I had my root canal last Tuesday because I was referred here by my dentist. The office was clean, nice and well maintained. However even the receptionist was not very accommodating or welcoming. First off they asked for insurance ofcourse and I provided them. No greetings no nothing. Next Dr Michael Goren and the dental assistant which were not also very welcoming. I felt like I am but another body they can work on provided I can pay. I asked them nicely if after the consultation my root canal can be done that day because I was in pain. Dr Goren said " They will check it infront and let me know". The lady whose infront who doesnt even look at me went to check my insurance information and how much is my copay. I paid my copay and root canal was done. As soon as the root canal is done. The dental assistant didn't even give any information if everything is done already. I had to ask him. Dr Goren was able to explain my post root canal care however he wasn't even very nice either. He escorted me to the receptionist to make sure I did pay my dues before they let me out. They had to triple check if im all clear to go. I understand they have a business to run however I hope they make their patients experience somehow tolerable since everyone who comes through that door are in pain. read more

First time here at apex dental , I came in today for a consultation for my tooth & first thing Jovanna was very attentive , caring & helpful! She made my check in & check out process simple/smooth. Unlike other dental offices I've been to she actually cares & it shows ! Thank you Jovanna ! read more

Front desk receptionists Karen and Jovanna are the best. The doctors are great and are always kind and helpful. I had a positive experience getting filings done with Doctor Goren, she has a gentle hand. Thank you for everything you all do :) read more

Apex Dental - General Dentistry Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

I chose this office because of their positive reviews mentioning gentle care and good communication. Unfortunately, my experience was the opposite! My procedure was last April, 2025, treated by Dr. Michael Goren. At my consultation and again on my intake forms, I clearly explained that I typically require more anesthesia and that this has been noted by my other providers. I put it in writing and told the doctor directly. I was told to let them know if I felt pain. On the day of my root canal, I repeated this to both the nurse and the doctor. After initial numbing, the doctor struggled to place the clamp on my tooth and it was painful. I told him I was feeling sharp pain and specifically said, "I'm not numb, can you please give me more numbing?" He responded, "No, later on," and then began drilling anyway. The pain when he drilled into my tooth was excruciating. I screamed, cried, and began hyperventilating. I was clearly in distress. He later injected anesthesia directly into the pulp, which I also felt and reacted to. I was shaking and upset for the entire appointment, which lasted over two hours. There were no apologies, no real check-ins, and no meaningful communication about my comfort or time frame on when we'd be done. At one point I needed the restroom and had to text from the chair because I couldn't speak. I asked for a mask since my mouth had been open during treatment and I was going to a public restroom. The nurse refused multiple times. When I said it felt unsanitary, he shrugged and said, "There are germs in here too." That response felt dismissive and humiliating. The procedure wasn't even completed, a temporary filling was placed and I was told to return in one week. I did not feel safe coming back. Three days later I saw my regular dentist due to pain and bruising around the tooth. I eventually finished the root canal with another endodontist, and the difference was night and day. He ensured I was fully numb, comfortable, and communicated throughout the procedure. A stark contrast to what I experienced here. I also made multiple attempts to communicate with this office afterward to address my concerns and request a refund for the portion I paid for their terrible service to me. I have not received a response, nor to my request to explain why this behavior was acceptable towards a patient? This experience was painful, traumatizing, and could have been avoided if my concerns about anesthesia had been taken seriously. I share this so other patients who need extra numbing or compassionate care can make an informed decision. I did my best to advocate for myself before and during the procedure but I was absolutely ignored and suffered for it. Zero stars if I could. read more

Amazing experience! I found this dentist after an appointment where I was told I needed over 1k in work done and they refused to do a basic cleaning unless I agreed to the work. SUS! I immediately called for a second opinion and they were so accommodating as I was unsure about my insurance covering two visits so close together. They assured me they would make it work and they did. I was able to be seen within a week, got more X-rays done, and had my concerns fully addressed and teeth cleaned within an hour. So impressed and will recommend highly! read more

I saw Dr. Valentina Goren last week for a routine cleaning. I got lucky and snagged the last parking spot in the back, but parking was very tight so come early just in case. Since I was a new patient I had to fill out some forms on their iPad, but then after that I waited maybe 15-20 minutes before I was seen. Once I was seated in the dentist chair, I noticed right away it was a massage chair (not intense but it was a nice bonus) and there was a screen to watch "Friends". I've never been to the dentist where they had a massage chair and something to watch so this was awesome! Dr. Goren had a great bedside manner and was very patient and gentle. I will be back in 6 months for my next cleaning! read more

Superb work on a complicated root canal re-treatment! Dr Goren was highly professional and honest about the possibility of a negative outcome. His assistant and front office were excellent. With gratitude, Jean Karlinsky. read more

My Dentist recommended Apex when he thought i might need a root canal. I arrived on time, waited over an hour in an empty waiting room. When I was finally called - I was asked to pay a $145 consulting fee before speaking with Dr. Goren. Since I'm not sure if i needed that procedure, hence the consult, I felt that was way too high of a price for someone to just talk to me. The consulting fee should have been explained up front. read more

Let me add to the long list of patients who have given DDS Michael Goren excellent reviews. My regular dentist told me I needed three root canals. And while this wasn't thrilling news, at least over the past 15 years all I ever needed were routine cleanings and x-rays. I hasten to add that in the last couple of years, I was advised that root canals would be necessary as each tooth had a cavity too close to each nerve. But since there was no tooth sensitivity, I decided to wait (procrastinate??) Now the time had come to bite the bullet (perhaps an inappropriate metaphor) and visit Dr. Goren based on my regular dentist's personal recommendation. I am so glad I entrusted him with the first procedure yesterday. Not only was there no pain at all during the procedure but none afterwards which I presumed I would probably feel once the novocaine wore off. Dr. Goren explained the entire procedure in detail before he began. It took about an hour from start to finish and during the procedure he asked a couple of times if I was feeling ok. That was most reassuring. When all was done, I was told not to eat any food for two hours (drinking liquids would be ok) and to avoid eating certain hard foods or snacks on that side of the mouth until my regular dentist could do a crown which is scheduled for next week. And this is important. Dr. Goren advised that most patients experience some minor discomfort afterwards and that I might want to take some Advil tablets for the next 24-48 hours if necessary. Well happily in my case... no need! After the novocaine wore off there was zero pain or discomfort. And no need for Advil. If you need such a procedure and are having any trepidation in case you have never had a root canal done before, you will be in good hands with Dr. Goren. And let me add that Giovanna at the front desk is delightful and a very personable member of the office staff as was the dental technician who aided during the entire procedure. To say I am anxiously looking forward to the next two root canals would be a stretch. But I am at least ready for them which are all now scheduled a week apart. read more

10/10 cannot recommend Apex Dental and Dr. Goren enough. I have terrible dentist anxiety, and put off getting my teeth cleaned for about 6 years. I finally made an appointment here and was treated with the most amazing care. The entire staff (Bobbi, you're incredible) and Dr. Goren made me feel comfortable, took things slow, and made sure I was doing ok through the entire process. Both the deep cleaning and filling I had were gentle and I am so relieved I found a place that I feel comfortable going to for more consistent cleanings. Thank you!! read more

I was in need of a new dentist and I am happy to have found Apex Dental. From my initial call to having fillings replaced, every experience has been flawless. The office staff and Dr. Goren have been wonderful. Very nice, punctual, and more. read more

Such a great experience! The whole team was great and obviously take great care in everything they do. Def recommend

This is an amazing dental provider! My husband and I have been coming here for the past 2 year or so. The front staff is kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. Both doctors are super nice, skilled at their respective areas of expertise, and take the time to ask questions and figure out what's going on if you have any issues. The technicians are super caring and skilled as well. Overall, a fantastic place if you're looking for a new dentist and nervous about picking some random doctor from your insurance company's list of in-network providers. I can't speak to their pricing outside of using insurance. But you can't go wrong here! If you've been putting off going to the dentist, don't wait any longer! They will help get you back on track! read more

I can't begin to explain just how happy I am with Apex Dental and Dr. Valentina Goren!!! She has the most gentle touch and is always checking in to see that I'm doing okay, even on a routine cleaning. Her staff is AMAZING!! I promise you, this clinic is the best in the Valley, hands down. If you're seeking a dentist, this is the place to be. Thank you, Dr. Goren. :-) read more

After a couple years of not going to the dentist, I'm so happy I found Apex. Dr. Valentina Goren is wonderful and very knowledgable. She takes the time to go over everything, so you know what is happening. No upselling or unnecessary procedures, it feels like she really cares about her patients. I feel very taken care of and comfortable when I'm here. The staff that work there are knowledgable and attentive. They make sure you know what your insurance coverage is and are very upfront and accommodating with everything. Great place. I would highly recommend. read more

I got a root canal and crown. I'm very afraid of the dentist but very nice staff were very nice and made my experience less scary. I would highly recommend Apex Dental read more

Dr. Goren is great! On my initial visit she suggested I go to an oral surgeon for an extraction. Upon having my tooth removed, I was told something wasn't right. They took a biopsy and discovered I had bone cancer in my jaw. If it weren't for Dr. Goren I would've never known and my cancer could've spread. Three years later I remain cancer-free and couldn't be more grateful for this lovely soul. God Bless You. read more

I was referred to Dr. Michael Goren by my Dentist. I made and appointment and went in for the consultation. Everyone was extremely nice. After the consultation, I was given the opportunity to complete the treatment that day. Everything went great. Dr. Goren is kind and understanding. Dr. Goren completed the procedure without any problems. If you need a root canal, I highly recommend Dr. Goren "10 Stars if they had them! Keep up the great work! read more

I've had multiple root canal procedures done at Apex dental in the past couple of months. Although I do not have any prior experience with an endodontist, but safe to say, Dr. Michael Goren is very professional and knowledgeable. The consultation was informative; Dr. Goren answered my questions (however pedantic or naive) in a very patient and eloquent manner. This was my first time getting a RCT so I had my share of doubts and was nervous. But RCTs were quite painless. Much better than what I had imagined. Thanks to Dr. Goren and his assistant Abbas. I believe they make a good team. One thing that really stood out for me was that he doesn't try to upsell you on any procedures or products. The same, unfortunately, can't be said about a lot of other dentists. The administrative staff is great! Hazel was very helpful. She took care of everything: Getting the referral info from my dentist; Dealing with insurance; Sending reminders for the appointment. I would strongly recommend this facility read more

I recommend this place if you need root canal. Dr. Gordon is an expert and to perfection. Staff are all friendly and keep you at ease. Thank you all. read more

The experience I had at Apex was amazing! I've been really nervous and anxious about the dentist for years, but Dr. Valentina Goren was very understanding and eased all of my anxiety. I have sensitive teeth and they took very good care. Loved the massage chairs and the Netflix and Hulu options as they clean your teeth! I ended up having to get a root canal and it was shockingly PAINLESS; they did a great job. I cannot recommend these folks enough!!!! read more

I was a first-time patient today. Hazel at the front desk was very kind and helpful, working with me and my insurance. Dr. Valentina Goren was also welcoming, kind, and attentive to my needs. Abbas was great- he completed the cleaning with a polish. Hazel hooked me up with a small care package on the way out. I highly recommend this office for your dental needs. It is clean, state of the art and comfortable. I look forward to my next service with Dr. Goren. read more

Apex Dental - General Dentistry Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

The truest reflection of an office or of character is how a patient is treated when things go wrong. Please communicate with an office first in efforts to resolve matters before leaving a review. Giving a practice an opportunity to take corrective action is immensely appreciated by most medical professionals, and because we must adhere to HIPAA patient privacy, we are limited in what can be stated here. Unfortunately, this office did not correct the issues. Perhaps this can help educate patients to avoid going through a similar experience. You have a right to price transparency so that you are fully informed to make a decision. A patient being told it is one fee on the phone, then told on site the cost is much more, is not acceptable. The response may be that this was done and is protocol; unfortunately, this is not what took place, just as another reviewer experienced. If you are offered xrays they took because you now have to go elsewhere, other offices may require they take their own xrays. One of the negative reviewers stated she had to pay for these out of pocket to which her statement was dismissed, however, the patient was correct. You have to wait months to a year to be eligible for the next coverage period if this office already performed an exam/xrays. You can ask for a pre-determination of services to ensure what the insurance says they are going to pay, and you are not surprised by any balance. The dental office would submit this to the carrier and supportive documentation if the carrier requests. A patient should never be told this is being done via call and email when the insurance confirmed no steps were taken. Trust is built from following through on what an office says they are going to do. You can inquire the reason why you are being asked to return for multiple visits. Sometimes insurance reimbursements to a practice are higher if you have the patient return for separate visits. Some offices do this when you are an established patient as it is more of a priority to get new patients in and not risk losing new patients to another office. This is not the best practice in valuing your current patients and their schedules. Other dental offices verified they could take care of the treatment on the same day if this was indeed the treatment needed. The option can be given to the patient to have services on the same day, for example, for a few teeth on the same side of the mouth, not causing food intake disruption, etc. Your medical appointment details should never be written on the back of a paper that has another patient's personal information. This is a HIPAA privacy violation. This also does not breed trust. Medical personnel such as the front desk/biller should maintain professionalism and never be combative in tone or devaluing of patients. This behavior continues when the patient word is disregarded or not taken into consideration, and believing the staff is always right is a standard practice. Unfortunately, after being received with smiles, this quickly changed when issues came to the surface due to their actions. Doctors/medical practices are restricted in how they can respond or communicate in a public forum (ie. Yelp/Google Reviews) because it is a violation of your HIPAA protections. They should not disclose information about your care specifically or generally or details of what took place. Based on responses to the negative reviews from this office, you can see if this is being respected, another measure of patient trust. This is why you should give a medical office an opportunity to correct issues that were mishandled, and if despite multiple efforts you are met with disregard, you have the right to write a review. If an office discontinues patient care, based on "trust" issues- it may be because they are conducting business or communicating with patients in a manner that does not breed trust. It may also be because they are protecting their actions over the patient's best interest, and there may be concern these will be brought to light. For medical practices to discontinue services, it must be based on significant reasons which a list can be found via a google search. You have a right to all of your records to be sent directly to you. Many will not write a negative review because what they went through was terrible or traumatizing and with time, they desire to move on. Dental is already difficult for many patients, and so it is very important the patient experience is a priority to the doctor/office. More positive reviews than negative is not an indicator of what you will experience. Read the negative reviews and compare. If there are like-minded issues and recurring themes, then these are real issues to consider, or how you may dismissed when the interest of the office is more important than yours. A patient's trust is earned through transparency, authentic communication, and follow-through. read more

I was averse to the idea of a root canal but Micheal Goren changed that for me. I had a root canal four months ago with him and great experience here. He has a professional, kind, honest demeanor and is clearly skilled. The procedure had minimal pain after and was not that uncomfortable during either. I felt in good hands and am glad I was referred to him by my general dentist. read more

This is one of the few dental offices that are open on Saturdays and actually have an endodontist on staff!!! I woke up on a Saturday morning a few weeks ago in terrible pain and had to see an endo ASAP. They were able to squeeze me in & Dr. Michael Goren gave me a consultation and prescribed antibiotics since I appeared to have an infected nerve. I returned on Monday for treatment and cannot thank this office enough for being so kind, accommodating & thorough. Thank you, Dr. Goren, for putting me out of my misery! read more

So I recently had a checkup and was told I had 2 small cavities. This dentist couldn't squeeze me in for a month. They were that booked up, and being that I work in production, I told them I needed it done sooner. A week later, I found another dentist and planned to get my cavities filled. He looked at Apex's X-rays and then took his own. I had to pay for this checkup out of my own pocket because I had just gotten a checkup with Dr. Goren. The new dentist could not find these cavities no matter how hard he looked. It makes me think Apex is giving people unnecessary dental work to line their own pockets. I'm very frustrated that I just lost money paying for a second checkup that I didn't need, because I don't have any cavities. read more

What a relief! I just got home from my first appointment here for a cleaning and it was nothing less than amazing. I got there early, filled out the paperwork on an iPad and still had what I thought was 10 mins to burn until my appt time, so I made a coffee on their fancy machine (delicious black coffee btw). I didn't get to finish it until my walk home, since they took me in early to get my X-rays. I have tori on my bottom jaw, so X-rays can be a bit discomforting, but the woman who took them was very careful. My last dentist kept trying to get me to make an appointment for some work, but this dentist didn't see anything needing attention and gave me the most gentle cleaning I've ever had all while I watched tv and relaxed in the massage chair. I hate when dentists just that ultrasonic device, but she used the old fashioned way of cleaning each tooth gently with whatever that metal scraper is called and the dental hygienist finished with the flossing and polishing. Everything done in much less than an hour. I'll definitely be seeing them again in six months. What a relief it is to find a good, comfortable dentist! Update 2 years later: Still going here, still happy, and still haven't needed anything done to my teeth. read more

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I always had a great experience with Apex Dental... but was disappointed to hear when I called that their staff wasn't all vaccinated for Covid (now end of July 2021). In a place where everyone is trusting them with their health by removing masks, I thought it should be something people are aware of before going in. Otherwise, have always had a good experience, but I will be finding a new office to go to, especially now that the Delta variant is so prevalent in LA. read more

Just had an amazing experience with Dr. Goren's dental office. I went in for a root canal Consultation. Two other endodontists had recommended root canal retreatments. Dr. Goren fully examined my teeth and jaw and he honestly said you don't need another root canal. I followed his recommendations and I am pain free. Highly recommend Dr. Gorens office for your dental needs. I was relieved to find a wonderful, caring dental assistant Bobbie who helped explain things to me. Very clean, beautiful dental office with wonderful and pleasant staff and top notch dentists. Thank you Apex dental. read more

After not having an exam or cleaning for 3.5 years, this office was recommended to me. Every aspect of the visit was phenomenal. The waiting area has coffee and tea, as well as comfortable seating, which includes two massage chairs. The X-rays are done in the exam room, which is the first time I've seen that. Instead of going from room to room for each task on the checklist, you enter the exam room and stay there until the visit is over. Dental work has never bothered me, but the dentists and technicians I've had in the past have. The people are what makes the experience. Dr. Goren and her staff are polite, insightful, and caring. Everything was explained to me clearly, and I was left without any questions to ask because they covered the bases so well. I don't even know what else to say. I'm almost speechless because of how satisfied I am. If you need dental work, visit Apex Dental. You will leave with a smile on your face. read more

Very good dentist. I've been going to Dr Valentina for a couple years and always satisfied. Reasonable prices and clean waiting. Friendly staff. Highly recommend. read more

Michael Goren is a great dentist, incredibly easy a d non-hurting. The office assistants are are really great as well!

Dr. Goren is THE BEST! When I walked into her office several years ago, I needed a lot of help. She made a game plan to get the work done for my teeth, and she made it happen. I honestly would not trust anyone else with my dental health -- she is also such a friendly person, and makes sure that you feel at ease and also uses the very best technology to help you understand the process. There is no comparison, and I would highly recommend her to everyone! read more

This review is long overdue. I just haven't known where to start. Scheduling- They fit me in within a couple of days. I swear Dr. Goren worked on her lunch break just to help me out. Who does that? Waiting room- Coffee machine, water, big screen TV, comfy couches, AND massage chairs!!!! The best part of all is that I was barely there long enough to enjoy it all. The second I sat down I was taken in to be seen. No long wait for my nerves to get the better of me. Bathroom- Even if you don't have to go, find a reason. It's gorgeous, I felt like I was at a 5 star resort, not a dental office. It's been a few years since I've seen a dentist. I'm a new mom and I spend more time taking care of everyone else and not myself, so to say my teeth needed some work is an understatement. My cavities were in the front part of my mouth so they were highly visible. Dr. Goren worked quickly filling 3 cavities in about an hour. When I came back the second time she filled 3 more. She was pleasant and made sure I wasn't in pain during the procedures. I haven't written a review before because nothing really warranted it and I never have enough time. I really owe it to Dr. Goren, she gave me my smile back. My husband was speechless when I came home, he said he hadn't seen me smile like that in a long time. I have missed out on a lot because of embarrassment over my teeth. I'm now confident enough to be in photos with my family. Dr. Goren gave me a priceless gift and I honestly can't thank her enough. read more

The easiest dentist experience I've ever had. The facility is extremely clean and well kept. Love the massage chairs and the personal tv. The assistant and dentist were both fabulous. Very sweet and gentle and informative. Visit ran a bit long but I think that's just because they give everyone all the attention they deserve. Will definitely come back read more

Dr. Goren is amazing at his job! I've had my share of bad dental experiences in the past and Dr. Goren and his staff have helped me over come that with the postive dental visits and service. The ambiance of the office is comforting, clean and classy. The staff are kind and helpful. Maria who works at the front desk has been a great help, she was willing to explain my insurance coverage and answer all the questions I have. I've recommended Dr. Goren to a few co-workers who have become permanent patient's, all from the great service they've experienced. Thank you Dr. Goren for your outstanding work! read more

At first check in I was so nervous for my possible root canal. Hazel and Giovanna were awesome at the front desk and not only helped me book a last minute appointment but also set accurate expectations for my appointment so that I could know what to expect financially and during the visit. More clinics should be this welcoming! read more

Don't have to tell you but finding a dentist is.....well, it's like pulling teeth. And I know because in the dozen years I've been in SoCal I've used Dentists from Mid-Wilshire to Valencia. So it turns out I finally found a great dentist....and I can walk there in about ten minutes! Place is new, but you could easily miss it driving down Ventura. Sign looks like it comes from the eighties, and it's in this tiny complex with a few (free) parking spots in the back. Once you get in, everything changes. Place is super modern. Clean. Really clean. You can watch any channel you want. No blah dentist videos to watch unless you really want to. One of those automated coffee machines with three Torani syrups. Two massage chairs. And you fill out the forms on an iPad. No paper. Once you get in, everything is super clean. New equipment. TV to watch any channel you want. Might want to because the only bad thing is the view of the front of California Home Fitness in the window. But the real difference, and the most important, is the quality of work. Just came for a teeth cleaning and when I came home, my girlfriend was stunned. She could not believe how clean my teeth really were! And I've gone through four different dentists over the course of our relationship, so she's seen poor work. Can't help but to recommend Dr. Goren and her team. Great service, much better prices and they take my insurance (Blue Shield of CA, in my case). Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to get another Mocha..... read more

My appointment was on time. Very professional care, provided me with a gentle thorough clean and polish. My teeth and oral health feel excellent. Top of the line care and environment. Great office staff and dental technicians as well. I highly recommend Dr. Goren. You are in good hands over here. Warm and friendly environment! Ryan Cohen read more

I was recommended to Apex dental by a family friend and I have to admit this is the best dental experience I have ever had. I give them 5 stars. High end technology, Massage chairs, friendly staff and professional doctor. I even got to watch a film via Netflix. What more could you ask for. I can't recommend them enough. Don't let the negative reviewers keep you away. I'm proud to say I will be returning to further improve upon my dental health. read more

Apex Dental - Me And My Son With Beautiful Smiles "Thanks Apex" - General Dentistry Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California