DiVerde Dental Studio

09/17/2008 Posted by dmfelder

Like most people, I'm not a big fan of locating a new dentist. I am a recent transplant to Chicago, and I needed to do just that. After a little research, I went to a dentist near the Water Tower in downtown Chicago. After a full set of X-rays and a normal cleaning, I was told I needed several fillings and a "deep cleaning" (whatever that is!). That seemed odd, because I don't normally have such problems. I asked some friends for a referral so I could get a second opinion, and they recommended DiVerde Dental Studio (specifically, Dr. Emily Gallagher). I went to the office, and I was greeted by several very sweet, high-energy assistants. After a few laughs and very short wait (I was seen within 5 minutes of my appointment), I met Dr. Gallagher, who led me into her exam room. She actually took the time to clean my teeth HERSELF! Then she proceeded to tell me that I needed 2 filling replacements...barely...and that was it! Right off the bat, I appreciated her honesty and professionalism, because she knew I expected to hear much worse. A few days later, I was back in the friendly office for the work. Dr. Gallagher was so kind during the procedure. She told me exactly what she was doing every step of the way. She even used a technique I had never heard of to minimize sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures...and you know what? It worked! Anyway, I can't say enough. Thanks so much!

Pros: Pretty much everything

Cons: Nothing, except you have to get into downtown to see them...but once you're there, it's right next to Millenium Park. How great!

09/11/2008 Posted by halcyon62

I have just ended my relationship with DiVerdi Dental Studio. As far as I can tell the dental work, cleaning etc is professionally performed, and I have no problems with their dental competancy. What I have a problem with is the staff, and the lack of respect for the dental patient. In particular I have 3 complaints. I have a problem with lying prone on the dental chair. When ever I start a dentist patient relationship, I indicate that the work can not be performed while I am in a prone position, yet repeatedly, when I come in to the Diverdi Dental Studio, the dental technician does not refer to the notes and immediately moves the chair to prone. Respect for the patient, would include checking for any instructions included in the patient information. The second problem occured when the technician asked me if I wanted a complete set of x-rays taken on a partial set taken, since in the past I had only had a partial set taken. I responded partial, and the technician ignored my response. Respect for the patient should include listening to the response. The third issue, is when the doctor recommended that I have some work done. He told me to go to the desk and review my treatment plan. I assumed that the treatment plan would include information about the treatment including what type of work was to be done and how many appointments would be necessary, and how much time each appointment would take. Instead, I was given a document with the cost of the treatment, and the request to sign off on the charges for the treatment. To me, this is not a treatment plan but a billing plan. Respect for the clientele would include describing a billing agreement as one, not as a treatment plan. I will no longer go to Dr. DiVerdi, but have already booked an appointment with a dentist who is recommended for both her work and the courtesty of her staff. Hopefully courtesty includes respect for the patient, not just smiling and talking softly.

Pros: Downtown, convenient to public transportation. Nice view of Millenium Park.

Cons: Office staff