I've been going to Dr. Imagawa for many years now. And I even had an appointment this morning. I've always been an early person to take the first appointment of the day. That's 7am in the morning. Dr. Imagawa makes it in before me. And coming from deep in the East Bay. He's always been accommodating to me and I only have praise for Dr. Imagawa. Apparently, there are a some folks who complain about things of secondary concern like too small an office for them, equipment they feel is not modern enough, expect an unpersonable approach to patients, do not take the recommended advice, have gone thru multiple dentists, and decided to unfairly judge Dr. Imagawa. Someone who hops from one dentist to another, having cleaning done by both a month apart, and unhappy with both is really questionable in their judging of others. I have gone to a few dentists before and have found Dr. Imagawa to be the right dentist for me. A reason I've stayed with him throughout the years. He is a true professional and his focus is on the patient, the preventive care and actual needs, and the quality of his work. He doesn't push unnecessary extra's on others. Dr. Imagawa has his own private practice. He doesn't belong to any group practice in a shared office. He doesn't need the extra space. So he also pays a lot for leasing a clinic space for one. This is San Francisco and any occupiable space is expensive. Especially for a one-person practice. I've taken folks to group practices and, sometimes, they seem like cattle. Or sometimes get assigned to another dentist to subsitute, at the time, for whatever reason. Personally, I prefer a smaller office setting. To judge a good professional by his office space/setting is ridiculous. It's the background, experience, and quality of work that really counts. If someone prefers to select a dentist by the dazzles of new age offices and equipment, as their priority, then go ahead and see what you really get in the end. When it comes to billing, Dr. Imagawa is very reasonable. And all of my insurance claims have been, expeditiously, processed. I prefer a dentist, like Dr. Imagawa, who makes conversation. For me, I like it more personable. I feel more relaxed. And I like sharing our thoughts and our views from news, to politics, to sports, and more. As far as his equipment, it's perfectly sanitary. The area, dental tools, and equipment are clean and immaculate. I've never had problems or worries. Equipment does not need to be the most modern on the market. New equipment is not necessarily an improvement or better. A lot of the older equipment is actually better than some of the new. And continues to provide what newer equipment has eliminated or doesn't provide. Those who complain will never be satisfied. They'll really have regrets when they go to a dentist or group, who might seem acceptable when they find them, but a real nightmare when it comes down to the actual dental care. There's always those types out there and will slam the good name of a great dentist. I have always had a high regard and respect for Dr. Imagawa. And I've been to dentists, not even close, to the focus and care Dr. Imagawa has provided me with. For myself, Dr. Imagawa has provided general cleaning, extractions, night guards for my grinding of my teeth while asleep, gum scaling and planing, more. I followed his instructions, before and after these procedures, and had no problems at all. I feared the gum scaling and planing, from stories folks experienced with other dentists. When mine was done, there was no pain during or after the procedure. Every time I walk out of Dr. Imagawa's office, I feel assured of a detailed session. A feeling, as always, of being well-cared for by the best. I know I wouldn't have some of my teeth if I didn't go to Dr. Imagawa throughout the years. I, personally, have the trust and confidence in Dr. Imagawa; and the utmost respect for him. I will continue to go to Dr. Imagawa because it's all about providing the patient with the best dental care. I can attest to that myself. Over the years, we've developed a wonderful rapport and I appreciate his personable character. Some folks have these embedded fears about dentists. Or feel they, personally, know what's best and do outside of what the dentists precribes. They are the ones who are difficult to satisfy. I reiterate that Dr. Imagawa is a true professional. I can validate that as a longtime patient. I give Dr. Imagawa a high five...5-star rating! read more

There are some that attack others uselessly with repeats over and over again. Crowned Dignity, elevated self Pride, and sense of WORTHYNESS and SUPERIORITY, Chivalry, like Lancelot's sword, the master! Stabbing and stabbing amid screams, as she thinks "this is the way it is?" Our military and "Government" attack others around the world, as in Iran, STARVING TO DEATH thousands of mothers sheltering children, a pestilence. It's purpose to use violence with a savior's sword that feeds his ego, and now, he's RIGHT.! Heroic facing a worthy threat. I ask myself, WHAT GOOD IS ALL THIS ?" Well, NOTHING, and God frowns. MAN COMPLAINS " more money" and we take it from England's Federal Bank accounts. WE ARE THE GREAT NATION. RTI DDS read more

Truly a bizarre experience.. While all the tools were in my mouth for my cleaning, the Doctor somehow got on a tangent about how covid vaccines and boosters can cause cancer and blood clots. When I said I would talk to my doctor about that he said 'I AM a doctor and they are making too much money on lies to tell you the truth!' My 3rd attempt to change the subject was finally successful and we sat in awkward silence through the rest of my cleaning. I will not be going back. read more

This was my first and last time visiting this dentist. When I sat down and he started examining me a wave of anxiety washed over me. My anxiety just got worse the more time I spent in this office. Dr. Imagawa proceeded to tell me the sodas and carbs I eat are the reason for my dental issues and went into the science of how food works/breaks down in the body. He's not a nutritionist and this information was not promoted or asked for by me. I've also recovered from an eating disorder and his rant was very triggering. He also told me I had a sweet tooth and all the candy I eat is bad to my teeth. Plot twist: I'm a 33 year old active and healthy woman who doesn't eat candy on a regular basis. He was misinformed and unprofessional! As he examined me I was in pain-which I let me know and he just kept powering through not showing much concern (if any) for my discomfort. Once that was finished he went in on my finances and told me that it was my obsessive consumerism (not previous lack of dental insurance) that was the reason I had to skip out on regular visits. If "I didn't buy so many fancy gadgets, I could afford dental care". So unprofessional and not okay! I literally ran out of the office. If you're a new patient looking to visit here I do not encourage it. I left upset and with nothing taken care of as I'm going to have to find another dentist. This morning was a waste of my time and really upsetting. If I could give 0 stars I would. read more

This is the letter I sent to my insurance company about my horrifying experience with Dr. Imagawa: On Thursday, October 27th, 2011, I had a wisdom-teeth extraction appointment with Dr. Imagawa located at 490 Post Street in San Francisco. Here is the account of my upsetting appointment and confrontation with Dr. Imagawa: During a pre-op exam appointment, I informed Dr. Imagawa that I had been given nitrous oxide for a cavity filling at Western Dental. I am always anxious for dental procedures, and I explained to him that the nitrous oxide had left me relaxed with no paranoia or fear of the tools. The nitrous made my experience during the fillings an overall pleasant one, and I left happy, clear-headed, and satisfied. Prior to my operation, Imagawa prescribed five 10mg Valium pills, instructing me to take one pill before my extraction appointment. I do not like taking pain killers, anxiety suppressors, or other high-Schedule drugs for the obvious reasons. I called Imagawa's office the day before my appointment to express my concern with the pills, and to let them know that I would not be taking any of the Valium before my appointment. If Imagawa wanted to call me back before my appointment to discuss this matter with me, he had the opportunity. When I showed up for my appointment on Thursday morning, Imagawa asked me if I had taken the Valium. I said no, per my phone call to inform the staff and give advanced warning for the sake of efficiency and procedure set-up. I told his assistant that I would take my business elsewhere if Imagawa were not willing to give me the nitrous oxide for the duration of the extraction. I was told to sit down and wait while the assistant assured me she had told Imagawa of my intentions the day before, and then went to speak with Dr. Imagawa. Imagawa continued to badger me about why I wanted the nitrous oxide, verging on accusatory language. I again explained that it had worked perfectly as a relaxation method for me before, and I thought it would work again, as I am aware that many dental offices use nitrous oxide for wisdom teeth extraction and other anxiety-inducing procedures. When I explained to Imagawa that I wanted this to be a positive experience for me, Imagawa responded, "Going to the dentist isn't about having an experience." He said my request for nitrous sounded anectodal and bothered him, which seemed at odds with his insistence on an addictive pharmaceutical like Valium. One can only wonder at his motivation to prescribe Valium Valium Valium, with utter disregard to the sovereign experience and needs of a patient. At this point I was already in the chair, and decided just to tune his opinion out and try to relax. After some final huffing and puffing from Imagawa, I was set up with a nose mask and the nitrous was turned on. I remember from my last experience feeling the nitrous within seconds. Waiting for the local anesthetic, which took about 5-10 minutes, I felt no effects of the nitrous. I informed Imagawa, and he tinkered with the machine. Five minutes later, I still felt nothing, as the local continued to dispense. Imagawa proceed to extract both of my upper wisdom teeth. During both extractions, I fought hyperventilation while Imagawa demanded that I calm down, unsympathetically telling me to relax as he extracted the first two teeth. Imagawa tried to convince me to take a Valium for the final two extractions, and with the nitrous adjusted too weakly to have any effect, I had no option but to take his pill. While sitting up to swallow the pill, I felt the nitrous beginning to work. When I lay back down in the chair, the effects of the nitrous disappeared. At that point, Imagawa used a tool to puncture a hole in the nose mask once I told him again that I still felt no effects of the nitrous. Upon removal of the puncturing tool, a bit of rubber struck my eye. I panicked, and he sprayed the eye with a burst of air, and then water. Ready to bolt out of the chair after all of this, I stayed and went though with the rest of the extractions wanting to just get the whole, terrible ordeal over with. I still had the nitrous oxide nose piece on, but was still experiencing no effects. At the end of the unpleasant experience, I was told by Imagawa that "Mind control is what separates us from animals." This made me very angry and more upset. I left the office with one 600mg ibuprofen, and a follow up appointment in one week. I plan on canceling the appointment and paying for the extraction of the teeth--but I refuse to pay for the nitrous oxide that was used improperly to achieve the desired results. Furthermore, I think it behooves the Network to remove Imagawa from its list, or at least include a word of warning to future patients: the man's bedside manner is tantamount to torture. Anyone with even a hint of anxiety would do well to look elsewhere. read more

I came across his practice randomly via my insurance because he is close to where i live, and i've stayed with him for 2 years now. I enjoy going to him for my dental cleaning and checkup- i feel that he is very thorough and inspected every single tooth of mine. He gave honest feedback about my cleaning effort as well. Dr. Imagawa loves to chat and frankly i enjoyed listening to him- from politics, religions, jp morgan, history, humanity, etc. It feels like a history class combined into my dental cleaning session with a classical background music! He does not employ a dental hygienist so he does the cleaning himself- better quality imo. Ms. Sachiyo is also friendly and organized and getting an appt is very easy and hassle-free- she would send me a reminder email 1 week before my appt. Overall i recommend this place. I also like their flute lamp in the waiting area. read more

I am not a native of San Francisco, and was only in town for a short while when I needed some emergency work done. And let me tell you: Dr. Imagawa is one of the most gentle dentists I have ever been to -- if not THE most adroit and skilled dentist I have ever been to. No exaggeration, either; I've lived in many cities and been to my share of dentists. I have even had traumatic experiences dealing with dentists in the past, so when I explained my history and my phobia of certain procedures he promised me he'd be gentle in his approach. He kept his word. He is extraordinarily mindful and careful as he carries out the procedure so as to avoid causing pain or discomfort. I call that magic. His office has a minimalist vibe (but I believe that might have to do with his Eastern beliefs). It's clear that Dr. Imagawa genuinely cares for the dental health of his patients.Now to find a dentist like him in TX. read more

I seriously do not understand why this dentist is getting such an awesome reviews here, sure fooled me--lesson learned, pay closer attention to the low rated reviews. I had issues with the previous dentist (not the dentist but the billing dept in that office) so I just randomly selected this dentist since the review was great and he was in my network. The office is conveniently located in downtown, but the office is TINY, the "waiting area" is as small as a handicap bathroom stall with like 3 chairs. That's fine, don't judge a book by it's cover, right? Once I completed the papers and waited a good 15 minutes (I arrived early since I'd figure there'd be some paperwork to be filled out for a first time visit, so counting that, I waited good 30 minutes)- still no complaining. As soon as I sat, I felt very uneasy. Equipment looked super old and I mean, it just didn't look..sanitary enough.. Some of the reviewers here like that there are no dental assistants and the dentist does it all..um..frankly, I don't know if that's necessarily a good thing. I was actually kind of surprised the office was able to take my Xrays. It was so old I seriously thought they'd surely send me off to some off-site high tech office for this job. Once I got sat down, the dentist kept asking questions. He mumbles and speaks very softly so it was hard to hear, but he sure asks a lot of personal question (not medical questions but like about your job and stuff..). I'm a private person so personally, I do not appreciate chatty dentist, heck, not even a hair stylist. But whatever, as soon as I sat down, I had that sucking hose in my mouth so not like I could talk much. The next 30 minutes was THE MOST UNCOMFORTABLE TIME in my entire life. He kept talking, I mean, TELLING me his political views, about government, about republicans, democrats, health care, etc etc on and on and on. WTF!!!! It's not like I can talk back to him (he kept taking the tube out of my mouth as if he wanted me to reply back to him but frak, I was rolling my eyes because I just wanted to yell at him after about 10 minutes of this crap, shut the f**k up and could we just talk about my teeth?? Either he's totally clueless or simply doesn't care, but for christsake, this is my first time ever seeing this dentist and his speech made me suuuuuper uncomfortable I wanted to push him aside and jet outta that office at least 5 times during the 30 minute+check up/cleaning. Thorough, you'd think..um..actually, I knew he really shouldn't have spent that much time with the cleaning because I had just gotten it cleaned about a month ago with my old dentist, whom I left because they kept messing up my billing over and over. I guess the good thing is, the topic wasn't about religion, otherwise, I'd have thought he belonged to a cult. If he'd been your family dentist over 20+years or if you enjoy a chatty dentist to have political discussion while you have your mouth wide open, sure, go for it. Additionally, I prefer my dentist to have some up-to-date equipment at least. He may be a "thorough" dentist in certain aspects (I wouldn't know -I was very uneasy and uncomfortable during my first -and last-visit), but with no decent equipment handy and water being splattered all over my face with the cleaning AND being utterly blinded by the light above me? No thank you. I have never ever been this uncomfortable at a dentist, not even when I had all 4 of my wisdom teeth pulled out a few years ago. This dentist needs know some patients just don't wanna listen or know what he thinks and he also needs to stop asking personal questions. period. read more

Too much political talk. This topic is fine amongst friends and family, but to patients....in my opinion, it should be off-limits. When I go to a dentist, I want them to do what they need to do, concentrate on my teeth, and let me get out of there asap. Pleasant doctors are always welcome, but this one was a bit too talkative for me. read more

Great older honest no frills dentist with a conservative approach. I am able to make appointments as early as 7AM before work and they always can squeeze me in if I have a concern. This is not the most modern office and pretty much a one man show, well the receptionist who also works as the billing person is in the office too. She is delightful, always happy to help & I have never had a billing problem at this office or any other concerns for that matter. Doctor Imagawa like I said is "old school" - not a big believer in x-rays or such and he explained that to me "what if you relay on x-rays & then you miss other problems" which make sense. He also does chat during visits about current affairs which I find relaxing as it takes my mind off the dental work or cleaning which I dislike to begin with. Will keep going here as I definitely believe & trust Dr. Imagawa 100%. read more

Excellent. Very gentle (a must for me, or I don't go back), knowledgeable, and a nice guy.

The best dentist ever anywhere! He has been mine and my family's dentist form over 20 years and without fail, he has been truly amazing. It's not only his demeanor, patient kind personality, or ability. It's his truthfulness. Finding an honest dentist is like finding a needle in a haystack. The profit motive dominates this business and most dentists are rife with "suggestions " and doom and gloom scenarios if you don't do this procedure or that procedure. Not Dr Bob. He is one of the last of the true dentists Truthful about what you need to do and what's necessary he is a dentist extraordinaire in the old school. And friendly, honest, and intelligent too. A truly interesting person. Office staff Sachiyo is great too. Friendly, efficient and nice to talk to. A real class act. A+ all the way. read more

Been going to Dr. Imagawa for almost 20 years! I have never had a negative experience. He is thorough and efficient, and I trust my teeth to him with 100% confidence. Love chatting with him, and listening when he chats while I cant respond due to his working on my mouth!! He is a great person as well as an awesome dentiste. read more

Recommended by a friend's mother I have been going to Dr. Imagawa for a few years now. He has an unassuming personality and oh so kind. My previous dentist (Jeremy Velasco) in a different floor of the same building caused me enough frustration and distrust due to billing problems and performed an unnecessary procedure. Despite the raving reviews received by Velasco, my experience was so different and was unpleasant. After switching dentists, I feel so comfortable in Dr. Imagawa's office. One little indicator of a good dentist is NOT asking me if I wanted my teeth whitened (which Velasco did). I'm sending good vibes to Dr. Imagawa's office. I am totally satistied!! Will YOU be as well??!! read more

I am going to share my story about what a gentle and professional dentist Dr. Robert Imagawa is. I had a very frightening extraction that had to be done back in late October 2011, it involved an implant which was ready to come out since i had rejected it. All of my life I feared having any dental work done because when you are born with cleft palate, there is a lot of scar tissue. Something as routine and simple as a novecaine shot can be excruciatingly painful and dreadful. That was the case, until i explained those concerns to Dr. Imagawa. I begged him to be as careful as possible, and he listened. This was the first time ever that I had a dental procedure done, where I felt no pain or discomfort at all. There was no nitrous oxide needed. I felt at ease and comfortable. meanwhile dr imagawa discussed the stories of the day. I would highly recommend him to anyone who has dentist jitters -- especially anyone undergoing a complicated extraction. If you tell him, he will be very gentle. Thank you Dr. Imagawa. I am hopeful that other dentists out there are as empathetic to the pain that some of us feel and dread. read more

The dentist is amazing great conversation and even remembers your name. Only pesky gripe I have is the receptionist. Seems to be a nice person bit do not forget an appointment. She will never forgive you and if and when you make another appointment she threatens to push fines and cancelation fees on you. I know this because I set an appointment with her six months in advance forgot because six months ago. I went to set an appoint for a check up and and she said she called but I never received a call trying to remind. Long story short every time I set an appointment she harasses and threatens you with you with fines. Again nice doctor best in the world but horrible customer service on the receptionist part. read more

Dr. Imagawa is by far the best dentist I have ever been to! I have convinced every member of my family to go to him and we have all been going to him for years. Even though we have moved to the east bay, we still go to him despite the distance. He is gentle, professional, trustworthy, knowledgeable, thorough and up-to-date. I love how he keeps me up-to-date with the latest news or current events. and regarding the previous negative review...I can tell you it is probably due to one of the older forgetful secretaries he had in the past. read more

My father was my dentist up until he passed away in 1981. He was an extremely successful prosthodontics with a practice in Brooklyn, and later in Manhattan. He was such an incredible craftsman, and looking back in time, I've only had a few other dentists treat me, since my father. Dr. Imagawa is a special dentist. He won't talk about it, but it's a fact that other dentists seek Dr. Imagawa for their own treatment. There's another thing that sets him apart; he performs teeth cleanings by himself on his patients. How many dentists do that? None. Imagine a dentist who cleans your teeth in between regular check-ups. That's involvement in patient care. You go to him for some of the best dentistry in SF. I heartily recommend him. read more