive and friendly. read more

Just have to add my five star rating for Dr. Yee. Who would have thought that a dentist would inspire so many to rave about his work and the enjoyable experience offered to the patients. But that's right....I always walk out of Dr. Yee's office happy and smiling, even when I've had a cavity. He just emanates calmness and silliness and thorough professionalism all at the same time. Who wouldn't want that in a dentist?! And I also love the fact that he is not in the market of upselling dental procedures as has become the unfortunate trend in the profession. I guess that's where the money is. Yes, his office decor is dated, but that was actually comforting to me. I've been to multiple other dentists' offices that have a tv in each examining room and other flashy, modern comforts. And those have been the dentists who've tried to convince me that I need: a mouth guard; to replace all of my silver mercury fillings with white composite fillings; deep gum cleaning, etc. etc. read more

Finding a good dentist can take time when you relocate to a new city. After reading the Yelp reviews my husband and I and decided to give Dr. Yee a try with the understanding that if we weren't satisfied with the cleaning we would continue searching and try another dentist. I am happy to report that our search has stopped after our first visit with Dr. Yee!! There was no wait! Dr. Yee took us soon after we arrived. The cleaning process was actually very pleasant!! It is very obvious that Dr. Yee not only enjoys and has a passion for his profession but he also enjoys interacting with his paitients. Our teeth are clean and pearly white! I highly recommend Dr. Yee. read more

Dr. Yee is on time and does a great job on cleanings and x-rays (which he does himself). He is also very friendly, which helps making the trips to the dentist feel like less of a chore. read more

Dr Yee is one of the best doctors I ever had. I wish I met him earlier. I had a crown that suffered for years but no doctor could adjust it to make it comfortable enough for me. Dr. Yee did it. He did not even put the crown in. He is humorous, makes you laugh and smiling while in his office. He is also very conservative, he tries to save your own tooth as much as he can, which really it is the best thing for you. Thank you Dr. Yee!! read more

I went to see Dr. Yee based on all of the positive reviews and I wasn't disappointed. He was very friendly and not into doing unnecessary procedures. I went in to have a filling fixed and was pleasantly surprised (if you can be when seeing a dentist!) by how relatively painless the whole procedure was. Now granted it wasn't entirely painless, but it was so much easier to bear than I remembered. I would definitely recommend Dr. Yee. read more

Kind and gentle; will give full attention, fatherly, brotherly, a good soul and dentist