Amazing dentist! I've had so many awful dentists over the years, I was weary when I first came. But Cliffside and Dr. Smith are just WONDERFUL. My teeth and gums were in rough shape. Periodontal disease, etc. After my initial visit they gave me a plan on how to get my dental health back on track, and after only a few visits now, we're both blown away by the change! They even went above and beyond in getting me a referral to periodontist that offers a very specific procedure I'm interested in for my areas of receded gum line. Ps. I get to watch HGTV while they clean my teeth. :) read more

Awesome experience. I hadn't been to the dentist in well over a year so I was nervous to go back. They explained everything to me thoroughly and were very civil. Dr. Smith was kind and explained options for me in detail. Nobody ever pushed me to buy anything and I never felt like I was being sold something. Office was clean. Excited to come back! read more

Just returned from my third visit to Dr. Smith at Cliffside and am thrilled at the results! I needed a lot of work done and had to do three different visits. The work that they did was done flawlessly efficiently. I experienced virtually zero pain throughout the entire process. Dr. Smith is extremely skilled, professional, kind, and his staff went above and beyond to make sure that I was comfortable. The work that they completed today was nothing short of perfect and now my teeth are finally fixed! I can't say enough good things about Dr. Smith and their staff. They truly care about their patients, our empathetic, kind and good people. This is very rare to find so I hope people read this review and choose Cliffside family dentistry. I got lucky and just went in there without doing research, but was blown away by their compassion, skill, and efficiency. read more

I just had my first check up and Cleaning at Cliffside Family Dentistry and had a great experience. Kirstie did a great job checking and cleaning my teeth. Dr Smith was also very conscientious about checking my teeth. The overall feeling I got was that they care and I felt it. I will not only be going back but recommending this prasctice to others. read more

Excellent care, quality service and the best staff. Friendly and hospitable. I think Dr. Smith is one of the kindest, most gentle doctors I have had the pleasure of being a patient to. read more

The staff at Cliffside Family Dentistry were so friendly and professional. Dr. Smith is AMAZING! I had X-rays, teeth cleaning and will see them next year. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Cliffside Family Dentistry for all of your oral care needs. read more

I recently moved to SD, and was looking for a dentist. I gave this place a try and I don't regret it. The staff and dentist were very professional. The facility was clean and outside the window from a distance you can see the ocean. I highly reccomend this place to you and your loved ones! read more

Cliffside family dentistry is such an amazing place to get the care you need to keep you're mouth clean. Everyone is super sweet and they really make sure that you are taken care of. They also answer any questions that you have. If you or you're kid are looking for a great dentist I highly suggest you go there. They do such a great job read more

Dr. Godinez is great but his front desk lady Alex is a complete idiot and unprofessional. She's actually the reason why I'd like to find another dentist. She's so condescending. I had to go back three times for two teeth cleanings because they couldn't finish the first one and her scheduling error AND then I was charged twice. I feel like I was scammed bc on the second cleaning I was charged out of pocket whIch she knew would have happened. I had already had a full conversation with her about waiting until the new year (two months) to finish dental work when the insurance renews so Alex was fully aware of what she was doing when she charged me out of pocket. read more

There are two sides to Dr. Godinez's practice: 5 Stars: The dental care and hygienists are fantastic. Great care, of the highest professional caliber. 2 Stars: The front office, though friendly and professional, tried to convince both my wife and I that we needed to have 4 root canals performed between us at $500 a pop, after insurance (I.e. out of pocket). Before we pursued the root canals we received a second opinion from William Neff, DDS. Lo and behold, Dr. Neff said root canals were not necessary, and that he could bond our teeth at $120 each. That's an out-of-pocket savings of more than $1500 for just two of the six mouths in our family. read more

Love them! They seriously do treat you like family! Kind, professional, and honest. My family switched to Dr Godinez a couple of years ago, and are so grateful we found him! read more

Dr Godinez's office is a professional and wonderful office. From the moment you step through the door, you know that you will be treated with great respect and warmth. The office is extremely clean; the staff are warm, professional and really care about me the patient. All Covid 19 preventive steps are taken and the staff goes beyond what is expected. Dr Godinez is a very caring and personal dentist. I could tell that he sincerely cared about me as a person and a patient. He is a great communicator and good listener. He didn't try to do a quick sale on me either. HIs assistants were so helpful and made me feel very relaxed; Carmen and Kaitlin were great! I have no doubt that I received a very high level of professional dental services from Dr. Godinez and his staff! JoanK read more

Dr. Godinez has a very caring, warm and comforting presence that I really appreciate. I feel the same about his assistant Carmen. After seeing a dentist who I felt was dishonest, I went to Mario for a second opinion and he validated what my gut was telling me about the other dentist. He fitted me for a customized NTI night guard and was patient with me in making continual adjustments until I was able to comfortably wear it. Due to the excellent care I received, I decided to switch dentists even though the practice doesn't accept my health insurance. It is a family run practice and his wife Alex who manages the front desk is simply lovely. If you have some extra time on your hands, spend a few minutes relaxing in the beautiful gazebo outside the office grounds. read more

I was referred by a friend and I'm glad! Dr. Godinez listens attentively and explains procedures in a caring and respectful way. He provided a valuable second opinion and performed the procedures I needed. The staff are friendly, patient, and efficient and they were able to fit me in very quickly. I appreciate the slight discount for cash payers (non-insured) like me. Glad to have found a great dentist! read more

I have never been so happy with my dental care. Dr. Godinez has a fantastic chair side manner, and the entire staff seems happy to be there. I appreciate the hygienists greatly- Melanie is absolutely wonderful! Her skill level is superior and since she been helping me take care of my teeth with education and cleaning, my gums are getting healthier and I have a smile I'm pleased with. Dr. Godinez has a very light touch- I've had to have several fillings- and although that is never fun, with Dr. Godinez it's actually painless. This team provides the best dental care I could ask for, and the front desk lady works hard to make sure your insurance pays for as much as possible! I feel very fortunate that I was referred to this dental care team! read more

My family moved down from the Bay Area a year ago. Took a chance on a mail flyer and booked an appointment. Dr. Godinez is outstanding and his staff from assistants, to hygienists, to front office make visits seamless!! I was spoiled with my SF dentist; he was incredible. But I have found the same level of care in Encinitas. read more

Absolutely incredible practice. I have been living on the islands before moving to California for work and needed a lot of work done. Dr Godinez and Alexandra are incredibly patient with me and my schedule ( as well as me always being on Hawai'i time.. late!). In addition, the dental hygenist does a phenomenal job at thoroughly cleaning teeth and educating on proper flossing and oral care. I am so very pleased that when I move back to HI I am considering coming back once a year just to get cleaning and follow up done. Big thumbs up. Mahalo nui loa! read more

As a new patient, I was beyond pleased with my experience with Dr. Godinez and his staff. They got me in quickly, were super friendly, and were conscious of my needs. The dental treatment and results were also excellent. But I really wanted to write this review because Dr. Godinez showed me a great deal of respect as a patient. Neither condescending nor patronizing, he was willing to discuss our options, course of treatment, and alternatives. I felt like he only wanted the best for me, and did not push me in any one direction as other dentists have in the past. I'll be sending the rest of my family to this practice, and feel truly relieved to have found a trustworthy caretaker for all of us. read more

Dr. G and his staff are the BEST! My wife and I have been patients of his since he opened the Encinitas office. His professionalism, chair side manor and skill is shown at every visit. He displays exceptional concern for the patient's feelings and the nervousness they may have. He is extremely caring. Dr. G's staff is the best in the front office and the dental technicians are fantastic. If you don't have a personal dentist, call this office immediately! TomH read more

What a great dentist and dental office. Whole family has gone there for years/highly recommend. Only dentist I will go to. read more

This dental office is very attentive from the front desk to the hygienist and of course the dentist - Mario. The office is easy to get to (by the YMCA). Like most people I don't look forward to going to the doctor or dentist, but they make the appointment as easy as possible with great care. read more

Dr. Godinez is a great dentist. The whole office staff is so nice and professional. They are always on time with every appointment and don't try to sell you anything you don't need. read more

Dr.Godinez has been my dentist since the day he opened the Encinitas practice. He is not only kind and caring, but also very professional. His calm persona is much appreciated. I've noticed that he is very tuned in to body language as he addresses anxiety or discomfort quickly. He explains every step of a procedure which alleviates anxiety of the unknown ( as you might be able to ascertain, I don't love dentistry as I've had a couple of bad experiences that still affect me). His hygienists have all been very knowledgeable, personable, and friendly. The front desk staff is also friendly and professional. Alex always explains the costs and my dental plan restrictions. I recently had a veneer crack and fall off and Dr Godinez went out of his way to temporarily repair it. I ended up getting crowns on my front two teeth as my enamel had deteriorated quite a bit since having the veneers installed 25 years ago. Dr. Godinez did an absolutely amazing job with the temporary crowns as well as working with the technicians to get the permanent crowns "just right". He checked in with me constantly to make sure I was comfortable and satisfied with the new crowns. They look great! read more

Very patient with my 89 year old father. Nice office environment.

Our entire family has been going to Dr. Godinez for years! He's a fabulous dentist (says the dentists daughter) and his entire staff is top notch. My kids actually look forward to going? Great practice for the whole family. read more

Newly moved here and just had my first appt. with Dr. Godinez. I am so very pleased to find this excellent dentist with a superb staff. He's my forever dentist now and my husband will soon be his patient as well. Cheryl Griffths, Carlsbad. read more

Melanie (hygienist) was terrific: I had my cleaning with her and she was thorough and efficient. She recommended Invisalign which I had been contemplating for a while. Carmen (dental assistant) took my X-rays and explained briefly what she saw in the scans, which Dr Godinez went into more detail when he did my exam. He pointed out a cavity that needs treatment (and I knew about it for a long while but postponed the inevitable). I had it for at least a year and my old dentist (and dental office staff - hygienists) missed it on 3 separate occasions. Alex (office manager) was very helpful in explaining the options I had prior to treatment including cost/ what's covered by insurance plans, etc. I highly recommend Dr Godinez's office and staff. They seem to genuinely care about their patients and enjoy their work. And equally important they did not try to upsell any services or procedures. Everything was in response to my questions about procedures or services I contemplated (i.e. Invisalign). read more

I have been a patient at Dr. Godinez's office for over 10 years. The front office staff is friendly and professional and all the hygienists are always very thorough and friendly as well. I always have a positive experience there, and will continue to recommend them to everyone! read more

Dr. Godinez came recommended all the way from a faculty member I know at the UCSF dental school. A compliment from his peers says more than I ever could. His office is comfortable and impeccably clean, and little things (like a velvet pottery barn throw blanket) make all the difference. The office staff is very fixated on your comfort level. The Godinez family are pillars of the community also do a lot of charity work. Mrs. Godinez is a Physicians Assistant by training. They are eminently able and professional. read more

What a great practice. They are organized, well prepared, and got me in quickly. They all are super nice, informed and do a great job. Would recommend to anyone. read more

He is simply the best! Professional, friendly and patient! He wasn't only kind to me but also my 3 year old daughter who had a conversation with him for over an hour lol. I will definitely go back with him! Thanks Dr. G read more

After my dentist retired, I was referred by a friend to see Dr. Godinez. What a find! I have difficulty getting numb and he took his time with me and was so gentle and always made me feel comfortable. He is the best dentist and I highly recommend him. Nice office with a friendly, helpful staff. read more

I'm writing as the wife of a recent patient of Dr. Godinez. We were recommended Dr. G by a dear friend who has high regard for him and his practice. My husband came Dr. G rather wounded from years of dental problems and so ready for the feeling of normal again. Day one... As we come into the front door of his office in Encinitas, we were enveloped with a welcoming atmosphere and a friendly greeting from Alex. She immediately embraced us (always included me) and made us feel she cared and knew exactly what our needs were and that they understood our pain and would be with us every step of the way. It was easy to see that Alex was the heartbeat of this wonderful practice. Coffee, tea, water and all the comforts of home were always there for us. But the "we care" attitude gave us HOPE... Upon meeting Dr G... His warmth immediately won us over. His professionalism was apparent but his personal, non-condescending mannerism as he listened to us, yes really listened was so refreshing. He gave a comprehensive plan for what my husband would be going through and ...we were his patient. The months of work on my husband, the tweaking ...and the finish line was here. My husband's 'ready smile' says it all and we owe it to Dr G. Nothing can really show our appreciation for the feeling of wholeness and good health. Thank you, Dr. G, Alex, and Carmen with the biggest smile we know how to make. You are the best!!! We are happy with the outcome of Dr. G's work and extremely grateful for all that he and his wonderful staff have done to make this possible!! Excellence in all categories sums it up! read more

I just had to write a one of these! I've had nothing but great experiences with Dr.Godinez. About every tooth in my mouth has had some kind of work done and because of previous bad dentists I tend to get a little anxiety when it comes to receiving treatment. The last office I went to left me with nothing but bad experiences and pain to relate....Dr. Godinez however takes the time to let me know about my treatment and options. Not once have I ever felt rushed during an appointment & the staff there makes you feel just as welcomed! I definitely recommend this office!! :) read more

Dr. Godinez, Alex his wife and his team are amazing! I had 2 Gold Onlays put in recently, and they were a perfect fit! My 2 children and wife and I have been seeing him for several years, with no complaints. Great with email and text appointment reminders! read more

Dr. Godinez has been my dentist for many years, since he took over the practice from our previous, now retired, dentist. He and his staff are very professional and our family has received first class dental care the entire time. Plus, he is young and rides mountain bikes, so he won't be retiring soon! read more

Our family has been seeing Dr. Godinez for several years. He and the whole staff are wonderful, and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend him! read more

Upon moving to the area, we tried a couple different dentists who seemed to find expensive problems on every visit. The entire family then moved over to Dr. Godinez and have been very pleased with his integrity, kindness, and professionalism. He is great with both adult and child dentistry and his staff is very competent as well. read more

I haven't been to the dentist in years and was very excited to find Dr. Godinez so close to my home. Little did I know I would enjoy the visit so much. His team is professional and personable! He explained everything very well and I am actually looking forward to going back for my cleaning. Thank you Dr. Godinez and office staff! read more

Dr. Godinez took over the practice from my previous dentist - he, and his family and staff, have been nothing but helpful and kind. Up to date technology, great suggestions and an all around great dentist! read more