American Indian Health & Services - Santa Barbara, California

Dylan G.

Have been going here for about 9 months and have enjoyed every visit (at least as much as possible at a dentist). They're very straightforward, no-nonsense, non-judgmental, and competent in their work. For a dentist that accepts Medi-Cal I feel like this is the best I could possibly expect 👍

Amanda N.

Poor experience—I came here today with the intention of establishing dental care for my young child. The hygienist mentioned my child would need X-rays—I asked if we could have a less invasive kind of appointment as it was our first visit to this practice and it would be nice, and best to build rapport. The hygienist went to speak to the dentist regarding these concerns, when the hygienist came back she stated that X-rays were necessary because it’s an initial exam.

I tried to approach the conversation by providing information regarding our circumstances to help build an understanding of the need to take things slow by first allowing us to get to know the dentist to build a relationship with my child and myself.

The hygienist expressed her understanding of the need given the circumstances. I then offered to speak to the dentist directly so that I can also convey my concerns and thoughts to them.

The dentist later came in, and I greeted her, introduced the dentist to my child and encouraged my child to say hello. I began to express my thoughts about the appointment ahead and shared important details regarding my child—I quickly noticed that she was not providing eye contact and it felt as though she wasn’t paying attention, so I then asked if she could give me eye contact so that I could feel heard, and I said “is that okay?”

The dentists response: “no it’s not, you’re very controlling.” This was confusing to me, so I asked her if she’s saying that I’m controlling for requesting eye contact to feel heard? She then replied: “and you’re disrespectful.”
Also confused by this.

I will say, I know that having eye contact during any visit and in any medical office is highly valued and effective for good listening, building trust, and encourages dialogue.

Regardless—My child and I were looking forward to visit with a new dentist. The way that my child agreed to meet with the dentist and go through with a cleaning (tooth brushing to build rapport) was amazing and I felt proud; excited for a positive experience— this was a huge deal for us, as previous dental visits have been tough because of sensitivities and feeling nervous and afraid of the dental office and all the instruments. This is why I asked for it to be considered that we first build rapport by meeting and having an introduction with the dentist.

I’d like to end with this, I appreciate the manager for speaking with me regarding my original thoughts for our experience and for listening to what I felt when speaking to the dentist.

My hope for this practice, is improvement. My hope is also for kindness. My hope is for dentists here to collaborate and help each other provide patients and parents the courtesy of being seen and heard regarding concerns and thoughts. Be well

sayma S.

Dr. Hollanda Leon is a terrible doctor. I had an urgent need today to see a doctor. I think she does not like her job. Some doctor judge right after they see their patient and she is one of them. She has disrespectful attitudes. she is not a nice person and not a good doctor.

Other than this some of stuffs in this place are really nice people and they help a lot. I have a huge respect for them.

H-D F.

Worst dental experience of my life. I just went in for a routine cleaning and ended up with a nightmare with my teeth and bite permanently destroyed. I will never return or recommend. I filed a complaint with the state.

Amber R.

Was referred to this place by my primary dentist due to affordability of a treatment. I drove an hour & a half to get there just to be greeted by an incredibly rude front desk staff and then turned away. I have an infection under one of my teeth that is growing worse and needed immediate attention.
I had to bring my 4 year old with me and they suggested she wait in the waiting room by herself while I go back to be seen for who knows how long.
When I told them I couldn't do that, they turned me away.
Office was dingy and dirty. They possibly did me a favor. After looking at the reviews it appears this place is horrible. At the very least, the front desk staff is the worst I've ever seen.

Julianna

This office has been such a blessing. Santa barbara has limited options for those with medi-cal and i’ve found those working here to be thorough, knowledgeable, and kind.

Char B.

My Cencal Insurance covered dental exams and a cleaning, super friendly staff and professional services! Thanks for taking care of me and my teeth!

george T.

Dr. Javanbakht saw my mother earlier today and was very thorough and patient with her and came up with a treatment plan to help her get established. They also have in-clinic lab so she was able to obtain her labs during the visit which is amazing. The staff were very helpful as well.