Dr. Harris is the dentist I trusted implicitly. He was easy to talk to and always provided a clear response and was fun as well. He never suggested any unnecessary treatments. Unfortunately, I was told that he was out of network when I changed jobs a few years ago and so was put with another dentist at Embarcadero Dentistry who did not have the same qualities so I am no longer with that practice. I miss Dr. Harris. read more

The dentist and his assistant are extremely nice and very gentle while working on your mouth. The front office staff are very accommodating too. read more

Dr. Harris been my dentist for more than 20 years. He services my kids, my siblings and my mother. When I came to him my former dentist had filled all my teeth and he checked my teeth and gave me much better care. For each need he has referred us to great specialists and he has been very very caring. His wife has been so caring and friendly throughout the years. I have left a couple times because of insurance issues but always come back because I could not find the same level of phenomenal care. The office is super friendly, they always know us by name and I've never had any negative experience with them ever. I highly recommend him to any and everyone. read more

Dr. Harris has been my dentist for over 6 years and he is the best dentist I ever had. Overall my dental health has improved greatly since I started seeing him and now I mostly come for cleanings and preventive care. Here are some of the reasons I rate Dr. Harris highly: - The care I received (fillings, crowns, etc) has been high-quality and without complications. - Appointments are easy to schedule, they make time if something urgent comes up, and are available for advice over phone/text. - Dr Harris explains pros and cons of various treatment options, doesn't overtreat and is trustworthy. - The dental office has specialists available (e.g., for root canals) which makes for a seamless experience. - Dr. Harris uses gas (nitrous) to put you at ease and ensures you are comfortable during treatment. read more

Dr. Harris has been my dentist since I moved to San Francisco and very happy being his patient. He is always friendly, funny, does an excellent job and always gives you the best recommendation based on your needs and what won't cost you a ton of money. The staff is equally good and very professional. read more

I have been seeing Dr. Harris for many years. I enjoy going there to have my teeth cleaned and other issues. He's very knowledgeable and the customer service is excellent. I never had any issues at this facility and always satisfied when I leave. Thanks to him and his wonderful staff. read more

Dr. Harris has been my dentist for about eight years. Starting with the technical experience, he offers gas to take the edge off. I always take advantage, as I tend to death-grip the arms of the chair in anticipation of a shock of pain. However, my anxiety is unnecessary. He talks me through procedures and warns me if anything may be sensitive or painful. I feel that he doesn't give me a standardized cleaning and check-up every visit. He discusses with me any of my concerns and adjusts his check-up accordingly. The personal experience is outstanding. He remembers me and details about my life. We can sometimes pick-up on conversations that were cut short six months before. He's an amateur magician and will gladly show you a few tricks. When I asked him about buying an electric toothbrush he gave me a few options and then told me, "you can go with the $27 one, and it will work great." Dr. Harris was recommended to me by one of my co-workers. I eventually found out that many of my co-workers also see him, and they all sing his praises. Over the years as people ask for dentist recommendations, I tell them about Dr. Harris. At least twice I was in the middle of recommending Dr. Harris and someone within earshot turned around and said, "Oh! Are you talking about Dr. Harris? I love him." I heard a rumor that people come from LA to see Dr. Harris; they schedule their appointments when they have business meetings. I believe it because he's that good. As someone else mentioned below, he will do his own cleanings and x-rays if his schedule allows. You will not be disappointed. read more

Ha, well, the Yelp picture for Dr. Harris's office is certainly apt. If you like your dentist and friendly, local drug dealer all wrapped up in one, then this is the place for you! They REALLY like to give you the gas here. I had actually never gotten nitrous at the dentist before, but it was definitely... not unpleasant. Just came in for a normal cleaning, and it was quick and relatively painless. It was also easy to get an appointment relatively quickly. Dr. Harris is pretty friendly and easy-going and his assistant was cool as well. He likes to tell you corny jokes and some interesting (albeit unsubstantiated) "facts" like, did you know the Coronado Bridge in San Diego is curvy instead of straight because you get federal funding for bridges that are over 1.2 miles long? Setting aside the mild "weird" factor of a dentist office being so eager to drug you up, it was a good experience overall. Or maybe that is the gas talking... hmmm.... now I am wondering why more dentists don't go with this strategy... read more

This is a man who actually likes his job (not so common for dentists, who have the highest depression rate of any doctors). Dr. Harris' self-effacing, wry wit can get you through even root canal and crown procedures with a (drooly) smile. I enjoyed the gas even during standard cleanings, that is, until I was pregnant--turns out nitrous oxide is another thing you don't get to do along with shooting up and drinking a bottle of wine a night. Also turns out that, fetuses leech your oral hygiene on top of everything else, so you have to get cleanings more frequently and be extra careful about flossing, etc. (No offence, my little leech, I love you!) BUT, if I have to go somewhere every 4-6 months for cleanings, scrapings, and crownings, I am glad to be in the capable hands of Dr. Harris. His assistants are also excellent. Parting joke a la Dr. Harris: So Rodney Dangerfield offers his wife two aspirin and some water, "For your headache." "But I don't have a headache!" she replies. To that Rodney raises an eyebrow and says, "Oh really....?" read more

I know how to spot a good provider versus one who is just ok. (i'm a doc myself) I have to say Dr. Harris is a quality individual. Caring and smart, accessible, honest--all that a dentist should be. He's got great staff too--always helpful and reduces aggravation. I see that someone was a little critical about the GAS. For dental chickens, access to nitrous for a cleaning is such a blessing. Personally I've experienced Dr. Harris on nitrous and off of nitrous, I have to say he's great even when sober. If thats not's an endorsment, I don't know what is... read more

I am new to town and was had some concerns about my teeth after spending half a year in China. I read very good things on Yelp about Embarcadero Dentistry and thought it was worth a try since they accept my Guardian Dental insurance. Despite some initial unpleasantness with the receptionist and a few billing hasssles (partly my fault as my firm changed insurance managers), things went VERY smoothly. I have always had my teeth cleaned by a hygenist with a terrible metal pick, disgusting chalky/gritty tooth cleaner, and a healthy dose of criticism/upselling (Worst ever: "Isn't recruiting season starting soon? You should have your teeth whitened. It would help you in your interviews."). None of that BS here. Dr. Harris cleans your teeth himself with an awesome ultrasonic cleaner (NO scraping/picking and it's much faster). He also has a great sense of dry humor. You even have the option to use laughing gas (which I did, recommended) and even listen to music (I didn't try that). I had come in to discuss the issue of small holes on the tops of my molars. Dr. Harris suggested I might be grinding my teeth in my sleep - my previous dentist had never caught this though it's undoubtedly been going on for years since the enamel is completely worn off my teeth and dentin is exposed. He suggested an OTC mouth guard as insurance doesn't usually cover custom mouthguards. So impressed by the lack of upselling. 5 stars. I have never looked forward to my next cleaning before. read more

Dr. Russell and his assistant were both extremely nice and efficient. The assistant took 18 xrays so I can be confident that I'm cavity free...I've never had that many xrays taken in one sitting. As long as insurance covers it... Dr. Russell actually took time to hear me about and address certain issues. He even asked his colleagues what they thought. The only weird thing is that they offered me nitrous gas to get a teeth cleaning! I wasn't even offered that by my old dentist when I got my wisdom teeth pulled. I declined since I don't want to unnecessary drug myself. read more

I would rather go to the gyno 10x before I have to hear metal scraping against my teeth. Yes, that is right--I'd rather lay there like a baby lamb for sacrifice than have to endure anything to do with the dentist. I went in for a routine cleaning at lunch and was asked if I wanted any laughing gas. 100% yes. The assistant asked several times as she was administering it, "Do you feel it?" My answer was, "No, feel free to turn it up." I was as high as that kite in the sky picture he has on his ceiling for you to focus on as he does his work. Going back to work was great fun. He told me I might have to come back for a cavity filling and I was inwardly very glad. read more

Expensive but worth the nitrous high and level of customer service. Oh and the bathroom is decent. High ceilings are nice. read more

I was born lucky as I have naturally white straight teeth and never realized how difficult it would be to find my own dentist until I moved away from home. Had a dental emergency and asked a friend, the daughter of a dentist and orthodontist, for a recommendation. She suggested Embarcadero Center Dentistry and I have been with Dr. Harrris since he was a student! My mouth and teeth are healthy as well as looking and feeling great. Best part of the visit is Dr. Harris. He is always genuinely welcoming, gentle, and makes the visit as pleasant as possible. We share a dry sense of humor and a common interest in cars so, the time flies and I leave feeling refreshed. read more

Dr. Harris rocks! I've been going to him for a while. Some of it major some of it minor. I'm a little phobic and panicky, but he is incredibly easy going. The fact that he always offers gas even for cleanings and valium for anything worse, probably helps lower my stress level. He's friendly and reasonable about his expectations in terms of home care. The place is downtown, so that is great too. Be sure to ask for his movie watching thing - not sure what it is called but its goggles that hook up to a dvd player - very very cool. The only thing you might not like is that the majority of the work is done in a large room where you are separated by partitions rather than full separate rooms. They are not too close together, so I never feel crowded or on display, but it might bother some people. The staff is all great. Highly recomend. read more

Dr. Harris is super chill and not scary. He gives the laughing gas for regular cleanings and that's always a nice lil buzz...he's the only dentist I haven't been totally intimidated around. and he doesn't try to upsell anything read more

Harris Russell , DDS - General Dentistry Near Me - San Francisco, California

I've known Dr. Harris for a few years. He use to be a client of mine at my former job and he was the nicest person ever! I'd gone to the same dentist since I was 5 years old but that situation was no longer working out (he was a pediatric dentist who insisted on still having me as a client) and there I was... searching for a dentist in San Francisco. My obvious choice was to go to Dr. Harris. Despite going to him for some painful cleanings (mostly due to the fact that I'd never had an "adult" cleaning in my life) Dr. Harris is still tops. His honesty and knowledge has really helped me improve my dental hygiene. He told me to switch from my expensive Sonicare to a $20 electric toothbrush that's worked wonders for my gums and teeth. Dr. Harris genuinely enjoys helping his patients and has so much patience. As an added bonus, he has special goggles you can put on and watch movies from while you're getting work done... just be sure to bring a dvd with you. :) read more

Been seeing Dr. Harris since 2009 and he's been great! I would definitely recommend him. Liberal with the laughing gas, funny (but that could be the gas) and doesn't try to sell me stuff that I don't need/want. Only offers mild amounts of harassment regarding my need to floss more. read more

I was very happy with my experience at Dr. Harris's office. A lot of dentists I've been to have their assistants do everything and they just come in and make sure you don't have cavities - not the case here. Both Dr. Harris and his assistant were there for almost my whole appointment. Dr. Harris & his assistant really made me feel comfortable. Most dentists ask you questions and expect you to answer when your mouth is full of dentistry tools but he asks and gives you a chance to actually answer. Yes, they offer you gas, but I don't know why everyone is calling this some sort of drug shop! Even though they explained that it was really just to calm your nerves, I turned it down and it was no problem. I think they really just want you to feel as comfortable as possible there. All in all, a great place. Fast, efficient, friendly, accommodating and helpful. I've already recommended multiple friends there! read more

After my 2nd visit, Dr. Harris tried to convince me I need full mouth gum surgery for some small tooth sensitivity I was experiencing (from brushing too hard). Like most dentists I've run into so far in the Bay Area, he was trying to convince me of something I didn't need just to make more money. I went to get a second opinion and, after the new dentist gave me a few simple tips and some new toothpaste, I no longer have the sensitivity. Save your money and avoid Dr. Harris. read more

Dr Harris Russell is the best dentist I have ever been to. I have had very negative experiences with dentists trying to upsell me, market unnecessary treatment, or in one case, completely lie to me to rip me off. Dr Russell does none of this. Not only that, but complementary gas and no nonsense up front pricing makes him my new dentist for as long as I live in SF. read more

Dr. Harris is the best because he makes me laugh so much, I forget about the pain that I'm about to endure. I always walk away knowing that my teeth were handled by the best in in the biz. Professional and warm, he and his partner make every visit a pleasant one. Can't recommend Dr. Harris enough! read more

Dr. Russell Harris is an A-Maze-Ing dentist AND his staff is just awesome! A friend of mine at Ernst & Young, LLP recommended me onto Dr. Harris practice several years ago and I've never been happier. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and very efficient. A special shout-out goes to Jenny! Dr. Harris provides first-class dental care and ongoing patient education within a relaxed envelopment. Most importantly he has an "excellent" sense of humor and truly cares about his patients and their dental needs. Dr. Harris is a wonderful and generous dentist. Generous with his time, skills and knowledge. I've had two stokes in the last couple of years and was feeling extremely low. I went to see Dr. Harris for an emergency appointment on Friday, May 7, 2010 and even though I was ill...Dr. Harris made me laugh so hard I had tears flowing from my eyes. In life... it's hard to find a person that is genuine and supportive as Dr. Harris. I know in my heart that he truly cares about me. I STRONGLY recommend this office to EVERYONE who is looking for a knowledgeable, caring and top-notch dentist! The entire group deserves an A+ and Dr. Harris will remain my dentist for as long as I have teeth LOL I actually LOVE my dentist :) read more

Dr Harris is the BEST dentist in San Francisco hands down. I had a lot of bad experiences with others and it took me 5 years to find him. And I am so grateful to my friends who referred me to him! What I liked best about him is his positive attitude - I immediately felt like I know him forever and I can totally trust him. He is very old fashioned and won't do unnecessary work just to collect $$$. My previous young hungry dentist quoted almost 6k of work to be done but Dr. Harris confirmed he is absolutely insane and not only some of the work unnecessary, but it also can ruin some of my healthy teeth. He explained everything what was going on with my teeth and suggested a priority of things to be done. He showed me all the charges BEFORE he even touched my teeth cuz we all know dental work can be super expensive. I am so very happy I found my perfect dentist in the city. P.S. Girls at the front office are also great - super friendly and did a great job accommodating me. The only thing I wish is if Dr. Harris had his own office... Oh well he is so good I don't even mind driving one hours and hustling the parking to see him. read more

i saw a new dentist yesterday: richard harris in the financial district. i hadnt been in two years (since a terrible experience with someone else in SF), and it was the best dentist visit i have ever had. he was a very kind, gentle human, funny and slightly irreverent. maybe it was because i was new, but he did all my films and cleaning himself (a literal first, for me) and he offers nitrous for all visits. i expected bad news since i have soft enamel and my last dentist was itching to drill in three teeth, but he said theyre very small cavities and may stay that way for years - and that he doesnt like to drill unless he really has to. (!!!!) he also mentioned that new laser tech was coming which could help with sensitivity, if i was interested in that next time, and he thinks it will only run about $175 and could help me a lot. my last dentist tried to scare me and upsell me on like six grand of service, so this seemed remarkable in contrast. such a nice person, and the least panic-attack-y visit i have ever had! read more

Dr. Russel Harris is absolutely fantastic,funny dentist around he is the best.I had amazing and comfortable experience with this place.The staff are so sweet and helpful.Very clean i felt safe to be here i know patients are always their priority specially now the pandemic.See very you soon! hi to Patricia you're amazing. read more

This is way overdue! I've been going to Dr. Harris for about 2 or 3 years now and I actually look forward going to the dentist these days! Always great conversation and humor. He does an amazing job and very knowledgeable on his craft. I've had all sorts of dental issues in the past and Dr. Harris is the first dentist that hasn't ever missed anything or done less than perfect work. I would give 10 stars if I could. I sent my husband to him too and we are both always very happy. Just recently I experienced a dental emergency and he was on the phone with me in minutes and had me come in as soon as possible. Amazing dentist, amazing person. Thank you! read more

Too bad - my first Yelp review, and it has to start out with this negativity. I didn't have a good experience with Dr. Harris. Two years after getting a crown done by him, I'm having to replace it as the look, fit and feel are unacceptable (this is going to cost around 3K btw). He is a good general dentist, friendly and easy-going. BUT if you need something other than cleaning/exams/filling done, especially cosmetic work, see a specialist... read more

Dr. Harris was great. Took his time to explain everything and then got down to business. He and his assistant were cracking jokes and made the experience as pleasant/comfortable as a visit the the dentist can be. read more

This review is long overdue. Dr. Russell Harris is AMAZING. He's knowledgeable and extremely friendly/personable and has a great sense of humor. He's a genuinely nice guy. He makes sure that you are comfortable and relaxed. Before my regular teeth cleanings he offered gas at no additional charge simply to make me more relaxed (not that I wasn't already), and after my teeth cleanings, he gave me a warm towel to wipe my mouth. The service he provided was the most stellar I've ever had at a dental office. He was also great at educating me about the issues I had with my teeth. I was recommended to him by a coworker and I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone. Trying to find a great dentist is a pain and I was so happy to find him. Unfortunately, I had to stop seeing him because I moved out of SF. I only wish he could still be my dentist. I've given up hope I'll find someone in southern California who'll compare to him :( read more

This review is based on my recent experience when I went for a cleaning. The receptionist was kind of friendly. The hygienist was very nice, but seemed like she didn't have much experience. She put a lot of paste on my teeth and a few chunks flew on my face. Dr. Russell stepped in to finish the cleaning. For me, the ultrasonic cleaner was very painful, so he moved to the manual thing. He was very aggressive with the cleaning, which isn't my preference. Overall, the techniques of the hygienist and dentist weren't for me. I do not think I will be going again. read more

I just came back from having a cavity filled with Dr. Harris. Both he and his assistant made the experience as pleasant as possible. After hearing the noise of the drill I freaked out a little, but he calmed my nerves and made a joke. Most importantly, he talked me through each step so I knew what was going on inside my mouth and what to expect. When he was finished, I had the urge to jump up and give him a bear hug for not inflicting any pain on me... good thing I didn't... that would have been weird. read more

What a gem! Having had some pretty bad experiences with shady dentists in SF (see previous posts), I was incredibly weary when searching for a new dentist. Once again, Yelp saved the day and guided me to Dr. Harris. Not only is he very conservative (meaning he won't try to make $$ off of you just because you're in a vulnerable position), he completely understands how stressful visiting the dentist can be (doesn't make you justify needing extra time to relax or embarrasses you for asking for laughing gas) - he makes things as comfortable as possible and has a fantastic attitude. As an added bonus, his office is just a few blocks away from work, and he has Saturday hours at least once a month. I actually enjoy going to Dr. Harris and recommend him to everyone I know. read more

I hate going to the dentist. HATE. IT. But I totally heart Dr. Harris. He rocks. He is funny and really knows how to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. I would totally recommend him to anyone who needs dental work done. read more

To make a long story short, I got one of my tooth cracked and another tooth knocked out of place one evening. That same evening around (7:30pm) I must've called 10 different dental offices. All had their automated answering machine on with no one to answer except one. Dr. Harris. Even tho the office was close, they still had someone on line to pick up calls. It doesnt stop there, I told the operator my situation and that I needed to get it fix the first thing in the morning before I head to work. So I got an appointment at 8:00am. (Now keep in mind, I've never been here, I was a new patient). When I got in, I told Dr. Harris my story, hes a funny guy, great sense of humor to. He wasnt just all about his job, I can tell he actually tries to understand your issues. I told him I cant go to work like this, and today was a big day. (The C.E.O. of my office was meeting me that day) and well, he did what he did. He fixed the cracked tooth and worked hard on pushing back the teeth that was knocked out of place to its proper position. I can honestly say that Dr. Harris saved me from losing my job. His assistant, or intern was great aswell. They are very social, polite and welcoming. Its a happy environment, you can tell the people on board are happy to be there. I have nothing but positive comments about this office. read more

Dr. Harris and everyone else I've met who works there are awesome! I must say I trust them completely. After having broken my front tooth when I was young, I've been paranoid about teeth, and am rather picky about dentists. Thank God I had Dr. Harris when the cap broke off a few months ago. It's such an awful feeling; I feel lucky to have been able to go in somewhere where you can say "fix me" and feel confident in the quality of care. Plus, they're hilarious! I've been going so frequently over the passed few months, I think I may actually miss it. I mean, they made me smile in spite of the fact that I had half a tooth-- what more can you ask for? read more

Dr. Harris is the best Dentist I have experienced in my 5 years of living in the Bay Area. As soon as you are walked back to their work space you'll know you are being taken care. Highly recommmend! read more

Dr. Harris, his assistant, and staff, were all great. I actually enjoyed his small talk, the cleaning was efficient and relatively painless, and the receptionist was more than accommodating about an insurance misunderstanding. Highly recommended! read more

Went in for a cleaning, and a subsequent cavity filling at a later appointment. I actually almost kind of enjoyed the cleaning. The cavity filling was as good as a cavity filling can be, which is still awful. But definitely the best filling I have ever experienced! If you are scared of the dentist or don't like going for whatever reason, give Dr. Harris a try. He has a wonderful "bedside manner" and makes patients feel at ease. Liberal usage of the laughing gas doesn't hurt either. ;) read more