The original root canal: I was 14, I'd been hit in the face by an errant basketball (let me assure, anything sports, health, or "fitness" related I've ever done has come back to injure and cripple me in some way today - better I should spent my youth watching cartoons and eating pork rinds ... where is the moral in this? S... just happens.) The pain was unbearable. I wrapped my head in hot towel and screamed for 3 days. Eventually, they took me to the DDS and the resultant root canal preserved my crooked smile and ended my agony (and the hope of orthodontia - it was a money thing). Flash forward: Many adult years later (my real age will remain unspecified to perserve my illusory sense of worth - suffice to say, I'm an "adult" with the big A, and lots of baggage) the original root canal "fails." Oh my god - quick, put some towels in the microwave! Here comes the pain. And just to make it "special" this comes at a time in my life where I have neither a job nor dental insurance. Health insurance is what separates the winners from the losers. To hell with designer handbags, watches and luxury cars, a fully funded PPO is the real mark of status any day! So I whimp and whine my way back to my former dentist. He's a heartless son of a bitch with a retinue of interns in training. Can I sell you a photo tour of the miserable interior of your mouth? The better to convince you that you "need" crowns? Does seeing a movie of your old fillings make the necessity of replacing them more or less real. WTF? He refers me to the neighboring Endododist. He's a nice old guy, but he looks nervous. "We'll have to perform a fenestration to check for infection." Wait a minute -- I speak just enough French to know this guys going to "open a window" below my gum line?! Ewwww. But I let him. This is my last chance, cheap choice, hope. Open it up, treat the infection/whatever, save the original root canal. Or not (that's why we are calling it a "failed" root canal - sigh). I try to explain to the endodontist that I "just don't have that kind of cash ..." and he suggests my "low cost" alternative is to just get extractions and get a "flipper" (the generic plastic temporary plate you wear while you are waiting for your "real" plate to be fabricated) so I don't look like a hill-billy (no offense to hill-billies) until I can figure out my finances. Hours later, the novacaine is wearing off and my lower lip is filling with blood from the stitches just behind my swollen lower lip. I return to the first dentist who informs me that my best course of action is to have all four bottom front teeth removed. "You need a Mayline permanent bridge" "You need a bone graft to support same. I'm going to cast your upper teeth to move that bridge fitting right along and then send you to the bone-graft guy to cast, and then remove and then add a bone-graft to that bottom section (a pile of pain, bloody gums and loose stitches). Oh, and that will be $8,000.00 please. Of course we take credit cards!" No, no, no and no! 1. I will not spend $8K - I don't have $8K, I will not go into debt for this. 2. I will not have a) a casting, b) extractions, c) a bone graft without the benfit of complete anesthesia! This is not the middle ages dudes! Got it? I WILL NOT! So, I go to the bone graft guy. I drive myself, high on Darvocet and anxiety, drooling blood. Here's the pro from Dover. Young blood on a mission, surrounded with assistants. First on his agenda is the casting of the bloody pulp that was formerly my mouth. My barely closed "fenestration." "Uh, Where's my anesthestic?" "What anesthestic?" "I was told I'd be "out" for this." "Oh we don't do sedation dentistry here ..." And I got up and left. I am amazing, but I'm also still in pain. Sedation dentistry is the most humane thing imaginable. It is civilization. I would rather walk around naked, eating grubs, than go back in time to non-sedation dentistry. So, with an ice pack on my jaw, my blood pumped full of darvocet and the yellow pages in my hands, I found .... CREATIVE DIMENSIONS IN DENTISTRY My savior. True, they couldn't put humpty back together again for any less than was originally stated, but Dr. MacKenzie (who was as handsome and as charming as a soap opera doc) went one better. Having blown my "casting" appointment for a flipper and or bridge, having him do the extractions would still mean that I'd be "toothless" if pain free. I'd come to accept this fate. But while I was out, he determined that only one tooth needed immediate extraction and that the others could be controlled with antibiotics for a bit. He removed the one tooth, trimmed it carefully, and BONDED IT in place. When I woke up, my pain was gone, my crooked smile looked unchanged and they had bought me enough time to get hooked up with University of the Pacific for a 1/2 price dental solution. This is THE place. read more

The worst pain in the world is a tooth ache. So when that pain start you want results right away and that's what you get at Creative Dimensions In Dentistry. I have been seeing Dr. Chhina for many years now and have always been taken very good care of by him and his staff. When I had an emergency they saw me that very same day. What more can you ask for. Dr. Chhina is very professional. He explains every procedure in detail so you understand what is going on inside your mouth. At my last visit I needed a new crown. To my surprise, they were able to fabricate a new crown in house within 30 minutes using the latest technology. That means no temporary crown and a second visit. Best of all, they have Saturday appointments. read more

I reviewed once before and after I posted my review, suddenly my dispute was resolved. They did end up refunding my aunt's money... but really? Only after it went to social media? Where were they for the last 8 months of emails and phone calls? So yes- thank you. My dispute is resolved. I will give you a star for that simply because my aunt cried with relief when the credit finally came through. Still... we are great clients and my family was not treated well here. read more

This review is for Chris and the front desk staff. They provide amazing customer care and service. One time I was running late, train was late, not their problem, totally my fault. Would understand if they could not accommodate me last minute but they did. Chris is always encouraging, tactful, and engaging. She is also very thorough with the teeth cleaning. Both her and the staff have been friendly, accommodating, and patient. Thank you Creative Dimensions! read more

Today I was in so much pain with my lower molar, it had been hurting for a few days. I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Maass. He saw me on an emergency appointment today. This was my first appointment at this office. He diagnosed that I needed a root canal. He completed the root canal in the same appointment. This is the first root canal I have had. You hear all the horror stories about getting a root canals, if I had to get one I'm glad Dr. Maass was there to treat me. My experience in this office was great, everyone made me feel very comfortable. Dr. Maass has a wonderful team working with him, from Desi taking my Xray to Raeanne,Tracie, and Tammy chair side, all very caring and helpful throughout my appointment. Dr. Maass explained each step of the procedure, which was helpful for me to understand what was happening. I'm home and have no pain, was able to drink a milkshake. That's something I couldn't do a few days ago. It's been many years since my last dental visit, but that didn't matter today. Dr. Maass found where my discomfort was and treated me. Thank you so much for helping me today. I'm looking forward to getting a good night sleep tonight. I highly recommend this office... read more

Last night I chipped a front tooth, 4 days before a college reunion. Today at 2:00 Dr Chhina and Rebecca not only fixed my big chip perfectly, but found an iffy spot in the neighboring tooth and fixed that, too. My smile looks better than it has in years. Fast, comfortable, painless. The office explained the charges and handled the insurance billing. I'm delighted! read more

Dr sal. Is a Money hungry CROOK. I'll never get treatment from here again. Front desk is just as bad Ida or whatever her name is can't even do her job correctly. Constant calls for appointments that aren't even for ME. Also having her telling my family members that go in there about MY treatment & payments. That's personal info!Like I said, never going back. Horrible un honest dentist. I'd also like other people to mind there business & not make assumptions about a situation they have no idea about with little comments trying to justify MY opinion. read more

Absolutely LOVE this place....the greatest dentist and hygienists I've had. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Plus they have locations in both Castro Valley and San Leandro...People are so nice there. Check out their website....it truly is "as good as it gets." :0) read more

I don't write reviews often but I feel the need to write one for this place. I initially did a lot of research upon calling this office, and I read about how they tell you one price, but after the service is done, its another price. I looked over it and proceeded to book my appointment because the general dentists had good reviews. I had Dr. McKenzie, he was very straight forward with me- got to the point, no time to converse. I didn't mind at all. I spoke with the front desk receptionist, Melissia, regarding my payment. She quoted me $20 co/pay for the cleaning/x-rays and after the service- somehow my bill magically turned into $86. Again, I looked over it. Then my wisdom teeth extraction came- Melissia quoted me $160 out of pocket. I wrote this down along with other procedures I needed to get done, and I agreed. So I did the procedure, it was smooth but Dr. McKenzie was not gentle what so ever. I ended up getting a very very bad infection and had to be out of work for 1 week after and I chose to see another dentist in the office because Dr. McKenzie was so not gentle at all. I mean c'mon, you can't stuff an open wound with NO numbing agent! So lastly, when the procedure was over, the front desk told me I owed $330. I began to argue because I was told by Melissia that it would be $160. I left in a rage and I did not pay. I knew they would take me to collections so I decided to give them a call today and ask to speak with the main Accounts Supervisor. She showed absolutely no sympathy, was kind but clearly does not care about the clientele there because she offered a payment plan. No apology, no "I will speak with Melissia" or "This is a common issue we have let's fix it". I work in HR- I oversee a lot of employees and complaints, and this right here is bad customer service and a bad look for Creative Dimensions. read more

I am a person with very bad anxiety! Everybody from the front desk, Dental Assistants and both the Dentist Dr. Marc Chhina and Dr Davis Mackenzie are THE BEST! Two visits one with each and neither time felt one bit of pain, and they were calming to help keep my anxiety under control. AWESOME AWESOME place. I will recommend any and everybody to these two Doctors. I will also return for follow up work. Great Place and ALL the people who work their!, Thank you Creative Dimensions for everything and all your kindness!! read more

Wonderful!! Good experience!! My family and I are very happy and excited to have found Dr. Shirin Salehinia as our new dentist. She is very professional, gracious and caring about our dental concerns. She takes the time and has the patience to explain dental procedures, as well as to answer any questions we might have. She has even called us following dental work (same day) to see how we are feeling! Dr. Salehinia's assistants are wonderful!! Ida, pleasantly calls and reminds us of appointments as well as ensuring that insurance protocols are followed and processed in a timely manner. Julie and Ramona both efficiently assist Dr. Salehinia during the dental work process, always asking if we are comfortable and relaxed. We also appreciate the fact that Dr. Salehinia recommended dental products(electric toothbrush and water pic) but did not pressure us to purchase them from their office. Both the San Leandro and Castro Valley locations are easily accessible and have ample free parking!!! read more

I was referred to Creative Dimensions & Dr. Marc Chhina 9 years ago. Marc Chhina and his magical team used preventative measures to save my gums and today I have healthy teeth and a smile I am proud of. They deserve a FIVE STAR from me. Most dentist told me I needed GUM surgery to save my teeth - not true. Now I absolutely love going to a their dental practice - all the staff from the check in to the oral hygienist are clean, fun and friendly. Happy flossing everyone. Cheers. read more

When you tell a patient that their insurance doesn't cover all that you said it did, AFTER said patient spent hundreds of dollars and raved about her experience --- making her pay for the residual fees is still unfair. Though you insisted you gave me this disclaimer before hand, I know you actually did not. I had 4 expensive visits and even when I paid the last time, you said the pending fees will be for the insurance; you never once said otherwise until I got an invoice randomly in the mail weeks later. It was only after I held out for a couple weeks that you buckled down and paid half, but I shouldn't have had to pay a cent for YOUR mistake! It became your word against mine and it was insulting. I lost trust for your establishment and it's a shame for both parties. I do not recommend this office. Dime a dozen. read more

I've been afraid of going to see dentists ever since childhood, but not any longer! Creative Dentistry always makes sure I'm comfortable and feel at ease, they take great (gentle) care of me. their motto should be "we cater to cowards" lol! in addition to all the above perks, they also accept my insurance! Dr Shirin Salehinia & the ENTIRE Staff treats you with TLC. I wouldn't trust anyone else with my smile! :) read more

Dr. Chhina and his staff are phenomenal I walked in having pain from an old root Canal. His staff were very nice and welcoming and tried to make me as comfortable as possible. Dr. Chhina never forced me into any type of treatment told me was was necessary and what should can and has to be done as part of a treatment plan. I have never felt better about a dentist before him and his staff thanks.... read more

I came in for cleaning a couple of weeks ago and Kristin Was my hygienist. She was awesome and I had a great experience with her and was very knowledgeable on how to take care of my teeth. The staff is amazing from the front to the back they all make me feel very comfortable and safe. I will definitely be recommending Creative Dimensions to my friends and family. read more

Dr Salahenia and all of the wonder ladies there at the Castro valley office are just amazing as can be . From the check in to the assistants all the way up to the Doctors could not be any better , the service and passion is always amazing along with many laughs . I have had a really really bad experience with multiple dentist which caused a lot of pain and suffering for myself and not wanting to goto the dentist ever again . But then I found this office and this team and now I will forever be a returning patient and will try to recommend every single person I know to be the best dentist in the world . Thank you so much team your excellence is greatly and deeply appreciated. read more

I just had the best dental experience of my life - Pam the hygienist here made what is usually an anxiety filled time comfortable and easy. The best decision I made was to switch dentists for my daughter and I. Thank you Creative Dimenaions! read more

Maybe my review will improve in the future but for now: 1) They overcharged me by $25.00 on my last visit. When I called, the receptionist (Carolyn) was extremely defensive and rude and said to me, "Twenty five dollars is not a lot of money". This indicated to me that this is probably a frequent mistake at this dentistry (and certainly not a big deal in the eyes of Carolyn). I shudder to think of those patients who DON'T check their dentals bills against insurance. 2) I was told my old cavity needed a crown replacement. I have never had a crown. New crown is in and looks fine and feels fine for the most part. However. I am taking some form of pain medication at LEAST once every 24 hours and averaging 2-3 times a day. Almost two months later the pain has not improved at all. If I drink something extremely cold and it hits that tooth it feels like someone is stabbing me in the mouth. The jaw pain comes at random times, it happens almost every night when I am sleeping but will also happen at random times during the day, it radiates through my jaw, up into my ear and turns into a nasty headache. I am terrified of going back to the dentist, because before they put that crown in, I had a perfectly happy mouth, I have never experienced pain like this IN MY LIFE. I've googled this online and it seems to be a common problem with crowns, I wish I could go back and get a second opinion of whether or not I actually needed a crown. So to summarize: Check your bills VERY carefully, be wary of the receptionist Carolyn, she is really nice unless you tell her they overbilled you, and I would seriously get a second opinion if you are getting any major dental work done. On the plus side, my dental hygienist was very nice and Dr. Chinna was also great, I am hoping that he will at least resolve the billing problem, I am not sure I am going to let him back in my mouth again or not. Update: I went back to a different dentist named Dr. Erikson (and this was mainly because I did not wish to come into contact with the above mentioned receptionist) and it looks like I need a root canal. He has explained everything to me very thoroughly, and I am hopeful that it will resolve the daily pain issue. On the plus side, I explained the billing situation to a different receptionist named Dorothy, she was wonderful and straightened everything out for me, and she had a very pleasant attitude about it. read more

on a prior review I mentioned concern about this place but I got a letter explaining all the events and an off to review any work done so in this they have done good by me. the pleople are nice and the dr's there do good work and use great modern technology and pain managment. I will say they are pretty punctual compared to other establishments I have been to and use of digital records is a ++++. my only grip would be estimates can be off at times with the whole insurance repayments so a bill may come in the mail saying that you need to pay to fill the difference, not pleasent but once explined understandable, yet I never had that happen other palces. It could be the prices paid by insurnace need updating not sure. all and all stable on time and great level of care and accountability. read more

Poor Dr. Maass must deal with me on a much too regular basis. For some reason, dental wise, anything that could go wrong in my mouth will and for some reason I will have the "most painful version" of what could happen. I have had a lot of dental surgeries since I was 2 years old, braces 8 times, and some very very bad experiences at my pediatric dentist. Finally when I was 14 my mom said enough was enough with my old dentist and took me to Dr. Maass. They knew I was petrified so I always had a blanket over me, the nitrous on, and they always let my mom sit at my feet. Dr. Maass is by far the most kind, gentle dentist I have ever had. Everyone in the office always remembers me and he always knows exactly how to talk to me to make me feel comfortable in the chair. He does everything the best, and never causes me unnecessary pain. I am horrified of the shots and I have never felt real pain from any of them. I have only felt them a couple times and even that was not even bad. I have never ever had pain when he is working in my mouth. For my wisdom teeth I refused to be put to sleep and when the nitrous made me nauseous and I couldn't take the medication anymore to make me sleepy, I was absolutely wide awake for Dr. Maass extracting 3 of my wisdom teeth, two of which were impacted. It was a horrible experience, but they made it the best it could have possibly been and also called me a few times on the days after to make sure I was okay. I have also had a root canal and cavity done with him and I have to say, everyone told me how bad a root canal was, and the soreness afterwards is horrible (which is totally not their fault), but the actual procedure was nothing. If you think Dr. Maass is an amazing, wonderful dentist (which he is) you MUST meet Rayanne. Oh my goodness this woman is amazing. She is one of his assistants/technicians? (not sure what they are called...) and she is the kindest, sweetest person you will ever meet. Now that I'm too grown up to have my mommy come to dentist appointments with me, she holds my hand through the shots and always makes sure I'm comfortable and happy. The two of them are a perfect team for me that make it a pleasure to go into the dentist, if I wasn't having such awful things done.... :) read more

Dr. Erickson and his staff are SIMPLY THE BEST! Better than all the rest!!!! Excellent work ethic and his supporting staff SUPERB!!!! I'm so grateful that we found them because my daughter has found her lifetime dentist!!!!! They really and truly are Amazing!!!! read more

I have been going to this office since August 2006. In the past, I had done a less than favorable job of taking care of my smile. That is why I made an appointment with Dr. Erikson. OMG, Dr. Erikson is personable, funny and competent. I am so happy that he is my dentist. I can smile with confidence now and have been cavity free for a couple of years now. Dr. Erikson has removed my wisdom teeth, gave me a dental implant, and has given me a root canal. He makes sure I do not feel a thing. This is the best dental office ever. I am happy that he has gotten my smile back on track and I have recommended my family members to see him as well. read more

Myself and my family highly recommend Dr. Salehinia and her staff. They are always wonderful.

Skills, Knowledge and Talent is 5 stars, Front desk acceptable, Equipment latest technology. Prices expensive. Cleaning if you have Diane work on you she has gentle hands. One minus is the long wait till you get worked on average 30-46 minutes esp their San Leandro office. read more

I will begin by saying my 5 star rating is an understatment. For the past 8 years, Dr. Chhina and his staff have ensured that I have received the highest degree of dental care and I couldn't be more appreciative. Creative Dimensions in Dentistry has provided me with not only had the greatest dentist but also the greatest teacher in oral hygiene. While Dr. Chhina works diligently to provide each patient with the best and most professional dental care, he also works to educate each patient in the importance of preventative home care. His skill, care, communication and knowledge are incomparable. From my simple regularly scheduled check-ups and cleanings to the removal of my wisdom teeth, my experience with CDD has been nothing short of extraordinary. After hearing so many of my peers horrible wisdom teeth experiences, it goes without saying that I was petrified. However, lucky for me Dr. Chhina analyzed my X-rays and noticed early on that the time to remove my wisdom teeth was approaching. I anxiously scheduled my appointment to my surprise, the entire process was pretty much a breeze. The appointment was nearly painless and aside from my slightly sore 24 hour chipmunk cheeks, my recovery was short and easy. I now live in Southern California but won't dare switch my dentist. Just last week I was in the Bay Area and was able to schedule a last minute appointment on my way into town. Traffic delayed my appointment by 45 minutes but Dr. Chhina somehow managed to still squeeze me in even though I arrived near closing time. Dr. Chhina and his team are gentle, honest, comforting and carry my highest recommendation!!! P.S. Dr. Griggs performed miracles on my orthodontic work. I entered his office with a less than mediocre smile and less than 2 years later walked out with a perfectly straight and confident smile. read more

I've been going to Dr Maass for years he detected a major health problem I have called sjogrens. I don't know what I would do without him and his assistant Raeanne. By now I would of loss all of my teeth I'm sure but instead I can smile with confidence. Nobody likes going to the dentist but when I'm under the care of Dr. Maass and Raeanne I am always kept comfortable and pain free and they make me laugh and thats the best medicine a person can have. His staff has always been professional friendly, kind and courteous and accommodates me immediately. read more

I've been coming to CDD since before I was born! My mom started coming here when she was pregnant with me! I have done all my orthodontic work here, multiple sets of braces, retainers, etc, and have had my teeth cleaned, cavities filled and wisdom teeth removed. Dr. Erickson is amazing at making one of the most terrifying places so much less scary and less painful than it should be! He and his staff are so friendly every time I come in that I am excited to get to see them every six months! Dr. Griggs and his staff are the same! Right now I am switching over to my husband's insurance but am seriously considering keeping my dental in case his doesn't cover CDD!! read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Chinna's for the past 3 years. I am very nervous about going to the dentist. Every time I go for a visit, Dr. Chinna and his staff are very accommodating and make me feel very comfortable. I recently had to make an emergency appointment as I was experiencing some pain. It turned out that I needed to have a root canal. The last time I had a root canal (15 years ago), it was not a good experience. Dr. Chinna and Venus assured me that they would do everything to make sure I did not have the same experience I had before. All I can say is OMG! They talked me through the entire procedure. I did not have to take any pain medication. They did an awesome job. I highly recommend Dr. Chinna and his team. They represent what a true Dentist operation should be - Professional, pleasant, knowledgeable and friendly. You will always be greeted with a smile. read more

I love this place! They are always willing to fit me in at a time that is convenient. Dr. Erikson is a fantastic, personable dentist who seems to know what he's doing. He always makes me feel comfortable and just as a side note, he is super hot (which definitely makes a two hour filling go by a little bit quicker!) read more

Professional, courteous, and punctual 100% of the time. All of the staff including Dr. Griggs provided excellent service all the time. I would recommend them for all your orthodontic needs. read more

I have a unique situation. Dr. Chhina is working with my family to resolve the issues we have.

Love these people!! 8am dentist appointments have never been so great as this place! Dorothy is efficient at call backs and helping me get an appointment best for me and my crazy work schedule!! Geraldine has done two of my cleanings now and is great at giving me tips and instructions on taking better care of my teeth. Jessica and Dr. Mack are rock stars! Crown and fillings have never been so easy or looked so pretty!! Apparently looking at a wisdom teeth extraction in the future but not to worried because these people are amazing! Totally trust it'll be okay and my teeth will be healthier and look great! read more

Dr. Salehenia is nice and accommodating. I needed 2 procedures done and she did both in one visit which was very convenient for me as a working mother of two. Thank you! read more

I've been going to Creative Creative Dimensions for over 45 years and have always received very professional care and service. The staff is always so friendly Dr. Mackenzie is always Professional and Friendly the quality of his Dental work is the best! The new full mouth 3D X-Ray machine is very thorough and quick! The Dental Hygienist does a superb job of cleaning my teeth and coupled with my intense flossing has eliminated any pockets! I will continue having Creative Creative Dimensions take care of my dental needs. read more

First off I had an emergency with my wisdom tooth that needed to be extracted. They got me an appointment on the same day and I was very pleased with how the staff was very friendly from the front office to the dental assistants. They took really good care of me even with my anxiety they made me feel comfortable. They explained to me the whole procedure with the whole, what, when and where. I was very calm throughout the whole procedure and they always make sure that I was doing okay. I highly recommend this place. read more

I have been going to Creative Dimensions for years now, ever since I was little. I absolutely love it and all the staff. It's always so clean and nice each visit I have. The staff is so friendly, comforting, and caring. I love going to CDD, they definitely deserve 5 stars from me. read more

Everyone here is so friendly! Who would have thought going to see the dentist is like hanging out with good friends! Dr. Maas is fantastic and he is supported by an amazing staff! read more

Dr Griggs took care of my daughter initially with a retainer then braces, she just got the braces off yesterday. Her teeth look beautiful! am so impressed with Dr Griggs and staff, all very professional and polite, been going there for five years, never a problem. I highly without reservation recommend ! read more

I had a wonderful experience with Chandra. She did my dental cleaning and was extremely thorough. My entire appointment lasted 1 hour and was painless. Dr. Chhina was very friendly and honest with my treatment plan. This office is extremely friendly and professional. Thank you for a great experience!! read more