Transcendentist

Absolutely the best dental experience ever! They treat you like family and make sure that you are happy every step of the way. Every single staff member is fantastic, from the Amazing Dr. Pockrass to David his assistant to both ladies running the show in the front. You won’t be disappointed and you’ll actually want to get cavities just to come back! I had a whole lot of mercury removed and nearly all other teeth were redone — no small job — and this was right when I had about a month before I moved out of state. Not only did they squeeze me in, they didn’t just rush through the process, they genuinely took their time and did an outstanding job. I’ve had many quack experiences, many painful experiences, and with ‘car salesmen’ dentist and I can say without a doubt, he is the REAL DEAL — in fact, I will continue to fly from Texas to Berkeley just to see him. Thank you so much guys for all your hard work — I love my new mouth!

My first dentist in America. After getting a recommendation from my good friends I have decided to stop putting off my teeth and went to him. Everything is done with comfort and you get all the information needed. Treatments are usually as least painful as I experienced in my life. True, financially it hurts, but you don’t want to mess with your teeth… We can’t really replace them and just need to accept the American way or move to Canada ;)

I cannot speak highly enough of my experience here. I would comment both to the quality of experience– going to a dentist who is eco conscious, who provides a beautiful and highly soothing environment (including foot rubs!), the highest quality technology and supplies. I was in the loop throughout my procedures to know exactly what was being done. Dr Fred took pictures of my teeth, and showed them to me so I could see what was wrong, what he needed to do, and how he was going to do it. I have in the past endured alot of anxiety and overwhelm at the dentist. I hated it. Coming to the transcendentist is a whole new world. Worth the money. I feel taken care of, and I am definitely going back.

(NOTE: Please read my original review below this first)
I came back on here to update my review after my last visit and ended up reading some of the other reviews. There are a couple below that strike me as totally off base so I felt the need to comment on them. I must admit I feel a little protective because of how Dr Fred & staff helped me get my life back together, both physically and mentally, after my mugging…
The review from «Apico A.» simply comes off like an internet troll. (or competition?) First, it seems she misread the «Danielle S.» review. «Danielle S.» said the OTHER dentist she went to quoted her $ 200 per filling, NOT Dr Fred… It’s also apparent «Apico A.» knows nothing about Dr Fred. If she knew his history she’d know he lived in India for 10 YEARS!!! She makes it seem like the décor is some kind of trite new age nod or something… He’s actually a super spiritual dude and the décor is a reflection of that!
I will add this. I’d been to 3 dentists in the bay are before finding Transcendentist. I tried doing the «dirt cheap» route thinking «eh, a dentist is a dentist.» I couldn’t have been more wrong. My first experience was going to the USF dental school. BIG MISTAKE. They were horrrrible. The two fillings I got both fell out months after my visit. Then I went to a «low income» dentist on Market street to get those repaired and it was a very cold and unpleasant experience. I finally decided to find a «real» dentist and went to someone (whom I won’t name) and was told my mercury amalgams were «safe,» dealt with a callous staff, and felt pain during the one procedure I had done… (note: Anyone who has studied the toxicity of mercury amalgams knows they are suuuper dangerous)
Finding Dr Fred was like night and day. I’ve finally found a trustworthy doctor to work with from here on out.
As for costs…. Like someone else’s review says, you get what you pay for. I now know how important it is to have quality work done. Like I’ve stated before, his office is state of the art. His staff are total sweethearts. And Dr Fred is extremely skilled at what he does. Our teeth are such an integral part of our overall health and confidence. Never again will I get shoddy work done with a subpar dentist.
Lastly, in contrast to that Apico person’s statement of Dr Fred trying to gouge his customers, I couldn’t disagree more. I just had an emergency situation with pain from an exposed nerve due to a receding gum. Dr Fred stayed late last night (even though he was exhausted from being sick earlier in the week) to do digital imaging and put a protective coating over the area. It feels great now! And the best part; because I’ve been going there for years, he did it for FREE…
«Deep capital ransacking???» Not so much!

Thank you Dr. Fred and staff!
I’ve previously seen going to the dentist as a necessary obligation. After (finally) taking a friend’s advise I made an appointment at Transcendentist. I’m so happy I did. What a positive dental experience. I feel like I’m in the presence of a true healer.
Two years ago I had 7 cavities filled by another dentist. I left the appointment telling my sweetheart, «I feel like my mouth just fell apart.» I assumed that was normal but unfortunate.
I had nothing but pain and difficulty until meeting Dr. Fred and his team.
With extraordinary professionalism he explained why I was so troubled. Now, with obvious talent, Dr. Fred is removing and replacing all of that previous work. We’re only ½ way through the process but I’m amazed at how different I already feel. I’m totally impressed.
The results speak for themselves. THANK YOU

Preface: I was going to give 3 starts, until I saw the two star review was offered 200 $ per filling, when I was offered 400 $ per filling. ABSOLUTELY FRAUDULENT ETHICS. They took advantage of my wallet and dental coverage, and me, a unemployed female in my 20s. Really disgusting to mix spiritual culture of the east with deep capital ransacking.
I did receive a foot message, and the dental hygienist was great. Everything else gives me grief.

It has been over 2 years since my last review and I am happy to report that Dr. Fred has not tried to upsell me on anything. Instead he has just been the good person and excellent dentist that he is. For that I am grateful and wanted to update my previous review to be fair to him.

Always an amazing dental experience.
Dr. Fred and the staff at Transcentdentist Dentist operate a truly first-​class dental spa. I’ve been a patient for about 3 years now and I can honestly say my smile (and overall oral health) has benefited from Dr. Fred’s extraordinary talent, professionalism and courtesy. I 100% trust his judgement and outlined treatment plan.
His staff is truly outstanding — individually and collectively. I could not recommend this dentist more highly!

I have been a patient of Dr. Fred for about 6 years and I am very happy with the service which he has provided. Preventative dentistry is very important to me and this is his specialty.
I trust that he and his team are helping me to maintain my oral health to the highest standard. I feel safe knowing that he uses microscopic equipment to examine my teeth so that we can address cavities before they grow to be a pain. I appreciate how he takes the time to listen to me and communicate what he sees. I also appreciate how he has done a good job at building and maintaining the team of people who I interact with when I visit the office.
I just had 6 cavities filled by Dr. Fred last week and I really liked that since we caught the cavity development early enough, he was able to perform the procedure without drilling using a technique called air abrasion. Check it out:
. It feels nice to be taken care of nicely. Much appreciation to Dr. Fred and his team.

I can’t even begin to express how happy I am to have found the office of Transcendentist. I was referred to Dr. Fred by my Chiropractor who had nothing but good things to say. The office is nicely decorated, clean, relaxing and VERY updated /​high tech. My last dentist hadn’t updated any of his equipment since the 80’s and Dr Fred’s office is the exact opposite. He has all the latest equipment to get the detailed information he needs to make informed decisions about your dental health.
Also, everyone there is super nice and they even have a stuffed toy they give to my dog every time we visit, that they reclaim and wash prior to our next visit. You even get a nice foot massage while your getting your work done.
My dog Timmy and I strongly recommend the whole gang at Transcendentist!

Another reviewer (Palmira A.) below had a similar experience as I did. I had a couple of really great cleanings with this office, loved the atmosphere, and had been looking forward to seeing them for the long haul. However, after my second or third cleaning things took a turn for the weird.
During my latest cleaning, after the last cleaning being completely great, I was told that I had 6 cavities (I’ve only had 1 cavity in my entire life, eat well, and brush well — I could do better flossing… but couldn’t we all :)). When I asked Dr. Pockrass about if they were full on cavities or if this was a preventative suggestion I got a non-​clear answer but was told that I would «eventually need to do something about them» implying that the $ 3K in cavities they were assuming would need to be done.
My spidey sense went off and I saw another dentist to get a second opinion. When I got the second opinion I was told that I had 2 minor cavities and that they would only be about $ 200 each to fill… the difference was staggering. I’ve since switched dentists to Dr. Burg on Broadway and have been very happy.
Like the other reviewer said, the cleaning was great (and I think even the hygienist was confused by the doctor’s recommendation), but I honestly wouldn’t go back because I don’t think they have their customers in mind especially when the explanation for something so expensive and unexpected was paltry.

I really enjoy my visits to Dr. Pockrass and the whole Trascendentist team! The office is comfortable and clean. The foot rubs are the best! I love the toothbrushes and other goodies I walk out with every time! I feel super informed about what is going on in my mouth. So far everything I have had done has been pain free and I feel like the office staff has made it a point to make me feel comfortable, and to keep me informed about what is going on. I would totally recommend Transcendentalist to everyone!

Sure, this place is a bit pricey, but hey, you get what you pay for, and when it comes to my grill, I’m not messin’ around. I’ve learned the hard way by going to so-​so dentists who do so-​so work, and end up paying for it in one form or another.
I first went to Dr. Fred for an emergency cracked veneer, and was so impressed with the service and professionalism, I went back to get all my amalgam fillings replaced with porcelain. Let me tell you: a toxin-​free mouth feels gooooood. The process can be tricky, but you can feel at ease knowing that every measure to protect your health has been addressed and then some. Dr. Fred is a talented dentist, not to mention a kind soul, and everyone in his office is friendly, attentive and engaged. Plus foot rubs. Duh, done.

I’m ultimately a bit confused about how I felt after my first visit here. The office has great technology and the approach is very zen (swirly colors on the walls, complimentary foot massage), which was a very pleasant atmosphere.
Their dental hygienist was phenomenal and had a great touch. I’d definitely go back for that service.
So at this point you’re probably like «why the three stars then?» Well, while I was there they somehow convinced me that I needed to get EIGHT fillings (I’m 23, I take good care of my teeth and I don’t actually have any cavities) to preempt cavities where my enamel was weaker. Before I realized that I had a say in what was going on, I’d been booked a follow up appointment that was going to cost me thousands of dollars.
So ultimately while their atmosphere was nice, when I thought about it it really felt like I’d just been pressured into spending a lot of money. I did not feel respected as a customer and a human being. And considering how expensive this place is, they really shouldn’t have an «out-​for-​your-​money attitude.
Like I said though, I would go back for the dental hygienist. She was great.

Update to my previous review — It’s now been about 5 years since serious renovations in my mouth were completed. All the caps are as good as new. I still go to Transcendentist for routne check-​up and cleaning and I am as satisfied as always.

I know Dr. Fred and Ina well from being their client for many years. They are upstanding people who genuinely are trying to make a positive difference in the world.
Today I took the liberty of asking dr Fred why one dentist would not identify a cavity where he did. (This has actually happened too me too so I really did want to understand). He explained that Transcendentist invested in extremely high end digital imaging equipment that takes a picture of every tooth and they can see in detail what is happening. Most other dentists take X-​rays of groups of teeth and can’t see at the micro level what is really going on. Makes sense to me since I have seen dr Fred’s X-​rays and seen other dentists X-​rays and there’s a big difference in terms of quality and detail, although I’ll be honest –sometimes I would rather live in ignorance of the small cavities in my mouth and pray for the best– not really the best plan for keeping my teeth but…
Dr Fred is a hardworking, detailed and honest dentist who truly cares about his clients.

Maybe other people are deceived by the bells and whistles, but I was not impressed. Is the office very zen? I guess! But I’m not going to the dentist for a yoga class. I want a dentist who will do good dental work. My experience was less than pleasant. I spent so much of my childhood getting dental work so I’ll preface this by saying that I am certainly no fan of dentists.
I went to this dentist for amalgam removal because he is one of the few in this area who are trained to do it properly. My first appointment was an exam and it was ok but the dentist pushed me so hard to schedule a cleaning (later that same day!!) and appointments to get my other teeth filled (all 8 of them!) that I almost didn’t go back. It was really obnoxious and I finally had to remind him that can’t just take all this time off work and pay thousands of dollars up front, especially for services I never agreed that I wanted to have done there!
The second appointment was my first amalgam removal. It went ok and wasn’t painful and I was done in about an hour which was great. But my third and final appointment was awful and traumatic and completely changed my opinion of this dentist. I think he felt rushed, as my appointment started 30 minutes late (which he didn’t say one word about). He didn’t give me enough numbing gel so I felt the drill which is not a good feeling at all. Then he tried to numb me more but it happened again! It was so beyond painful. He blamed my tooth for the problem, which was irritating since HE is the dentist and should be able to take responsibility for something like that. Even if it’s not your fault, you can apologize when a patient is upset. He did not. He repeatedly expressed his contempt for the way my previous dentists had done on my fillings. He didn’t seem that concerned about my comfort level or the fact that he just drilled into my un-​numb jaw. He had me laying at a weird angle which was killing my neck (for 2 hours). And I almost choked on the gel running into the back of my throat because my head was so far back and it was going up my nose (I had an oxygen mask on so I was supposed to be breathing through instead of my mouth).
In my opinion, this dentist is more concerned with making money (and scheduling your follow up appointments IMMEDIATELY so he can make even more money) than being a really good dentist. Your required oxygen mask will cost you $ 125 per hour. He even charged me $ 10 for a small tube of Sensodyne which I never actually said I wanted. Sure, he is polite and acts like he cares and talked a big game about how he wanted to give me a positive experience which would change my opinion of dentists (epic fail, doc). And the plants and plastic Buddhas are very Berkeley. I opted out of the foot massages because I didn’t want to be charged for those too so I can’t comment on that. But none of what he does seems at all genuine to me and it seems he uses the kitschy zen stuff to mask the fact that he’s not that good of a dentist. Also, his new receptionist is really, really disorganized and rearranged/​rescheduled/​canceled my appointments multiple times.
The pay up front policy is also total b.s. considering the high cost of the services. I realize many dentists do this because insurance companies are a nightmare, but in general I think it deters patients because it puts the burden directly on them. If you are going to have this type of policy, at least lower your fees to a reasonable amount or offer payment plans. They also don’t explain the fees, or the process for submitting claims to insurance… or anything. They spend the checkout process trying to push you to schedule new appointments and as soon as they run your credit card, they push you out the door. He certainly made a pretty penny off me but I will NOT be back.
UPDATE: I went to a new dentist 6 months later who told me I only had 3 cavities, not 8. He also patched one of the fillings that Dr. Fred gave me. for free. He didn’t try to upsell me or pressure me to come back right away. I am so glad I finally found a good, trustworthy dentist who has integrity and doesn’t make a business out of ripping people off!

So good!
Today was my second visit to Dr. Fred Pockrass at Transcendentist. I will for sure continue to keep coming whenever I am in the Bay Area and need dental work. Prior to Dr. Pockrass I had always had all my dental work done in NY by my dentist of 10 years. I was hesitant to visit anyone else for dentistry but I followed a friends recommendation and crossed the Bay Bridge to check out Dr. Pockrass
Upon entering the office you can expect to be greeted by one or two beautiful and very helpful and hospitable receptionists. This time I showed up a few minutes late, which did not seem to be a problem. After waiting only about 3 minutes, which I spent examining the intriguing titles on the book shelf I was seen by the hygienist, also easy on the eyes, who started me off by offering me a pair of color therapy glasses. I am not sure about the efficacy of the glasses but having purple vision during my visit.
The hygienist did her routine and explained to me how my oral health had improved since my last visit. She then proceeded to explain to me a better brushing and flossing technique. Meanwhile the resident massage therapist treated me to a foot massage which was extremely relaxing.
After the hygienist I went in to see Dr. Pockrass to fix an old filling. He very thoroughly explained what he would be doing and filled me in with other details as he did his work. He and his assistant finished the job reasonably quickly. The procedure was less than comfortable, however during this time I received ANOTHER foot massage which was EXTREMELY helpful at helping me divert my attention from the implements in my mouth. In addition to the work I was scheduled for, he filled another part of the same tooth that seemed to be a little less than perfect.
After the work was done Dr. Pockrass talked to me about my upcoming trip out of the country, which he had caught wind of via the hygienist who chatted with me for a minute in between sessions. He offered me two contacts where I was headed which I thought was an extremely generous and thoughtful gesture.
The cost for this visit was 445, which I find to be somewhat expensive for a dentist visit, but as I have described above the experience was far above and beyond that of a typical visit to the dentist. Not to mention the extra drilling and filling came free even though I could have been charged. I had to pay out of pocket but the lovely receptionist took care of submitting the claim to my insurance for me.
I will definitely continue to see Dr. Pockrass for any dental needs as long as I am in the Bay.

I rarely write reviews, but I must not neglect this one. I’m not even sure where to begin. My experience with Dr. Fred and the staff of this «trancendentist,» go far beyond expectation. Foot massage during restorations and cleaning? Yes! Booties to keep my feet warm? Mandala images on the television screen…“color therapy” glasses to protect my eyes…100% natural mouth wash and homeopathic arnica after the procedure… alright. I won’t list everything, but I must say-​this place is as close to the perfection (for my standards) as it gets. Everything about this office feels warm and welcoming.
I am never given clear-​if any at all; instructions following dental restorations. Not this time! Clear instructions. Offered advil-​advised to take it immediately to avoid pain once the numbness subsided. I’m certain that this is a first. Dr. Fred even mentioned that I should not go, «chomping down on an almond.» How did he know I planned to eat almonds? No really, this was very useful information-​as I realized that anything with the density of an almond or greater would be painful to chew. I wouldn’t have considered this quite honestly. Once again, I won’t list everything. I will mention that I felt supported and spoken to with clarity and care.
Dr. Fred called me a few hours after I’d left and checked on me. This! This was very important, as I always have a million questions every time I arrive and of course-​leave a dental visit.
I must mention, the prices are high, I believe, however-​I didn’t feel like «just another mouth.» Also, one important piece to add-​following this comment-​the technology is amazing. I haven’t ever felt so informed about what’s going on in there! To view it as well! They had a camera inside my mouth that I could view on the screen before me-​I truly have not had the opportunity to see the inside of my mouth in such a way. Wow!
I felt that there was authentic gratitude expressed towards my decision to choose Trancendentist for my dental needs. A gentle handshake was offered multiple times, with a warm smile and words of gratitude.
The job seems to be done well (it only took place a few hours ago) and Dr. Fred and his staff are most certainly competent and efficient-​and quite possibly the very best I’ve encountered (I’ve had 10 or more dentists)!
Needless to say-​I highly recommend.

I am VERY serious about my doctors. I once flew from San Francisco to Anchorage just for superior back treatment.
Dr. Fred is the only dentist I have ever been fully satisfied with my entire life. I know medical science and he is unbelievably detailed and thorough. He is one of the most cutting edge in his field.
Generally I’m a pretty cheap person and so initially I was a bit worried about the price tag. But I promise you, this dental work is worth every penny. You will save at least as much as his fees by getting your work done right. I’m sending my girlfriend to him to re-​do a filling that another dentist messed up on. She’s even cheaper than I am (a coupon addict) but she’s seen the transformation in my mouth and wants the same.
Dr. Fred has an arsenal of high tech integrated instruments that make digital maps of your teeth complete with magnified high res images of every surface. Every time you visit him YOU CAN SEE exactly the improvements he has made on your mouth. For me they were astounding.
In four appointments he eliminated all bleeding from my gums and replaced dangerous mercury fillings with composite ones (a very difficult procedure that should only be trust to the most experienced professionals). He did all of this without threatening my health with all-​to-​common industry chemicals.
I feel confident that my smile is the best it has ever been and will remain that way as long as Dr. Fred is around.

los dientes!
el reconocimiento mas grande del dr. pockrass y el equipo trascendentist es su compromiso hacia su profesion y el excelente trato y transparencia.
mi experiencia siempre es unica, el equipo ademas de explicar a fondo q es lo q pasa en tu boca, con fotos antes y despues/​diagramas, rayos x, etc. van mas alla del servicio al cliente al ofrecerte anteojos de colores, mantitas calientes, kits de limpieza, te, colores calidos, videos inspiradores y demas. el equipo de masajistas de reflexologia son lo maximo, masaje en los pies q de verdad derrite y relaja. este servicio nunca lo he visto en ningun otro lado.
ahora hay q saber tambien q las oficinas del trascendentista tambien estan comprometidas con madre tierra al reciclar hasta el mercurio de viejos rellenos. muy muy responsables.
el dr. fred pockrass es una persona responsable y de mucha integridad yo le recomiendo a toda mi comunidad sus servicios humildemente.
de las veces q me han tratado hasta me he quedado dormido para mi sorpresa y felicidad.
in english,
the biggest acknowledgment of dr. pockrass & the trascendentist team is their commitment to their proffesion & excellent will & transparency.
my experience is unique, the team besides explaining deeply whats so in your mouth with pics before/​after, x rays, etc. they go beyond customer service & offer color glasses, hot towels, cleaning kits, tea, warm colors, inspiring videos & more. the reflexology therapists incredible, massage ur feet that truly melts & relaxes. this is service i never seen anywhere.
now also know that the office of the trascendentist is committed to mother earth they recycle mercury of old fillings. very very responsable.
dr. pockrass is a responsible & w lots of integrity, i recommend my community his services humbly.
out of several times they had treated me i have fallen asleep to my surprise & happiness.