I have been going to Dr. Raul Montalvo for many years, and unfortunately, over the last couple of years, the quality of care and professionalism I initially experienced has noticeably declined. After reading other reviews, I realized many patients seem to share similar concerns. Some of the issues I personally experienced include: Conversations regarding my dental care became increasingly brief and dismissive, leaving me feeling unheard and rushed during appointments. The out-of-pocket costs not covered by my dental insurance seemed to increase significantly year after year, often without clear explanation. With nearly every procedure, I was told I was being given a "discount," but the frequency and amount of these supposed discounts eventually made me skeptical that I may have been overcharged to begin with. Interactions with the receptionist, Veronica, were consistently frustrating due to what I felt was unprofessional communication and poor office management. Her mistakes caused delays and, at times, denied claims through my dental insurance. When she became confused or could not explain something clearly, she would sometimes abruptly hang up the phone. On multiple occasions, my credit card was charged without my consent, even after we had a lengthy conversation where I clearly explained that I needed to be present or on the phone before any charges were processed. My final conversation with Dr. Montalvo was especially disappointing. I asked about my receding gums, and instead of examining the issue or offering guidance, he quickly responded that a periodontist would need to evaluate it, while appearing too rushed to even take a closer look himself. After all of these experiences, I decided to find another dentist where I felt more confident and comfortable with the level of care and professionalism. Once I made that decision, I contacted Dr. Montalvo's office to request my final bill. The following week, I received a letter from Dr. Montalvo stating that he could no longer provide dental services to me. The timing felt petty and unnecessary. What I learned from this experience is that if a dental office consistently falls short in patient care, communication, professionalism, and transparent billing practices, it is better to act sooner rather than later in finding a provider you can trust. read more

When my previous retired, I was looking for a new dentist. Two of my friends recommended Dr. Montalvo. I became Dr. Montalvo's patient two years ago. All of Dr. Montalvo's staff, Veronica at the front desk, Marian the hygienist, and James the dental assistant are so helpful and professional. I recently had two new crowns. Dr. Montalvo did a GREAT job. The procedure was a snap. The new crowns fit great. Many thanks to Dr. Montalvo and his team for all of their help. I would highly recommend Dr. Montalvo and all of his team. read more

Dr. Montalvo is truly the best dentist in San Francisco for both me and my 12-year-old daughter. He's incredibly gentle, professional, and efficient, which makes every visit so easy and comfortable. My daughter actually feels relaxed going to the dentist, which says a lot. We feel very lucky to have found him. Highly recommend! read more

This review is LONG overdue. Over 10 years ago I began seeing Dr. Montalvo for dentistry during which he provided the most beautiful veneers for some of my top teeth. He was extremely professional and thoughtful with the process and I could tell instantly that he was a highly skilled dentist. His assistants were always so kind and thorough as well. Unfortunately, we had to move from the area a while back and for ease of schedules started working with another dentist. Fast forward to now and one of my veneers needs to be evaluated. As soon as I called and explained my situation, the front staff was able to get me in almost instantly, understood my commute, and were so wonderful with the process. It feels great to know that an office that has performed previous work is so supportive upon needing to be seen again. If we were still in SF, Dr. Montalvo's practice would be our families go to for dental work hands down. read more

It's so unfortunate i had to stop coming here because they decided not to work my dental insurance anymore. Also their administration is fake nice. I called several times for my bill to be emailed so I could reimburse. Nope. Nothing. read more

I had been a patient of Dr. Montalvo's for many years. I had some cosmetic work done by him last year -- crown replacement on some very old crowns. Due to a history of dental problems, I SPECIFICALLY asked Dr. Montalvo if the last tooth that he was re-crowning had a root canal, because I did not want to disturb the tooth if it had not. He answered me that YES, that it had a root canal. He either made a mistake or lied to me. Either explanation is unacceptable. Immediately after the re-crown, the tooth started to bother me. I subsequently went to an endodontist who advised me that the tooth had NOT had a prior root canal, but now needed one. He did the procedure but with a guarded prognosis. I am now advised that the tooth cannot be saved and that it will need to be pulled. I paid for the first re-crown, then a root-canal where the crown broke, then back to Dr. Montalvo who charged me again for a re-re-crown. Now the tooth cannot be saved, and where I will need to decide what's next, and with still more procedures ahead. The tooth never bothered me until I had it re-crowned by Dr. Montalvo. I asked the question for this very reason. The experience could not get much worse. read more

I have been seeing Dr. Montalvo for dental exams, cleaning, fillings, and several crowns for more than 30 years. He is very skilled and gentle, professional, caring, and competent. I especially like the way he administers local anesthesia, using a topical anesthetic first and then injecting the anesthetic slowly and shaking my cheek, all which result in minimal discomfort. I know that my teeth are receiving excellent care. His staff, especially the dental hygienists, is excellent, friendly, welcoming, and professional. I highly recommend Dr. Montalvo, the finest dentist I have ever seen. read more

I have gone to Dr Montalvo for years & referred many appreciative friends to his practice. Dr Montalvo and his assistant, Cindy, make a great team... you know when you are in good hands.... Veronica and Amber make registering, booking appts, checking insurance coverage, and expediting referrals/appointments with other specialists really smooth. Marcy, my hygienist, is gently directive & encouraging. The convenient location, efficient systems, and pleasant environment are complimented by soothing music. Dr Montalvo's cosmetic craftsmanship has me smiling to this day. Do yourself a favor, try him, you'll like him. read more

I have never been so proud of my smile! I highly recommend Raul to anybody that would consider permanent veneers... this man knows his profession like the back of his hand. Not to mention his friendly staff. Great experience all around every time I step through those doors... Whether it's a check up, a cleaning or fixing my cracked tooth from grinding my teeth while I sleep. He even fitted me for a custom made nightguard. A+++++ read more

Raul A Montalvo, DDS - Cosmetic Dentists Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Is that woman still there? I, too, stopped going to Dr. Montalvo because of his front office. Of the 6 appointments I had with him, FIVE were rescheduled, 1 several times. She has even called me back "with an unexpected opening" that turned out to be the very appointment she had previously cancelled on me. On top of that, she dispenses information that she is clearly not qualified to offer and she CONSTANTLY pushes their credit plan, even though I was a prompt paying current patient. Once, she offered the credit service FIVE TIMES IN A ROW, with me declining politely, at first, and eventually having to tell her not to ask again or I would walk out. She just does not LISTEN to anyone. Dr. Montalvo? Well, the one crown he did for me fell off, while I was out of town a few months later, and the dentist I saw told me that he found cotton stuffed up inside it. It's a year later, and my new dentist just completely replaced the crown. Most of my other ones have lasted 20 years. But, it's the front office that made every visit unpleasant and adversarial. By the time I saw Montalvo himself, I was so irritated that I didn't like him very much eather. read more

Dr. M is AWSOME!! I worked for him 5 years ago.Had a baby and just came back to my old job!! I have been in he dental field for 15 years and with Dr M 5 of those.He only does work that he feels is a MUST,Beautiful tooth color fillings only and we have gas for the timid.We have a great garden setting that will calm your busy day.I can not say a bad thing about the man.If you have any questions about the office email me!! *I wanted to post something because I think folks need to know what a great Dentist he is and move into Computer age of Yelp!! read more

The Diagnosis: After moving to SF and getting a diagnosis of needing 4 fillings and a crown (very unexpected diagnosis!) from a downtown dentist, I sought a second opinion from Dr. Montalvo. I'm so glad I did, as Dr. Montalvo indicated that while I did need the crown, the fillings were unnecessary. Dental work is never something you want to be taken advantage of over, and a common concern for many patients. You don't have to worry about that with Dr. Montalvo. The Work: it was my first crown, and I was very nervous. But while I certainly hope I never have to get one again, the work was exceptional. No pain, and the crown hasn't caused me any issues whatsoever in the almost year now that I've had it. The Staff & Office: I've had a great experience with all of Dr. Montalvo's staff. They are very friendly and professional. The office is laid back and non-threatening, and it doesn't feel like a big marketing push all over for additional cosmetic treatment. Overall: I highly recommend Dr. Montalvo. As long as I'm in SF and he's in business, he will be my dentist. read more

I've been seeing Dr. Montalvo for 15 years and he has been keeping me afloat. Unfortunately teeth are no covered as extensively as other parts of the body when it comes to insurance and Dr. Montalvo has always been kind and helpful in helping me find ways to manage on a slim budget. While going into the dentist is one of my least favorite things to do, it's not so bad when I see Raul. When you have bad teeth there is a fear of being shamed a bit, but he never does that. Cindy Moss, is an awesome assistant - kind, and warm. I love her. The dental hygienists are hit and miss - I guess they have to make stupid comments like - "have you ever tried flossing?" but - some of them are super nice and know when to keep the conversation to sports and house pets. read more

I love Dr . Montalvo and staff. Many years being a patient , 20 + I'd say and since I've moved moved to East Bay, he's still the dentist I turn to. His staff is friendly, competent and knowledgeable. Dr Montalvo is always on top of new techniques and technology and always has the best interests of his patients as well!! I just adore him and highly recommend. read more

I went to Dr. Montalvo initially because he was recommended to me by a friend. My lowest rating for the office has everything to do with the ethical practices of the receptionist. I am sorry that this reflects on his office as a whole. I started by getting cleanings and a mouth guard made. I noticed my insurance wasn't covering the whole bill, but I had expected that knowing that they didn't cover mouth guards. I spoke with the receptionist about it and she said she would resubmit the bill to them. Later, I had a pain and I wanted the Dr to look at it. The receptionist told me I would need to have an x-ray done. I told her I didn't want an x-ray and she told me it was covered by my insurance. I found out a while later that Dr. Montalvo was not covered by my insurance, so I was paying out of network costs. Not only did I have to pay for my cleanings but I had to pay for the x-rays as well. In the prior months when I was having phone conversations with the receptionist. She made it sound as if there was a problem submitting insurance claims. She never once told me it was because they were out of network. Not only was she deceitful but she out right lied to me about my insurance covering x-rays. I will never do business with Dr. Montalvo's office again because I don't do business with liars. read more

I can't deal with the woman at the front desk anymore. She has absolutely no clue of etiquette or customer service. After several years with Montalvo I am returning to a dentist in the South Bay as this office is not worth the frustration. read more

The short: Calming, comforting, informative The long: After going to the worst dentist in the city (look for a pac heights 1 star dentist), I decided to forgo asking 1-800-dentist, and just ask yelp where to go. I ended up with Dr.Montalvo. He's been a gem. I always feel happy and safe and comfortable in his office. The receptionist always helps me figure out how my insurance will cover certain procedures, and how to schedule things for maximum insurance coverage. My cleaning was super fast and through, and there was no pain or bleeding. I love going to Dr.Montalvo, and I feel confident that any procedures or therapies he recommends are for the good of my health and happiness, and not just to make a dollar. If you have any fear or panic around dentists (like I did), Dr.Montalvo is the guy for you. He just exudes calm, confidence, and caring. He tamed my fearful heart around dentistry, and I feel confident that he could help anyone get the dental care they need without pain or worry. Thank you, Dr. Montalvo. read more

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I love my new dentist! Dr. Montalvo is wonderful - very kind, patient, and professional. I am having him replace a porcelain veneer that chipped after 20 years. His price for this work is about $1,000, which is $300-$1,000 less than the other dentists I called. The office is clean, modern and sunny. And, for the first time in my life, I didn't feel the Novocaine needle at all. Seriously, I have never had a more pleasant dental experience. You will see some reviews here about the woman at the front desk being hard to deal with. Take them with a grain of salt. She is a little rough around the edges, it's true. But, her heart is definitely in the right place. In truth, I think she might be a little bit disabled, and Dr. Montalvo keeps her as a kindness. Have a little patience and a sense of humor, and she will take good care of you. read more

Started going to Dr. Montalvo this summer when I wanted to get my teeth straight again with Invisalign. He was easy to talk to and what I wanted to do and he told me about the options. Since I was a pretty easy case, I qualified for the express version and ever since it's been great. I also get my teeth cleaned there and the hygienist has been very nice. Toni (sp?) the receptionist is great and always calls me with opportunities to come in early as well. He even gave me some whitening stuff for free which brightened my smile. I also like that opportunity to pay a discounted rate for paying right away too. read more

I love , love dr montalvo ! I have been seeing him for many years and you couldn't find a more professional , kind dr as him . He listens carefully offers the best advice and above all is the most gentle dentist i've ever had . Your fears melt away in his hands i always was nervous going to the dentist but thanks to dr montalvo and his welcoming staff I feel at ease the moment I step into his office Toni is great she is always on the ball and gets you in asap with an emergency I like her a lot same goes for the hygienists, Meredith and Linda both great for cleaning and checking everything out before dr montalvo comes to thoroughly check out your teeth convenient location, soothing atmosphere I can't praise this practice enough !! read more

Dr. Montalvo's practice is seriously disappointing. I saw him for over ten years, and he was a very competent dentist--until that is, he needed to be something more: until he needed to be a doctor, someone who cared about his patients' wellbeing. I had a cardiac event, after which I was put on blood thinners. The practice simply refused to see me unless I went off the blood thinners, but I couldn't do that for many months. Worse, when, accepting this policy, (which is not that of other dentists) I wrote to ask Dr. Montalvo what I should do for my dental health in the meanwhile under these circumstances, I got no reply. He never communicated to me either through email or phone; a secretary did his dirty work, but of course SHE couldn't give me medical advice. I've noticed that objects of negative reviews on Yelp frequently try to track their authors down, refute their claims in a reply, or get in touch with them privately. This of course sucks, but it would not hard for Dr. Montalvo to know who I am; I've done pretty everything to reveal myself. Since he doesn't reply to private communication, perhaps he might to public. read more

Let's face, over the years we see a lot of different physicians. I'm going to keep it short and simple because I don't want to waste any more time than I need to with this Desperate practice. I went to Dr. Montalvo three times within one month .Before I had much chance to figure out the billing information, I was already receiving passive threats from the receptionist that they would take my case to collections. Unfortunately, she came across as a nice lady in person so I felt a trusting connection. She is aware my father is a physician in the Bay Area and that money, in other words, is not an issue here. My entire family works in Health Care, and Never have I ever dealt with such a desperate and pushy professional practice. Also, my teeth are even more sensitive than before seeing this Dentist. The Dentist is nice but not worth the strife that his office will put you through. Quite a let down. You may leave without your old ailments, but the receptionist will make sure to leave a bad taste in your mouth. Do not go to this "doctor." read more

I've been going to Dr Montalvo for many years and he and his entire team are the best. They are all friendly, professional and very thorough and the setting is like being at a hip friend's house and always relaxing rather than being filled with the noise of whirring machinery. I've had a variety of services here over the years and each and every one is done to perfection. He's a real expert in cosmetic dentistry too. Not many people can say that they really enjoy going to the dentist but I really do and it's because of Dr Montalvo and his team. read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Montalvo for nearly 30 years. That fact alone speaks volumes about the quality of the dental care he provides. I lived for 9 years in the East bay. I thought it was too far to drive to come into San Francisco from across the bay. I found a dentist over there and saw her for a couple of visits, but decided that driving into San Francisco to see the dentist wasn't that hard after all and came back to seeing Dr. Montalvo. I'm fortunate that usually all I need is a cleaning and exam. He has done two crowns for me. I wasn't looking forward to the procedures, but , in his hands, they went smoothly and weren't at all difficult to tolerate. I enjoy the pleasant environment and the office staff is friendly and helpful. And it's always to catch up with Dr. Montalvo. read more

NOPE NOPE NOPE NOPE !!! Just ... NO !!! I went in with a problem, went out with an expensive cleaning (which was NOT what I came in for!), an overly-exaggerated and overly-expensive plan to do unnecessary dental work and several attempts to sell me dental products by the front lady. Dr. Montalvo was nice (for the entire 5 minutes during which he saw me), but did nothing to solve the dental problem that I came in. This place is all about marketing and selling of unnecessary services and products and I would not recommend it to anyone! read more

I've been seeing Dr. Montalvo for 13 years at this point, and my teeth have never been happier or better looking. In addition to the routine cleanings and replacing a filling here and there, he has completely redone all my crowns over the years, and they look pretty snappy. Both Dr. Montalvo and the entire staff are friendly, unpretentious, and welcoming. You need that in a health care professional to set you at ease. The homey office environment helps too. This is your spot. read more

Dr. Montalvo is great... there have been some cranky employees who worked there over the years who have come and gone, sure, but that is because Dr. Montalvo is so kind to his employees that he doesn't really fire people. The office LOOKS like a fancy, cushy kinda spa-like dental office. But behind that facade, they are truly a family unit, and I know that as a fact. I gave Dr. Montalvo a 5-star rating because he's kept my teeth looking rock-star fabulous for ten years. Montalvo is experienced in cosmetic dentistry but they *never* try to push expensive treatments. They have dental hygienists like Linda and Cindy that have worked there forever and will never leave. They're like a little family and they're super friendly and CLEAN. read more

Dr. Montalvo is a great professional who is amazingly good at what he does. I've been a loyal patient since 1994. Sometimes I joke he is my longest relationship. No words can describe my gratitude for all the great work he has done throughout all this time. In fact, whenever I get a compliment how great my teeth look which is pretty often, I always think of Dr. Montalvo. He is on top of all the modern technology and is extremely skilled in every aspect of his field. I know I can trust him. He is as good as it gets. read more

I've been coming to Dr. Montalvo for 7 years. Before seeing him, I had been to some not-so-great dentists. I was so grateful to find him through referrals at my job. The progress that I have seen in these past 7 years is truly incredible. I've been through so much....I've had my TMJ relieved, I've had braces come on and off, I've been through a few deep cleanings, 3 or 4 crowns (!), dozens of routine cleanings with the most amazing and friendly staff, and he referred me to a wonderful periodontist who worked closely with Dr. Montalvo throughout the entire process of restoring my gums. 100% satisfaction from this long-term patient. Have recently moved to Portland, OR and not sure how I will find a dentist as wonderful, kind, capable, and talented as him. read more

I've been a patient of Dr. Montalvo for more than 20 years and have constantly received great care. He is gentle and careful. I recently had an issue with a fractured tooth that involved seeing an endondonist and then an oral surgeon. Toni, his receptionist, didn't just give me names to call, she arranged the endodontist appointment on the spot. When I found I would need an oral surgeon, she found one who was in-plan for my insurance and did a 3-way call to make an appointment for me. When my temporary crown came off, I left a message on Saturday, when the office was closed and Toni called me back Saturday afternoon and made an appointment for Monday. And Linda is a great dental hygienist I highly recommend this office for their total professionalism and service to their clients. read more

I've seen Dr. Montalvo and Cindy for 20+ years. Highest rating, highly recommended. Professional, personable, skilled, and they take my dental insurance. Veronica and Amber at the front desk are also great to work with. So is Marcy, who does my cleanings and periodic checkups. read more

Raul is the best dentist I've ever had. He's been my dentist for almost 20 years and he is VERY competent, thorough and understands you. His hygients are also thorough and pleasant when cleaning your teeth. I'll never go to another dentist unless Raul retirees. You won't be disappointed. read more

Orig Post: 2009 I saw Dr. Montalvo for a number of years and was quite pleased with both he and his hygienist, Linda. Both are excellent. Update 2015: I left in 2009 for reasons unrelated to my dental care (poor support staff). I understand that his original support staff is back (she was always fantastic) and now have no hesitation recommending Dr. Montalvo. read more

I was referred to Dr. Montalvo by a friend for a crown repair and a cleaning / checkup. The office environment is great! The atmosphere is very light with high ceilings, inviting and calming (I tend to be a nervous wreck when it comes to dental stuff). The staff are all very friendly and professional. Dr. Montalvo is excellent. He is very straight forward, let me in on his plan of care and what he was going to do next. His hygienist and dental assistant are both great! I am looking very much forward to my visit in 6 months for my next regular check-up. read more

OK so I hate the DENTIST, I dislike pain, needles, the saw sound, everything a dentist entails. However I have been going to Dr. Montalvo for over 15 years and have recommended many friends to him. They have also been satisfied. I like the fact he knows I am nervous and hate pain. He takes time to assure me and tells me what he is doing. He has a nice clean office with modern equipment. I don't feel I have old contraptions stuck in my mouth for xrays. Everything is pretty straight forward. He is funny and friendly and has a great staff working for him. If your looking for a Dentist I would definitely check him out.... You may end up with for over 15 years as I have... read more

Dr. Raul Montalvo is probably the most skilled and professional dentist I have seen. He is very careful to see that treatment is as painless as possible, and the results are great, whether it is a filling or a crown. His dental hygienist and offfice staff are great too. read more

Before Dr. Montalvo, I had a dentist that I was happy with. It was a decent, grey, and ugh! I have dentist appointment today kind. I hear you saying: Well it's a dentist experience, what do you expect?... Hold on for a sec because one day, one of my colleague suggested Dr. Montalvo! And since then my dentist appointments are like being at a dental spa, or I feel like Willy Wonka, or I am in Sex and The City Dental! Yeah yeah yeah I got it, you just want your teeth problems solved, me too! But what I am saying is: He is an amazing dentist; he is very calm; friendly, and professional. His office is so calming! You can hear the fountain in the patio, listen relaxing music... It's not not like other offices that they are located in a big building. His team is as professional and friendly as him if not more. His assistant Cindy is an awesome and cool ( just in case if awesome does not cover coolness). Linda is an amazing teeth cleaner! and last but not least Toni! I have no idea what some people here are talking about her attitude.Just be polite people! She is amazing! Very efficient, polite and good hearted. She is the person makes all the appointments and insurance stuff. She is extremely knowledgeable and helpful! I guess this much review is enough, if you are still not convinced then too bad for you. You won't regret! Thanks. read more

Dr. Montalvo is the best dentist I have ever attended. He has restored my crooked teeth to perfection! The recepcionist, Tony, always accomodates my appointments according to my hectic schedule. Also, a very nice person who greets with a smile every time! She takes time to get to know the people who come in, and really cares about them. Amazing doctor, and staff; highly recommend Dr. Montalvo you wont regret it. read more

I have been a patient of Dr Montalvo's for about 13 years. I even travel from the East Bay to see him and cannot rave enough about him, his staff and the office space which is on the edge of the Castro area, tucked behind a bike shop and has the coolest vibe. The office has lots of light. high ceilings with rafters, artwork, great chillout music, surrounded by trees and a garden...a total little calm oasis in the middle of urban City. And Dr Montalvo is the most painless, expert, friendly dentist I've ever been to, couldn't imagine ever going to anyone else. He is very professional but in a relaxed style that immediately puts you at ease and makes you look forward to going to the dentist!!! His staff are all super friendly, accomodating, professional and a joy to work with....I highly recommend Dr Montalvo's skills, professionalism, practice, staff, environment and location. read more

A happy patient since 1993. Like alot of us, I've had mostly negative experiences with dentist and dental work, until San Francisco and Raul Montalvo. His calm, considered manner complete with clear explanations partnered with being able to look outside (sky lights, beautiful windows and orchids) make for a relaxing experience. Yes, I said relaxing. I've even fallen asleep there. How happy am I? I'm willing to drive across the bridge from Oakland during rush hour to keep an appointment. read more