Ballston Dental Arts

I scheduled an appointment at Ballston Dental Arts for a routine check-​up and cleaning because I was leaving for the Peace Corps in a couple of months and needed the dental portion of my medical clearance completed. My previous visit, which occured when I was working in the private sector and had superb dental insurance, had been smooth so I figured I’d return. My second visit was the opposite.
After my initial cleaning I was told that one of my back teeth needed some «strengthening work» that would cost $ 315 dollars out of pocket. I was apprehensive but the staff informed me that the Dr would have to note the necessity of this procedure on my Peace Corps paper work and that they would likely require me to have it. After some more convincing they were able to perform the procedure immediately after. Like others have mentioned in previous reviews, I was pressured into work that I wasnt convinced was necessary.
Two weeks later I got in contact with my insurance company about a partial reimbursement for the extra dental work and my insurance company had no claim from Ballston Dental Arts. After calling the dental office they realized that they had sent the claim to my old insurance despite the fact that I had given them all of my new insurance information during the visit. Adding to my frustration, two weeks after this mix-​up I was billed another 143 dollars from Ballston Dental Arts because my insurance was out of network and ended up covering a only little more then half of a standard cleaning.
I would just reiterate what other reviewers have said. If you are going to schedule an appointment make sure you are 100% certain of your dental insurance policy and don’t allow them coax you into extra dental work without another opinion.
PS. The dental assistants are all super professional and friendly. I would give them 5 stars if I could.

Don’t bother coming here unless you are 100% certain about your insurance policy. This place sneakily schemed me and told me they accepted my insurance, when they only accepted part of it. I walked out and a week later found out I owed over $ 400 just for X rays. Not to mention they took duplicate X rays against my choice just because they knew they’d make more money off me. I’ll never recommend these people to any of my friends and they won’t scheme another dollar out of me

Please be aware that this is a FEE FOR SERVICE practice. Of course there is nothing wrong with that but the staff will attempt to mislead you by saying «we will submit the claim for reimbursement after you pay upfront» this does NOT guarantee that you will be reimbursed AT ALL. Please be an informed patient. If you wish to have your insurance pay for the service CALL YOUR INSURANCE FIRST. I did this and my insurance said that they would pay 0 percent. My insurance was happy to email me a list of dentists that would be reimbursed at 100 percent. So I did not see Dr. Kim due to this issue.
I only rated 1 star to draw attention to those who may not be well informed about how fee for service practices work and because of the misrepresentation over the phone and in person (I only found out it was fee for service because of the contract they have you sign). I DID NOT SEE DR. KIM SO THIS IS IN NO WAY A RATING FOR HIS EXPERTISE. He may be a fantastic dentist and worth paying out of pocket.

Going to Dr. Kim at Ballston Dental Arts is always a pleasant experience! I used to not like going to the dentist, but Ballston Dental Arts has made it palatable. The practice seems to be always improving; I have been going here to four years and the staff knowledge/​efficiency, sending of appropriate reminders, and overall experience has gone from good to great over those years! I have continued coming here even after moving out of the Arlington area into DC.
I am not sure why there are negative reviews, my insurance has always covered work done by Ballston Dental Arts, so I can only speak to the positives.

I went in looking to just have my teeth clean and was told i had a cavity and gums need cleaning, Price $ 2700. They told me it was very important that i did it asap. I didn’t have the money at the time so it told them i would come back later.
FIRST RULE OF SALES DONT TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER. she said we have a credit program. I said, i rather wait till i have the money. she was not taking no for an answer. like a dummy i gave in and did the credit application. had my gums cleaned and cavity filled two weeks later the tooth that they filed started to ache, keep in i never had a problem with that tooth at all.
This place is just like a dealership they are very pushy about getting you to spend money. few weeks later I went to another dentist. she looked at my gums chart that i got from Ballston and told me that they were fine and i paid for a service that was not required.
I understand people have to make money but to sell someone something they don’t need is horrible.

I have the same issue with insurance as other reviews. I go there bc I’m sure I have a cavity (in fact my old dentist had told me earlier in the year I had one). First let me say, the staff is extremely nice and welcoming. All very sweet. However, I am starting to think now they’re so sweet because they’re screwing you over. I went, they took an X Ray of my mouth and did a 15 minutes TOPS consultation. I was told I didn’t have any cavities, even though I was experiencing dental pain. Then I go to leave and the office manager gives me this weird story about how my insurance is from Massachusetts? so it isn’t covered in VA? Even though my whole family uses it in Virginia as well and we’ve never had this issue. She tells me she filed with the insurance company right then, so I just have to pay up front and then I get a check in the mail. Her words ‘2−3 days’. Well, here I am, two weeks later STILL with no check. When I call to get an update, they just say ‘call back at the end of this week’. That being said, if you call ahead and your insurance is accepted and you don’t have to pay up front, I would def suggest going there. Everyone is nice and work around your schedule. I just can’t get over paying $ 300 for a 15 min appt and then waiting over two weeks to get my money back.

I am kind of shocked that there are any positive reviews, let alone 5-​star ones — then again, they appear to mostly relate to cleanings and exams, not actual dental work.
I was referred here by my regular dentist in Arlington after an impact to my front tooth left it blackened and (almost) completely knocked out. Or at least, that’s what Dr. Kim told me. They took a number of X-​Rays, and although I could not see any cracks on them, he convinced me that my front tooth was on the verge of falling out of my mouth at any moment (I’m not a radiologist, what do I know). The procedure suggested to me was the following: they would take out my front tooth; I would be toothless for eight months while «the bone healed» (but that’s okay, they’d provide a flipper for the low, low price of $ 700!); they would put in an implant; they would put a crown on the implant; I’d have a fake front tooth but it would likely not match my other teeth, so was I interested in veneers?
I left reeling and really upset. Total time for all procedures: 8 – 12 months; total cost: well over $ 5K, and that’s with dental insurance (and without the veneers). Plus the cost of therapy, probably, for being a woman in her 20s and having to spend 8 months without a front tooth. The only saving grace is that when they tried to schedule my surgery right away, I said I needed a few days to think about it.
I sought out a second opinion, and thank goodness I did. The new dentist, recommended to me by a coworker, reviewed the X-​rays taken by Ballston, took his own set just to be sure, and confirmed that there are no cracks in my tooth. There is absolutely no reason to remove it. He did a root canal and bleached the tooth to get it back to normal, and now, it’s like nothing ever happened. Total time: less than 4 weeks; total cost: less than $ 1500, and this guy doesn’t take my insurance.
I honestly can’t believe that someone willing to remove a patient’s front tooth for no apparent reason is allowed to remain in practice.
On the upside, the office is clean, nice, and the staff is very friendly. You cannot find a better-​looking place to get ripped off.

I just had 2 dental implants put in by Dr. Kim, they are extremely visible right in the front of my mouth (canine teeth) and they look great! They match my other teeth perfectly and no one can tell that they’re implants. Dr. Kim was able to do the whole procedure himself (instead of going to a periodontist or other doctor) and he is a perfectionist at making your teeth as natural looking and functional as possible. He also was able to split up treatments between calendar years so I could maximize my insurance benefits. I have missing teeth due to bad genetics and I went to Dr. Kim’s after hearing how well he did on my dad’s dental implants. I would definitely recommend Dr. Kim for dental implants and for general dentistry.

From the very first time I entered Ballston Dental Arts, I felt like I was a valued patient. The staff is top-​notch and the professional demonstrated by all is stellar. The follow-​up, reminders and genuine care provided makes me feel ‘good’ about going to see the Dentist. I recently had the LANAP surgery and Dr. Kim throughout the entire process made a nervous patient feel at ease. Furthermore, he offered the kind of personalized care to ensure that I was fully aware of the process, and offered comfort throughout the treatment plan. His caring demeanor is only matched by his professional standards of excellence that is demonstrated in the time he takes with me as a patient. Tasha, Nev, Nina and Lindsay have all provided me with a smile when I walk in the door and the care that makes me want to enthusiastically spread the word this team.
I not only feel that this is the dental provider of choice for me — I have and will continue to recommend this service to my relatives, friends and colleagues. «
I was at the office today for a follow-​up and maintenance and the staff was as friendly as ever. I’ve only been a patient for close to 9 months, but I feel as though I have been a part of the Ballston Dental Arts family for years. Dr. Kim took the time today and talked to me about my progress, what I need to do on my own for healthy oral hygiene and he even laughed at my corny jokes. Moreover, he and his staff continue to be professionals and I am at ease and confident of their excellent services.

Wow, I was really surprised by all the negative reviews here. I’m going to have to agree with Kaitlin K and JPi and give a glowing review. I’ve been going to Dr. Kim for about 5 and a half years ago and I have not had a bad experience yet.
I initially came to Dr. Kim with a really bad dental situation and he and his staff were stellar. I hadn’t ever met a dentist who was good and wasn’t cocky or rude, or pushing stuff I didn’t need. To say he saved my teeth is putting it mildly. He, nor his staff ever judged; they didn’t bad mouth any previous work I had done, and they provided outstanding service. Plus, I didn’t have dental insurance (at the time) and they made it a piece of cake for me to pay.
Each time I have been and have had x-​rays, Dr. Kim and his staff have shown me the x-​rays, and have pointed out where there is an issue (if there is one). Last time I was there, I thought I had a cavity and was prepared to pony up some cash. It turns out, I didn’t have one and I left paying my regular maintenance fee.
Having come from dentists who didn’t provide much of anything, I appreciate the little touches of coffee, tea, and juice. It’s just a nice polite touch and demonstrates good manners.
Dr. Kim is a bit reserved, but he truly cares about his patients and it shows. When I had a my initial dental work, Dr. Kim called me personally, on a weekend, to make sure I was healing okay and wasn’t in any pain. He is very dedicated to good dental health, and is honestly interested in his patients’ overall health and well being.
I like Ballston Dental Arts and I will continue to go to Dr. Kim. He’s trustworthy, his dentistry is stellar, and most of all he genuinely cares.

I was actually quite surprised by all of the negative reviews here! I visited BDA for the first time yesterday, and was very impressed.
The facility itself is very nice, including the treatment rooms and the bathroom. I was greeted with a hand shake from Nev when I walked in, which immediately impressed me. I liked that she took the time to go over all of the paperwork with me, instead of just handing me a clip board and having me fill it all out. When finished, I was given a tour of the office – this was a first for me.
I had the usual x-​rays, and then the most comprehensive exam and cleaning I have ever had.
I for one enjoyed the hot towel after the cleaning – I thought it was a very nice, thoughtful touch – as well as the refreshment area. Why you would bash a gesture of kindess is beyond me.
I was pleased with every single staff member – including Dr. Kim. Not one person showed any ‘attitude’ as written by another reviewer. They all seemed genuinely happy that I was there. I am referring my husband there, and I will return.

After reading the below reviews, I’m a bit apprehensive to write such a glowing review – but after my second great visit, here it goes anyway.
The staff are always (ALWAYS) super cheerful, smiling and incredibly friendly – almost to the point of being unreal, but at the same time it feels genuine. This is from the time you walk in the door until you leave – plus, most of the staff actually introduces themselves, which is SO NICE. I can’t believe how many years I went to my old dentist and didn’t know the names of half the staff there.
Dr. Kim is a bit reserved compared to his staff, but he’s not unfriendly. He’s very to-​the-​point, and I think that comes off as a bit too quick for some people.
I originally came in 6 months ago because my mouth was aching – I thought I was going to have to get some work done, so I made an appointment to get X-​rays and talk to the doctor. When my X-​rays showed that I didn’t have any cavities, Dr. Kim spent extra time with me figuring out exactly where my pain was and what could be the problem. (Apparently I grind my teeth – which is also something previous dentists have mentioned as well)
My cleanings have been quick but thorough and painless (no poking too hard or anything along those lines). The hygienists have always been knowledgeable and helpful when I have questions about anything.
It’s true that they offer coffee when you arrive, a warm towel after your cleaning – but as I’m usually on my way to work right afterward, this is great! There’s no chance of me walking out of there with anything on my face other than my newly cleaned smile.
I will say this: my ‘insurance’ plan through work requires me to pay 100% then get reimbursed, so I have never had to deal with Dr. Kim’s office billing my insurance or asking for a credit card when they shouldn’t need one.
Also, I did ask about Invisilign once, and I was given a quote that seemed to me to be a bit expensive, even for the area. They followed up with me (as I had stated I was interested), when they were able to lower the price a bit, but as I declined a couple months ago for financial reasons, they haven’t brought it up since. If you’re going for cosmetic dentistry, this office has all the new technologies and they look like they do a great job – but my ‘insurance’ wouldn’t pay for it, and after explaining that, I haven’t been bothered about it since.
AND, this office is a 2 minute was from the Ballston metro, so it’s super convenient, and they have early hours (open at 7am) to work around people’s work schedules.

I have been going to Ballston Dental Arts for 2 years and have had an excellent experience. The staff is professional, kind, and most importantly prompt. I have never had to wait more than 5 minutes to be seen. They take my insurance and I have always had excellent cleanings. I have never had a cavity nor have I been recommended any service that was not necessary. I would absolutely recommend Dr. Kim and his staff.

Agree with the other reviewers. Was told I had «many» cavities based on computer generated views of my teeth. Went back to my previous dentist and had real x-​rays taken — no cavities.

Was referred to Dr. Kim by a friend… was very impressed by the facility — the staff had a bit of an attitude, and some features seemed redundant (do I need coffee, tea, and juice at the dentist’s office? no. Hot towel after a cleaning? come on) but overall impressive. It was also around the corner from my apartment — all pros.
So now let me set the stage. Recently graduated grad student… between jobs… no dental insurance… My regular dentist is in NY and I saw him for a cleaning in December of 2011. At that point he told me I had one tooth in the back of my mouth beginning to form a cavity. Fast forward to end of May when i scheduled a cleaning with Dr. Kim. I needed all my x-​rays done — fine, done. They did a cleaning. great. Until they find 5 alleged cavities!
Disclaimer: my eating/​drinking habits have not changed significantly since December!
Their proposed treatment plan would cost me over $ 1500 out of pocket b/​c I don’t have insurance.
I didn’t call to schedule the appointment because hot damn thats a lot of money.
A few weeks later I finally get a job with dental insurance. I chose a plan with no out of network coverage. Turns out Ballston Dental is out of my network! So I look for a new dentist… find one with great reviews and I go today for a consult on the treatment plan they gave me. New dentist tells me i have one visible cavity in the back (like my original dentist had said), and that there may be one or two forming at sites where my teeth are touching in the back, but the x-​rays are inconclusive and because of the excellent health of my teeth he doesn’t feel the need to drill around and fix things that may just be a shadow on an x-​ray.
Let’s compare…5 cavities that needed 2 visits to «fix» it all versus 1… with 1 or 2 that may need monitoring?
What the helL!
Too much money has been spent on my mouth in years of orthodontics and what not to just drill around for the sake of drilling. This is ridiculous, and seems dishonest and unfair! WIll NOT go back and will NOT be recommending this place to anyone I know.

Only 2 stars because the place is convenient, and the staff is friendly enough. However, I don’t really like the new Office Manager. On my recent visit, which will be my last, after my treatment, when the hygienist walked me to the front desk I was handed a form requireing me to hand over my credit card number (in case my ins. didn’t pay). WTF? When did they start doing this… I’d never had a problem with payment issues before, so I felt insulted. As for Dr. Kim, unless you’re there to get one of this designer «artistic» procedures he treats you like… well I actually felt like he didn’t have the time for me since I was only concerned about preventive maintenance and not cosmetic.

I visited Ballston Dental Arts a few times over the past year, and I felt like the dentist and staff were trying to push extra services that were not covered by my insurance. I went in for 2 regular cleanings, and they kept insisting that I come in for an extra «deep cleaning.» At the first appointment, they also told me that I should come in every four months and also get a mouth guard. I wasn’t experiencing any pain/​problems, but I figured they knew what they were talking about and came in for the deep cleaning. Not only did I not notice any effect, but the hygienist also had an attitude when I said I wasn’t going to be coming in every four months like they wanted at my last appointment. They made made me feel uncomfortable and pressured, so I’m not going back.