If you're someone who has dental anxiety, or you've put off going to the dentist for years because…read moreyou're scared, embarrassed, or worried about being judged, this review is for you.
I had excellent dental care growing up until I was about 14, but I also had a traumatic experience as a child when I flipped over my bike, knocked several teeth out, and had to be strapped into a chair while a dentist worked on them. That experience stayed with me. After my parents divorced, going to the dentist stopped being a priority, and despite brushing my teeth every day, I avoided dental visits for years.
Eventually, I started having tooth pain and assumed I had one bad tooth. It turned out I needed two root canals and multiple fillings. To say I was terrified would be an understatement.
One of the biggest fears about returning to the dentist after a long time is the feeling that you'll be judged. Dr. French completely erased that fear. She has been nothing but kind, compassionate, and genuinely caring from day one. She's the type of person who instantly makes you feel comfortable, and honestly, she's just an incredibly cool person. The hygienists and the rest of the staff are just as wonderful. Every single person in the office is warm, welcoming, and makes you feel like they genuinely care about you. The office itself is beautiful and has such a calming atmosphere.
Then there's the fear of pain. I can honestly say I experienced virtually none. Dr. French referred me to Dr. Baines at San Jose Endodontics for my root canals, and I couldn't have asked for a better referral. Both root canals were completely painless. They prescribed ibuprofen afterward, and I never even needed it.
Back at Willow Glen Dental, I was also genuinely impressed by how much they've invested in technology. It's not just a beautiful office--it feels like they've made a real commitment to giving patients the best experience possible. After my root canals, they digitally scanned my teeth, designed my crowns, and milled them right there in the office. I took about an hour to an hour-and-a-half break, came back, and had both permanent crowns placed that same day. No temporary crowns. No waiting weeks. As someone who hadn't been to the dentist in years, I had no idea dentistry had come this far, and it made the entire process incredibly convenient.
The same was true for my fillings and every other procedure I've had. Throughout every appointment, the team made sure I was comfortable, answered every question, and never rushed me.
Yesterday I finished the restorative portion of my treatment plan after about a year and a half of care. Dr. French joked, "Last round!" and then laughed that I was probably tired of seeing them. I surprised myself with my response: "Honestly... I used to have really bad dental anxiety, and now I don't."
And I truly meant it.
That's one of the greatest gifts this office has given me. They didn't just fix my teeth--they completely changed how I feel about going to the dentist. I never thought I'd be someone who could walk into a dental appointment feeling relaxed, but that's exactly how I feel now.
I've already recommended Willow Glen Dental and Dr. French to several friends, and I'll continue recommending them to anyone who asks. (Just don't book Dr. French too solid--I still need my appointments! )
As long as I live in the Bay Area, this is where I'll be coming for my dental care. Dr. French is nothing short of amazing. I don't know what kind of magic she works, but she's incredible.
Thank you, Dr. French, Dr. Baines, and the entire Willow Glen Dental team for giving me back not only my smile, but my confidence and peace of mind.
10/10. I couldn't recommend them more highly.