Smile Design Dentistry Gainesville

Fantastic experience: I really appreciate my hygienist for the great job she did on my cleaning and treatment. She kept me up to date on what my insurance covers and what it doesn’t.

Fantastic experience: I always enjoy visiting my dental office. Everyone is friendly and professional. I never have to wait long, always know upfront what the billing will be and what procedure I will be having done before they start, and what procedure I will need on my next visit. An appointment is scheduled right then, never have to call to make an appointment. I receive text messages reminding of upcoming appointments well in advance. They have everything very organized! I love “Smile Design Gainesville”

Fantastic experience: Patient friendly staff, sensitive to my needs, punctuality and great service at the front desk. Kudos to Jaime, Zana and Leah

Negative experience: Two days ago, I went in for an infected molar extraction (Tooth #18). They handed me a treatment plan for $590 out-of-pocket from me today and billing nearly $2,200 to my insurance, which included a massive upsell for "bone grafting". I asked for the exact billing codes, called my insurance (Solstice), and found out the bone graft is NOT covered. I explicitly asked the dental office to send a pre-authorization to verify this before I agreed to surgery. They agreed to send. Fast forward to this morning. I called ahead to confirm they were willing to do JUST the extraction. The person on the phone looked at my file and guaranteed today's appointment would be just for an extraction and Confirmed this was the actual office (I later found out this was an off-site corporate call center that just says whatever it takes to get you in the door). But once I was at my appointment, the dentist didn't even come into the room. A dental tech came in to deliver an ultimatum: the doctor refuses to pull the tooth without the bone graft. They tried to tell me the graft was mandatory so my other teeth wouldn't "shift" and to prepare for future implants. Both are complete lies: Their own X-rays from my first visit show I have NO TEETH on the left or right of this molar to shift! I clearly told them I am NEVER getting dental implants. Here is the ultimate financial scam: I found out they never actually sent that pre-authorization 2 days ago like they agreed to do Because I already checked the codes and knew the graft wasn't covered, if I had signed their financial agreement today for my $590 portion, the insurance would have denied the rest. Their fine print would have legally stuck me with a surprise bill for the remaining $2,200+! Funny enough, they miraculously did have time to instantly bill my insurance for the exam and X-rays from my first visit to get their fast cash. I walked out and immediately filed a formal grievance with my insurance for a breach of contract. Please don't let this place take advantage of you They smile in your face while they're screwing you over

Fantastic experience: Everyone was very nice and professional.

Fantastic experience: They are amazing will recommend them to anyone

Positive experience: Last time I was there prior to this latest appointment, the cleaning and treatment went well. But this time( Feb 20th, 2026) , the hygienist was pretty rough on my gums. I think she should try to be gentle and also let the numbing agent work for several minutes before cleaning. I told her it hurt, after the procedure because how can I speak when mouth is being poked? Will let her know before next cleaning about being more gentle, not to shove and poke so hard and to let that numbing agent work before proceeding.I had never experienced such pain even after the procedure. The pain came on whenever I had to bite food. I finally had to take a dose of Advil. Thenthe pain gradually subsided and was gone.

Fantastic experience: This is the best Dental Practice I have stepped foot in Gainesville. Had an emergency - called - got an appointment immediately for the next morning (shout out Alex at the call center). Arrived a couple of mins prior and the amazing staff was suited up and ready - insurance checks approved. Anna at the front desk, and Dental Assistants are just the best (shoutout to @ TJ and the team) - broken crown to feeling good in no time!! And then scheduled two other regular care appointments while sitting in the chair - no waiting on the phone - that’s redefining great patient care! And of course the rockstar himself - Dr. Alexandre Sayman —— can’t say enough good things about him - you have to see him to really appreciate the first class treatment. Thank you to anyone I missed calling out by name - you guys rock!

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Smile Design for about 3 years, during which I have had crowns and regular checkups and cleanings. I have no complaints. I don’t have to wait for long periods of time in the waiting room, the staff is knowledgeable and polite. Thank you everyone, and especially my hygienist DeRhonda Hall!!

Negative experience: Warning! INSURANCE FRAUD. MISLEADING PRICING. RUDE EMPLOYEES.This dental office urged me to sign a form consenting to an additional $2,000 procedure( I have insurance) without any explanation. After I asked about the procedure, they refused to serve me and impolitely kicked me out of the office.

Fantastic experience: All the staff are so fun and nice! The care/treatment received is very high quality as well. Never had a bad experience.

Fantastic experience: Leah was amazing! She was super friendly and professional. Very impressed with the office.

Fantastic experience: Great staff. They are excellent at communicating and very professional. I needed some extensive work done that took several hours and the experience was much less miserable that I had expected. :) Dr Sayman, TJ and all others working that day were very kind and accommodating. ❤️

Fantastic experience: I’ve been going to Smile Design Dentistry for years and lately it’s improved a lot. The reception staff is much improved. I really look forward to getting my teeth cleaned now by dental hygienist Deronda, who is caring and sensitive. Deronda always does EXCEPTIONAL work.

Fantastic experience: Coming from another local dentist office, Dr Sayman was absolutely phenomenal. He is thorough with great bedside manner.

Negative experience: I love my hygienist but unfortunately I can’t recommend this place for service. Good luck.

Negative experience: Do not go here. During open enrollment I called and confirmed they took my insurance and booked a January 5 appointment. They sent multiple reminders and I confirmed online. When I arrived, they told me I was “not in the system.” Only then did they admit they had dropped my insurance and someone in the office manually canceled my appointment without notifying me. No call. No email. Just wasted my time. The whole point of open enrollment is to plan ahead. Office staff is incompetent.

Negative experience: God the office people here are awful. I cannot remember the last time they answered the phone. Every single time we needed a prescription they did something wrong (sending it to the wrong place or not doing it at all). They cancel all the time. There's also some assistant who keeps messing procedures up. The actual dentist (who I believe left, good for him) always seemed rushed. Finding a dentist is absolutely hell

Negative experience: Would not recommend unless you plan on getting a mouth full of crowns. The last time I went I was told I needed a crown again. They said I had a cavity and a cracked tooth. Never went back. Guess what! My new dentist said I didn't have a cavity or a cracked tooth. I have never had a problem since.

Fantastic experience: The staff at Smile Design have given me the best dental service I’ve had in years. Each person (dental assistant, office manger, hygienist, etc.) were thoughtful about communicating with me through out the entire process for both of my visits. I was impressed by how patient they were when explaining what they were looking for in my x-rays, while still maintaining an uplifting energy. The hygienist who did my cleaning was very kind and kept good conversation during my time there. I would 100% recommend Smile Design to anyone who is looking for a great dentist in town.

Fantastic experience: Leah was amazing at being transparent woth pricing and being efficent during the cleaning.

Fantastic experience: As a walk in my expectations was blown away greeting was awesome I was here make an appointment and able to be seen in the same hour and treatment was great compared to the other place I went to……not too go on forever my visit to the smile was awesome thank you for the opportunity to experience this for myself kudos keep up the good work

Negative experience: I took my wife there to get all of her teeth, pulled and to get dentures. We have United healthcare.. Before the appointment date, I checked in with United healthcare, and I found out that they had billed United healthcare before the appointment, and United healthcare had paid them . That was against establish protocols with United, which smile Design dentistry is obligated to adhere to . The problem with this was this could’ve cost us more out-of-pocket money later, on down the road. So we decided not to get the work done there. We were very disappointed in their professionalism the office staff .

Negative experience: I was treated with rudeness, indifference, and total disrespect. Statements or questions were barked at me. Attitudes of uncaring-no concern. Hateful dispositions. This dentistry needs a clean out of personel.

Fantastic experience: From the front desk helping me with a very difficult insurance issue, to my hygienist being the best cleaner and most consistent friendly follow up and check ins I’ve ever had(45yr m). They are great

Fantastic experience: Great experience with Leah (Dental Hygienist!). She was gentle , kind and used humor to ease my anxiety! Kudos Leah

Fantastic experience: I'm so glad to have this dental office for my care. Staff continues to be professional, courteous, and offer very flexible scheduling. Just today I was able to get in for a back-to-back appointments for cleaning and then tooth infection. It went smoothly, took less time than expected, and the new doctor taking plenty of time to answer my questions after my procedure. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: What a great experience at my first appointment here! Everyone was so kind and thorough- honestly one of the best medical or dental appointments I’ve ever had.

Fantastic experience: They do a good job of cleaning and is affordable from my personal experience if you have a job you work that is.

Fantastic experience: I've been coming to Smile Design for years. Had multiple hygienists and multiple dentists because of availability and when I wanted an appointment. Every single person has been friendly, professional and very attentive to my needs.

Fantastic experience: I got 5 teeth pulled this morning after rescheduling 4 times and I feel like a fool because it didn't take him an hour he did good listen to me when I needed a break and now he's all done! Now can come to the dentist like a normal person! I let one bad experience keep me from taking care of my teeth when I could of had my smile back years ago! Thanks so much Smile Design dentistry

Negative experience: Worst office management ever. Don't be late or they will cancel your appointment regardless of reasoning. The are rude to converse with, and takes months to get an appointment. Not because they are that good but because they run it like a puppy mill for turn out and profit. Because of their quantity, quality means nothing. BEWARE!

Fantastic experience: What a great experience at a dentist office. Great staff & well experienced in every aspect. They made me feel comfortable & cared for. My new best friends.. It's 2025 now & Smile Design has a new dentist. He's awesome & knows what he's doing. As usual a great staff even tho they were short handed this past Tues. they did an awesome job. Thank you all

Fantastic experience: I have enjoyed the exceptional service and friendly atmosphere at Smile Design Dentistry. They have taken care of my needs through their professional attitude for service to the individual patient. I will continue to go to them for all my future dental needs, thank you Smile Design Dentistry.

Positive experience: Ik there's supposed to be some pain while visiting the dentist. Earlier this month was fitted for some temp crowns. Well last injection of Novocaine, because I had 3, now I'm having pain in my jaw and across jawline. I have to remember not to open my mouth to wide or shooting pain kick's in.

Fantastic experience: Staff, techs, and docs are very professional, thorough, and friendly. We had a great interaction with them, and a great experience. We're new to the Gainesville area, and we've found our dental care providers. Thank you for what you do!

Negative experience: Go to their Alexandria office not here. Seems like they are disorganized. You cancelled last minute on me and messed up my plans. Very unprofessional. I had to fly in and out and all my work schedule was messed up. You knew by the weekend weather prediction it was going to snow and still decided to wait until few hours before canceling. But if we customers cancel we get charged a hefty amount. You could’ve cancelled it just like the other office on Friday and called it a day. Do better

Fantastic experience: Both Assistant and Dr. Hagen listened to my concerns, and requested treatment plan. Gave me recommendations on each option. This was a partial Worker’s Comp plan, so having options explained was very important to me.

Negative experience: Went for a cleaning. Informed tech that one of my tooths was bothering me. Dentist said i needed a crown. I got temporary crown which bothered me until i got permanent crown. Permanent crown had me Having a tooth ache twice a day and taking ibupropen twice a day. After a monthof this i went back to Dentist and was told that now i needed a root canal. No problem right. They scheduled me with an endonist knowing damn well my medicare insurance didn't cover it. Cost 1350.00 which i didn't and don't have. Only option i had was to get the toothextracted. Worst choice ever. I've had several teeth pulled and this has been the worst pain ,swelling and hurt ive ever endured dentally. This is day 10 after extraction and I'm still sore. Definitely going to find a better Dentist and practice. Smiles Dentistry sucks.

Positive experience: "The good, the bad & the ugly" I don't usually put these reviews in but I had to do so on this occasion. Our experience started out bad & ugly but it ended up good. The office employee at the front desk was very smug & condescending. We asked a simple question and apparently disturbed her cell phone usage. We were told on our previous visit that we would have to come back and be fitted for the permanent denture. She claimed that the denture we have IS THE PERMANENT DENTURE. See photo. It's NOT the permanent denture. It's the immediate or temporary denture. So her smug response was NOT correct. Apparently this ended up being a lack of good communication. We were not aware that the final denture was going to be another expense. That should be made perfectly clear to the patient. We thought that our $4,300 bill was going to cover everything. Partly our fault...But this employee's attitude is a bad reflection on your office. After creating this unnecessary drama by someone that doesn't seem to understand good customer service, our visit ended up great! Lauren, who has an incredibly sweet demeanor, took care of us in a very customer friendly manner. The dentist was likewise very upfront and helpful. Please teach your employees how to handle misunderstandings in a non confrontational manner. We realize that the attitude of one employee is not a reflection of the entire staff. We're sure that you will do your best to correct this from occurring in the future. We apologize for any fault on our end. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Great experience. Very welcoming & professional staff. Thorough in their assessment of work to be done. If you are looking for the right dentist with a great staff I highly recommend Smile Design in Gainesville, FL

Positive experience: Update: They tend to call to reschedule your appointment often. It happened once or even twice for every cleaning, even though it was booked 6 months in advance. Just went in for my first check up and everyone was super nice. They also made sure to let me know what i was doing well and what could use improvement with taking care of my teeth. Would definitely recommend them! The only thing is they are really busy so I would make an appointment if you don't need to be seen right away like for normal check ups and cleanings.

Fantastic experience: Based on my recent start-to-finish new-crown experience, I would return to Smile Design Dentistry. When I first called Smile Design, the young woman with a positive, can-do attitude was able to work me in the following day (a tooth had calved just before a long-planned trip was to start). When I arrived, the receptionists were professional and friendly. The dental assistant, too, was upbeat and dedicated to his work. Dr. Hagen had a good chair-side manner. I returned thereafter for the permanent crown. Again, the front desk staff were of good cheer. The Expanded Functions Dental Assistant, different from the first, was also personable and dedicated to her work. She patiently took care to ensure that the crown fit properly and comfortably before Dr. Hagen put on the finishing touches. As odd as it sounds, I enjoyed my experience with Smile Design Dentistry in Gainesville. And, if we were to comment solely on personalities, these are the kind of people I'd want to mix it up with at a barbecue.

Fantastic experience: Went for my first appointment recently to get established after a couple of years of not going to any dentist. Everything was great! The staff was friendly and accommodating and Dr. Hagen was personable and professional.

Fantastic experience: They are very friendly from the phone call setting up the appointment, signing in, working with the dentist and signing out. Never been to a more friendly place from beginning to end. And they explained step by step what was going to happen and ask if you have any questions. I think my wait time was about 15 minutes maybe 20 at the most.

Fantastic experience: I don't typically do reviews, but in the interest of helping others make an informed decision to get important dental care, I am sharing my experience that Smile Design Dentistry of Gainesville treated me very well. I had not been to a dentist in a long time and was apprehensive and skeptical about every aspect of the process. They were patient with me, did great work - and only work that was neccrssary, and have earned my trust.

Negative experience: I would not send my worst enemy to this dental practice. Two appointments in a row completely wasted my time. First appointment kept me waiting for 35 minutes past appointment time, then they couldn't see me "because there was a difficult patient". Incredibly unprofessional & incompetent, but ok perhaps a mistake. 2nd appointment was for a cleaning which NO ONE communicated is ONLY an XRAY appointment, and NOT A CLEANING, which is WHAT I SCHEDULED. Avoid this practice if you want dental services. Great for wasting your time. Edit: Thanks for your response, I'd sooner pull my teeth out with rusty pliers than trust your incompetent staff for a third time. The negative reviews are accurate, your business is run poorly. Have a phenomenal day.

Negative experience: Smile Design Dentistry is my network dentist. So, I called them 6/24/2024 at 8:13 a.m., because I was experiencing SEVERE PAIN. I asked the person who answered the phone, "Can I come in for an emergency appointment?" She said "No". She didn't check to see if she had an opening, she didn't act empathic, she was cold and cruel. I was FLABERGASTED! I remained calm and responded "ok."

Negative experience: These are the most unprofessional people I have ever dealt with in my life. I went in pleased with my smile and walked out suicidal. I spent $4500 and have a set of dentures that I have not been able to wear at all since I got them. I had to walk around with no teeth in my mouth literally for weeks until I went to affordable dentures where they made me a set of teeth I put them in my mouth the very first time and was very very happy. The ladies at the front desk are rude and the dentist although he was very gentle pulling my teeth was very unprofessional and I am appalled that he was happy with me walking out of there not able to where the set of dentures that they made to not fit my mouth at all. I have been speaking with a few attorneys about possible legal action.

Fantastic experience: I've been going to Smile by Design in Gainesville, FL since we moved to the area in 2014. From the ladies in front scheduling and billing to the assistants molding and cleaning and the dentist working hard to repair in the back, I have ALWAYS BEEN HAPPY with the results. I have to say though, Simone Diez, their dental hygienist, is my favorite . Not only does she work magic deep cleaning my dirty teeth and in a pain-free manner, she does it with wit and humor. She makes the visit almost fun

Fantastic experience: This place is amazing! On my first visit, everyone was professional and polite, and the Dentist went over a detailed plan to get my teeth healthy again l would highly recommend Smile Design Dentistry.

Negative experience: I signed up for my 6 month routine cleaning and got a consultation. They refuse to give me a cleaning only to push me into an expensive treatment plan over $2500. It"s not right for any dentist to refuse requested service especially a routine cleaning

Negative experience: Warning!!!!!! They double bill, you and your insurance company! A year later they change the billing to out of network, when at the time of service they were in Network. Send me a bill for a lot of money!! I spoke to my insurance company and they caught it right away. My insurance company is on it. Make sure you keep all your receipts, from the day of service and your insurance company. Thats what has saved me, I have my receipt from the day of service done in network. Everything I had done was in network. come back a year later and change to out of network. If you are being rebilled Please contact your insurance provider.

Fantastic experience: Great staff, great communication and listened to my concerns and hesitations. From someone that used to be afraid of the dentist, I really had a pleasant experience with them. Two cavities filled and no pain. Quick and easy. Thanks everyone.

Fantastic experience: Always excellent care. Very professional. Dr. Hagen is not very chatty but extremely focused. Superb work. I have had a bridge and 3 crowns done here . The staff is always so accommodating, Raena and Deronda are the best .

Fantastic experience: Wonderful and very caring staff. I had a great experience today, 4-30-2004 while having my crown replaced. Great people. Many thanks, Phil.

Negative experience: Went for an annual cleaning as a new patient. They did everything except the cleaning - even took my blood pressure…. Which is the weirdest thing ever. They told me it would be $384 for a cleaning and theyd have to do it in 2 sessions. Was there for over 2 hours and again, no teeth cleaning. Ive been going to the dentist my whole life and just moved to the area to get established here. Never going back.

Fantastic experience: These people are awesome! I know it's natural to dread going to the dentist, but, if I'm going to be honest, I kind of look forward to it here... (besides the bill). The whole staff is friendly, kind and super personable. I look forward to seeing my hygienist (Simone) who simultaneously entertains me, connects with me, makes me laugh, recommends things to watch, etc. while also doing a great job cleaning my teeth and gums and also pushing me to improve my own dental care. This kind of environment really makes going to the dentist kind of enjoyable! P.S. Still haven't seen 'They Live', but I tried, it's just not streaming anywhere.

Negative experience: Put in two crowns for my disabled wife and the came out, made a follow up appointment to get them put back in and they came out again, third time they put in my wife’s crowns…. They once again came out. She only ate soft foods all three times. They are charging me $266 for installing crowns that came out. Rip off, don’t use them.

Fantastic experience: I came with my daughter to Smile Design Dentistry to see Dr. Hagen because she was wanting dentures. The staff especially Reina, were pleasant and helpful. Reina answered the many questions we had and took special care fitting my daughters small mouth for an impression. Better yet, Smile told me insurance covered it 100%. Thank you for a positive experience!

Fantastic experience: I enjoyed the staff at this location, they truly go out of their way to make you as comfortable as they can for whatever your appointment is for. Dr.Hagen had to do a Crown for me and made the process super easy and was pretty quick with the procedure. 100% recommend them for your dental needs! #GentalDentist

Negative experience: I’ve been going to the dentist for five years. I really wish I had switched sooner. They have a constant rotation of hygienist's. I’ve had a lot of inconsistency over the last five years. But most recently I was very turned off by the new dentist and a few of the assistants . They were very rude. Did not explain a lot of the treatment plan and expected a full on dialogue from me when I wasn’t there to make friends. When I returned for my follow up visit, I was informed of a very expensive procedure, but I was not prepared for, and when I told the hygienist that I wasn’t going to do it, she gave me an attitude , crumpled my paper and walked me out. For that reason alone, I will not be returning.

Fantastic experience: I had to have a couple of teeth pulled and a couple that had broken to the gum. I had most of my teeth pulled at shands in 2007 as my crowns could not be cemented any more and since social security did not help with the expense so I only got the upper denture and could not get a bridge or lower denture. I have dental insurance now. I am scared to death of dentist due to an incident as a child. Dr.terry Hagen has been the best dentist I have ever had. His staff was so courteous and professional. Dr. Terry was so kind and patient with me. I want to recommend him for any dental work you have to have done. I recommend him and if I could have rated him on a scale from 1 to 10 I would give him a 12. God bless him and his wonderful staff.

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience with everyone I interacted with at Smile Dentistry! They were very thorough in their work and extremely helpful and knowledgeable when it came to what my insurance policy would cover. Smile Dentistry describes the place perfectly.

Negative experience: Today is the day of the appointment. I call to confirm because I never got a confirmation call or text. They canceled my appointment without telling me due to insurance verification. Claimed they called me to verify which they didnt, I even screen my missed calls in case I was at fault. I waited a month for an emergency appointment. I should of just believed the past reviews and not wasted my time. Now I'm in tears... everywhere I call is booked months out.

Fantastic experience: Was so nervious about having Dr. Hagen do my wisdom teeth extractions. Let me tell you, best decision ever! He went slow explaining everything in the process. He listened to me and addressed all my concerns! The dental assistant was awesome as well.... very knowledgeable!! You won't go wrong with this new doctor....My extractions were very complicated (see photos below)and he had to Numb me really well but the needle really wasn't that bad, my anxiety made it worse then it was. So you are in good hands. No. They are not the cheapest..... but do you want cheap or do you want the best?

Negative experience: They have a “special” for the first visit but instead I had to pay $66 WITH INSURANCE because the total was $300 and something, they made me sign the paper with the price AFTER they did my X-rays which was already too late to say NO, since I usually only pay $6 for initial visit in other dentists. The dental hygienist was super rough with my teeth she didn’t even ask if I was ok or if it hurt she just saw blood coming out of my gums and continue without asking if I was fine. The doctor said I needed a crown in one of my teeth but I ended up trying another dentist for a second opinion and the other dentist said I only needed a filling (which I already did and I don’t have any pain after it). This just shows me that they just want your money or the doctor doesn’t know how to distinguish a crown from a filling. Don’t let the cheap looking office foul you, they will try to charge you A LOT for everything.

Negative experience: The Dentist is great, but the office staff is disorganized, unprofessional, and obviously do not communicate with each other. Twice now, they have rescheduled my appts,. I went to my original appt(3pm), waited 45 minutes....I told them several times I had another appt at 4:30....I was assured I would be done in 30 minutes....3:45 I go back to the chair...cleaning and x-rays. Hygienist leaves gone for 15 minutes, I get up and leave....so they rescheduled my appt....the day before my appointment, the office calls... hygienist is out, ok they rescheduled me again for Friday the 16th of June...called me the day before...can't see me because I need an exam, and the dentist doesn't work on Fridays...so why did you schedule me on a Friday....office manager says , well the girl was new that did your appointment....so obviously she wasn't trained correctly....office manager, said she didn't have time to babysit everyone...I told her that it's her job to check on everyone and what they are doing, especially a new person....there was no urgency to find me a sooner appt than August....I have already been waiting since April...this office staff needs proper training and a new office manager....they do not care about their clientale at all....very unacceptable and unprofessional office.....I have changed dentist offices....it took 3 hours for them to send me a release form, and then told me it was a DocuSign document....which turned out to not be correct....they have no idea what they are doing at the front desk...the Doctor needs a new staff, or she's going to lose a lot of patients...

Negative experience: Edit: I am not sure how they will reach out to me based on the info I've provided, but I appreciate the response. 1. Customers should not be showing up in-person to a canceled appointment without understanding what's going on. I have read 3+ negative reviews stating this happened to them. 2. The appointment confirmation text allows customers to confirm a canceled appointment. That should not be the case. Either a text reply from the front desk should explain the situation when a confirmation is sent, or they should send a follow-up saying an appointment has been canceled, especially if the appointment has already been rescheduled multiple times. If this cannot be done in efficient way, then please stop sending texts to people. -‐--------------- Should be renamed "Frown Design Dentistry". Echoing another user, I've been coming to the business for a long time. Started originally coming here when a family friend started the Gainesville office and used to feel taken care of by the staff. The last couple of years it's gone downhill. The appointment confirmation system is absolutely terrible. Reduce the friction it's creating for people who just want a simple dental appointment.

Fantastic experience: I had the best experience. Every time I called the office they are very quick to get back with me. Simone cleaned my teeth very well. Everyone at the front was very nice and helpful. The whole office was very organized and on top of their game.

Fantastic experience: Smile design is awesome!! Heather Jones was so welcoming at the front desk! She helped me with all of my paperwork and got me checked in quickly. My dental assistant Lane was super sweet and helpful while taking X-rays. Deronda, my dental hygienist, was light handed and informed me of everything she was doing throughout the process. The Dr. Was incredibly nice and walked me through my treatment plan. I’m so happy with their services!! 10/10

Negative experience: The office personnel(s) responsible for verifying insurance and scheduling has failed me on more than one occasion. I made my apt 6 months prior. Confirmed it a week in advance and the day before my apt they don't have my insurance verified. They notify me via text instead of calling, tell me I can bring it in, but then tell me they can't see me, and my apt was given away. The next availability will be 3 months from now. It is a shame that this office does not prioritize existing patients and try to accommodate for their patients. This is a constant problem with them. They are disorganized, unprofessional, and take no ownership and instead place blame on the patient.

Negative experience: Please save yourself time and frustration and do not go to this office as a new patient. When I called to make my first appointment over the phone, the corporate office (which is not connected to the office at this location) took down my information incorrectly. Because they could not call to confirm my appointment, they canceled me. I rebooked for several months out, and got a text asking me to confirm my appointment. I confirmed using the link and then got there today to be told that my appointment had been cancelled AGAIN because I had never confirmed, and that my voicemail wasnt set up to leave me a message (untrue). Another patient in the office said the same thing happened to him as well. They may do great work here, but it means nothing if you can't actually and KEEP an appointment with them. Guess I have to go somewhere else.

Negative experience: My experience at this office was dehumanizing and my worst encounter yet with any healthcare facility. I made a new patient appointment at this place over 2 months ago. I waited 2 months for this appointment. They called last week Thursday (2 business days to appt) and left a voicemail asking to give them a call back for a verbal confirmation that I was keeping my appointment. I called them back three times between Thursday and Friday and couldn’t get a hold of anyone. I called back again this morning (Appt date) and was put on a very long hold until I arrived at the office. Upon arrival, I was told that my appointment which I had waited for 2 months was CANCELLED because I never gave a verbal confirmation, notwithstanding my calls. The lady at the front desk (the white lady, I only specify because there were two ladies at the front desk) was incredibly rude with her body language and tone without any consideration or empathy. This is by far the most dehumanizing experience I have ever had at any dentist’s office. If I could give this place 0 stars, I would.

Fantastic experience: Very thoughtful and helpful to my needs . And explaining. I hope my next appointments are as well. I was a nervous wreck. When I first got there . (Due to past experiences) and don't remember everyone name . But I felt alot better and feel I'm finally on the right path

Negative experience: Bad customer service, Bad confirmation sistem to the customer they had two numbers too reach me out they only call one and it wasent mine the person they call told them to call me to confirm but they never did, I tried to call them before they give up my appointment but no one answer the phone or the voice mail that i left so they end up giving my appointment to someone else afther I was waiting for it for more than 2 months. They will never see me again in that facility. Safe your time and find another place we're you and your time is appreciated. Nothing bad to say about the doctor's but the front desk and the customer service are poor.

Fantastic experience: I was very pleased with the service I received at Smile Design Dentistry. Since I feel by the spirit, I can assure you the care in their service is genuine. The love and care I felt the first day I went there was very touching. I seldom feel that elsewhere. Thank you SDD staff, and keep up the good work. God bless you all.

Negative experience: Be aware that they lack basic insurance verification processes. I made an appointment 2 months ahead and I arrived for my appointment, ready to receive dental care, only to be sent home without any treatment due to their failure to verify my insurance coverage. This not only wasted my time, but it also left me feeling disrespected and unvalued as a patient. This experience is unacceptable in the healthcare industry and serves as a reminder to always confirm insurance coverage before scheduling your patient. You deserve to receive quality dental care without any unnecessary hurdles or frustration. There are plenty of other dentists that appreciates you as a patient and value your time. You deserve better and there are options available to you.

Negative experience: Following up on a 1 star review my daughter left that they had the nerve to rudely call and question her about. This office never filed her insurance even though they claimed they did. We couldn't figure out why her claim wasn't getting paid. They would not treat her, would not finish her treatment plan and left her in pain. We finally called the insurance company and found out they had no information about her treatment- that's why her claim was never paid. By the time we got it settled she no longer worked at that company and no longer had dental insurance- so now I am paying to finish the work. When she went to the new dentist they told her she still had a temporary crown- when she called the Gainesville office they had no record of her since prior to 2017. The whole insurance debacle took place in 2020 so how is that possible. She had to call the St Pete office to send records her records back to Gainesville so they could find the permanent crown she had already paid for. This office also cancelled appointments with as little as 1 hour warning and wait times were terrible. We had a great experience with the Smiledesign office in St Pete- they fixed Gainesville's mess and were the whole reason why she had chosen the Gainesville office to begin with. Beware of this poorly run joke of an office. Maybe they should spend their time improving their office and not call to question the 1 star reviews for that were left because of their incompetance. They delayed my daughter's care and now I'm paying for it. Shameful Update- just received a call from a regional manager who is planning to look into our concerns. I appreciate her call and hope she is able to make some positive changes.

Negative experience: They can't send out insurance forms, the wait times are ridiculous, you can never get them on the phone, and they cancel appointments only an hour before they were meant to be. The staff is very nice but that doesn't make up for the other issues I have with this office. Do NOT go here.

Negative experience: This is absolutely the worst dental office. I began going to this practice when they first opened. Unfortunately since 2020 the level of care has significantly declined. They do not follow through with dental care outside of cleanings. They do not answer phone calls nor return voicemails. I literally have to randomly pop up at the office to get updates. If you have ongoing dental needs it is unlikely you will receive a treatment plan or see an actual dentist. This is a hygienist office and should only be utilized for cleanings. The level care is negligent and I simply want my records transferred to another provider which is unlikely as I continue to plea for my request.

Fantastic experience: Excellent care. The staff is welcoming & kind. They take insurance & the Dr. Is top notch. You get a plan on what they're going to do & happily work with you to succeed. The only pleasant experience I've had at a dentist. Ever.

Fantastic experience: In the 3 years I've been coming here I have always been treated well by a friendly and very skilled staff. My mouth was a MESS and the Doctor and crew step-by-step restored my smile better than I thought possible. This is a great place!

Fantastic experience: I normally don't care for dentist, because it's been some pretty rough dentist Whitney Schaff is great! I would recommend her. I really like going in there because the employees are super nice also and if I get lucky I get to get in the massage chair which is very relaxing.

Negative experience: I know I’m not alone when I say I am afraid of dentist but I really needed to go I had broken a tooth. Smile design took my insurance so I made an appointment long story short after pulling two teeth one I knew had to be done I’m not sure why the other one was pulled but it was. So I’m sent home with a mouthful of sutures feeling like I’ve been hit in a jaw with a sledgehammer I get home the Novocain wears off I am in so much pain I am in tears of course the office is closed I called emergency number it doesn’t work with little sleep I called the next morning at 8:30 I’m told they don’t believe in pain pills and I told them I didn’t believe in pain so I will never go back.

Negative experience: Amazing dentist. But instead of calling me to change an appointment that was 2 days later they sent a text. They did call husband to change his appointment, but his appointment wasn't until October. They text me on Monday to change a Wednesday appointment. Very unprofessional.

Negative experience: Prototypically bad. Waited in the lobby 1hr to be called back to wait another hour just for the doctor to try to use fear tactics on me. Super uncomfortable experience all around. These people know how traumatizing being at the dentist can be and make it so much worse. No thanks. I will never be going here again, I don’t usually leave reviews but if I can save one person from a bad experience by avoiding this place then so be it.

Negative experience: Arrived 15 minutes early to fill out paperwork at 2:15 pm. Finished at 2:30 my appointment time. 1 other in waiting room. Sat down and another patient for an appointment at 2:30 checked in and sat down. He had driven over 1 hour for his appointment. His wife came in at 3:15 and saw him waiting. Did not understand why “Charles” walked in at 3:00 and sat down for 1 minute and was called back. Here it is folks, I am active and still in the working place. I left work early today so I could be on time. Unfortunately, like the other gentleman in the waiting room we both have UHC MEDICARE ADVANTAGE. AT 3:30 I left and guess what, no one from their office bothered to call. Such a sad business model for this practice, they have you complete 7 forms that basically say you will pay or we will come after you. Try it you want, just do not have any form of insurance. I’m sure the products they will recommend will not be covered with your insurance.

Negative experience: I am a very understanding and patient person having family and friends in healthcare but this is the worse dental service and provider I have ever been to (and I've had 2 non-surgical wisdom teeth pulled with just localized numbing alone). I had a procedure to complete a filling last week. They forgot about me for over an hour AFTER numbing me and had to re-numb me; my sinuses and nose went numb! Then the dentist was so distracted talking about her home life and TV shows that she nicked me in the mouth with the drill splitting my lip and it is still healing. She DIDN'T EVEN APOLOGIZE. I went in at noon and left at 3:15 for a FILLING. The bed side manner is bad and keeping an appointment is even worse. It's like no one ever shows up to work. I have scheduled like 7 appointments for fillings or a cleaning this year alone (its MAY) and I remember four of them were CANCELLED. Not rescheduled immediately just straight cancelled. My takeaway do not utilize. I do not recommend them or their business.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic experience from day 1! The staff are very nice, and professional. Dr. Schaff is absolutely amazing! She’s great at what she do. She explains your treatment plan step by step. She gives her advice but leaves it up to you to decide. The facility is very neat and clean. I recommend 10/10!!! I’m so glad I found this dental office.

Negative experience: I scheduled an appointment in January. They couldn't get me in until April 21st. I called today to confirm and I somehow DON'T HAVE AN APPOINTMENT??? I'm now afraid to even go there!! Whoever is giving this place all of the 5 star's, are definitely being kind or have thousands of dollars in the bank. I now await the call back. When the girl on the phone heard me being a little upset, she threatened to hang up and "Call me back when I'm a little calmer" my stress is high these days and my only Daughter is getting married. I'd like to have a decent smile for her wedding photos!!!!!! This place is ridiculous!!!!!!

Negative experience: This place seemed great in the beginning... until my November 2021 appointments have yet to be sent to my insurance company... as of March 3rd nothing has happened. I have emailed them countless times and they either respond within 15 minutes or weeks will go by. My last email was sent 3.5 weeks ago and hasn't been responded to. I feel as though they are avoiding me not only because they have stopped responding to my emails, but also because when I call it goes to voicemail every time, but when other people call they pick up. They did submit something to my insurance that they told me was going to be free and it turns out it is not, so its just funny how they submit that, (still 3.5 months late) but not the claims that I actually paid for. When I first called to make my first appointment, I scheduled it for a cleaning. It turned out that that appointment would be for x-rays only which I was not told beforehand but I did it anyways so that I could schedule a cleaning. When I left the office, I asked if I owed anything, if I needed to pay anything, and they told me nope! Good to go. THAT is what they submitted to my insurance and turns out it is not free as I was advised. And yet the two appointments that I did pay for are lost in the wind... and now the staff is avoiding me. Extremely unprofessional. UPDATE April 8, 2022, officially 5 months after my appointment - claims were recently received by my insurance company (within the last 10 days). My email from early February was never responded to. Crazy how a cleaning at this place is well over $1300 but at my previous dentists throughout my entire lifetime it has never been more than $175 and fully covered by insurance (as yearly cleanings should be). I wonder all the stuff they made up that I didn't really need but was advised it was necessary and I believed them. Seems like they know the tricks to provide simple services such as a yearly cleaning/check up, but add a bunch of fancy names to it to make it something that now insurance won't cover. Clever, but fraudulent.

Negative experience: Several negative experiences shaped this poor review. I had appointments cancelled last minute, was left waiting up to 45 minutes post-appointment start time after being told it would just be a couple minutes on more than one occasion, and had the displeasure of interacting with several snarky, inattentive, and unhelpful staff members who seemed more interested in rotating as many people as possible instead of taking care of the patients in their chairs. After multiple visits, I even only interacted with the dentist two times. The team was focused on upselling only treatments that insurance would not cover. After getting both a second and third opinion, I discovered that I was told at Smile Design was completely unneeded. Very happy to have found a new dentist elsewhere!

Negative experience: I'm extremely dissatisfied with Smile Design's service recently and plan on taking my (and my family's) business elsewhere. I scheduled a regular dental cleaning appointment over 6 months ago that was to occur on 12/31/21. When I made the appointment I reminded the receptionist that that was New Year's Eve and asked her if she was sure that the office would be open. I stressed to her that I wanted to use my dental insurance benefits that would expire at the end of the year, so it was very important to schedule me before the end of 2021. She said yes, Smile Design would be open on New Year's Eve and that there would be no problem with scheduling my appointment for that day. Fast forward 6 months and I receive a call on 12/29/21 (two days before my appointment!) telling me that Smile Design would actually be closed on New Year's Eve, so they need to cancel my appointment. The receptionist stated that they might be able to squeeze me in for an appointment on 12/30 and assured me that she would call me back once she could confirm this. She never called me back and never attempted to give me any further alternative for the 12/31 appointment that Smile Design decided to cancel at the last minute. Smile Design had 6 months to look ahead and reschedule my appointment, if they decided that they did indeed want to close on New Year's Eve. Instead, they decided to cancel my appointment at the last minute with essentially no notice and cause me to lose out on using my insurance benefits. It's extremely frustrating to deal with an office that seems to care so little about its patients

Negative experience: Very strange clinic! I called to book an appointment to fix tooth filling that fell out and the encounter takes place as follows: the lady says “we’ll have to do a comprehensive exam appointment with Dr. Whitney since you are new patient” I say “ok, I understand as long as my tooth filling gets repaired”, then I call to confirm the appointment and same lady says “the treatment of your tooth filling might not take place, it’s just the comprehensive exam” then I asked “why?” She wasnt clear about her response then says “Dr. Whitney’s schedule is busy and she is the only one running this office”. Then I say, “ok, when can I do the treatment?”She says very calmly “March 2022 is the next available appointment”!! Im not sure if this clinic appreciates the patient concerns, I mean I needed the treatment and it’s urgent but the response was robotic and lacked addressing my concern and the urgency of the treatment. The encounter gets better .. Few minutes later I called again and asked about any opening for the treatment, and another employee says “Dr. Whitney has an opening” —> that opening was a different time on the same day for my proposed appointment date!! Then naturally I asked “why can I get treated since there are openings on the same day?” The employee mumbled little bit and then he says “let me transfer you to the reception” and the phone call just disconnected.. no one called back! But next day I get showers of phone calles and voicemails to ask about my insurance about the upcoming COMPREHENSIVE EXAM I understand if the office is busy “if that’s even true” and I would appreciate a clear communication about that rather than wasting my time with vague/dishonest communication. I still dont understand why they wanted to do comprehensive exam but not treating my tooth filling?. Glad I didn’t make it to their office!! I went somewhere else and got a proper professional treatment as they put the patient main concern and needs first.

Negative experience: I know better than to go to a dental office that doesn’t have the doctor’s name on it but I hadn’t been to the dentist in awhile due to COVID and a move and this place had some decent reviews. Here is the scam: Delay the initial appointment to get the monthly payment for having the patient on their list. Make up work that doesn’t need to be done. In my case, even though I have no bleeding when I floss or any discomfort, they wanted $1,000 to clean my teeth. Some person comes into the room, pokes at your gums, calls out numbers and leaves. There was no discussion about options. Here is the “plan”. I did get good advice from the dentist about a crown I was concerned about. I’ve worn it down but nothing needs to be done now. I will eventually need a root canal. For the $17 I spent, the advice was worth it. For the root canal, I’ll go to Costa Rica. While there, I heard a man yell “you will hear from my lawyer”. The receptionist acted like she had heard it before. They also make you sign everything they give you. Obviously, they are used to complaints.

Negative experience: Had my teeth cleaned etc. They said I needed an extraction and that my insurance would cover the cost. Although they knew that was not true. So after the extraction was done I started receiving bills from them for the work. When I spoke with them about it they said my insurance would not pay. So I asked them to email me the paperwork and I would take it up with the insurance company. Meantime I received a letter from the insurance company that said the bill was not paid because it was billed incorrectly. I never received the email or heard any more about it. I thought they had settled the matter with the insurance company. Then COVID happened and two years went by. I made another appointment, waited two months for the day to arrive and when I got there they demanded that I pay the old bill or they would not see me.I had been tricked into having the work done and did not feel I owed it. So, I left. Smile Design is not an honest company!!!!!

Negative experience: If I could give zero stars I would, I’m not one to typically write reviews for places, in fact this is the first one I’ve ever had to make. This place was great up until my last visit where the dental assistant broke my permanent retainer when she was being overly aggressive. I had been before and was told my mouth was all good and I had nothing wrong with anything including my permanent retainers. Yet after my last appointment I was referred to an orthodontist to replace my permanent retainer that they broke. I called and was told it would cost $300 and I’m just a college student so I wasn’t planning to pay $300 when I went to my dentist appointment. The dental assistant lied and claimed that my retainer was loose and basically said it’s not there responsibility to pay for the retainer because it was already loose, yet they never told me that before and if it was loose they would’ve simply rescheduled my appointment and told me to get it fixed but it wasn’t loose so they never did any of that. I called the office several times, because it’s a retainer an urgent matter that should be fixed right away so my teeth don’t shift. I was told I would get calls back from several different people for 2 weeks straight and never received any it was always me initiating the calls and trying to get this resolved which ultimately ended in me having to pay $300 out of my own pocket to fix their mistake. Avoid this place at all costs, they don’t care enough to pay for their own mistakes no one I know will ever go to this place I can assure that.

Fantastic experience: My parents are in their 80s. They both have had wonderful and positive dental experiences every time they have gone in for treatment. The dentist, Whitney Schaff, is caring, thorough, and highly skilled. The staff is caring and accommodating. I highly recommend Smile Design Dentistry.

Negative experience: Called November of 2020 and don’t get and appointment til March 2021. Then they made my cavity filling appointment four months later and they shut down because of Covid and now I have to wait three more months until November. That’s eight months! My teeth will probably end up rotten and I’ll need a full root canal by then. Didn’t even call me to reschedule. Unless you can wait an entire year to get something done, I don’t recommend this place at all. The dentist and staff are nice, but the process of waiting months is ridiculous