This was the worst dental experience I have ever had. Rude and unprofessional. I went to Dr. Avera for an evaluation and he started out by insulting my regular dentist for giving me the particular night guard that Avera didn't seem to like. Then he proceeded to point the finger at "most dentists" saying they don't know anything about night guards and he's the expert. He was laughing and had to check himself and say "hey, I'm not laughing at you, I just see this all the time." Maybe he's right, I don't know. But, how arrogant and condescending! He spent a lot of time telling me how smart he is, and how much he knows and other dentists don't know. Well it gets worse. He was explaining a simple concept and repeated himself several times like I was too stupid to get it the first time. Then he said "give me your hand and I'll show you." He grabbed my hand and jabbed his thumb into my palm and I let out an "ow" and I pulled my hand back. (I guess he thought this was some sort of a brilliant analogy) He laughed and said "come on that didn't hurt... come on." Well it hurt... And how would he know? And who does he think he is to tell me it didn't hurt? I have to wonder... Did it ever cross his mind to say..."Oh shoot, I'm sorry, did that hurt?" He's arrogant and condescending. Competent? I doubt it. Based on my experience, and many of the other reviews, I would steer clear of this guy. There are plenty of better options. One more thing... It seems most of the negative reviews are fairly recent. Maybe he just needs to retire. read more

He is such an arrogant, inadequate failure of a "dentist" Talked so much about how great & smart he was. I had 2 implants placed & he drilled them too deep & it wound up fracturing my jaw. I would never recommend him to any one. He's dangerous. read more

I paid $3000 for gum flap surgery only to have the tooth removed 10 months later. I could have had an implant instead.

Did pain free dental surgery on me, but most of all, knowing how nervous I was, he was super considerate of my feelings, more than any other professional I had had in the past and I have had some considerate ones in the past. I would most definitely recommend him to you, especially if you are nervous when it comes to dental work. And he has a nice staff, too. read more

Dr.Avera has been my Periodontist since he first opened his Auburn office. I have had multiple implants and related procedures and also see Nicole as my hygienist. There service and care is next to none, I'm always treated as if I'm their only patient! On December 30th, 2025 I awoke with a serious toothache, I called at 8am and spoke to Mendy. She was able to smoothly make arrangements to fit me in at 3:30 pm that same day. Upon arrival I was greeted by Mendy at the front desk, promptly examined and xrayed by Dr. Avera's assistant Anita, and then examined and treated by Dr. Avera with Anita's assistance. Upon checkout almost 2 hours later I learned that they were off for the New Year's Eve Holiday the following day and were supposed to close at 12 noon that day but they had an emergency prior to me, had stayed late and then added me in after that. When I called Dr.Avera asked Mendy and also his Dental Assistant Anita if they would be able to stay even later so I could be treated! They both agreed, I didn't even know this took place behind the scenes until I walked out of the office after Dr.Avera and Assistant Anita performed a lengthy 1 1/2 hour) procedure on me! Their work ethic of making sure the patient is well cared for, to this extreme level, in my opinion cannot be found anymore in our "life in the fast lane" world! Thanks again to Dr. Avera and the most important folks "behind the scenes"... Mendy and Anita you're the best! read more

This is the first negative review I've ever left here for a business as usually I just wouldn't go back but this situation is rather ridiculous. I was referred to this office by my regular dentist for an exam and possible deep cleaning. My first appointment was fine. While it's clear Dr. Avery is skilled and knowledgeable I did experience some of the same egotistical and, at times, unprofessional behavior that you'll see mentioned in other reviews. After the exam I was shown a treatment plan for $4,000 for a deep cleaning by who I presume to be the office manager or similar. The price seemed high for the treatment so I said I'd need some time to decide if I would pursue it. On the way out I was scheduled for a follow up at the front desk that I was told was included in the price of the exam that I had just had. Fast forward to a few weeks later I go for the follow up and they told me the appointment was $185. Obviously I was confused and mentioned I was told it was included in the price of the previous exam. Turns out the person who told me that no longer works there. I was told they would contact me regarding the mis-understanding. When I did eventually speak with the office manager again she blamed the misunderstanding on me and said she explained the follow up included x-rays that they charge for when we went over the treatment plan. She proceeded to say that I should've asked when I returned if the appointment was chargeable (why would I ask that when I was told it was included?). She then threatened to send me to collections if I don't pay. Bottom line, an office employe told me incorrectly that the follow up appointment was included in the price of the initial exam. I never would have returned for the follow up if I knew it was to be charged as I've decided to have the treatment at another clinic. read more

Unfortunately, our family has genetic periodontal issues. Dr. Avery has been a lifesaver. My two young adult children and I had to undergo periodontal surgery. All three surgeries were very successful. His treatment plan was comprehensive, without trying to oversell. His staff is amazing, his office is run very professional, professionally, he's an impeccable surgeon, and the atmosphere is supportive and kind. Highly recommend. read more

Still no apology, contact or anything from Dr Avera. I'm sure next time your in his office he'll be cycling through the vacation pics on the wall of where the money I spent on implants sent him and his wife. After reading my review and office experience of the work I had done and his brazen bedside manner of pulling both my implants he put in without any consultation or plan by Dr Avera you deserve a similar result..... read more

Thank you for helping me. I appreciate the honest evaluation of my circumstances and options. I have a way to go. My advise to others, brush, floss. Teach your children the same. That way, you are doing a great favor to self and your family. Thanks Dr. Sean. read more

Just wish that I would of went to him first of all... I have had alot of problems with my Implant, that he said that he would of did it another way. Because I grind my teeth and the location of the Implant, maybe would of done another option. So I was recommended to him for the broken screw in my bone, I had to have it surgically removed. Second reasons for sending this was to let everyone that wants to use him, he does great work and I like his office, just concerned about his communication skills. Don't question him at all or the office! They need to understand that it is OUR body and we have the right to know and understand what is taking place. Time have passed between exams and visits and I didn't remember the conversation exactly... also was sedated when some of the info was given. Third and foremost, ASK for the doctors notes, because they will not give them unless you ask! If you totally understand what is taking place, don't question him, because he gets upset! The BIG problem was the Communication, but I would use him again and recommend the practice! Thanks for what you did for me and sorry if I ask alot of questions or repeat myself. ;-) read more

I've been under Dr Avera's care for over 15 years. He has performed 3 dental implants on me, as well as other procedures. He goes out of his way to make sure that things are done correctly and also timely. He's the most knowledgeable periodontist I am aware of. He explains everything thoroughly. I never think of looking for a cheaper alternative because I want the work done successfully! He's the best! read more

Doctor Avera's periodontal office in Auburn is the best! The staff is kind and experienced. I trust them 100% with my care.

Of all the dentists I have been to in my lifetime, this was the absolute WORST! He loved talking about himself and how great he thought he was??? I had an extraction in preparation for an implant. This was the most painful experience I have ever had! I remember I was slightly sedated for pain. Instead of using a normal syringe, he used what actually felt like a nail gun going in the back of my mouth........a pain I will never forget. I never went back there to finish work obviously. I did find an amazing oral surgeon in Rocklin.......who was gentle and compassionate. Please do not waste your energy or money with Dr. Avera. read more

It's very clear to me now, why this practice has so many negative reviews. I scheduled an appointment to be seen about an abscess near an existing implant and possible treatment options. Instead, the office scheduled me for a deep cleaning in the same quadrant. The hygienist quickly confirmed what I already knew and had communicated about the abscess. I mentioned I had been at another dentist's office the day prior and she had taken an x-ray they might want to look at. The other dentist's office sent said x-ray and after looking at it for mere seconds, Dr. Avera said the implant needed to be removed immediately, which was the first red flag. When I told him I had every intention of speaking to the periodontist that had done the work originally and getting a second opinion, he seemed very irritated I would even question his opinion and told me if it were him, he'd tell me I was on my own....second red flag. I've spent thousands of dollars on my dental work and wasn't about to just remove the implant I have spent considerable time and money on, based on his review of an x-ray another dentist had taken....when a CT scan would have probably been the next step in determining if the implant was worth saving. Before leaving Dr. Avera's office, they were quick to review the $2,000 treatment plan to remove the implant but there was no discussion about pain management, antibiotics to treat the abscess, no charge before I left the office, nothing. I have since traveled to Los Angeles, to have the original periodontist assess my options and treat the abscess, bone loss and ultimately prolong the life of this implant as long as possible. I was however, surprised to receive a bill in the mail from Dr. Avera's office, as I felt that they really didn't do ANYTHING....they scheduled me for a cleaning I couldn't have with an abscess....their mistake....and Dr. Avera looked at an x-ray taken by another dentist and told me to remove it....and I'm being billed for this....after the fact? When I called to contest the charge, I was told they would look into it and discuss with the office manager and I would receive a call back....no call.....I then called again the following week to discuss and explain why I felt the charges were not justified....only to have the receptionist get defensive and argumentative with me....I then asked to speak to the office manager, who also argued with me and told me my opinion and thoughts were not valid, because I'm not a licensed dental professional. I've never experienced such unprofessional behavior or had an office manager be so petty and combative. She even went to lengths to scold me about not making follow up appointments after I was seen in November last year.....to which I replied, I was going through radiation treatment for stage 4 cancer, which was clearly my priority. Unbelievable! I had read all of the negative reviews on yelp before seeing Dr. Avera for the first time, but decided I'd make my own assessment and now I completely understand why there are so many. I am glad I elected not to proceed with Dr. Avera's recommendations and get a second opinion, hence, saving my implant and treating my abscess. After being treated for cancer over the last year, I've learned two very important things......1) ALWAYS get a second opinion and 2) Most doctors and medical professionals are incredibly self righteous and pompous and think they shouldn't be questioned, when the reality is, they're human and flawed and don't always recommend the correct treatment. This isn't about the money....it's about the principle...billing someone for "services" AFTER they leave your office is questionable to say the least. I will be filing a complaint with the BBB as well. This practice only seems to care about the bottom line.....as their people skills, professionalism, kindness and compassion need considerable improvement. read more

Sean Avera, DDS, MS office is wonderful. Dr. Avera and his entire staff are consummate professionals and fun at the same time. If you need periodontal work done this is the place to go. read more

I was fortunate enough to meet Dr. Avera during the first weekend he and other dentist had their first Veteran days. He and other Dentists donated time the Veterans. His kindness and positive attitude was a great addition to the day. He needed to check a small lesion on my upper pallet. He was so gentle that he was done before I thought he had started! He and talked about how great NPR is and how it was his favorite station!! (Joke for him) Seriously though, he went on vacation after this but called me from his cell to let me know that my leision was not cancerous!! BTW- He was still on vacation. Amazing man, fabulous staff, AWESOME experience. read more

If you want the very BEST, then I highly suggest Dr. Avera. We feel so fortunate to have had him recommended to us by Dr. Wada. My mom was a really difficult case for implants because of how much bone grafting she needed. Dr. Avera is so gifted at what he does, he made the whole process easy. We just feel really lucky and grateful. And, to top it off, his entire staff is wonderful!!! read more

Dr. Avera and staff are always very professional and friendly on every visit always making sure i am comfortable. Dr.Avera always makes it a point to come over and say hello and to review what i was there for that day even if he is not the one handling whatever procedure i am in for. Always funny and quick to tell a joke to make me laugh he is definitely a kind and honest doctor and that is what i like about his practices. I would 100% recommend his offices in Grass Valley or Auburn if you wish to receive the best service and treatment around. read more

Dr. Avera has extracted a tooth for me on three separate occasions; the most recent was yesterday. I will definitely go back to him should I need an oral surgeon in the future. Dr. Avera thoroughly explained each procedure, as well as other options. I am a serious dentiphobe, but each time I enter this office I receive a warm welcome by the friendly staff and my apprehensions begin to dissipate. Dr. Avera takes every possible measure to ensure his patient is comfortable during a procedure. My extractions were virtually pain free. He always makes a follow-up phone call in the evening to see how you are doing and to answer any questions. He genuinely cares about his patients. I enjoy his sense of humor; laughter is a great tension reliever when facing a dreaded procedure. I cannot believe the negative reviews describe experiences with Dr. Avera. It is unfortunate, a couple of disgruntled patients can tarnish the reputation of an outstanding surgeon. One reviewer wrote, "Most doctors and medical professionals are incredibly self- righteous and pompous." One so hostile toward everyone in the medical field can hardly be trusted to provide a fair appraisal. I highly recommend Dr. Avera to anyone needing oral surgery. read more

Last year 2018 my orthodontist sent me to see Dr Avera to have two TAD.S put on, I told the nurse/assistant to put enough Anesthesia because I was a crying baby, well, when he was putting the first TAD I told him it still very painful and to please put some more Anesthesia for the next one, he got a little upset because he was in a hurry, Horrible Experience) all this time I tough it was me the crying baby. 4/3/2019 The TAD'S needed to be removed, again I told everyone, receptionist to the assistant to make sure I get enough Anesthesia because when he put them in it was very painful, When I seat down in the chair (torture chair)I reminded the nurse/assistant Dr comes in, hi guy, I said Im not a guy he said guy or a woman are you ready? oh my god how rude I tough :( he said open your mouth, me thinking he was going to put some numb medication first? WRONG. He just starting removing the TAD no meds, I was in so much pain I grab his hand and starting to cry/scream in so much pain the stupid, arrogant, inhuman Dr told me just breath in and out and to stop crying because he had more clients there and I was going to scare them I told him to please stop he said ok for the next one I will put Anesthesia well he did put the Anesthesia but dint wait to take effect he pulls the needle and pulls the TAD I got up from his chair and left the office crying, I was in SHOOK on how this so call Dr treats his clients I just cannot imagine doing this to little kids. From my opinion this Dr is way to old tired and should be retired before he does some mental damage, Martha read more

Dr. Avera is a skilled, compassionate periodontist. His office staff is warm and helpful, and the office is well-run. Most importantly, Dr. Avera is a generous and engaging man, whose commitment to patient care is exceptional. As an example, when my wife was diagnosed with an illness that required long-term medication, Dr. Avera made a special effort to see her right before last Christmas, opening his office and treating her with the utmost attention as he performed successful surgery. His heartfelt support was evident, and I was singularly impressed with this wonderful man! read more

Dr. Avera and staff were amazing!! Great bedside manner, definitely a keeper!

I have been going to this office for 25 years. This man is incredible! He is kind, thoughtful, and honest! He does excellent work. The office staff are friendly and long time employees read more

Thank you, Dr. Avera. I am very happy with my care and the outcome of my tissue grafts. Thank you also to staff member Dan who provided excellent patient care. Dr. Avera's practice was recommended by my regular dentist and I would also recommend them. read more

In having the part that goes under your gum for an implant done the day of the procedure the woman assisting used my face as a table, following the procedure I ended up with a huge infection so he prescribed amox clav which put me in the emergency room for the worst stomach cramps ever, I have been in pain for 3 weeks. oh wait I'm leaving out the best part during the procedure he knocked one of my other teeth. If his skills were 1/2 of the size of his ego he might be a good dr. I know 2 other people that had dealings with him outside of his dentistry both had issues with him read more

Avera is a nice guy and makes you feel completely comfortable with whatever he is doing. He explains the procedure and answers all questions with great patience. His staff is another matter altogether... The office manager is 'in charge' and makes sure you know it from the first introduction. She dictates what is required and gives you no options. It's her way... or the highway. The hygienists are also very arrogant and into selling their "superior" services (which cost quite a bit more than your dentist would charge, BTW). Appointments are on a 'best efforts' basis. They make you wait for at least 15 minutes, usually more, even when there is no one else in the office. No apologies, no explanations. Customer service is not their strong suit. If you want to be treated professionally, and provided alternative options and procedures, then look elsewhere. read more

My experience with Dr. Avera and his office staff has been completely satisfactory. I was impressed as well as relieved to find such up to date and expert dental treatment in the foothills. Throughout my procedures, everybody was briefed at the beginning of each day so that each person knew exactly what was required, which made my visits expeditious and inspired confidence. Every person is professional and friendly. Charming and animated, Dr Avera took about ten minutes to completely understand every issue in my mouth and could explain what had caused each and then he proposed a general plan for remedying them. Within a week or so, his staff had worked out a timeline for the different stages, with estimated costs referenced to my insurance benefits. I underwent the portions that he was to provide with complete success. Dr Avera spoke highly of my (referring) dentist, who he recommended for the next procedures, which have also been entirely satisfactory. I am happy to continue to have my teeth cleaned at Dr Avera's office by his hygienist, Betty. I credit them for maintaining the best dental health that I can achieve. read more

I agree that Dr. Avera is knowledgeable and I agree with those who say he's arrogant. He was incorrect in his recomendation

I have been going to Dr.Avera for well over a year & his service is excellent! ! Staff is great! ! I would totally recommend his services for gum & bone work as well as implant procedure. You won't be sorry if you try him. read more

After two months of gum pain, my family dentist recommended that I see Dr. Avera. He solved my gum issue in a week. I appreciated his caring chair side manner, knowledge, and positive attitude. His office staff was very helpful, too. I had seen Dr. Avera eight years earlier for a gum graph. He made this scary procedure as pain free as possible. I highly recommend Dr. Avera for any type of dental procedure. This teacher gives Dr. Avera an A+. read more

I am first including my wife's words on this subject, because she was party to and observed all of my and Dr. avera's interactions. "I have always found Dr. Avera and his staff to be efficient kind and caring. When my husband was in the hospital and developed an abscessed tooth, Dr. Avera interrupted his vacation and called several times to consult and prescribe. He took the time to advise and reassure us and made the emergency appointment himself. I have complete confidence in Dr. Avera as a periodontist, physician and friend." My personal take on the Doc, he is the best tooth and gum guy I have ever encountered. Anyone wanting the best, direct, honest and professional oral health care needs to go to Dr. Avera. Harry H Grass Valley, CA read more

Dr Avery is a skilled egomaniac. He is rude and arrogant as is his wife. The staff seems intimidated by them. Poor post operative care.

Dr. Avera is great and those chocolate cookie things with your name on them are the best cookies ever.

I was not happy with Dr. Avera's practices when having some grafts done a few years ago. His policy was that the client had to pay $50. for some kind of a teeth-cleaning instruction with his staff. I thought that I should be given the choice of whether to buy that service or not, yet had to become insistent with him about not wanting to purchase it. His attitude and personality were great until this issue came up. I wasn't angry; just firm about feeling that I, as the paying client, should be able to make that choice. His attitude became arrogant, to say the least... He felt very controlling... read more

I've had nothing but successful results with tooth implant surgery done by Dr. Avera compared to a botched job done by a previous Periodontist. He has performed some challenging implant surgery and highly recommend him. His staff is highly competent also. read more

Staff is GREAT! Dr. and his wife are arrogant and selfish. NEVER go to this Dr... there are better ones that really care.

Contrary to those below I find him very competent, great chair side manner. He has a good sense of humor (dry?) that some people may not appreciate or understand. He is also a professor at UC Davis suggesting he is well regarded. Performed a gum tissue transplant that was rather difficult. Excellent result. Highly recommended. read more

The dentist who referred me to Dr. Avera warned me that he would be gruff and not very personable. I found the complete opposite. He was very personable. He's hilarious. You get him talking about something and he doesn't stop! His staff is very nice. I had gum surgery that was pretty major. The whole experience was fine there were no problems everyone took good care of me. read more

The office staff and doctor are wonderful professionals that make you feel comfortable. The work I have had done has been very successful and painless. The Doctor even calls after minor surgery to see how you are in the evening. I feel confident that he is experienced, educated and talented Dentist. Thank you for #19:) read more

Did a great job putting an implant in... orthodontist left little space but Dr. Avera nailed it! Couldnt be happier with his staff/his work! would definitely recommend read more