Dr. Richard C. Apodaca has a gentle touch when performing any procedure. From routine cleanings to more complex dental work, we maintain a calm and easy going attitude to make you and your family feel comfortable. Dr. Apodaca will always explain what procedures are best for you and your dental situation. He takes photos with the intraoral camera so you can observe the steps hes taking to restore your dental treatment.
He owned a dental practice in West Des Moines from 1994 until Jan 31, 2018. While at the practice in West Des Moines he was awarded the best dental practice in West Des Moines, Clive and Waukee 2 years 2016 & 2017 by the Des Moines Register and USA Today newspaper contest, voted by his patients. We have now brought that experience and knowledge to Earlham and surrounding areas.
Our doctor and staff provide a family atmosphere where your visit will be welcoming and comfortable. We establish a friendship with our patients with trust and compassion treating everyone as an individual. Our philosophy is education and prevention.
We begin seeing young patients at the age of 1. Teaching and educating parents on their childs teeth, i.e. brushing techniques, eruption and sealants to prevent decay. Our goal is to never place a filling in your childs teeth. Our dental hygienist Amanda graduated from college in 2015. She is great with children and very calming to those who may be a little nervous about dental care. She compliments our office and will educate you on prevention and maintaining your beautiful smile. Amy has been with Dr. Apodaca since 1997 she is an expanded function dental assistant. Alexa is our dental assistant and enjoys the field of dentistry. She has an infectous smile.We have also joining our front desk is Danielle who we also hired in 2016. She is always wearing a smile and will greet you with her cheerful personality.Danielle or Deb are able to answer all your insurance questions. We believe in treating our employees like family. We work as a team. Our doctor believes in continuing the education of his employees. He and the staff attend dental society meetings, work study groups, local and national dental conventions. This allows us to keep up on the latest technology and procedures.
Our office offers comprehensive dental care such as cleanings and exams, restorations, cosmetic dentistry, implants, crowns, bridges, partials, dentures, bleaching, root canal therapy. We are your complete dental office to maintain your beautiful smile.
We comply with the CDC, OSHA and HIPAA-- Providing you with the knowledge that your personal information is secure. We use encryption on all dental insurance claims and X-rays we send to specialists or other dental offices.
Reviews
Rating 4.7 out of 5 based on 37 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestdavid avery
2 years ago
Doctor Apodaca is great. He has wonderful chair side manners and he is great with kids, too. But I tell you what, I will never go back to that office again. His 'billing department' is horrible. They quoted me one price while I was there and I paid that amount in full... and then a month later they sent me bill charging me another without any explanation. So when I called to inquire, they blamed it on an insurance error and she said they would credit my account right away. And then she called back and demanded payment in full and told me no credit was going to be issued. I was upset. I told her to send me an itemized bill so I could know what and why they were charging me. And instead the lady turned the small bill into collections that same day. I was getting rude threatening calls from a collection agency over an overcharge of $134. And as it turned out, it was an unauthorized extra procedure that they did trying to get more money from the insurance company. But the insurance company knew their game and wasn't having any of it! But it wasn't even so much that... it was the rude and argumentative tone that she took when she called. She was actually mean and sarcastic and unprofessional! She was just out of bounds rude. His back room staff lady needs to stay in the back room and not have anything to do with his patients. Some people just need to know their limits and personality flaws. As for me and my family, we found a good dentist that is certified Delta Dental and knows how to treat patient the right way. And this isn't an isolated instance... so be warned about the vicious attack dog from the back room.
david avery
3 years ago
Doctor Apodaca is great. He has wonderful chair side manners and he is great with kids, too. But I tell you what, I will never go back to that office again. His 'billing department' is horrible. They quoted me one price while I was there and I paid that amount in full... and then a month later they sent me bill charging me another without any explanation. So when I called to inquire, they blamed it on an insurance error and she said they would credit my account right away. And then she called back and demanded payment in full and told me no credit was going to be issued. I was upset. I told her to send me an itemized bill so I could know what and why they were charging me. And instead the lady turned the small bill into collections that same day. I was getting rude threatening calls from a collection agency over an overcharge of $134. And as it turned out, it was an unauthorized extra procedure that they did trying to get more money from the insurance company. But the insurance company knew their game and wasn't having any of it! But it wasn't even so much that... it was the rude and argumentative tone that she took when she called. She was actually mean and sarcastic and unprofessional! She was just out of bounds rude. His back room staff lady needs to stay in the back room and not have anything to do with his patients. Some people just need to know their limits and personality flaws. As for me and my family, we found a good dentist that is certified Delta Dental and knows how to treat patient the right way. And this isn't an isolated instance... so be warned about the vicious attack dog from the back room.
Al Howarth
3 years ago
Best dental office in Iowa. You will not find a better place for dental work in Iowa. Super friendly staff, beautiful office and top-notch work. And if you have extensive work, expect a follow up call from Dr. Apodaca. They are worth the short drive to Earlham.
Megan Deemer
3 years ago
We have been patients of Dr. A for over 15 years now. Our children have starting seeing him now as well. My 6 year old son informed me last night that when he grows up he wants to be a dentist, just like Dr. A and help people! If that doesnt speak volumes of Dr. A's compassion and caring nature, I dont know what does!
Roger Wedel
3 years ago
I've been a patient of Earlham Family Dentistry for a year now, and have had some extensive work done on my teeth. My experience has been nothing but good. Dr. Apodaca is the most knowledgeable dentist I've had in my considerable years, and the entire staff, from the front desk to the chair, are very well-trained, professional, and friendly. They care for the patient's health and finances, always offering choices that best suite the patient's needs. This is a team you can trust.
John Brummett
3 years ago
Dr. Apodaca and his team at Earlham Family Denistry are First Class! Patient care is their top priority and you can tell from the moment you walk in the door. The consultative and educational approach is what stands out the most. I left with ways to take better care of my teeth that no other dentist had every told me. Thank you!
Juli Randa
3 years ago
Dr. Apodaca and his staff took excellent care of my family. You are greeted at the door with smiles and directed back to a comfortable and relaxing experience. The staff took time to listen to concerns and made us feel at easy. I will always trust my families care to Dr. Apodaca and his staff.
John Brummett
4 years ago
Dr. Apodaca and his team at Earlham Family Denistry are First Class! Patient care is their top priority and you can tell from the moment you walk in the door. The consultative and educational approach is what stands out the most. I left with ways to take better care of my teeth that no other dentist had every told me. Thank you!
Megan Deemer
4 years ago
We have been patients of Dr. A for over 15 years now. Our children have starting seeing him now as well. My 6 year old son informed me last night that when he grows up he wants to be a dentist, just like Dr. A and help people! If that doesnt speak volumes of Dr. A's compassion and caring nature, I dont know what does!
Juli Randa
4 years ago
Dr. Apodaca and his staff took excellent care of my family. You are greeted at the door with smiles and directed back to a comfortable and relaxing experience. The staff took time to listen to concerns and made us feel at easy. I will always trust my families care to Dr. Apodaca and his staff.
Roger Wedel
4 years ago
I've been a patient of Earlham Family Dentistry for a year now, and have had some extensive work done on my teeth. My experience has been nothing but good. Dr. Apodaca is the most knowledgeable dentist I've had in my considerable years, and the entire staff, from the front desk to the chair, are very well-trained, professional, and friendly. They care for the patient's health and finances, always offering choices that best suite the patient's needs. This is a team you can trust.
Al Howarth
4 years ago
Best dental office in Iowa. You will not find a better place for dental work in Iowa. Super friendly staff, beautiful office and top-notch work. And if you have extensive work, expect a follow up call from Dr. Apodaca. They are worth the short drive to Earlham.
Jason An
4 years ago
Dr A is an amazing dentist and person. Very highly skilled professional who really cares about his patients. He's become a friend and how many people can say they are friends with their dentist?
Christi Russell
4 years ago
Best dental experience ever! I switched to Dr Apodaca this past year, two visits in and it's been fantastic both times! Nice office space. Friendly staff. Amanda, the hygienist, was great. On the first visit she explained everything to me and ensured understanding. I like that she took before and after pictures so I could see what she did. Dr. Apodaca was straightforward. I like their philosophy of prevention and no pressure for unnecessary treatment. I had my 2nd cleaning yesterday at 7 am. Being that early, I was still groggy and not fully awake. After the cleaning Amanda brought me some coffee, which I really needed that morning! Top notch service and patient care. I look forward to future visits.
Jeffrey Gorham
4 years ago
They are awesome. They work with you and explains everything really well I highly recommend them.
Tad Day
4 years ago
Dr. A is great with the kids and always has great advice for them!! NO HARD CANDY!!
Chelsea Hildenbrand
4 years ago
Dr. A is an amazing dentist! He and his staff really show they care about all of their patients!
Kathryn Braet
4 years ago
My kids and husband started going to Earlham Family Dentistry a few years ago and we loved the experience so much that I also made the switch this past year. They do a great job explaining any issues and presenting options! Highly recommend.
Summer Ory
4 years ago
Excellant care and service! We love our dentist and the staff at Earlham Family Dentistry!
Elizabeth Heimdal
4 years ago
Have always had a great experience with the entire crew. They are professional, respectful, and are amazing at what they do.
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