Absolutely Outstanding Pediatric Dental Care! Novato Pediatric Dental has been a complete life changing experience in what dental care means to for our family. Type of care: Their team specializes in pediatric dental care and it really shows. They take a gentle approach and personal attention to care for each of children's specific needs. The staff takes time to explain everything in detail ( and more than once!). From the break of the procedure to any out of pocket expense, thank you again. Care quality: Dr. Robinson treats my child like one of his own, he reminds me he also has boys often. He's attentive, incredibly knowledgeable, and goes above and beyond to ensure comfort and thorough care. Whether it's a first visit or surgery every step is handled with professionalism and compassion. Office experience: The office is clean, modern, and completely designed with kids in mind. There are toys, books, and TVs playing kid-friendly shows to make waiting easy, though. The front desk team is organized and extremely helpful, making scheduling and billing straightforward. We're so grateful to have found Novato Pediatric Dental. read more

The place has gone downhill fast. We've been coming here since my daughter's been young. And came here during the whole covet thing. They just now are taking COVID seriously when the mask mandate is almost over with. A year ago they had a packed waiting room and had really no procedure for COVID. Got ride of all their old staff and hired young people newly out of school. The waiting room is boring and dull. More like an adult pediatric place. No new equipment for kids or the dentist. They have no equipment for the parents to see the x-rays with the dentist. Staff rush the kids and parents. It's just a sweet shop. Really sad as it was a well known place and they did such a great job. Changing to any dentist we can get into. Don't waste your kids time here. read more

Very nice dentist, hygienists, and nice office. Staff is very accommodating. Good communication about scheduling.

We've been going to Dr. Robinson for about 2 years and the experience has been great! Everyone is friendly, knowledgeable, and professional and is able to keep my 2 and a half year old son calm! This is a major win for me! Additionally, they are fast so we're in and out! My son's teeth are in great shape and I appreciate that Dr. Robinson is honest and ethical. I've never had an issue with scheduling, or billing, or any of the other things other people are complaining about. It seems to me, that when the practice was sold, there were a few transitional hiccups..? While I could see how this could be disruptive, a little grace could have been given by other reviewers. Again, my experience has been A+. read more

Excellent service and compassionate care. My children love coming here for their dental appointments. The staff and doctors are super friendly and make them feel comfortable. The tv's on every chair and the fish tanks around the office are fun added bonuses that the kids look forward to. read more

Novato pediatric dentistry provides decent care when you're in the office, but their front desk and answering service are terrible and completely indifferent to patient needs. I've left three messages over the past month relating to the need for my daughter to get treatment for a cavity. None of these messages have been returned and I'm now at the point where I am looking for another dentist for my 8yo daughter. read more

We've been clients for many years now. Doctors change every other visit, so you can't build a relationship with a doctor. That said, we never had a doctor that was unprofessional there. On the most recent visits it's hard to recognize the place. The staff changed and they no longer seem to care. CHECK YOUR BILLS. The bills contain spurious charges. We got billed $144 for 'oral hygiene instruction' and 'nutritional coun. for dental disease' that appeared on billing but not on the insurance statement. To their credit, they did apologize and took it off after we called them. THEY REQUIRE CONSENT TO UNNECESSARY PROCEDURES. The dentist pointed out that one tooth needs a filling. He also noted that although he can't see it, the neighboring tooth may also require treatment, and that he will only know once he treats the first tooth. When we came for treatment, they REQUIRED that we consent to treating both teeth, prevented us from talking to a doctor, and kept us in a waiting room for over an hour and a half over this. They forced us to sign consent to treating the healthy tooth before the procedure. In the end that tooth didn't need any treatment. The coercive tactics that they used to extract consent for treating a healthy tooth, the fact that they refused to consult with the doctor and the rude manner they approached the conflict was overwhelming. When we eventually got to talk to the doctor, he said he is an employee and not a boss, and can't set up the rules. THEY NEED TO HAVE BASIC COMMUNICATION SKILLS. The team constantly changes. They need to learn to introduce themselves to the parent and the kid, explain their role and what they will do before they stick a tool into a kid's mouth. With the exception of the doctor none of the stuff had this very basic skill. We are actively looking for another option now. read more

I was very hesitant to try this office out after reading so many negative reviews. But we changed insurances after our last dentist dropped it and NPD was the closest that takes our military insurance. The office is clean and welcoming with a big/low fish tank that captivated my oldest 2 (6 and 3). I also had my baby in a carrier and appreciated a safe attention holder. They were able to see both kids at the same time on tables right next to each other. The dental assistant with my 3 yr old was so patient and made her feel really comfortable. She even helped her with her xrays. All in all I was very pleased with the experience read more

My 5 year old daughter had a negative experience with Yessa, a dental hygienist here. Yessa was cold, rushing, impatient and rough with my daughter. She didn't try to build any rapport with her and just steamrolled any question she had. She put on headphones and a show for her, but then kept giving instructions during the cleaning that my daughter could not hear and then appearing annoyed. At the end, she needed to put a sealant on my daughter's new molars. Yessa was forceful, rough, and did not listen to my daughter's discomfort or needs or my concerns when I voiced them directly to her (telling her to stop, explain the procedure, get consent, and have a communication with the patient when she panicked). Someone in her position should understand rapport, consent, and to avoid traumatizing a young patient. She shoved a contraption in my daughter's mouth and caused pain and her to cry and did not seem to care. When I intervened, Yessa tried to shut me down and keep going. I told her to stop and had to get in an argument with her for her to actually listen. My daughter loved the dentist until she had this experience with Yessa. She should not be working with children. I told the receptionist my concerns and she was very kind and receptive. I also like the male dentist here a lot. However, we may not return. I asked to never have Yessa again for our care if we do come back. read more

Just an awesome place! Wish they could be my dentist! I've taken my 2 young children here for a couple years now & I liked the past staff & I really appreciate the new staff & doctor. Seema was very calming with my anxious daughter. Dr. Robinson was great with both my children. My 3 year old now wants to go to the dentist every time we get into the car. Great place! read more

First and for most I had a great experience at Novato pediatric everyone there was super welcoming they made my daughter experience great. I went in for a GA consult and everything went great consult was super thorough the doctor answered all my questions and concern. Martina went over treatment with me and explained what my insurance covered and what didn't cover and let me know what portion I'm responsible for and will have to pay on the day of Treatment. The day of her GA surgery date again I was welcomed in they made sure to make my daughter feel confortable Before starting the treatmen. Over all I'm so happy with my experience here and will continue to bring my daughter in as a patient. read more

My children have been patients for quite a few years here--we even make the drive up from Southern Marin. We had a challenge getting my son seen for his filling since July--all of their late afternoon appointments are full. It's great they have such a thriving business--good for them! The issue I had was with our visit today. It felt to me they're trying to add additional charges without asking first. I took him in for his filling, and they were going to charge me $136 for the filling. Seemed like a lot given we have dental insurance, so I handed her my credit card and then I looked at the invoice and started asking questions--why isn't nitrous oxide ($68 proposed charge) covered? The receptionist replied it's considered a luxury item and the purpose is just to relax him. Pain relief is already included. The 2nd proposed charge was to reverse the numbing medicine and shorten the time he feels numb from 3 hours to 30 minutes ($18). I have no issues with anyone trying to increase revenue and make a profit. What I do have issues with is doing this in what felt like a sneaky way vs. informing me upfront and saying this is what insurance covers and you have the option to pay for these additional services if you're interested. I think we'll be switching dentists. I want healthcare providers who are acting in my best interests. In contrast, I had to get fillings replaced from when I was a kid by Dr. Sherman Chan in Mill Valley. I was his last appointment of the day, and we had planned for 4 replacement fillings in the four quadrants of my teeth. He suggested that we should only do one side of my mouth, so I could still talk and chew that evening--he gave me advice that decreased his revenue didn't fully utilize his time that day. That's what I'm looking for. read more

We really liked this office before the ownership change, but the new owners seem to have some shady billing practices. It seems from other reviews that I am not the only person with this experience. My daughter had a routine appt. back in Aug. 2021. We usually pay our copay (10%) at the time of appt, but we were told they would bill insurance first and then bill us after the claim is paid. Long (LOOOONG) story short, they didn't send the claim to insurance until THIS month and have been sending me bills to pay in full since October. When I call the office, I get sent to a voicemail for billing and I left a message to email me back. I got just one email saying they can't get a hold of insurance or me, neither of which were true, as I have reached out and I spoke with my insurance with no issues who confirmed they never received a claim (this was in December). Called ins. again today and confirmed they finally received it and paid it out last week, but I still got another bill to pay the claim from the office. Very annoying and seems borderline illegal. read more

Emergency service for our 7 year old. I can't say enough wonderful things. Our 7 year old daughter had a bike accident where she fell on her face and and her front permanent tooth came out. It was a super traumatic experience for her and especially for our family. This was after hours on a Tuesday. I called the line and was told someone would get in touch. Martina called us back and took information about our daughter and said she would get back to us once she spoke to the doctor ( this was around 8:45PM ). At 9PM my phone goes to do not disturb, she tried every way to reach us because every minute counts with getting the tooth back in. Dr.Robinson then leaves text and voicemails and says that he is headed to the office and will wait hoping, we see his message. My mom heart melted and was so emotional that people cared and wanted to help our daughter so much. Jennifer who was the assistant the night of the incident was so amazing! My daughter was so afraid but Dr. Robinson and Jennifer made her feel safe. Preparing that the bill would be something outrageous, it was super reasonable and the staff is very transparent about billing. This is much appreciated. I love this practice so much! read more

I tried. I really did. I LOVED Banakus and her group and was entirely annoyed to learn (almost a year later) that she had left. Had a big mix-up about insurance and got it resolved. Then, we went in for a procedure and was told up front the cost but then they said they could only do 1/2 of it right now. I'd have to come back and it wouldn't be at the same rate/deal as having them done at the same time. Um, you told us you needed to do both at that appointment...tried not to feel as though they were trying to make money on us. Last appointment was fine as we are not eager to make yet another change for our kids. BUT, got a bill yesterday. Have no idea what it is for, but insurance covers every cleaning. We didn't do anything different. I'm done. So very sad to lose a community partner in Novato (which Banakus had been). Go somewhere else. read more

Extremely annoyed by this practice. They forgot to file a claim with our insurance and kept harassing us with phone calls & mail about a balance due. Our daughter was supposed to have 4 teeth pulled and called us the day before to jack up the price and ask for a payment for claim they didn't bill the insurance for. Extremely unhappy with their lack of compassion. read more

My daughter has been seeing Dr. Neidre Banakus, DDS since she was a baby and loves the experience of coming for a visit to the dentist. I started her really early just as a regular routine for her to get used to the check ups. I liked the previous office but I like this new office even more. It's very spacious, beautiful decor, very clean and organized. There is plenty of parking so not to worry about it. It's also near a Starbucks and Trader Joe's in case you need to get a cup of coffee or do some groceries. The staff is always friendly and helpful and I am very happy with Dr. Banakus service. I like that she explains the process to my daughter of what she is doing. She is excellent at what she does, very sweet and understanding with the kids. I always recommend Dr. Banakus. I am always very pleased with her service. Until next time. Chao! read more

Novato Pediatric Dentistry - Pediatric Dentists Near Me - Novato, California

My two kids and I visited here for the first time today, they each had x-rays and teeth cleanings and we had a really positive experience. Karla & Christina were super friendly and helpful at the front desk and one of the owners, Daenen, went above and beyond in finding a solution to a scheduling miscommunication. All the people cleaning my kids teeth and taking x-rays were super friendly and knowledgeable, I'd recommend this place to all. Thank you to everyone at NPD! read more

My stars are less more for the "chairside manner" from assistants and not for quality of work. Front office staff is friendly and Dr. Banakus seems very knowledgable. Since our first experience my kids have each had less and less favorable experiences. One child, who has needed extra work was told "Not to cry, or it will hurt more." What an awful thing to say to a child. The open exam area does not lend itself well to having children who are crying but that should not reason enough to lie to a child so others won't freak out. Another child of mine was put in a back room and she told me she was "held down" so they could finish a procedure as she was freaking out. (They discourage parents from coming back so kids won't look to parents for sympathy or parent won't project fear). I'm paying a premium for a dentist experience that is friendly for my kids. My kids were more and more terrified to return. We have moved to another practice which is much more gentle and honest with my kids. I hope your experience is not as traumatizing. read more

If I could give zero stars I would. This used to be Dr. Banakus office before COVID. Since she sold the family practice, this place has been dreadful. We were with Banakus since my kid was 2, he is now 14. They literally call you the day of your appointment and try to get you to come in sooner. This happened 3 times to us over 18 months. How do you call patients before each appointment and try to get you to come in sooner that day? Our kid is in school, n, a 10am does not work hence we scheduled our appointments for after 4pm 6 months in advance. We went in November 2022, and the billing department did not send the claim to our insurance. January rolled around and we have new insurance. So this is what Martina in billing sends you. When I got the first notice that was blank I called her and she never called back. I had to call multiple times to get to her as she never responds, but if you beg the front office they won't put you into voicemail and will actually find her(if she is there. She doesn't work Mondays I found). Anyway, so in January she says "I did not send a blank invoice, I would have to un-click the details box on your invoice and I didn't do that." Ok, so you can see the attachment here. So she tells me she needs to bill insurance and for some reason they did not pay the bill before year end. So i remind her that we have new insurance as of 2023 so she needs bill my old insurance. Fast forward to March, I get yet another blank invoice. The answering service didn't bother to tell me Martina doesn't work Monday and no one would call me. So I call back in the afternoon and explain to Jessica what's going on. She was great but tells me it might go to collections! And then says Martina may call by Wednesday. So today, I call back as no one called me. Martina again is defensive and tells me she submits claims once a month. So I ask when she submitted the claim last and she tells me January. Well, why not February is my thinking. So we go back and forth and she says she did not submit anything for February and would do so "now." I presume she will today because I'm on the phone arguing with her. Obviously. I also discovered today that if you tell the front office you are going to post to Yelp as Martina is not responsive and is difficult they not only reply to your post saying how great they are, but they also have a woman named Amy call you immediately. Get this, Amy says SHE is the manager of billing not Martina, which is not what I had been told multiple times previously. But Amy will handle this claim and it will not go to collections. I guess we will see, no apologies from anyone. Run away from this place as fast as you can. It's also not that kid friendly anymore and the lobby has changed, the games are all gone and the vibe is not as welcoming as it was with the previous ownership. I mean my kid is older now so that doesn't bother me but it's not as great any more and the billing department is horrendous. All the previous reviews seem to agree with me! read more

Novato Pediatric Dentistry - Blank invoice. - Pediatric Dentists Near Me - Novato, California

Beware of shady office manager! I preface this by saying all other team members were pleasant...I was initially quoted at $9000 for my 3 yr old son at which point during consultation I asked "is financing available?" They reassured Yes it is! Ok cool I'll do business. Fast forward a month later they call to let me know a next day 10am appointment is suddenly available with an anesthesiologist on board. They said if I couldn't take it, I couldn't my son in for months unfortunately. I asked before hand can you please tell me what portion outside of my insurance I will be quoted at...office manage states her computer isn't working...I said I'm patient I can wait I do not want to commit to something I cannot afford. 5 minutes later she quotes me at $2700 and some change that included a 20% discount. I took the appointment... they said an anesthesiologist would be sending an email with instructions...the email never arrived. I was only instructed on such short notice, no food 9 hrs before 10 am said appointment. The next morning they called at 8:45 asking if I could come in early since they were ahead of schedule, I agreed and arrived 30 min early due to living in Santa Rosa. No biggie! Upon arrival a woman who I've never seen before brings out the paperwork with the quote of 2700 and says all we need is to slide your card and he's good to go! I say "okay how much am I being charged today"? She says the full amount. To my surprise I tell her I do not have that full amount, I was told that I could finance. She tells me she's the office manager and they "DO NOT" finance payments what so ever. And no one would have told me that. She then asks how much could I do today and I tell her $500 and she says that's not enough. She then proceeds to tell me she will not be arguing with me about payments in front of other customers in the lobby then turns around and sees it's just us and the receptionist.....Odd how worried she was about the way she looked....She rudely says I can go somewhere else at which point I obliged. Then 15 min later as I'm in the freeway home she has the audacity to call me and ask if I could come back and that they would accept my 500$ payment today. I laughed and declined because they were obviously very desperate, the call back was quite pathetic. Take your business elsewhere don't be fooled by the fancy fishtanks!!! read more

Yes! This place changed so much since the ownership has been changed. They had impressive service back then. My son started coming since 3 years old and now he is almost 16 years old. I drove 20 and more miles. I do want to change the doctor but he only will be here next two years or so. That is why I am staying. The other day we had an appointment and they sent me a text message to confirm the appointment along with that safely protocol to call/text them when we arrived. On the appointment day, we were in the car text them and no response, call them and I got machine. This was the same protocol since the pandemic started. I open the office door just for check. There are two receptionist and two other customers. They say they didn't get the text message. Really, this is the service now. Putting out a sign outside the door or even update their automated message sending system. We only go to dentist every 6 month. Don't presume we know everything. This is just one incidence explaining. I have more. read more

When Dr Banakus owned this dental practice it was greet, but now it is really not good. My three kids are going to someone new.

This is our second visit and it's a completely different atmosphere. It used to be very child friendly and when we arrived it was cold and all the kid decor has been removed. While my daughter seemed to be fine, it bothered me that the technician and Dr Ana didn't introduce themselves, I had to ask them who they were. Really disappointed in the Dr. in her explanation of the treatment. She gave me very little detail and I didn't find out the extent of what they wanted to do because they told me someone will go over the plan with me. We were in and out in 30 minutes. The treatment plan is aggressive and they immediately recommended anesthesia. I asked about a mild sedation and I was told that the Dr would have to look at it more. Which tells me it wasn't even considered even though my daughter had zero fuss over getting X-rays or a cleaning. This is probably a good fit for older kids but not younger children if you want them to have a positive dental experience. I plan to get a second opinion and find a dental office that's takes it time with me and my kiddo to make it a comfortable experience. read more

This place is the best! Its like walking into a fun kids museum with movies playing, ipads with games, a fish tank and toys. Immediately my kiddo was entertained and we waited maybe 5 minutes before we were seen. Since it was our first visit we got a fun "toy room" that had kids shows playing (a great distraction) and a cozy couch with toys. Everyone was SO nice and worked quickly and efficiently, perfect for a two year olds attention span. So glad we found this place :) read more

I apologize in advance for the lengthiness of this review, but I wanted details when I was researching and I hope mine will help somebody needing the same. My 3.5 year old daughter's first dental exam with a different dentist had revealed some cavities and a cracked tooth needing a crown. While going over the results of the exam, the dentist mentioned that he needed to have her sedated in order to have x-rays taken. I told him that his assistant had just taken a full set 5 minutes before with no issues or sedation. When reviewing the x-rays he told me the only option was to treat her under general anesthesia. I was terrified of this prospect from the very start. They didn't discuss much with me about the process but asked when I'd be making my deposit for the anesthesiologist (who wasn't covered by insurance at all) because I couldn't schedule the treatment prior to doing that. For a while, I struggled with the concept of using such drastic measures to fix some cavities. Though I knew the risks were extremely low, I stil wasn't comfortable with it. As a formerly dental-phobic person myself, I wanted to make this a comfortable experience for my daughter but hoped that there was some sort of "happy medium" alternative between being fully aware of shots/drills and general anesthesia. The office told me repeatedly that they do this all the time and I had no reason to be worried. That didn't help me much. About a month ago, our dental coverage changed. My husband suggested that we get a second opinion from this new field of providers available to us. I'm SO glad I did. I had heard wonderful things about Dr. Banakus through my local mothers' club but since we lived in Petaluma, I had stayed in town for my first choice. I called Dr. Banakus' office the next morning, had the x-rays sent over that day and we were in for our initial consultation that afternoon. I explained my concerns to her as my daughter contentedly watched "Happy Feet" on the ceiling-mounted TV screen above the exam chair. She told me that if my child were difficult to examine, frightened or had behavioral issues, she would recommend general anesthesia. None of these were the case. She said that with conscious sedation (orally administered), she should be able to complete all the necessary work within about an hour, There was the "happy medium" I had been hoping for. Much relieved, I made the appointment immediately (with no deposit required). Their office manager, Dan, went over the procedure in detail and answered all of my questions. They even provided a new prescription for chewable fluoride pills. In the days leading up to our appointment, I became a touch anxious. I called Dr. Banakus' office and spoke with Dan again. He helped ease my concerns, once again and I was grateful. On the day of the procedure, I was impressed with their preparedness and their processes. They brought us into a private room to administer the "juice". I was warned ahead of time that kids tend to fight and squirm because it tastes absolutely awful. I had relayed this info to my daughter and she took it with no problems at all. Over the next hour, my husband and I held her as the sedative took affect. They had explained the time frames of the levels of sedation and we were both impressed with how well they knew her response times. She slept soundly in our arms for a bit and then they had my husband carry her in to the treatment room. We gave the receptionist our cell phone number and they encouraged us to head up the block and grab some breakfast (since we were instructed no food or drink for our daughter in the 8 hours leading up to the procedure, none of us had eaten). Within an hour, they called to let us know she was finishing up. We sat with her in the same private room as she grew more alert. Surprisingly, she was alert enough to ask for a coin to use in the toy machine she had remembered from her previous visit. They sent us home with specific post-sedation instructions and called later that evening to check on her. I am so grateful for everybody at The Smiling Turtle. My daughter still loves going to the dentist. They listened and handled everything in a way that eased my fears and made me feel confident that I had made the right decision. We would do it all again (but will try our darndest to make sure we don't have to). Jen read more

The office reached out to me after this review and I was able to pinpoint exactly what policies are and what might have went wrong that day. The office manager is extremely professional and I'd like to amend my review and up it to 4 stars. read more

We decided to leave this dentist because of the TVs all over the place. The waiting room has a movie playing, as well as video game, I believe. There is a TV above each chair. We rarely let our kids watch TV, especially the cartoons that are playing there. If you are anti-video/tv/screens for your children, this is not the place for you. At the end of the visit, they give him a coin to use in the prize dispenser, which is something like a small bouncy ball. That was very exciting. The staff is all really nice, and Dr. Banakus seems both friendly and knowledgeable. They really do try to make the kids feel as safe and comfortable as possible. The way the interior has been designed is really fun for kids, with toys to play with, a fish tank, and bright colors. read more

This place makes going to the dentist fun for kids. Seriously! Who doesn't love a Chinese Water Dragon & Pixar movies? Dr. Neidre Banakus a.k.a The Smiling Turtle Dentist was advertised in our local parents' newsletter (I love a business who supports parents!) & also came highly recommended by my own dentist. My kid has been a few times now & always leaves with a huge smile & tells everyone on the street for hours after the appointment that The Smiling Turtle Dentist is SO FUN! &, she's right. read more

The staff and Dr Banakus are all so amazing at their jobs going to the dentist isn't a bad experience for my kids. They are so friendly from the first phone call to the office visits and follow ups. They have nailed pediatric dentistry on the head here! They have games and a huge super cool fish tank for the kids to watch and use, plus books and toys. The office is always in clean and orderly condition too, not easy when it comes to kids. They have hanging screens for a "show" the kids can choose to watch while the cleaning is happening. The smaller ones go into the private exam room( I think it is soundproofed) But the last time my 2 year old went in he didn't even cry, not one tear. Impressive! Dr Banakus and all her staff are patient, efficient, kind and always smiling at the patients. My kids hygienist recognizes them at city events (Art and wine etc) such a wonderful thing. Five stars! read more

I didn't take my children to the dentist for many years because I had not found the right doctor. My job takes me to many dental offices and I like them all but it wasn't until I met Dr Neidre Banakus that I KNEW who my kid's dentist was going to be. Dr B is absolutely wonderful, helping my kids feel comfortable and safe. Her conservative style of dentistry set my concerns at ease. The digital xrays showed what fillings were needed and then Dr Banakus put sealants in the rest of my children's back teeth to prevent future cavities. My children love the high tech office with video games in the lobby and movies over the dental chairs. They also love the lizards at feeding time... read more

Wow! If I could give Novato Pediatric Dentistry TEN stars I absolutely would. They are so kind and patient. Dr. Stephanie has the most calm and kind bed side manner; perfect for kids. We are so incredibly lucky to have this dentistry in our community. read more

The dentists and dental hygienists are great. I have to give this rating for the front staff and office manager. Given their billing practices, I did have to switch my children to another practice. To provide an example...my son needed dental work. The proposed plan was written up, which included an extraction of a tooth which was wiggly. Since my son would need sedation, they would need to extract the wiggly tooth if it didn't fall out before the procedure. The tooth fell out before the procedure, so an extraction was no longer necessary. The morning of the procedure, I had to pay in full my portion of the proposed dental plan. I explained that part of the plan was no longer necessary. They indicated that if any part of the plan was not performed, I would get a reimbursement. I explained again that I knew that not all of the plan would be performed and shouldn't have to pay for services up front that would never be performed. They advised that I would have to pay the proposed plan or my son would not be seen. I paid it. Do you think I've seen any reimbursement? No. I have called and emailed the office manager and, to date, no check. I cannot recommend this provider given these practices. If you go to a salon, does the stylist make you pay for a color up front when you are just getting a cut and say you will be reimbursed at a later date for the color? read more

This is my first time here. My daughter really like this place. They are friendly, courteous, and answered all my questions and concerns. The staff and Dr. Bannakus were great. read more

After having a HORRIBLE experience with a previous dentist I found this place and fell in love. The staff is so friendly! They all are able to answer my never ending list of questions. From the dentist to the dental assistants and even the receptionists. My daughter had to have cavities filled and required her to be put to sleep with a oral sedation and I was nervouse they all walked me through the procedure mulitiple times! When the day came I felt comfortable with having my daughter having the procedure!! read more

Novato Pediatric Dentistry - The amazing waiting room! - Pediatric Dentists Near Me - Novato, California

What an amazing introduction to the dentist by this practice for my 2 year old. The fish tanks were great fun, especially 'finding dory' & the relaxed approach in a mini living room setting (sofa, books, toys) along with Lauren's fantastic personality my son had a fun time. We flossed etc with Lauren & then Dr Banakus came in to check my sons teeth. I highly recommend this practice! From check in to check out it was super easy & professional. read more

Front desk wouldn't tell us the vaccination status of the person who would be cleaning my daughter's teeth. I get that, so I asked the person themselves- they wouldn't tell me their OWN vaccination status because they said that's a HIPAA violation. Which in my experience leads me to believe that they're not vaccinated because people who did get vaccinated usually don't have a problem telling you. Parents in the waiting room were not wearing masks, and walking back to the treatment area. I asked if masks were mandatory in the office and the front desk person said yes they were, but then did not ask them to put a mask on until I told her it was making us uncomfortable and asked her if she was going to ask him. In reading reviews of this place I read horror stories of how it went downhill after the amazing Dr. Banakus left,and wanted to decide for myself, and I have done that. I'm not saying anything about how good the dentists are at what they do, we didn't get that far. I just know that we didn't feel safe in the front of the office, or with the hygienist. You'd think with the Delta variant, and the majority of patients there being too young to get vaccinated, that they would be putting all the precautions in place that they could and it would be very easy for them to do it. read more

We had a wonderful experience with Dr. Neidre Banakus and her amazing staff. It was my sons first successful dental cleaning appointment. He is 5 yrs old and has sensory issues, so he was very nervous about the appointment. But they put him at ease :-) they were soooo patient and helpful!! Thank you read more

Our pediatrician recommended Dr. Banakus. We are so, so glad he did. She is an amazing dentist with an amazing staff. This place is perfect for children. Dr. Banakus really knows how to cater to the children and the parents at the same time. I love the videos for kids to watch, even though our son is a little young for it, yet. It was his first dental visit at 2 y.o., so it was hard. Dr. Banakus says it happens all of the time. But other than the actualy cleaning, he was fine. Happy, in fact. After the cleaning, it took less than a minute to get him smiling again. I don't think he wanted to leave. I also overheard a grandmother saying that they were early because her grandson was so excited to get to the office. That makes me very happy. Now, I just wish there was an adult version of this office for me. read more

WORST DENTAL EXPERIENCE EVER- I am a thoughtful parent with two master's degrees and I make educated decisions regarding my childrens' health needs. I chose this dental office because they had so many good Yelp reviews. Several years ago, they gave my 3 year-old a root canal. I should have done my homework to learn that root canals are not recommended on such young kids and that child root canals have fallen out of favor in the dental world. Two years after the root canal they failed to notice an infection in the root (a severe abscess) on an x-ray that another dentist noticed and said was obvious. Anyway, his root canal was severely infected (we were told for at least 6 months) and my kid got really, really sick and is still effected by this huge mistake. My son had chronic sinusitis for half a year and then strep which went to his brain (PANDAS) we think through the gaping infection in his mouth due to the infected root canal. My dentist said you could see the infection in the x-ray and that this dentist should have done more X-rays. You could also see the infected gum line which I did point out to the dentist that we saw in that office who said nothing about it. Anyway, my kid got a full blown neurological infection that is on-going and could have been fatal. There is no need for most root canals given to young children and the infection rate in little kids is way over 50 percent. Two and 3 years old should not routinely be given root canals.THIS IS NOT GOOD PRACTICE. PS. I have pictures of the rotten tooth (almost no root left) and a week after the infected tooth was removed my kid's sinus infection was completely healed. The dark circles under his eyes (especially the eye on the bad tooth side), the scars under his nose, so much, the rounds and rounds of antibiotics could have been prevented if we had not gone to this dentist. read more