UPDATE: Management reached out proactively after seeing this review to offer further assistance. While I appreciate their prompt follow-up, the primary issue was the 4-month ordeal - including repeated 30-minute commutes and ongoing muscle strain and weather sensitivity from a prolonged misaligned bite. The crown itself is structurally fine now, but the lengthy process to get here was frustrating. Leaving this note to acknowledge their outreach. read more

I had a filling done with Dr Schaffer about 5 months ago and after being charged $500 for a nerve blocker that allegedly my insurance didn't cover he drilled too deep and aggravated the nerve. I went back 2 times within the next month to have the filling "ground down" since thats what he told me would erase the pain when chewing but even after a very painful grinding of the filling the nerve is still severely agitated. On top of all that the filling FELL OUT today completely exposing the nerve and causing excruciating pain. I will be going to a different dentist to see if my tooth can be saved. I do not recommend Dr Schaffer he does not know what he's doing. read more

Awful experience!! Not attentive to my concerns. Very overpriced. Do not recommend. read more

Very overpriced office that seems to push towards unnecessary expensive services! I would go to the office, pay for the services, and then receive another bill (sometimes two) from them months later. I was getting recommended deep cleanings that weren't needed. Feels like a money pit. read more

My partner went to this dental practice for basic cleaning because it was close to home, and also happen to be one of the few in network. However, she experienced very unprofessional treatment: 1. The dentist applied anesthetic for a simple filling. However, he left for ~an hour to chit-chat with another client about vacations on a yacht or something. 2. After an hour or so, the anesthetic has worn off quite a bit. It was not reapplied and was an uncomfortable procedure. 3. Because of this, we went to another dental practice. It's been almost a year now, and the new dentist are seeing problems with this filling, and it needs to be redone. This has never happened in our decades of our fillings in other places. We can't prove definitely that the dentist caused it but my partner always complained how uncomfortable the filling was (just didn't feel a proper bite). Needless to say we are very annoyed, but glad that we changed dentist before any other major procedures. Some $$$ and pain for a lesson for checking reviews before going to a dentist. read more

What other says about this dental clinic charging without any reason is true! My first visit to this dentist clinic a month ago because it's close to my home and I was due for a cleaning. After my x-rays, Dr. Schaffer told me I had no major issues and could proceed with a regular cleaning. However, the hygienist and the manager insisted I needed a deep cleaning due to the condition of my teeth, which would cost over $500 after my insurance deductible. I wasn't pleased with this, so I sought a second opinion from another dentist, who confirmed that I had good dental hygiene and didn't need a deep cleaning. Today, I received an email from Dr. Schaffer's office stating I owe $198, even though I didn't receive any services from them. I've read similar complaints on Yelp and wish I had checked the reviews before my visit. I'm now waiting to see if they will resolve this billing issue, especially since I was told that my insurance covered the x-rays and I didn't undergo any additional treatments. It seems like this is a common occurrence with this clinic. I would strongly not advise anyone to go there after this experience! Update: I received a reply confirming that I don't owed anything and to disregard the notice. Hopefully this won't messed my credit score should the system takes a long time to do an update on their billing! So if you do get billing from your visit, question it before you pay for it blindly. read more

Customer service is utterly humiliating. Schaffer Dental Excellence excels at one thing: putting Schaffer first and taking every advantage to scam and screw the patient. Dr. Schaffer showed me X-rays of my teeth and convinced me that I needed immediate treatment that would be covered by my insurance. After my insurance, and an outside dentist, confirmed that this care was not needed, I was left with a bill. Not only that, but the bill was never disclosed to me, instead sending a debt collector after me. After trying to spend nearly a 10 months addressing this through the office manager, communication ended only to have the debt collector return. As the other reviews all say, they take every opportunity to convince you to spend extra money, in very large amounts, under the guise of insurance. I will be filing a complaint with the california dental board. read more

The service is ok, but be careful. They may charge you extra money. What is oral hygiene instructions? I am sorry. Why do they charge this for $100+? They never told me that this is a potential billing item. UPDATE: They said they will take it off from my bill after I reached out to them. read more

STAY AWAY AND READ ALL REVIEWS BEFORE YOU DECIDE I never write much reviews but god the amount of mental and physical pain I went through was horrible . They are friendly only before they get you in .The treatment was done poorly and I had sooo much pain in my crown and I had to call so many times and Dr shauffer never cares or calls back .After many visits they finally fix it and by then I have already paid crazy amount of money .coming to payment -pay attention and read every single document and keep documentation as much as possible .Not only do they over charge they keep sending charges and it never ends .And when called back they are super rude .The most worst part is they do not send any of your treatment records like X-rays to your new Dr when moved .Do not get tricked by their friendliness.Stay in alert and all the best . read more

Upon entering the office as a new patient, 2 receptionists were talking about their boyfriends and continued talking until I interrupted them. Robert Schaeffer DDS said he's "uncomfortable" with people who have dental anxiety (which is approximately 60% of the population) and doesn't provide services to them. read more

Knowledgeable Dentist but VERY poor business practices. Never have I had quotes for additional dental or medical services thrown in my face so quickly while even still sitting in my chair! This place is the epitome of trying to upsell. Staff wears earpieces seemingly only to be able to communicate to the back office to prepare a quote for additional services that can be presented to you before leaving. It's the type of behavior that makes you wonder if these hygienists get paid commission. A practice that truly cares about your health would do this much more discretely IMO. Hygienists are definitely hit or miss quality in my experience. Front desk is friendly. You've been warned. read more

Here's my story; it's Friday, and my girlfriend and I will be heading on a 2-week trip to Scotland and Ireland tomorrow (Sat) to see the country, and dance a little Argentine Tango in about 5 different cities. Last night I got a small chip in one of my two top front teeth, so time was of the essence to quickly find a dentist in the Carmel Valley area who would fix this tooth, and smooth-out the other on such short notice. Granted, this wasn't an "emergency" but if this wasn't fixed I would have been self-conscious about my smile, especially with fellow travelers on the tour, and with other dancers at the tango events we're planning to attend. After contacting several dentists, I discovered most of them aren't open on Friday's, or reserve this day for more complex treatments. I spoke with one dentist, Dr. Horne in Encinitas who couldn't fit me in, but took the time to contact Dr. Schaffer's office on my behalf, who I ended up going with since they were about the only ones able to accommodate me on such short notice. The result? My teeth were fixed and it looks natural, as if I never had a chip in the first place. The whole process took less than one hour and now I'm quite the happy camper! Thanks to both dentist offices for everything!! read more

What an absolutely amazing experience! The staff is knowledgeable, kind, awesome at their job and very professional. I am always nervous to go to the dentist and they have been nothing short of amazing. I've been able to get the best care here and highly recommend. read more

Customer service is absolutely terrible. They are always running late and never the same hygienist. Yesterday was the straw that broke the camel's back. I asked them to tell the dentist to call me directly to discuss the issue and he never did, thus this public review. I waited 10 minutes in the waiting room, while my hygienist and the office manager discussed what they were bringing in for their potluck on Thursday. I didn't even realize she was hygienist, because their turnover is so high and she was yet another new one. Anyways I was shocked that they delayed my appointed by 10 minutes and choose to discuss their lunch on Thursday instead of taking care of their client. When I said that wasn't good customer service , the response was a dirty look, a comment of it was only a few minutes and the dentist had asked them to discuss it. I said probably not during my time when you are already late, and she said if I stopped talking she would start my exam. I didn't feel comfortable with her working on me and asked to see the dentist. He was busy with another patient and like I said earlier, I never heard from again. So stay away, unless you are OK with them wasting your time and starting late every visit and prioritizing things like if they should add sour cream and cheese to their dish or put it on the side, priorities right! read more

There's something different about this place! Dr. Schaffer and his team creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere! I usually dread going to the dentist but I find myself looking forward to go in every 6 months! The staff there isn't your typical "pressure" salespeople trying to get every dime out of you with unnecessary fillings. They are very conservative and give great advice. Thank you Sandy for always having a smile on your face! Michelle and Monica for doing a great job cleaning the past 2 times I was there and Dr. Schaffer for building a one of a kind office culture. read more

Let me start by saying several things: 1. I am no stranger to dentists (unfortunately) 2. I tend to be very selective when I choose a provider (I stayed with my former dentist in La Jolla for over 25 years). So why did I switch? 1. Heard nothing but great things about Dr. schaffer 2. It is 5 minutes away and super convenient 3. Dr. Schaffer is super nice, knowledgeable and liked his conservative approach to treatment so you did not feel pressured as you had several options to ponder. 4. He runs his practice on-time and, does not numb you if you do not need it (a first for me) . 5. Friendly and easy to schedule appointments with the front desk. All-in-all and, despite his "water boarding" techniques perfected at the USMC (I am joking), this has been a great first experience on a fairly complicated procedure. In recap, the dental office lived up to their tagline "Schaffer Dental Excellence"! read more

Dr. Schaffer and the entire staff are very professional and caring. I have been going there (as has my entire family) for 10 years, and we have no complaints. I highly recommend Dr. Schaffer. read more

If I could give zero stars I would. Read the negative reviews and stay away from this place as it is a very poorly run business. Never had so much trouble trying to pay a bill in my life! read more

I had some issues with other dentists-some deliberately misleading information- and needed to finish up a procedure. They picked it right up, understood what I was saying, explained what they were doing, and like magic it was done on the one visit instead of multiple. Great team. I made a somewhat inappropriate joke, and I've been asked not to return, but that's what I do when I'm nervous, and dentists and doctors, in general, make me nervous. Not these guys. Great service, very professional, no hard feelings. read more

Another great visit today. Very thorough and compassionate service. I love their music but I have to say my favorite part this far has been the messaging chairs. It really helps to relax and seems like a good fit because, hey... I'm already in the chair! Thank you Schaffer dental for the excellent service! read more

I had a wonderful experience at Schaffer Dental Excellence. The staff was lovely and courteous and Dr. Schaffer was fantastic.

In my 40 years of working with 10's of thousands of businesses, I can say that one of the most professional and well run dental practices in my experience is Schaffer Dental Excellence. I can see why this is so, because of how efficient and well the office is run. I learned from your website that Dr. Schaffer has learned the latest cutting-edge techniques and can do 1-day smile makeovers, and partners with other visiting dental professionals who offer an incredible turnkey, one-visit experience that is second to none. The office manager, Sandy is friendly, courteous and very professional. She assured me that a visit to San Diego and more specifically Del Mar, CA would be well worth my while. Boy, was she ever right!! The paragraph that rang true in my mind on their website was: "The team at Schaffer Dental Excellence is committed to your individual attention and strive to provide personalized oral health care tailored for your unique dental needs and goals. We work hard to create the ultimate stress-free and comfortable dental experience. Your health and comfort are our top priorities, and we do what it takes to help every patient understand their symptoms and treatment options in a relaxed office setting." This was exactly the case of what happened, to me. Dr. Schaffer and his staff are totally committed to my overall, long-term dental health and pride themselves in doing a good job to the point, that their reviews on their website speak with absolute truth of, to what I personally experienced. They are affordable, which made my choice, even easier. Tragically, in my own personal case, when my dentist said I had a tooth that could not be saved, I had to look elsewhere besides Spokane, WA. I had been going to him for 16 years and wanted a second opinion. A friend on a popular social media site recommended I check Schaffer Dental Excellence out, so I did. The recommendations they had from looking at my charts and x-rays took my "Dental IQ" to a whole new level. Doing an implant, 6 month braces and a bridge will do the trick to the point that I am so excited about my smile that my complete "Heart-felt Thanks" go out to you, Little did I know a flight down to San Diego and one visit, we were able to develop a plan together, that I know will change my smile forever. My visit to San Diego was certainly beautiful break from the northern country and I don't think I could get better dental care anywhere in the world. I am saying all of this because I am a satisfied patient of the practice. Dr. Robert, your practice manager Sandy and all of your staff are warm, genuine and caring! Thank you! It was worth the trip from the north country and it was so reassuring to hear that you have many dental patients of yours who travel in from all over the country to experience your incredible talents. Not only do you come highly recommended by your patients but even your peer professionals give you glowing recommendations. Thank you Dr. Schaffer, Sandy and your "Amazing Smile Makeover Team!" read more

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I actually look forward to going to the dentist now! I've enjoyed all my visits at Schaffer Dental over the past two years. Their staff is always so friendly, and the office is always so clean. The dental team that works on my cleaning and X-rays are detailed, efficient, knowledgeable, friendly and helpful with any questions. It didn't hurt that this place was located within walking distance from me as well! Great location, great team, great office! read more

The thing I love about Dr. Schaffer is that he is an incredibly pragmatic dentist. He understands the balance between things that we need to monitor vs. things that need to be fixed immediately and is excellent about identifying which issues fall under which category. It is no surprise that ethics are also apparent when you search his Pharma and Lobby donations that show him well below the average (website that tracks payments to doctors and physicians CMS Payments). His office is run like a well-oiled machine! Super efficient, appointments always start on time (never had to wait more than 5-10 minutes). I was Dr. Schaffer's patient for over 2 years, really enjoyed having him as my physician, and all the hygienists and staff at the office were equally professional and welcoming. read more

Dr. Schaffer and the team are extremely good at what they do. From the moment I came in for my first visit, I knew this place was different. Everyone was very friendly and thorough in their explanation of what I was to expect. Dr. Schaffer uses some hi-tech machines to photograph your teeth which is not only beneficial for them but as the patient, you are allowed to see your teeth from angles you would otherwise not be able to. In this way, they can really evaluate better how to treat the problem. In my case, I have already had several fillings (I believe 5) and a deep cleaning. It sounds like a lot because it is, but let me assure you that it doesn't feel like a lot when they are doing their work--they make sure that you are comfortable and relaxed and do not hesitate to numb you better if there is any pain. Speaking of numbing... wow... so far I have yet to feel the presence of a needle and before I know it, I'm numbed up and ready to go. Finding a good dentist is difficult these days... so let me save you the hard work and put your mind at ease; these guys are the best. read more

Here are the facts. You can decide if this dental practice is right for you and your family. Right now I'm writing this while in a tremendous amount of pain. Like another reviewer said, Dr. Schaffer told me I needed a crown replaced even though it wasn't bothering me. I asked for a treatment plan and cost breakdown and instead of emailing me the plan, they sent me a document with the names and contact info for all of their patients who have outstanding balances. I could actually see how much each person owed. When I brought it to the office manager's attention, she dismissed it as a computer error. That should have been a red flag, but I went in for the dental work even with those reservations. After the crown was replaced, I started experiencing significant pain in the tooth that he worked on. Plus, I experienced extreme sensitivity to temperature which was never an issue before. I came back for a follow-up and was told that the drilling damaged the nerve and that I may need a root canal. Remember, I wasn't having any issues with this tooth when we began. I initially came in for a cleaning. The extra star is because the hygienist was great. I called the office several times to explain that the tooth wasn't getting better. How many times did the dentist call me back to check on me? Not once! Not one single call. I recently called and asked for my records and x-rays. I was told they would be emailed to me. Still waiting. Still in pain. Now I need to take care of a problem that wasn't a problem to begin with. There are a lot of good dentists out there. Based on my experience, I can't recommend this one. read more

There's something different about this place! Dr. Schaffer and his team creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere! I usually dread going to the dentist but I find myself looking forward to go in every 6 months! The staff there isn't your typical "pressure" salespeople trying to get every dime out of you with unnecessary fillings. They are very conservative and give great advice. Thank you Sandy for always having a smile on your face! Michelle for doing a great job cleaning and Dr. Schaffer for building a one of a kind office culture. read more

I've been a patient of Dr. Schaffer for about 8 years now. I had a lot of issues with my teeth when he began restoring my mouth and now my teeth are healthy and I am so happy with my smile. Dr. Schaffer and his staff are friendly and knowledgeable and I truly believe they genuinely care about my well-being. If I ever have an issue they are always able to see me as soon as possible amd they make sure I'm satisfied. I highly recommend Dr. Schaffer! read more

Dr.Schaffer and staff are amazing! I am so happy that I found him after relocating to San Diego. Dr. Schaffer provides excellent dental work, always on time, clean office and they are great about fitting you in if you have any emergent dental needs. Sandy the office manager is professional and kind. If you are looking for a new dentist, goto Dr. Schaffer, you will not be disappointed. read more

Best experience I have ever had with a dental office. Everyone here is very friendly and Dr. Schaffer is honest and upfront about everything. After nightmare experiences with other dental offices, I can finally say we've found our new dentist! I highly recommend this place! read more

Just had my first visit, the staff was very friendly, and knowledgeable. The hygienist was informative but not rude, and didn't hurt me at all (hard to.do). The dentist is probably one of the best I've met. He listened and if some issues I had with some prior dental work. He seemed very confident, but not arrogant like many drs. are. The office was very clean, and the service was prompt. I would highly recommend! And I HATE going to the dentist. read more

I went into Dr. Schaffer's office this morning for an emergency/limited exam. I was very impressed with staff and Dr. Schaffer himself. He took a look at my x-rays and gave me a couple of options of what we could do to resolve the issue. He was very straight forward and thorough, but he wasn't pushing me into treatment that wasn't necessary, which I appreciated. The staff was also very kind and personable, and the office overall was very clean and bright. I will definitely be back to Dr. Schaffer's office for my routine dental care. read more

Boy, I really don't know what to say about all the positive reviews with Dr Schaffer. He was mine, and my family' of 4 others dentist for almost three years 2015 to 2018, and it was the worst decision I've ever made. All he wanted to do besides my regular dental needs like yearly cleanings, was to replace all my crowns. Both my wife and I are in our 60's and probably have half a dozen or so crowns. I will admit, he found some decay under one of my crowns, but the other three was nothing. Honestly, the only way I'm founding this statement is because after he'd move a crown, there was silence (no issue/decay). The one with some decay I got an "ah-ha" from him. The last good crown he replace for no reason at all has given me problems ever since. Lesson: if a tooth/crown is not giving you any problems - DON'T MESS WITH IT. I'm so much happier with my dentist now, who btw says he's seen crown last 40 years. read more

As usual I had a great experience. Everyone here is awesome. The service is great. Is it weird to like visiting the dentist?

Not one bad thing to say about Dr Schaffer or his staff. I am a big baby when it comes to dental procedures, even cleanings. His entire staff was patient, knowledgeable and kind. I had to have 2 crowns replaced and they explained all my options and the actual procedure was almost pain free. MOST impressed and so grateful that they care so much. read more

I'm happy to have found this dental office. They have been honest & kind. Making appointments is easy, and Sandy at the front desk is always friendly and helpful. I appreciate that they do not push products or procedures at this office, something that I've found horribly annoying and has caused me to leave other dentists. I feel comfortable in this office, instead of the typical feeling of dread when going to a dental appointment. I've recommended them to several others who have now become patients with Dr. Schaffer, and will continue to do so. read more

Extremely modern, professional & efficient dental practice! My routine cleaning was with one of the hygienists, Tara. She not only cleaned my teeth with dexterous care, but she also spent time educating me on a ton of oral health aspects I wasn't aware of. The most thorough, yet comfortable cleaning I've ever had. I had to have a few old frontal fillings replaced. Dr. Schaffer has a very affable personality and put any tension I had at ease once he entered the room. He got all 3 fillings old fillings off and new ones on in about 30 minutes! Not to mention, as painless a procedure as possible. My experience with the staff defines the term gentle dentistry. I think I found my home for dental care! read more

Recently switched my entire family over the Dr. Schaffer. He and his staff were incredibly professional, caring and meticulous with their work. Great experience. Cannot recommend Dr. Schaffer enough. read more

Their cleaning appointments only lasts 30 mins. You know you're not getting a good cleaning in that short amount of time. For a little more, you can go to a (top) periodontist who will clean your teeth, do all the measuring of pockets and health checks for a full hour. I don't think this office has the best interest of dental health if they are skimming on this basic critical step. read more

I hadn't been to the dentist in over 3 years (I know, gross!) but this office made me almost excited to go back! Everything from the friendly phone call to make my appointment, to the understanding phone call when I was running 10 minutes late, to the wonderful people that work in the office, I would say this was the best dentist experience I've ever had. I couldn't recommend this any higher! read more