I've been going to the dentist since I grew teeth, I'm 35 now. So I've been quite a few times. I've…read moreeven loved a few of my dental offices, they were so awesome. But since I've moved back to Minnesota, away from my favored dentists, and have found myself in a situation where I must utilize state insurance, I've had only the option of going to Prairie Dental. Because apparently, they are the only office around that accepts MNSure. Well, it seems to me that they know they run a monopoly, and can choose how they treat clients without much thought. When I got my teeth cleaned, they hurt for a week, I kid you not. When I later (months later, as they have to book out so far due the being the only providers for who knows how many lower income Minnesotans), had a filling appointment, I told the dentist about the pain following cleaning. His response was that that is normal and happens. Ummm... I've been having my teeth cleaned throughout my life, I looked forward to it actually, and NEVER have my gums and teeth hurt like they did following that appointment. Then, after a few moments of sitting with some numbing cotton in my mouth, he came with the Novocain syringe and the way with which he jabbed it into my mouth actually made me cry. After the first side I told him about how some other dentists would shake my lip as they made the injection, to neurologically distract from the shot. He said he knew such tricks, but when it came to the second injection he made a half hearted jiggle for a moment and jabbed that one in too. Then left and waited for it to take effect. The kind assistant thankfully gave me some tissues as I could not hold back my tears. I have never cried at the dentist before. It is this kind of experience that must make people hate going to the dentist. The suction tube for the inevitable saliva during dental work was as big as a drinking straw, and even when I was totally numb I could tell it was trying to eat my tongue. Why did it not have a reducer end? It was huge! The work got done quickly, with little fanfare and I was ushered out. When I first stood up I felt so wobbly it was as if I was drunk. And I spoke like it too. My chest felt funny, my whole lower face felt numb, and I even felt intoxicated. They told me it would take around an hour to regain feeling. It took at least two. And my jaw now aches so much that I can't bear to eat solid food, 8 hours later (!), not from the fillings, but I'm sure from the syringe! Did they take into account my petite size? Or did I get a manly dose of numbing agent? I've never had this kind of reaction to being numbed for dental work, even around getting a root canal. Never had I had such rough, non-compassionate dental care. It saddens me that when you are lower income, not only must you endure the struggle and stress that presses down upon you every day, but also sub par care because the systems that serve this population are overburdened and unafraid of being questioned since the lower class does not have time to fight establishments, they are too busy fighting to survive. Did you see how many times I used the word "never" in this review? Maybe that could reflect when I would recommend this dental office to others, and how often I hope to return. Never.

I'm one of the lucky ones with a small, oddly shaped jaw, big teeth and am cavity prone. Thanks,…read moreMom and Dad! So, I've spent a lot of time in dental chairs. When I moved to the Bemidji area I tried several dentists and never felt I clicked with any of them. A few years ago a dentist told me I was over 60, so I might as well just pull my teeth and get dentures! Oh, heck, no! I googled a bit and found Prairie Dental. From my first visit, I knew I had found my dental family! Dr. Ressnick is also a hoot, with a quirky sense I of humor I appreciate. I've had a few crowns replaced from decades ago that wore out and some random stuff done. I have been so pleased 100% of the time. Plus, everyone there is personable and fun. My only complaint is they have great conversations and I am dying to jump in, but can't with hands and equipment in my mouth! I drive over an hour to get to the Mahnomen office and it's well worth it! Caring staff and quality dentalwork! Thanks, y'all!