I had completely forgotten about my terrible experience at this dentist until now. They just called to see when I was coming in for my next cleaning to which I replied - never. The guy tries to upsell everything (preventive, you know- MUST take care of this now or it will get worse!) and had his young associate execute a total CRAP filling in my front bottom tooth, which fell out a couple of months later, and that's when I saw that she had pretty much filed down most of my tooth in filling that tiny cavity. I went to another dentist. No way was I going to go back and risk them filing down the rest of tooth I had left only to have it fall out again. I had a bit of hesitation going to a dentist that offered coupons door-to-door in my office building, and now I know to trust my gut...REFERRALS only from now on. Had a great experience with William Chang, DDS in Santa Monica and now take the whole family there for preventive care. read more

I needed a new dentist, a friend recommended him, so I went. 1st visit: I went in for a cleaning and exam. Everyone was nice. They suggested I get Invisilign MULTIPLE times in the first visit, and that there are payment plans. I didn't even ask about it. My teeth aren't even crooked. Post-exam I was told I had several minor cavities. Mind you, I had no pain when I went in. ZERO pain. ZILCH. Not even a tiny bit. I agreed to getting the cavities filled and they started them that day. And THAT'S when the pain began. 2nd visit, 7 days later: I returned in serious pain. Dr. Rubenstein didn't really hear me when I explained the pain I was in. He completely, albeit nicely, glossed over my complaint of pain, saying I was probably just grinding my teeth. I said I have NEVER, EVER, EVER done that before. Don't think he heard that either. He just stuck to his diagnosis, saying I just needed to take ibuprofen for the pain. At this point I realized the assistants were all 'Stepford Wives' nice, like robots. Once i complained of pain, the shiny, happy faux niceties began fading. 3rd visit, 4 days later: I returned again because of the pain. At this point I had been taking a few ibuprofen every few hours, and resorted to digging out leftover pain pills from a surgery I'd had last year. (Btw, my laparoscopic surgery and the recovery process hurt 100 times less than the pain I was in after the dentist. I didn't even come close to taking 1/4 of the pills my surgeon had prescribed.) I was actually in tears in Dr. Rubenstein's office. A dental assistant even asked if I needed a root canal. SHE asked ME. I agreed that that the only other time I'd had pain like that was over a decade before when I'd had a root canal. And what did Alan Rubenstein say? Nah, I just needed a night guard because I was probably just grinding my teeth. Then he had one made for me, saying they weren't going to charge me for it since he felt bad about the pain. And don't you know the night guards are REALLY EXPENSIVE? So really we're giving you a deal! Guess what? He still didn't want to give me anything for the pain, but did prescribe SLEEPING PILLS! I took one that night, and never took another. They were useless. Three more days of excruciating pain, missed work (without pay btw), and barely any sleep. I couldn't sleep more than 2-3 hours because of the pain. After the laparoscopic surgery, a single pain pill made me nauseous because they're too strong. I was now taking at least 2-3 at a time out of sheer desperation, and the pain would barely subside for more than a few hours. At this point my boyfriend insisted on calling Dr. Rubenstein to complain. The person who answered the phone at the office said, well if you really want to, you can get a second opinion, and then gave him the number for Dr. Eddie Harouni's office. We called Dr. Harouni's office and Dr. Andrea Holstein saw me immediately. Within a few minutes and a few simple tests with basic dental tools, she confirmed that I needed a root canal IMMEDIATELY. At this point, I had been in pain for over 9 days. She performed the root canal, and my pain disappeared. As we were driving away she called to ask if Dr. Rubenstein had prescribed any pain pills or antibiotics and was extremely surprised to discover that he had done nothing of the sort. She instantly called in both prescriptions. I still had to return to Dr. Rubenstein to get the onlay. He didn't apologize for the 9 days of excruciating pain, and still acted shocked that I needed a root canal. And then I was presented with a bill that was $50+ more than what I had originally been quoted and paid. The lesson here? At Dr. Rubenstein's, for every three misdiagnosed visits, you'll get a free (oh so expensive) night guard and more charges than you'd agreed to! read more

I went to Dr Rubinstein some years back. I don't remember the details, but I was displeased with his service. I remember a tremendous amount of upsell, and a general lack of doctorly concern in the office. read more

If you want to be over sold on fillings, if you want your teeth to hurt more after you leave than before, if you want his ego filled dental apprentice (Dr. Levitt) to not give two fucks about you than Dr Rubenstein is the dentist for you. Be warned they dont even validate parking. read more

They filled 7 cavities. I was young, naive and didn't get a second opinion. When my boyfriend went to see them they told him the same thing and that he needed a root canal. He went to another dentist that said he only had one cavity. It really just breaks my heart that this happened to me because I now have unnecessary dental work that will have to be redone over the years. I probably had 1-2 cavities. From what I can tell the work is fine but that really doesn't matter when it shouldn't be there in the first place. Don't go here or at least get a second opinion before you agree to use Rubenstein. Makes me so upset to this day and I went there maybe 3 years ago. read more

I had an awful experience with his associate years ago - over drilling, a crown (that was most likely unnecessary) which while functional is so awfully done that my current dentist wants to redo it as soon as insurance will cover. I never posted a review since it was a one and done. However, after years of not being a patient I received a text message from his office requesting an email address! Look at the history of your patients before you start re-soliciting business. read more

I am just so disappointed by this place now. D Rubenstein just never performs the work well, something is always wrong and I have to go back the 2nd time. I am changing my dentist now. He just doesn't pay enough attention to what needs to be done not too mention how long I had to wait last time for him to start. read more

Absolutely horrible experience. His practice is run by a staff of crooks who are trying to upsell constantly. This practice is all about selling and is not what a dental practice should be about - tooth health. Unethical and I will never go back. read more

Been going to thIs dentist for many many years, I'm not sure why, because for the last 3-5 years, he constantly tries to sell services and/or procedures totally unnecessary and absolutely overcharging for those so basic in nature. I guess he desperately needs the money, or it's just plain greed! Do yourself a favor, and try another dentist more professional! read more

ABSOLUTELY HATED my visit, I almost cried leaving that place because I was so mad. I went to see him as an emergency visit because my gums were hurting ( my previous dental visit was only 2 months ago with my regular dentist). I waited 40 minutes for my appointment and the whole thing took over 2 hours ONLY FOR CHECKING MY GUMS. I was forced into doing complete sets of X-Rays and they probably asked me 5 times if I wanted to get a cleaning, only so they can charge my insurance. When Dr Rubenstein sees me, he informs me after 30 seconds that I have 4 minor cavities (I havent had cavities in over 15 years) and I have to go see an oral surgeon( even if he retakes the X-Rays 3 times and he says its probably nothing). Funny how I saw my dentist 2 months ago and she didnt see anything. After quoting me 600$ in procedures, I REMIND HIM to check my gums and he tells me " OH dont worry all is good." He still managed to bill my insurance for 80$.Impressive. read more

I had my first appointment with Dr. Alan today. I found him through my insurance and then from reading his good reviews on yelp. I think he might be my all time favorite dentist. He is so nice, personable, and knowledgeable. I am a little tight with my funds right now but he helped me with the best options for my situation. Everyone else in his office was great too! read more

I think Dr. Rubenstein is a wonderful dentist. His office is nice and clean with up-to-date equipment. I should know, I worked as an associate for Dr. Rubenstein10 years ago. I gained a copious amount of knowledge in the practice of dentistry and attribute a part of my success today to Dr. Rubenstein. Thank you for your confidence Alan. Bernard A. Melendez, DDS read more

I can hardly say enough nice things about the staff here. I'm from out of town but they went out if their way to get me taken care of around my crazy schedule. Everyone was incredibly kind and knowledgeable about what they were doing. read more

In short, I would strongly urge everyone to AVOID this cabinet, even in case of emergency. I have never, ever been in so much pain in my entire life since having treatment at Dr. Rubenstein's office. He and Dr. Levitt have messed up my mouth permanently. Dr. Rubenstein came referred by colleagues (one of which now apparently needs a root canal because of treatment gone awry.) I went in for a cleaning and was told that an exam was required. I agreed to it and ended up being pushed into getting fillings done. This seemed odd, as my annual exam (at my usual dentist) in December revealed no problems. I was told the work needed to be performed quickly to prevent future complications with my type of teeth and that it was normal for people my age (26) to have these issues. Also, they insisted it was a minor procedure and easy to fix because the cavities were so close to one another. The doctors were agreeable and seemed trustworthy. The cleaning was painful and I bled for an entire afternoon. I should've taken a clue. The operation for the fillings was done swiftly. However, pain and discomfort set in almost immediately after the freezing agent died down. It's been about two months now, and i'm still in terrible pain and discomfort. I went back to them twice for adjustments (which didn't help at all.) I since gave up on Rubenstein and went to see my old dentist and another local one. They've had to do a lot of adjustments to allow my mouth to close without unbearable pain shooting up my face all the way down to my fingertips. Now terrible pain peaks set in at random times on what was previously healthy teeth, and my mouth is still uncomfortable. I'm told some of the fillings will need to be redone as they've been poorly placed and are causing ongoing issues. The only follow-up from Dr. Rubenstein to this whole ordeal was a bill for supplementary work that was not quoted, nor consented to. Turns out the doctor decided to replace some of my 2-yr old fillings without notifying or asking me about it. They did credit my account after I complained (but billed my insurance,) after which the doctor called to offer a free follow-up checkup, which I declined. Considering I'd already been in twice to no avail, there was no use seeing them again to get hurt more. Beyond that, their office has been unable to provide any usable x-ray or documentation that I could take to another dentist for treatment. In the end, I feel misled and bullied into unnecessary treatment that was poorly performed, and probably unnecessary. I feel I was not informed properly of the problems, and the consequences of getting treatment prior to consenting to it. I went in to see Dr. Rubenstein with a healthy mouth, and now will be stuck with pain and dental problems until I die. I should have gotten another opinion, but in the end, I'm not a dentist and was hoping I could rely on these referred professionals. Clearly, I was wrong about these two being reliable. Thank you for messing up my life and my mouth Dr. Rubenstein. Nothing like a lifetime of painful problems, and the feeling of having your mouth raped by greed. read more

NO!!! When I first started seeing Dr. Rubenstein, he seemed like a nice enough guy and did decent work. While he over-prescribed work in his treatment plans, I attributed it to being overly cautious. I left for a few years due to insurance changes. I returned to a different scenario. My first cleaning was half-assed. I felt like they barely did anything, yet I was then told I needed a deep cleaning and a long list of other things. Moving forward. About five years ago, he had put veneers on my two front teeth. I needed them but one never felt quite right and had a ridge between the tooth and the veneer but I was told "not to worry about it." Well, a few months ago, it fell off (in the middle of thew night while sleeping - not while eating). I went back in and what a difference. He was rude and condescending, acting as if it was my fault. They presented me with a treatment plan, which included 40% insurance coverage for a balance of $590. He took the mold for the perm veneer and put the temp one on. I went to the desk and they wanted $1,047 stating that insurance does not cover veneers? WTF??? Why did they add coverage to the plan (blatantly and unethically misleading me)? Insurance did wind up covering some of the balance (as I had had a veneer on before and this was not voluntary cosmetic to have it fixed). When I went in to have the permanent veneer put on, it didn't feel right. I thought it was due to my mouth still being numb or getting used to it. A few weeks later and now a few months later, every time I bite into anything, it feels off. But the doctor has told me, "don't worry about it." Ummm... that's what he told me the last time. Yet they want me to pay the balance for poor work? Legally I might have to pay it but I am first trying to get the work done properly In the last month and a half, I have requested my full dental records, including X-rays. I have this in writing and have made phone calls. They claim they have sent what I requested (they have not). Then they asked I pay my balance first. I am not aware that they can legally hold my records until a balance is paid. Are you? If you want shoddy work, pressure for unnecessary treatment, condescending dentist and staff and difficulties with your legal rights, then this is the office for you! If not, do not walk but run somewhere else! read more

First let me say that Allison the dental hygienist is awesome, I have been going to Santa Monica Family Dentistry for the past three years because of her, and I like Dr. Rubinstein as well. Dr. Levitt, however, is another matter, and I will not ever go back after what happened yesterday. I went in for an exam and to replace two old silver fillings. I have had some fillings replaced before, and it always went smoothly. Dr. Levitt first did the periodontal evaluation, even though I let him know that Allison and I stay on top of this, that I am aware I have gum issues due to being a recent former smoker, and that I am much improved from where I used to be. But he tried to sell me on deep cleanings anyway, saying I needed another, and "sometimes you just have to keep getting them." (Why, if they never make anything better? Perhaps b/c a deep cleaning entails two office visits and bigger fees). The he tried to tell me I need a nightguard. I already have one, and let him know that as well. Clearly, Dr. Levitt had not perused my chart (which was discomforting) and was more interested in selling me things than doing dental work. This is all well and good, however: Dr. Levitt can be a great dentist even if he is trying to sell me things. But then we start on the replacement of the old silver fillings. He gets the first one out and flippantly states, "Oh, you're gonna need a root canal on that one." What? No one told me there is a risk in replacing an old filling that I could have further decay and require a root canal. If I had known that, I would not have agreed to replace the old filling! I told him this, and he (once again, flippantly) stated that I would eventually need one anyway, b/c the decay would reach the nerve and cause pain. I told him I would have rather waited til that moment, b/c that moment may never arrive, and now I have to get a root canal for something that was causing me no pain whatsoever! Thanks, Dr. Levitt! And then, if I understood him correctly, he did part of the root canal on that tooth (? is that possible), put in a temporary filling, and then started on the other one. But he stopped and said, "Wait, look at this xray, there is a 70% chance you will need a root canal on this one, too." What? Why can't anyone tell me this BEFORE the procedures are begun? So that I can make an informed decision? This is ridiculous. He said that "decay was diagnosed" or some such, which, if true, was never communicated to me at all. I let him know how upset I was, and he made a (once again, flippant) reference to the fact that I had a root canal before, as he could tell from my xrays. Well, yes! I have had a root canal! And it got infected and had to be redone! And the cap is crooked due to some sticky food I ate a few years ago. It has been a nightmare! Why would anyone ever do something as stupid as replace an old filling. WHICH DOESN'T HURT, if the potential result is a root canal? I cannot believe I went in to get two old fillings replaced, and walked out with a partial root canal and word that I was going to need another one. Given that he had already tried to sell me on more deep cleainings and a nightguard that I already had, and that I was getting fillings replaced that I didn't even need to get replaced, I am convinced that this office is more concerned with how much they can sell you than doing dental work. And Dr, Levitt's "bedside manner" is atrocious. Unconcerned, sarcastic and flippant. I have never been treated so poorly by a medical professional. And, no, they don't validate parking, but I'm not sure any office in the building validates parking (my podiatrist, in the same bldg, does not validate either). It cost me $13 to get out of the parking garage, so park on the street if you don't want to pay that much for parking. Bottom Line: Astonishingly bad treatment without informed consent. Oversold on things I dont need. I have learned a lesson. I will never go back. read more

I've tired this place over four times now and definitely not going back anymore. Not only is one of the receptionist unfriendly which I can deal with if the doctor is really good but that is not the case. Dr. Rubenstein never seems to listen or care about the overall health of your teeth. The dental assistants are just as uninformative and uncomfortable. Just a generally uncomfortable office. read more

I've been a longtime patient at Dr. Rubenstein's office for nearly 20 years now, and have had nothing but a positive experience with him during that entire run, as well as with the various hygienists I've seen there, dental assistants, and office team. In fact, the entire group as a whole has always consistently worked well for me to keep my teeth healthy, white, and strong over all the many years I've been going, and honestly, I couldn't be happier with how my teeth currently look and feel. Dr. Rubenstein's group has always made it incredibly easy to visit their office even during more difficult and stressful appointments when the thought of going to the dentist traditionally keeps you up the night before an appointment. I have now had many experiences with them where I felt absolutely no pain whatsoever from start to finish during a procedure, largely because this group is always willing to go the extra distance, and do everything they can to help patients through the more traumatic aspects of dentistry--something that has kept me coming back to this one particular practice over and over again. And as I'm someone who is largely terrified of going to the dentist (I don't want it to sound like it's actually easy for me to go to the dentist), there's a certain comfort I find I always have knowing I can get through anything with them that comes up. Because of the inherent safety level I get there, I have been consistent in visiting every six months, which not only maintains my teeth, but also helps to spot any potential problems long before they cause pain or damage. Overall, I really like this group, and have felt that way right from the beginning. Like many of the other reviewers of this practice, I too have been asked by them many times about whether I wanted this service or that one--whether it's a fluoride treatment or Invisalign, many of which I know I don't need or want, and simply say no thank you. I've had braces three times, and don't need or want Invisalign, and don't need many of the services they offer, but I'm glad to know they are available in case at some point I do want them. Whether it's for general cleanings or repeated cosmetic onlays (which I have done, and don't think I could have accomplished anywhere else quite as confidently), they have been accommodating, patient, understanding, and helpful. My own personal goal is to keep all of my teeth healthy, attractive, and functional for the rest of my life, and I know that with their attention to detail, with all the services they offer, and how easy they make it to go to the dentist, I will confidently reach that goal. While I don't have any complaints about this practice to offer, I do find parking somewhat difficult in that area in Santa Monica. Since you can't park on the street anymore without a permit, you can either park in the building's garage that you'll then want to take the ticket and get it validated for. Or you can do what I do, and park in the lot near the corner of 14th and Wilshire. You can use cash or your ATM/credit card to pay for the parking, and it's both cheap and conveniently right around the corner from the dental office. And lastly, my one piece of advice to anyone going in for a cleaning, whether here or elsewhere, if you happen to have any "hot spots" or sensitive areas on your teeth where the ultrasound causes you any pain, take an Advil about thirty-minutes before your cleaning, and I can promise that you will have a far better experience during your appointment than you probably have in the past. read more

I have never had a bad experience here. Getting my teeth cleaned is always a breeze and never hurts. It is quick as well which is always nice when visiting the dentist! Dr Rubenstein is friendly and easy going and when my old dentist thought I needed to pull a tooth out, Dr Rubenstein recognized that might not be necessary and sent me to an oral surgeon to take a look. Turns out the tooth was fine. I had a huge cyst in my jaw that was causing my pain and needed to be removed. YUCK. Thank goodness Dr Rubenstein wasn't quick to pull the tooth because I would have one less tooth and still would have needed surgery. THANKS!!! read more

I love Dr. Rubenstein and his staff! I have been going to him for the last 10 years. I never have to wait. The quality of the care his excellent. I have had a little bit of everything done: from root canal, crown, bonding of broken front tooth made to look natural again and unnoticeable, fillings, Invisalign, and routine cleaning and X-rays. And never any pain or discomfort. Dr. Rubenstein is the best dentist I have ever had and I am 53 years old -- so I have been to many others in my lifetime. read more

Dr Rubenstein has been my dentist for more than 10 years he is awesome . I have never had a problem with him , the staff here is super friendly and caring .Today I had my tooth pulled and it was so fast and I didn't feel a thing . like always he offered If I needed anything or if I had any questions to call he is the best. read more

The worst...totally ruined my teeth...had him replaced veneers and he ground my teeth down to a pulp...which was a big mistake... now they are all decayed and screwed up.and I look like billy bob...did not stand behind his work...they also keep falling off and they would not replace unless I paid for them again...worst experience I have encountered with a dentist. Other dentist have asked me if I went to a vet t have my the teeth done. P.s. There motto ( I heard them whisper to each other) "drill and Bill" read more

I have been with Alan Rubenstein, DDS since 1998 and have never had any problems. Everyone is professional and I highly recommend him. Not to mention I have not always been the happiest camper when visiting them because of tooth aches and Alan Rubenstein and all his staff have always been compassionate and supportive. Thanks Alan & Staff for taking such excellent care of me and especially my teeth. read more

I've been to several dentists in the Los angeles area and Dr Rubenstein is one of my favorites. I've been multiple times now and each time the staff and doctors are very nice and friendly. They give me all the facts and do not try to sell me on service that is not needed. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone looking for a dentist. read more

My experience couldn't have been more positive. After my first visit, I was a little shocked at just how much trips to the dentist cost (especially as I'm English and am not used to medical prices in America) but after a candid conversation with Dr. Leland, she told me that she'd work within my budget and do everything they could to keep the prices managable, while providing me with the best possible care. That is exactly what I received. First class service at an affordable price. Thank you Dr. Leland and to all of the staff. read more

ROOT CANAL - I have never been afraid of going to the dentist, but when I found out I needed a root canal I was very nervous about it. My tooth was infected and in a lot of pain when I went to see Mr Rubenstein. I am very happy to tell everyone that it was so much easier than I imagined, I did not feel one bit of pain throughout the whole procedure!! which is pretty amazing, and that is why I had to write this review. All the staff were great, I felt at ease and very well looked after. I'm going back for my crown in a couple of weeks. I would highly recommend if you need a root canal done go to see Mr Rubenstein, he did an excellent job on me. I literally walked out of the surgery thinking that was no problem at all!? read more

I've been coming here for years. I love the friendly office staff. They are great about scheduling appointments and the hygienists are always very professional. I don't have insurance but their rates are still manageable. Also they honored the deal on Yelp! Jennifer is the absolute best! read more

Usually I don't like going to the dentist. I have on occasion, even left the chair before my appointment because things took so long. But Dr. Rubenstein was not only prompt, he was funny! Charming and kind! It didn't even feel like I was at the dentist and I was out in no time. I actually look forward to going to the dentist now, thanks to Dr. Rubenstein. By the far the best dentist in LA. Melody F. read more

Fabulous dentist. I have been going to him for almost 2 yrs now. He really knows his stuff! He is great at explaining procedures, providing options and treatment in general. I love his staff and I am not dreadful about going back, which is my usual reaction to dentists. Very flexible with scheduling and good about keeping me on track with my care. read more

Couldn't have asked for more of a savior of a place for an emergency situation. Long story short, needed an emergency fix and they stayed well after closing to get it done for me. Being from out of town, it's been difficult handling medical institutes out here constantly double/triple checking I have insurance to cover it, but the whole staff was extremely helpful in the situation. Definitely will be returning! read more

I have lived in 7 different states and have had a lot of dentists. Dr. Rubenstein and his staff are my favorite yet. They are efficient, smart, compassionate, and funny to boot. Although I have never had any fears of the dentist myself, I could tell that they try to make sure every patient feels comfortable and knowledgeable about what they are doing. Could not recommend them more. read more

I truly have to say I'm not a fan of going to the dentist. Not so much the pain, but the environment and such. The pain isn't that great either, now that I think about it... Doctor Rubenstein and Levitt (sp?) are by far the two greatest dentists on the planet. Quick, supportive, painless (absolutely painless)...I cannot say enough, especially for someone like me who has been so scared to go to the dentist. These guys changed everything for me. If you're reading this thinking "well, he's not as scared as I am and he doesn't understand...," you're wrong. I know EXACTLY how you feel, and you have to trust me that this office can do so much for someone in your situation. I even found them because they promote their understanding that some of us might be afraid... and they're right. You can't find a better dentist in the United States. read more

I've been a patient with Dr. Rubenstein for over 10 years now. Without fail, I've always had positive experiences having dental procedures performed by Dr. Rubenstein himself. His patient manners are relaxed, genuine and caring. Whether it's been an oral checkup, cleaning, going on the Invisilign program (which really improved my teeth!), I've always received prompt, professional and courteous services from Dr. Rubenstein and his staff. Dr. Cohen also is a wonderful doctor who is clearly unparalleled at his profession having performed an implant procedure for me. I honestly cannot say enough good things about the office! Not sure about the few negative reviews listed below, but I would stake my reputation on Dr. Rubenstein and the staff in the office. As for the music in the offices, can NEVER hear enough Sinatra and Davis, Jr. in my book! Thanks for your services, Drs. Rubenstein & Cohen! read more

I have been a patient lf Dr. Rubenstein for 8 years. He and his staff have always made coming to a dental appointment a positive experience. They run on time and are very friendly. I have sent several of my friends and family to this office and everyone thanks me for finally finding them a great dentist. By the way two of my friends who went recently saw the other dentist who is a woman and they loved her too. read more

I recently switched dentists after my experience at Dr. Rubenstein's office. Within 15 minutes of sitting down to get a simple cleaning, Jennifer had tallied over $5,000 of work that needed to be done -- including clear braces, full mouth deep cleaning, and wisdom teeth removal. In fact, she would not do a cleaning until I approved the deep cleaning, which was over $300. As she was checking my teeth and gums, she told the technician to "round up" the numbers; apparently, this made it appear that my gums were not healthy. I was so disturbed that I called Dr. Rubenstein into the office. He agreed that I did not need braces, but overall appeared very flustered and was not at all responsive to my concerns. I asked him to look at my teeth himself, which he declined to do. He said "rounding up" numbers was common practice. So I left the office without a cleaning, and made an appointment with a new dentist, who confirmed that I did not need ANY of what Dr. Rubenstein's office had recommended. I have perfectly health gums, and do not need to have my wisdom teeth removed. I am going to follow up by writing my insurance a letter about my experience. These people are definitely in it to make money, not in service of their customers or quality health care. read more

I've finally had a dental experience that i didn't regret going. Dr. Rubenstein and his staff are all wonderful and professionals.First, I was so surprised that i didn't have to wait to be seated-in. Then, all the staff that i met were so welcoming and greeted me with a smile. The assistant made sure that i'm comfortable on the chair and explained the procedures to me. When Dr. Rubenstein came in, he further explained the procedures and expectations. He was very professional. I liked it that he's funny and made me feel like i've known him already. But best of all, the procedure was painless. Ms. Allison was also very nice. She took her time in cleaning my teeth. I appreciated that she gave me the option if i want all the quadrants cleaned which i opted to do so. She also gave me some very good pointers of maintaining the cleanliness of my teeth as well as keeping my gums healthy. I was referred by my friend to Dr. Rubenstein's office and now i have referred my other friends and relatives to him. I tell everyone that it may take me an hour to get to his office but it is worth the trip. Thank you Dr. Rubenstein and to your staff for your care and professionalism. Keep up the good work. Allan A. read more

Stay away from this dentist office, it smells very fishy! What I mean by this is that they do not seem very honest based on my visit. I have great insurance and during my first visit, they told me that I needed a deep cleaning. I found this very odd since I had my teeth cleaned 3x last year! They wouldn't clean my teeth in my visit, which I took time off of work for. They wanted to charge me $200 and my insurance $450. I left and went to another dentist who cleaned my teeth happily. I asked the hygenist to rate how my teeth were pre-cleaning. She said if 1 is the best, my teeth were a 4. I believe they can offer free electric tooth brushes because they try to rip off innocent people and their insurance company. I hope they are more careful before they have a complaint from the Better Business Bureau. read more

If I could give 0 stars, I would. I've always been happy with the exemplary work done by my regular dentist (5 stars on yelp), but she's in Beverly Hills, she specializes in cosmetic dentistry, she's expensive, and doesn't accept most insurance plans. I thought I would find a local Santa Monica dentist for my routine bi-annual cleanings. I should've known better than to choose a dentist by the coupons offered in the local fishwrap newspaper, and I should've checked Yelp first. I decided to cash in the $1 exam. However, I also scheduled a cleaning at the regular price ($98), to better judge the service--I didn't want to be one of those customers that just cashes in a freebie and doesn't at least pay something. Disclosure: in my late 40s, I've only had one cavity in my life, a root canal and crown for a damaged tooth. Otherwise, my dental health record is exemplary. Dr. Rubenstein noted the lack of cavities--then promptly tried to upsell me on several thousand dollars of unnecessary dental work. First was the "deep scaling" (my five-star dentist never recommended this in 20 years of treatment, but I had another dentist recommend this years ago when I tried their "new patient special"), followed by a recommendation for a referral to have my perfectly healthy wisdom teeth removed as a "preventative". I don't think so! My regular dentist thinks they're in no need of removal. When I refused the unnecessary services, the assistant tried to get me to sign some form. I refused that--if I'm declining the service, you don't need me to sign anything. The cleaning which followed was messy, perfunctory, and slipshod. This happened once at my regular dentist, with a newly-hired hygenist, and the doctor stopped what she was doing to personally clean my teeth when I complained about the bad work. However, Rubenstein's assistant just claimed that my teeth weren't clean because I the deep scaling was the only thing which would clean them. That's for below-the-gums, not the upper surfaces. I immediately regretted committing the $98 for the cleaning, and the time for the $1 exam. I cannot recommend this money-pit. read more

I have tried 3 different dentists in Santa Monica over 10 years, Dr. Rubenstein's office is by far the best. I have been a patient for 4 years and every time the experience impresses me more. Kind, patient, friendly, professional, clean and considerate of my time are just some of the reasons why I keep going back and telling everyone I know that they should switch if they are unhappy with their dentist, the staff or even the building. read more

My first appointment with Dr. Rubenstein was in June 2010 and I thought he was very nice. In October his office began calling me for a cleaning, they told me I needed a cleaning every 4 months. I have spoken to other dentists and friends and the norm is a cleaning every 6 months. My cleaning appointment was mid-December, while there I was told that Dr. Rubenstein only checked over everything once per year, not every visit. When did this become normal? Never according friends and family......The Hygienist (Allison) told me my gums had receded so much that I needed a some king of gum surgery to repair them and that I should see their Gum Specialist. Allison also told me I had a lose tooth on the bottom, and she stated that since my braces, my teeth had moved. Allison did not look at any X-Rays, so how did she come to the conclusion my teeth moved? I was extremely stunned when she told me all of this as Dr. Rubenstein had not mentioned any of this 6 months ago when I last saw him. Allison also told me I should contact my parents about this....I am 27 years old, why would my parents have anything to do with this - it is not a life or death situation and they do not support me. After I left and began thinking about the whole experience, and I made an appointment to see trusted family dentist. I saw my family dentist 2 weeks later, and he said there was absolutely nothing wrong with my teeth; and he also stated my X-Rays were the best he had seen in a long time. My family dentist strongly suggested that I turn Dr. Rubenstein's office into the State Board and put them under investigation. He said they probably saw I had good insurance, thinking I was here going to school with my parent supporting me and were trying to use it to their advantage to make money. Thank god for honest dentists; not only do I not have to have a painful procedure done, it will not cost me, my company, nor our insurance company unnecessary money. Since this experience I have spoken to other co-workers who go there, and they have had nothing but bad experiences as well. There should be a zero star rating! read more