I found Dr. Arora after dental work from another office had gone wrong. I was in so much pain I couldn't sleep, could barely eat, and the pain was radiating from my teeth into my jaw and all the way to my ear. After a week of constant pain, I couldn't wait any longer to get help. On a Friday night, I (desperately) reached out to any dentists who listed Saturday hours. Dr. Arora responded that same night and rearranged his Saturday schedule to accommodate me. The office was otherwise closed, but he was willing to come in and see me, a brand new patient he had never even met, because I needed help. That meant a lot, and immediately told me he genuinely cares about people, not just appointments on a schedule. Dr. Arora gave careful, clear, clinical explanations of what he was seeing, what was causing my pain, and exactly what needed to be done. He made sure I understood what was going to happen, why he takes the approach he does, and what to expect afterward. I ended up needing two root canals to fix the previous dentist's filling. While no one *enjoys* a root canal, it honestly wasn't nearly as bad as I feared. It did take time - which he told me upfront - because he doesn't rush. My previous dentist had emphasized how quickly he could get me in and out, so it was actually refreshing to be treated by someone who prioritizes doing it properly. What really stood out is that while Dr. Arora's practice absolutely has modern technology, he clearly relies on skill and judgment first. It felt like being treated by someone who truly understands dentistry, not someone just following what a machine tells them to do. The previous office had all the flashy, high-tech equipment imaginable, and I still ended up needing two root canals to repair their work. The office also offers thoughtful touches like headphones, cozy blankets, and pillows, which make a bigger difference than you'd think when you're in the chair for a while. After weeks of pain and stress, I'm finally back to normal and genuinely feel taken care of. If you're anxious, in pain, or just want a dentist who combines competence with real compassion, you will be in very good hands here. read more

The office was clean and the staff helped with the forms without any hassle. The doctor didn't make any assumptions and asked direct but thoughtful questions. They took time to listen and were good at breaking down possible causes and options without pushing anything right away. I liked that they didn't talk over me and checked that I understood everything before we wrapped up. I felt like my concerns were taken seriously. read more

While everyone in this office is kind and incredibly accommodating, this has been overall a bad experience. I had a root canal done here, that quickly became problematic. I was told that sometimes this happens, and wasn't given any solution. I went months before seeing a different endodontist who discovered it was actually completely infected. I had to get my root canal redone hardly even a year later. Looking back, I have some doubts about this practice. While Dr.Arora has amazing bedside manner, he has his staff performing procedures that are out of their scope of practice. I would definitely be concerned with the standard of care here. It makes me wonder if this was the reason my root canal was never done properly! read more

I would highly recommend anyone who sees Dr. Arora or the other dentists at his practice for any procedure to get a second opinion. Dr. Arora insisted and highly recommended unnecessary procedures such as: extraction of molar and implant. He also had an endodontist that worked for him state that an extraction was necessary for me. At that point, I made apts and paid out of pocket for consultations from 2 other reputable dental surgeons that the extraction of my tooth was not necessary. They wrote letters to him and me verifying extraction was not needed. Both these dentists along with another surgeon highly recommended me to find a new dentist after their exams and consults for me. Also I was extremely dissatisfied with his workmanship. There were multiple times the crowns he placed literally fell out and I had to contact them to put it back asap. Was poor workmanship on multiple levels. I also experienced unprofessional and unethical behavior with workmanship,billing, ethics, etc. Unfortunately I was in high distress and tears during my treatment plan with him and his office staff. If you want to contact me to discuss my experience with Arora Dental group please feel free at: aflare10@yahoo.com read more

I couldn't be more satisfied with the professional services provided! Need a good dentist, come see Dr. Arora and his team. read more

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Review Update: regarding their prices! I was reached out to by Adrienne who notified me that they had charged me thinking my insurance doesn't cover the full amount but turned out my insurance did cover a portion of the cost therefor they refunded me $164 and mailed the check to my home. It was nice of them to do that, and very ethical. I wouldn't have known. Thanks Adrienne and the team! read more

Alok Arora, DMD - Waiting area - General Dentistry Near Me - Menlo Park, California

These people are low down scammers, all they want is your money, dental work is low budget, they lie in your face, tell you need a root canal on a tooth that has no roots and a crown replaced with the same crown they extracted, be careful, wasted money here and would never ever return read more

I had a teeth cleaning by Tasia, the dental hygienist, who came in early on the President's Day Holiday and I was her first patient. The office was quiet. Tasia is highly competent, professional, personable, and a real asset to Dr. Arora's team. I also like Vivian, who often works behind the scents managing billing and insurance claims. She is great as well. read more

I had the fluoride treatment but I was not notified not to swallow saliva. So for the next 30mins I constantly swallowed saliva full with fluoride. Then I felt nausea and wanted to vomit, with a lot more hiccups and farts. A hour later, I had my dinner then I developed a stomachache. It took me the whole night for the symptoms to disappear. The second feedback I have is that I hope the doctor could be more active in providing the details of the treatment and explanation. The doctor did not provide much description of the Invisalign and asked me if I have any questions. It is very hard to ask questions without knowing much. The pros and cons should be stated clearly for the transparency of information. read more

After coming to this practice for the past 6 years, I have to revise my previous review. For years, one of his crowns always felt rough and unfinished along an edge. He assured me that he couldn't detect it and that I just needed to get used to it. He created another crown that left a huge gap between two teeth that trapped debris. I lived with that for years as well. In the past 6 years, I've had 4-5 instances of crowns falling out under various circumstances. These last couple of times, he told me the crowns couldn't be redone, and that I'd need implants. Finally, I decided, after 6 years, to consider that the problem wasn't me but maybe the quality of the provider. I changed dentists, and immediately, there was a big difference. Even temporary crowns finally felt natural from the new provider. The big "food trap" was gone, too. I am so glad I switched. I was on the fence about doing this review because he's a nice guy, but when I think of all the time and money I spent and years I wasted with my mouth feeling lousy it still makes me angry. I forgot to mention a sensitive crown I had lived with for years simply because he said there was nothing that could be done about it. Talk about misery. I changed dentists, and that problem, too, is now gone! read more

The dentist is very knowledgeable and the staff is quite accommodating. I would recommend this practice to anyone needing major dental work. I'm smiling again.:) read more

I've had nothing but great experiences at Alok Arora's office. Dr Arora and his staff always make me feel comfortable, no matter the procedure. I've had cleanings, X-rays, and cavities filled, and I've been happy with each visit. Most recently, I needed a new set of veneers (which was a long appointment) but they made me as comfortable as possible throughout the process. The staff is friendly, and they provide direct information regarding billing and scheduling appointments. read more

Great office and team around Dr Arora. Highly recommend. Conscious of client needs and flexible to meet timing of clients.

He also tried to make me sign a non-disclosure agreement for a refund (see photo below), but of course I refused to sign this shady document. Clearly he didn't want people to know the truth of how terrible this practice is. Save your time and money, and go to a different dentist! read more

Alok Arora, DMD - Non-disclosure agreement he tried to make me sign - General Dentistry Near Me - Menlo Park, California

TLDR - Go elsewhere, save your money. I wish I didn't have to write this review and hurt businesses but this affected my finances terribly. Treatment is much more expensive than at other dentists, which is understandable given the location. Treatment didn't work and tried negotiating the price to which no response was given. The bill was sent to collection which affected my credit severely for the next 7 years. If they had called before sending the bill to collection, I would have paid. The collection company this business uses is very unprofessional. The collection agent called and threatened me, took my credit card details over phone when I tried to find a more secure medium. read more

I'm sad that I didn't read the reviews more thoroughly before visiting Arora's office. I'll preface by saying that I have pretty great teeth - I floss, brush, have never had orthodontic work, go to the dentist religiously, and have only recently had a cavity here and there.  Most often I go to the dentist and they are shocked I haven't had braces, comment on the whiteness of my teeth, and tell me my dental hygiene is impeccable.  Fast forward to my first visit with Dr. Arora.  All of a sudden I need invisalign, my teeth aren't white enough, I need a crown, and multiple cavities filled.  Also, I must eat a lot of sugar and/or never floss because my teeth are in such a state of disarray.  And, of course, all of this was going to cost me over a thousand dollars. I had to take a day to reflect.  Was I just defensive because I'm so used to hearing good things and haven't had many issues with my teeth? No, something didn't feel right.  I'm also now reflecting on their policy of  "seeing you once before cleaning your teeth."  Lightbulb.  They just want my money and don't care about me as a person.   Fast forward a week later, I go to a new dentist.  "Wow, you have beautiful teeth.  They are so white! I see a few minor issues, but nothing that needs attention right this minute."  So I don't need a crown? Absolutely not.  No invisalign? No way!  Cool, I thought I was going crazy. Save your money and don't waste your time. read more

Super all around. Dr. Arora was early in the trend of creating a safe space, and his hygienists rock. No oversell, but we have had Invisalign and night guards from him, and his style and service are excellent. Of course, you need to check your insurance first to avoid sticker shock. My family's teeth are very happy to have met him,! read more

I just want to start off by saying this is the best dentist I have been to in my whole life. The staff and dentists are so kind and caring. I always feel welcomed when I come in. Dr Arora is honestly so amazing. He genuinely cares about doing a good job on my teeth and wants the best for me. He always explains what he is doing when he is working on my teeth and discusses ways I can improve my oral health on my own. I can't say enough good things about this place. If you want to come out looking like a Colgate smile model, this is the place to be! read more

So far I has only one decent dentist in the US, unfortunately that was in LA and I moved away since. Dr. Arora, is part of the untruthful majority. Talking to me in length about my insurance on the first visit, and not ever mentioning it's out of network. My bad for not 100% checking, his bad for making it seem like it is (until he tried charging me 900 for a few cavities the second time, then I got it) read more

I had a root canal and crown for my teeth #7 at Dr. Arora's office. The crown fell off within 1 year. The root canal FAILED after 5 months, and I got re-infections. I attached my diagnosis below. Without doubt, both my root canal and crown treatment months ago from Dr. Arora were TOTAL FAILED TREATMENTS. But Dr. Arora asked me to sign a CONTRACT to NOT publicly share my experience about the failed treatment. I didn't sign that contract. I know the "Do-not-share the failed treatment" contract will be a terrible experience, because I already had to experience with that with Dr. Arora once. It was a terrible experience - Dr. Arora took advantage of his power of being doctor and PUSHED me, a newly-relocated student patient, to sign the contract. Although I am not (allowed to) talking about that failed treatment, I want to warn anyone who is being offered with signing the contract for your failed treatment: Read carefully for pitfalls (i.e. although they said they will refund you, they will not actually refund "you" but actually will send a small amount of money to the insurance company to erase the history and avoid any audits). Also, your freedom of speech will be deprived if you signed the contract. That's why YOU ONLY SEE GOOD REVIEWS HERE BECAUSE any comments on the failed treatment had been asked to be removed with a "Do-not-share the failed treatment" contract by Dr. Arora's office. read more

My family of 4 have been coming to Dr. Arora's office for many years now. We are always very well cared for and they work hard to make sure we are saving money and our insurance is being put to the fullest use possible. I even did my Invisalign through Dr. Arora and have no regrets! 3 years after completion, my teeth still look great. Thank you Dr. Arora and team on taking such great care of us! read more

Stay away from morning appointments. Scheduled an 8am cleaning, but the doors were locked and lights in the office were off. No one answered the phone when I tried to call, but granted, no one was in the office to answer the phone. I received text messages confirming my appointment the day before and day of, but never received anything about a cancellation. Of course I did set aside a hour or so to go to the dentist in the morning, but nobody likes to be kept waiting, especially if they have a work schedule they have to keep up with. I waited around for 30 minutes but still, no one showed up and I had to leave. Maybe the appointment wasn't on their schedule? If that's the case, it's still disappointing and frustrating when you plan your morning around the dental service. If time and setting a schedule is important to you, I would suggest you look for your dental services elsewhere. read more

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I've had my fair share of experiences with dental offices, including countless interactions with dentists, dental hygienists, orthodontists, endodontists, etc. Dr. Arora's dental office has been above and by far the best experience. I only see them for dental cleanings/regular check-ups, so note that this is all I can comment on. Why are they so great? 1. They're almost always on time and I'm able to get in and out within 45-50 mins (0-5 mins of waiting, 40-45 mins of cleaning). 2. They are organized and very professional. Unlike experiences with other dental clinics (more to come on that in a later review), the receptionists do a great job of keeping track of appointments and personal info such as your phone number, email address, etc. On that topic - the receptions and manager are very sweet and helpful. You'll see what I mean after a quick conversation with them :). Added bonus - they send you an email about your appointment and you can confirm with them through email or text. Super simple. 3. The quality of care. The dental hygienists are thorough, consistent, and gentle. They take the time to review your file before seeing you and therefore remember important details about your teeth/mouth (e.g. lockaw in the past). Mahnoosh is especially wonderful; she's a very caring dental hygienist and a pleasure to talk to during appointments. Dr. Arora is great too. I find him to be very personable and easy to speak to about any medical concerns. 4. Billing is seamless. This may be due to my insurance type, but it has been effortless on my part as they bill my insurance company directly. 5. The office is clean and calm. Unlike other places I've had the pleasure of being treated, there's not 10 hygienists/dentists/etc. running around, talking to each other about things not related to patients, and generally causing a commotion. Note: there is a cancellation fee if you don't give them enough notice. Also, Yelp says they're closed Wednesdays but they are open the first Wednesday of the month (just not the rest). read more

Dr. Arora is the best dentist I've found. He is great at explaining why different treatments are necessary as well describing the steps he is taking during the procedure. I feel very reassured in his presence! read more

I first went there for a cleaning and I had a good experience. Since then I have been a few times and even go a cavity fixed. The dr is not pushy at trying to fix everything in your mouth but take more of a step back approach and just focus on what you really need while keeping an eyes on how things evolve over time. read more

Same experience that Veronica B had. The in-office dialogue made it sound like I was going to receive a routine cleaning after a SRP. The words "additional cleanings" were as specific as the dental office got when I scheduled the follow up cleanings. It turns out that routine cleanings after a SRP can (will) be billed as periodontal maintenance - a more expensive procedure. My insurance does not cover the entirety of periodontal maintenance (although it does cover routine cleanings). Additionally, the treatment I received for the periodontal maintenance seemed equivalent to the routine cleaning I had before the SRP. I wouldn't be too upset if I knew going into the periodontal maintenance that it was a different procedure. But, All of the communication before and after the cleaning, indicated it was a routine cleaning. So I am left with this feeling: The staff of Alok Arora, DMD are either not honest or they are not clear. In either case, how can a patient trust this dentist? Given anything they recommend, I recommend you get a second opinion. read more

I had the unfortunate experience of being their patient. They're an extremely money-hungry operation and treat their patients as walking ATMs. Their services are OK, but I've had much better service and customer experience with alternates like Palo Alto Dental who actually treat patients as humans. Avoid! read more

I love this place so much! If I could, I would give it 10 stars. I used to always have a fear of going to the dentist but not here. Everyone here are so welcoming, kind, loving, and absolutely amazing!! Adrienne and Vivian are so welcoming and kind and always willing to help with any questions you have. Meranda is an amazing hygienist! She did my cleaning and it was the most relaxing experience ever and she gives great advice on how to improve. Dr. Arora and Liz are absolutely amazing and always making sure you're okay and comfortable. I got my fillings done with them and I feel great! Everyone here is so loving and genuinely care about you. Especially during this time with COVID, they make sure that you're safe and comfortable in the office. This is more than just a dental office, it's a second home! read more

Dr. Arora is a LIFESAVER!!!!! We're in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic and almost every dentist office I called was closed. I was in SOO much pain!!! Like the kind of pain where you're fidgety and want to throw up... Not only did he take me in the same day with his curb-side check-in and makes sure you're the ONLY patient in the whole office but he was so kind and thorough. Well, ends up I had bad infections in 2 teeth (showed me the X-rays) and he went ahead and did an emergency root canal on one and extraction on the other that was already cracked and damaged and beyond repair. He asked me every few minutes if I was okay, asked if I needed breaks, asked if anything hurt, constantly checking on me. He played music in the office to calm my nerves. For having a last minute root canal and extraction, it was the best experience I could have asked for!! THANK YOU!!!! read more

Dentist Arora is a super nice guy and gives great suggestions on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums. The office is terrific if you are low maintenance and don't have any issues - you want flossing tips, you got it here! The staff is all kind and courteous and liked them all. The reason I switched from Arora to another dentist is I had a cavity. For some reason that baffles me today, he stated he put the tooth "on a watch." Why would we not address something before it gets worse? It was troubling to me and I don't understand. Now that I've switched dentists, I'm learning more about the impact of my bite, and the need for braces. I've learned about sleep studies, apnea impacted by a small mouth, etc. Switching dentists has changed my life and how I feel overall! read more

If you are looking for a great dentist, look no further. Dr. Arora is outstanding. I recently moved to the area and was very nervous about finding a good dentist because my teeth are cavity prone :/. When I went for a check up it was not surprising that I needed 4 fillings...what was surprising was that Dr. Arora was able to get me in the same week to have them filled AND he didn't even need to administer Novocain!!! I was super nervous, but there was absolutely no pain. I am extra impressed because all of his staff are incredibly kind and the dental hygienist was also excellent. I could not rate this practice more highly and I am so grateful to have found them. Truly an excellent experience (never thought I would say that about a dental visit...) read more

I have been going to this office for nine years (prior to Dr Arora joining the practice) and I've moved further and further away over the years, but continue to come back. It's worth the drive! The entire staff is warm and friendly and extremely gentle. Cannot stress just how gentle they are! They go beyond not wanting you to feel any pain, they don't want you to feel anything at all! It's the first time in my life where I've not dreaded going to the dentist. In fact, I actually like going! They have modern equipment/technology and have never suggested any procedure or work that I did not feel was necessary. I'm comfortable with everyone I've interacted with in the office and trust what they are telling me. Their bedside manner is top notch. I could not ask for more of a dental office! read more

We moved to Menlo a year ago and found Dr. Arora's practice. I have no interest going anywhere else! The staff and care are top-notch. 1. Sabrina (office manager) is so friendly and thoughtful! I went for my appointment today with my 3-year-old and she welcomed him and looked after him while I was getting my cleaning done. Today was his birthday, and she even stepped out to buy him a birthday cupcake. Such a special touch! 2. Dr. Arora is professional and friendly as well. He is great with my kids. My 5-year-old daughter LOVES coming to the dentist. In addition, the office is meticulously clean and my experience with the hygienists has been great. I'm lucky to have such a stellar service so close to home! read more

Went for the special x ray and cleaning and check up All went well until my tooth broke three weeks later when they missed a cavity. My other dentist fixed it. read more

Update: i I got my crown done here about a year ago, and they told me it should last 4-5 years. I paid A LOT out of pocket for this crown because it must be of "porcelain material because Alok Arora has SUCH high standards, bla bla" However, it fell last weekend. Fantastic. read more

I have updated my review to 4 stars because I can tell that Sabrina really felt bad for not being able to advise me of the additional charges prior to my appointment due to my insurance. She has been in contact to clarify which I appreciate. They really are friendly people there. Original: The 2 stars are for the friendly people that work there. The missing 3 stars are for the unexpected bill I just received in the mail for a routine cleaning. Prior to my first appointment I asked that I be notified if my insurance didn't cover a typical cleaning visit as I already pay outrageous medical insurance costs, a typical cleaning should be covered according to my insurance. I wish I had the same thorough help with estimating insurance costs as other people seem to describe in their reviews... I won't be going back after getting the difference between what my insurance covered and what the office charges. It would have been nice to know that it might cost an additional $100 after insurance for a routine cleaning. Won't be going back. I've never had that happen to me and sad I didn't just drive the 30 min to go see my old dentist. Would have saved me $100 since I had the same cleaning often enough without needing to pay anything but my regular dental insurance costs. :( read more

I needed a new night guard. The receptionist was extremely kind and did all she could to meet my needs.

Had an Extraction this week, it was a tough one for sure, but, Dr Arora endured without a hitch- he is a smooth Operator, while diligently making sure I was doing well, Thank you Dr Arora and Lizzy, his Assistant, she is so helpful and reassuring. They are a Great Team. read more

I came to Dr. Arora after moving to the area and another dentist suggested a lot of new dental work which hadn't been suggested by my previous dentist. Dr. Arora gave me a second opinion and explained that most of the work suggested by the first opinion wasn't necessary. I really appreciate that he is conservative and only recommends necessary dental work. The quality of the work he did do is great. Overall, I loved going here and got excellent care. One tiny complaint is that they tried selling me an expensive toothbrush and couldn't explain why the features it offered would be necessary to me. I would rather my dentist didn't sell me anything. read more

BEWARE OF WHAT YOU ARE SIGNING INTO! This whole 5-star rating feels rigged! From the way they pepper you to sign on with them to signing their contracts, I felt like signing my life away with the devil. As a first time customer, I wish they had warned people at each time of their communication that there was a 75 dollar missed appointment fee? Honestly, this could have been $100 or $1000 dollars and it would have had the same effect. I understand what a missed appointment can do to a business. But, to not warn customers is a little blindsiding especially when you sign the contract on the first day and commit the error prior to signing the contract and for those that actually legitimately had missed it due to extenuating circumstances this is basically like throwing away money. I had accidentally scheduled the appointment at the wrong date than what they said and also had an emergency come up hence could not make the appointment when I found out too late. I was totally blindsided by this until I was about to pay. What if I decided to never do my cleaning as a new customer? Would I still need to pay? In principle, it was like saying, "sign up with us but there is a collateral of 75 If you fess up but we won't tell you that until after you sign the contract and after you make the mistake because we want to cover our behind but not yours!" I wish I had known this earlier and I would have gone to my old dentist :( After reading through all the emails and phone calls I had to schedule the appointment, at no point did they mention the $75 dollar appointment fee. That ended up being more expensive than my cleaning that day. They also said I don't need any fillings but afterwards I was experiencing pain and now have to go to another dentist to get my teeth checked up again--sheer neglect at its worst. Is it because they just have a high-rating and are entitled to treat customers like sheep in an assembly line now? Lastly, when asked what's the best way to pay for Invisalign, I could not get a straight answer as if there will be "hidden fees" coming along the way without you getting notified. For any new customer, this whole experience is quite traumatizing, felt like I was thrown off the bus, slapped in the face, and left a really bitter impression and hope that others won't ever experience the same thing I did. read more