All I can say is WOW! This place is an absolute gem.

Let me just start by saying that I, unfortunately, am someone who is terrified of going to the dentist, even for routine checkups.

About a week ago, I started feeling a toothache coming on. "It'll go away; maybe it's just another tooth growing in!" Haha. I realized this thought was irrational when the pain became greater, and I had to go in. So, I went to my usual dentist, and they gave me the bad news: I needed a root canal. Even though I've had one other done before, I still wasn't thrilled. They also noted that one of my roots was extremely curved, so they were going to start the procedure to relieve me of pain, then send me to an endodontist to finish what was left.

I have never been to an endodontist so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. So, I was referred to the La Jolla Dental Specialty Group, and a couple of days later, I was sitting in their waiting room. The location was great and easy to find, the staff was absolutely endearing, and the environment was soothing. Instead of giving me a wall to stare at during the procedure, I was looking out of a window that covered almost an entire wall; the view was beautiful. After taking x-rays, Dr. Do explained to me how long it will take to complete, and asked if I would like to proceed the same day, or make another appointment. I explained to him how nervous I was, but knew it was something that had to be done. He actually took the time to tell me that I should not feel anything at all, and if I do, to raise my hand and tell him. I appreciated this. I also have to say that I appreciated him asking if I would "like to proceed." (When I had my first root canal, the dentist said, "You need a root canal. I'm going to give you some shots, then I'll be back in to start!" Even though I was in great pain and knew I needed to do the root canal that day, I was not asked if I would like to reschedule OR not.)

Now, before I go any further, I must say something. Hearing that I "should not feel anything" during a root canal seemed quite odd to me. After all, the nerves ARE being pulled out and manipulated. Wouldn't that be the source of pain I have encountered with my one... and a half root canals? Now I am not saying that the entire process of getting a root canal hurts, but I am saying that when they go deep with the files and probe the nerve, that definitely sends a "zing" through out your body.

The time estimated for completion was 30-40 minutes. After about 10 minutes, the Novocaine set in and numbed me up pretty good. I was given safety goggles, and was told what was going on through out the process. This was also very much appreciated. I felt one "zing", and as soon as Dr. Do saw my barely raise my hand, he asked if I felt something. I said "yes", and he gave me a couple more shots. After that, I did not feel one thing. I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT!

So, root canals don't have to hurt? I put up with some pain during those procedures because I thought that was part of it, and I just had to deal with it? What was I thinking?!
I walked out of this office smiling and laughing at how nervous I was when I first walked in. I actually thought to myself: "I really enjoyed that." Who can say that about a root canal?!

I think you get my point. If you're afraid of getting treatment, you have no reason to be. If you think you have to put up with pain, you don't. If you want to love going to the dentist, go to the La Jolla Specialty Group!

I only have one complaint: I'm not able to see them for all of my dental needs! That would be so wonderful if they did checkups, cleanings, etc.
With that said, I now know where I will be going if I ever do need another root canal!

I would also like to thank the fantastic staff for changing my mind. After 40 minutes with them, I realized how fortunate I am to have dentists around me. I am no longer afraid of getting any type of dental work done, and I actually really look forward to my visits. I, fortunately, am someone who is thrilled about going to the dentist.

Kelly D. of San Diego, CA

The dentist here must've have came from some type of magic land or something. This is the best experience I've EVER received in my life. I would go there for all my dental work if I could. The staff was very nice and informative....... They took really good care of me, the whole procedure was pretty much painless and took no more than 30-40 minutes. The dentist was very friendly and so was his assistants.

Neima F. of San Diego, CA

I received a warm welcome from the staff. Pam, the asst. was tremendous. Dr. Nguyen is well schooled, warm manner, extremely professional. I was out in 45 minutes and no pain...at all..really. I was nervous but had a prescription written for one Valium to  be able to even have the doctor look in my mouth. Highly recommend this wonderful doctor and his staff.

Diana F. of San Diego, CA 1/26/2010

I was totally nervous about my root canal and everyone there was AMAZING!!! They catered to my every need, fear, and problem. The office was very clean, well maintained and a calm nice place to be considering you are there for at least an hour of drilling. I wish that they were also a general group so I could go there for my cleanings.

A.R. of San Diego, CA