Gentle Dental Cambridge

While working and living in the city of Boston, I used to work out at the Bally's in Porter Square, Cambridge. I knew I needed some dental work, but was never a big fan. I saw a Gentle Dental in the area, so stopped in one day. After a brief consultation, they gave me the low-down on what I needed to get my teeth back to healthy. The team, led by Dr. Van de Rydt, explained everything thoroughly, worked with my dental insurance and set me up on a plan to get my mouth (teeth and gums) back to where it should have been the entire time (I do love my sweets). I then moved out of the city and ignored my teeth for many years. Just by coincidence, Dr. Van de Rydt came in to dine at a restaurant I manage. He asked how I was, as he genuinely cares about his clients. The next week, I made an appointment with him, as he and his team always made me feel comfortable. I went in later that week and he explained to me what had to be done, as I ignored by mouth for many years before this visit. I have been in two more times since and I can proudly and honestly say that I have the greatest dentist. Truly caring and helping their clients, not only explaining what they need, but helping them with their insurance providers should be every denist's priority. I can sincerely say that most densists will not spend that extra time with their clients.......Dr. Van de Rydt and his team do and what I have seen, they care about all of their clients. My mouth is back to recovering and owe it all to him and his team. Thank you Dr. Van de Rydt and your entire team!

Posted 11/27/09 | Report Abuse

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I just moved to Boston and was looking for a convenient, affordable dentist. My experience at Gentle Dental was fantastic, from the receptionist to the hygienist to the dentist himself. They took the time to answer my questions and concerns with thought and patience. There are quick to make and modify appointments as necessary. Dr. van de Rydt is especially great!

Posted 11/27/09 | Report Abuse

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Very happy with the service! I can"t wait for my next appoinment ,I love there work ethics ,work place clean and neatand they are quik,nice and GENTLE of course!!!!!By Diane W.

Posted 11/10/09 | Report Abuse

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Everyone was polite, professional and extremely helpful. I have been going to this location for nearly 5 years and will recommend them to anyone looking for a new dentist.

Posted 11/05/09 | Report Abuse

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The receptionists, hygienists, and doctors I have interacted with have all been professional, thoughtful, and efficient. I have gone here for cleanings and a root canal; both experiences were probably about as stress-free as dental procedures can get. Highly recommended.

Posted 10/28/09 | Report Abuse

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Gentle Dental Cambridge: very knowledgeable and thorough. by BL Dr. Van De Rydt is very knowledgeable and takes the time to explain the treatment options. He understands that different people will make different choices (one person might want the least expensive option, another the longest lasting, another the most natural) and he is supportive no matter what. I've been going there for 10 years and I always feel well taken care of. All the hygienists have been friendly and pleasant too. Highly recommended.

Posted 10/27/09 | Report Abuse

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I have been going to the Porter Square, Cambridge Gental Dental location for 2 years and have received the absolute best service and care I have ever experienced in the Dental market. Both Dr. Goldberg and Dr. VandeRydt are talented and caring professionals who did a great job in restoring my teeth. Gentle Dental's rates are very fair, the staff very accommodating and I highly recommend this location.

Lee E.

Posted 10/25/09 | Report Abuse

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Dr. van de Rydt was very thorough and informative, including the treatment options and helping me to make an informed decisions, even at the time of emergency visit. I broke my crown 3 days after I started a new job at a new city, and the office immediately scheduled my visit the very next day. Now I am planning to take care of the old dental work done many years ago, and discussing long term dental treatment plans. Overall, my experience at this clinic is far superior than most dental clinics, and I recommend to anyone who had bad dental work experiences.

Posted 10/23/09 | Report Abuse

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After Having a series of terrible experiences with another local dentist, I was relieved to find Gentle Dental in Porter Square. Dr. Van De Rydt was very personable, and explained his examination in a detailed yet understandable way;. Seri, the woman who took my x-rays and pictures, was also very sweet and made me feel comfortable. And Terri the receptionist was enthusiastic and welcoming and helped me make further appointments that work around my schedule. I'm going back tomorrow for cleaning and I'm going to encourage my wife to also make the switch to Gentle Dental.

Posted 10/14/09 | Report Abuse

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I was horrified to find that 25 years after having the cement of my braces taken off, the enamel was broken off the root of 5 or 6 teeth. I was in pain. Iwent to my local Gentle Dental, and Dr. Xie recognized the problem and did a special kind of filling that protects the healthy root and tooth. People who've had braces should be on the lookout for this future problem.

Posted 10/09/09 | Report Abuse

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My mother recommended Gentle Dental to me, and I'm glad she did. The staff is friendly and competent, there's no waiting once you arrive for your scheduled appointment (a big plus; the waits were very annoying at my last dentist), and the office is clean and modern. Also very convenient location (easily T-accessible).

Posted 10/05/09 | Report Abuse

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The first time I came to Gentle Dental I had an abscess tooth and the doctors and staff were wonderful. I called and had an appointment right away, they explained what had to be done and they were very gentle with all the procedures. I have been going back to Gentle Dental ever since then and I am glad to recommend the whole dental team, they are top professionals from start to finish.

Posted 09/25/09 | Report Abuse

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I have been a dental patient of Gentle Dental for about a year. The staffs are helpful, nice and informative. I enjoyed the free water and the sugar free gum. The dental is the best Iv'e been in anywhere so far.

Posted 09/20/09 | Report Abuse

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One of the best dental offices I've been to in my 57 years. The DMD director of this office has both excellent competency as well as a warm interpersonal doctor-patient style. The hygenists that worked with the doctor were careing, gentle, and professional. The administrative staff are also quite helpful.

Posted 09/16/09 | Report Abuse

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I am in the process of of replacing a bridge with implants and crowns. Although going for any major dental work is never anything you look forward to, the Doctors, Hygienist and Staff at this location make is as pleasant as it can be. I don't hesitate to recommend Gentle Dental.

Posted 09/07/09 | Report Abuse

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I've grown to trust the professional work of Gentle Dental - from the gentle but persistent encouragement to floss a little better to the insistence on a perfect bite with a new crown. They're always there and once worked me in when I broke a tooth on the Saturday of a long weekend.

Posted 09/05/09 | Report Abuse

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i have a major fear of dentists and i love my dentist and hygenist here. before beginning any procedure, they took the time to explain everything and ask if i had any questions. every staff member that i interacted with was personable and super nice. they were excellent at what they do, got me in and out of the office in no time at all. especially for a poor grad student with no dental insurance, they offered me excellent introductory rates and took great care of my teeth. can't recommend them enough!

Posted 08/06/09 | Report Abuse

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Hi, I had the patient offer that includes, the cleaning, exam, x-rays and treatment plan, for a really cheap price. It was great. the attention it was excellent and very fast. They didn't forget about how to treat to their customers, they are very gentle. I am not a big fan of dentists, but I would definitively recommend this place to anyone. Great staff by the way.

Posted 07/28/09 | Report Abuse

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I have been a patient of Dr. Van de Rydt since 1995. I have had numerous procedures and always 100% satisfied. I would highly recommend Gental Dental in Cambridge for anyone who is looking for a superb dentist at a good price. Dr. Goldberg and the dental assistants and hygienists are excellent as well.

Posted 07/27/09 | Report Abuse

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I decided to try out Gentle Dental and was able to schedule an appointment promptly without having to wait for weeks. During my first visit, Dr. Van De Rydt took the time to answer my questions and explain in detail the dental work that needs to be done, which is helpful. The staff are friendly. Overall I had a positive experience.

Posted 07/23/09 | Report Abuse

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Fantastically friendly and accommodating staff- from the receptionists to the doctors! This great environment helps squelch common fears of visiting the dentist.

Posted 07/21/09 | Report Abuse

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I have always been very nervous about going to the dentist, so I didn't go. My teeth were discolored, chipped and just about falling out, and they were my front teeth! From the time I walked into Gentle Dental, the front staff, Terry, the office manager, Ellen, my dental assistant, and Dr.Van De Rydt, couldn't of been any nicer, and put me right at ease, when I was finished with all my work, I was NEVER nervous, no pain, and had a brand new front bridge, which was very affordable! I haven't smiled in years because of being so ashamed of my teeth, now I can't stop smiling, and showing everyone my new teeth!! I even went back to Gentle Dental to get the rest of my teeth whitened to match! I couldn't of made a better choice of a dentist! Thank-you everyone! I can't wait to come in for my cleaning!

Posted 07/21/09 | Report Abuse

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I've been a patient of Gentle Dental for years and have always had a positive experience. I've recommended them for years to family and friends and pricing is very competitive.

Posted 07/19/09 | Report Abuse

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I tried the new pt offer of x-rays, exam and cleaning for 57$. They were kind enough to have me come in only once (instead of twice) as I work night shift and was missing sleep to make the apt. The x-rays and exam were thorough and the cleaning was fantastic! They used high tech cleaning tools (ultrasonic water?) and the staff was very friendly. All my concerns were rest assured and I will definitely go back for future cleanings and care as paying per cleaning is much more affordable than dental insurance in MA and allows me the choice and responsibility to take care of my teeth the way I prefer! Thank you Gentle dental. Dr Kok and Ginger! See you soon.

Posted 07/10/09 | Report Abuse

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Dr Alistair Kok is the world's greatest dentist bar none! He is extremely professional, careful, skilled, and sensitive. Dr Kok is the perfect dentist for anyone with dental anxiety. I had extensive work done, and he was very careful in explaining my choices to me. He had other dentists give recommendations, he returned my phone calls, and he worked with my schedule. I am absolutely thrilled with the result. I would recommend Dr Kok to anyone and I am so proud of my new beautiful smile. Thank you!

Posted 06/30/09 | Report Abuse

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I just moved to Boston and started looking for a good and not too expensive dentist. I found Gentle Dental in close to where I live, found that the prices were more than reasonable, and had no trouble making my first appointment. I went in and the staff was very friendly. I honestly expected quality of service to be compromised by the cheap prices but it was far from that. The office is beautiful, the procedures are simple, and the process is fast. I really enjoyed the experience and was glad to find such a great dentist.

Posted 06/29/09 | Report Abuse

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I came here after a friend recommended their low rates (I have no insurance). I was anxious about how the quality might suffer as a result of their low rates, but I received the same high-level of care that I would at a higher-priced facility. I was in and out in no time at all and I felt great about the services I received.

Posted 06/16/09 | Report Abuse

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I had a great experience at my last routine cleaning. I was taken back to the office less than 5 minutes after I arrived, staff was pleasant, and the cleaning went very smoothly. Would recommend to others as their dental choice!

Posted 06/08/09 | Report Abuse

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I am terrified of dental treatments. I went "shopping" for a dentist to try to get some major work done. A couple of people I went to see were simply not patient and in one case - simply unprofessional. I called Gentle Dental in Cambridge after hearing that a colleague loved the Malden location and another liked the Arlington one. I needed to see a dentist in Cambridge. My first terrific experience was with the manager, Ms. Hedrick - unbelievable. She helped me so much. Then I saw the director, also a dentist, Dr. Van De Rydt -so nice, smart - really sharp. Then, Dr. Chan actually had to work on me and did so with his amazing assistants - Jason & Cheryl. From the manager to the director to the surgery - I have not ever had such a professional crew in dentistry and such a clean healing after a serious oral surgery. 5 stars is not enough - I would like to rate them with an entire sky of stars. I am so appreciative of their patience and excellent care.

Posted 06/07/09 | Report Abuse

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First of all, I'm 52 and have always kept up with my teeth. Finding a great dentist is like finding a great car mechanic, hair stylist, massage therapist, etc.. So important. I started going to Gentle Dental maybe 15 years ago, and Dr. van der Rydt (sp?) is a man I totally trust. He is a lovely human being: nice to EVERYONE no matter how difficult they may be. You can tell he actually likes his job and his staff and his patients. I've sent several friends and co-workers to him and they've all been happy.

I've got to say that Evelyn, who has been cleaning my teeth for years, is equally special. Always sweet and she really is gentle. No pain. The office staff, the dental assistants, really everyone there is great. So go there!

Posted 06/07/09 | Report Abuse

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I was so never so embarrassed in my life to go to the dentist office after not going for ten years, my teeth needless to say are real bad!I thought it would be the most humiliating experience ever. Well it wasn't, it was a great experience. From the beginning it was great. Dr. van de Rydt & his staff, especially Terry (manager) were absolutely awesome. I was made to feel so comfortable, I even went into a little panic mode, but Terry helped me thru & Dr. van de Rydt even made me more comfortable, he even saved my loose teeth until they have to come out. I went in feeling awful & a bit sick to my stomach, but I left feeling great & I know when I have my new teeth I'll feel like a new person.I would definitely recommend anybody & everybody to do there.You guys were great ! Thank you so much ! Debbie Rita

Posted 06/01/09 | Report Abuse

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I have been going to Gentle Dental in Cambridge for the last six years. What can I say-this place is great! The staff and dentists are very friendly and I always look forward to my cleaning every 6 months. The office is very clean and welcoming. I highly recommend Evelyn for your cleanings. She is the very best!

Posted 05/28/09 | Report Abuse

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I've had a very good experience at the Gentle Dental office in Porter Square. I had a semi-emergency, got a rather quick appointment, and was dealt with efficiently and professionally.
Everyone I dealt with, dentist, techs, front desk people were
courteous and pleasant. All in all, they have a very nice operation.
And the dental outcome was excellent

Posted 05/22/09 | Report Abuse

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For various reasons I had to go to the dentist about 9 times in a 6 week period...but they were great about accommodating my schedule and getting the jobs done. Nice staff and their work is greatly appreciated. Would have been next to impossible getting those 9 appointments in at a private practice or closer to Boston.

Posted 05/21/09 | Report Abuse

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I was having a VERY BAD tooth ache. I was supposed to have a deep cleaning and a root canal the next day. But I was booked wrong. I was crying and very emotional (did I mention I was 5.5 mo pregnant!) So yes I was having a bad day. I really wanted to be numb just so I could get some sleep, Never mind the tooth work for that day. Dr. Kok was sitting at the desk and could see that I was visibly upset and said that he would would numb the area for me. When I left it was like heaven. I was more comfortable and relaxed. I knew that the meds would where off after 3 hours, but it was the fact that I could get home take some meds and put my head down for a few hours. Not onl did I sleep fine, but I slept throughout the night! Thats important when you are pregnant! Im very happy that Dr. Kok stepted in, cause i was about to loose my mind! Thank you Dr. Kok so much!

Posted 05/21/09 | Report Abuse

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I love my dentist! How many people can say that about a guy who sticks a needle in your mouth? Dr Vanderydt was friendly and very nice and he made a beautiful new tooth for me that looks great and feels natural. I paid 50% less than I was quoted at another office for the same work and I'm thrilled with the results. Everyone else in the office were friendly and accommodating. Great experience all around. I've recommended my friends and family.

Posted 04/06/09 | Report Abuse

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I ruined my teeth with a diet a did a long time ago, getting 12 new cavities in three months time plus a broken tooth. Gentle Dental has been all around fantastic in helping me get my oral health together. After four crowns and some education, I haven't had a new cavity in years and feel like that experience is behind me. While having my last temporary crown done, it was in my mouth before I knew it. I literally thought they were still doing the impression and it was over. They also indulged my request for extra Novocaine. The staff is friendly, efficient and helpful as well. Great office overall.

Posted 04/06/09 | Report Abuse

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I moved here from New York and was very leery about finding a new dentist. A friend had suggested I give it a try & I am glad that I had. I found the staff to be professional, friendly and sensitive to my fear of trying a new dentist. I found the dental hygienist Regina to be thorough, and most importantly having a gentle touch. My consultation with Dr. Kok was also informative.

Posted 02/05/09 | Report Abuse

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I came in to the Porter Square clinic without an appointment as an emergency after my tooth broke.
I was received immediately, was diagnosed, X-rayed and was given a temporary crown. After less than 3 weeks I came for my permanent crown, which was ready and fitting.
The service was professional, the staff, both the medical and the administrative, is very friendly and helpful and I thank them for their excellent work.

Posted 12/08/08 | Report Abuse

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The dentists might be great, but when I went for my cleaning, I decided not to go back because it hurt so much that I figured that they could not be very gentle with other procedures if the cleaning hurt so much. My husband felt the same way after his cleaning was rough and uncomfortable too, so we didn't go back. This was in 2003, so maybe they are better and have a new hygienist by now.

Posted 05/06/08 | Report Abuse

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Appointments are always kept as close to time. The doctors are knowledgeable and very understanding. My teeth are the best they have ever been. The hygienists that I have seen are very good at cleaning my teeth.

Posted 09/28/07 | Report Abuse

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I have lived in the Boston are since 2001

I have had at least 7 hairdressers

Changed my job 6 times

Moved around 5 times

Bought 4 new cars

Transferred my IRA 3 times

Married 2 twice

Divorced once

Don't even know who my primary Doctor is but....

Love my 1 Dentist Dr. van de Rydt

I first went to Gentle Dental when I moved here in 2001, I was a bit concerned about going to a multi-office dentist, especially to an office in a strip mall. I wrongly assumed that there would be a lot of turnover and a lower quality of Doctors. As an afterschool teacher I didn't have dental insurance or a lot of extra money for dentistry. After an initial consultation and appointment with Dr. van de Rydt's, I was very pleased and have stayed a client from day one. In fact the whole office is amazingly professional, I have experienced quality work from absolutely everyone!

I was in a panic when Dr. van de Rydt was going to move to Florida. I am thrilled that he is back here where he belongs! He has a great demeanor always with a smile and I believe truly happy to see me (even if I am not thrilled to be at the dentist office) he is also great about accommodating my schedule. I also really trust the other folks in the office they all work together as a very tight team. I really do appreciate everyone at the office especially when Dr. van de Rydt, Dr. Goldberg or Dr. Wang make the time between patients, to make sure everything is doing well in my mouth or just to say hi or to check in with me personally. The whole office is great from the front desk folks, Liz and her girls to the very professional and able hygienist and dental assistants - especially Janna.

Thanks to you all!

Posted 09/21/07 | Report Abuse

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