We believe preventive care and education are the keys to optimal dental health. We strive to provide dental health care rather than disease care, which is why we focus on thorough exams checking the overall health of your teeth and gums, performing oral cancer exams, and taking x-rays when necessary. We know that routine cleanings, using dental floss, sealants and fluoride are all helpful in preventing dental disease. We are focused on the health of your mouth and the beauty of your smile. A review of your medical history enables us to stay informed of your overall health, changes in your medications, and any illnesses that may impact your dental health.
We know you will be confident in our team of highly trained and skilled clinicians and staff. We pride ourselves in providing the care you need to keep your smile healthy. We are committed to continuing education and learning, in order to give you the best possible result. We attend dental lectures, meetings, and dental conventions to stay informed of new techniques, the latest products, and the newest equipment that a modern dental office can utilize to provide state-of-the-art dental care.
Dr. Ballan Tuck was born in San Francisco. He was adopted at six months old and raised by the Tuck family in Santa Cruz. He took an early interest in dentistry. By the age of 10, he was already working and volunteering in a local dental office. After graduating from UC Santa Cruz with a degree in Biology, he attended UC San Francisco School of Dentistry where he received his Doctorate and BS in Dental Materials in addition to many awards and scholarships for his determination and scholastic achievement.
Dr. Tuck returned to Santa Cruz where he purchased his mentor, Dr. John Stenovich's, office and enjoyed 12 successful years of treating the Santa Cruz community. Single and without children, he made the decision to spread his wings and start his next chapter in life and return to the Bay Area. Three days after relocating, he met the woman who would become his wife, Kelly. He also reconnected with his biological mother, Dorla.
Dr. Tuck loves dentistry and the opportunity it gives him to connect with people from all walks of life. He cherishes the time to learn about peoples amazing backgrounds and stories, and at the same time, sharing his own personal journey with them.
Providing exceptional dentistry in a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment is Dr. Tuck's mission for the entire office. He is focused on ensuring every visit to the office is satisfactory; making all necessary changes to ensure expectations are met. Dr. Tuck performs a wide spectrum of dental services including laser therapy, non-metal fillings, single visit crowns, bridges, extractions, implant restoration, partial and full dentures, full mouth rehabilitation and Invisalign. In addition to these services, he is also very dedicated to patient education and prevention. Discussing diet, exercise and stress reduction is essential when striving toward optimum dental health.
Outside of the office, Dr. Tuck is an avid golfer, enjoys biking, surfing, skiing, basketball, softball, live concerts, especially the San Francisco Symphony, and traveling the globe with his lovely wife, Kelly. He is also a strong advocate for community service. He donates his time and financial assistance to many local organizations.
Dr. Baldwin was born in Iran but moved to America with her family when she was four years old. She grew up in the Bay Area, where she attended high school, and then moved to Texas to study at the University of Texas at Dallas. Following her undergraduate studies, she earned her dental degree from the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health in Mesa, AZ. She moved back to Texas after graduating in 2007 to work in the Dallas, Fort Worth area, then migrated back to the Bay Area, where she has been practicing ever since.
She is happily married with three children, one of whom is running their own social media management company, and another one who is a junior in college. Dr. Baldwin and her husband are big fans of football, basketball, soccer, and boxing. On weekends they love to relax by enjoying the outdoors with their youngest daughter or catching up on the latest books or movies.
Dr. Halpern grew up in Martinez CA. He attended University of California San Diego where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology. He was involved in many extracurricular activities and volunteered in the pre dental society serving as a dental assistant in community clinics. He was also a member of the rowing team as well as captain of the water ski team.
Dr. Halpern then attended the University of California San Francisco where he earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He continued his education at UCSF and completed his residency in Periodontics as well as his Masters of Science in Oral & Craniofacial Sciences.
Cynthia is from Yuma, AZ and has lived in the Bay Area since 2000. She started recently with Dr. Tuck in January 2018.She is happily married and has a little baby boy she loves spending time with when at home. For relaxation, she lovestraveling, cooking, baseball games, reading, musical theatre, and going to the park with son.
Phuong is a native of Vietnam and currently lives with her siblings in San Leandro, CA. She graduated from Diablo Valley College in 2019 with an AS degree in Dental Hygiene, Allied Health, and Natural Science. In the past, Phuong has enjoyed volunteering with California Careforce and CDA cares which provides dental care to community members.
She loves to provide preventative dental treatment that helps keep patients teeth healthy. In addition, she encourages conversations with patients about the relationship between oral health and overall health.
Hi everyone, my name is Kimi and I cant wait to meet you! I joined Dr. Tuck in November 2021 after working throughout the Bay Area as a Dental Hygienist for 6 years. I found my love for helping others and dentistry at a young age, for my mom was a hygienist for over 50 years. Growing up, going to the dentist and having my teeth cleaned was always a relaxing and positive experience. I hope to do the same for you, as I am committed to making your visit as fun and comfortable as possible.
After growing up in the Bay Area, I moved to Baltimore, MD to get my BS in Psychology and played Division I volleyball on a full athletic scholarship. I then moved to NYC and held positions in medical research, the restaurant industry, and in surgery while getting my Post Bacc certificate at New York University. After finally coming home to sunny California, I graduated from Dental Hygiene School in 2015.
Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. While cooking is fun, I enjoy eating so much more. I love the outdoors, so hiking and camping across the U.S. with my two rescue dogs is one of my favorite activities. If Im not hanging out with my dogs on the trailhead or surfing at the beach, you may find me vacationing overseas somewhere!
I have been in the dental field since 2003. What I enjoy about working is being able to help people and the satisfaction when that person can be more confident in their smile. Outside the office my two boys keep me pretty busy with their extracurricular activities. I enjoy running, hiking, and anything outdoors. I also enjoy working out with my fitness group, as well taking salsa classes.
She also comes from a large family in which she has 2 brothers and 4 sisters! She enjoys taking herson to the park, going for ice cream, beach time and spending precious moments with her family. She is awesome athelping out patients and serving their needs.
Milve is a native of Jalisco, Mexico. I have lived in Union City since 2010. I have been working in the dental field since 1994 and attended Carington Career College in San Leandro CA. I took my CA registered dental assistant state board exam in August 1997, and am currently certified in CPR. I have worked with many specialties such as pedodontics, oral surgery, endodontics and periodontics. I have two children, a daughter and a son, who I love spending time with on the weekends, and my dog Maya who I take on nightly walks. I enjoy working with Dr. Tuck and associates because it is a thriving positive environment that has allowed me to work with awesome patients.
Reviews
Rating 4.5 out of 5 based on 74 reviews
Sort by
newest oldest highest lowestMaria F Marquez
2 years ago
Dentist had great table manners and work efficiently and delicately. However, the front staff is very unprofessional and need better communication skills. I scheduled my second appointment, sent over my insurance information, only to find out when I got to the office that my insurance did not covered my visit- after I called numerous time the office and my insurance and was told that the visit was covered. When I told the person in the front desk, she just apologized and said the office was backed up in calling back their patients. I understand the delays due to Covid but I did call numerous times before my appointment to confirm and I even took a day off from work for this appointment. Will not be coming back.
Nira Jagadeesan
2 years ago
I broke four front teeth and needed a root canal and permanent crowns. It was a 6 month long process during which Dr Tuck and his team were very diligent in their service, communication, and scheduling of appointments and referrals. They were very flexible to my availability and even saw me on a Saturday to complete my procedures. Dr Tuck is a very professional, personable and skilled dentist who I could not recommend more. (Special shout out to Paul, Jackie, Cynthia and MJ - Thank you!)
jeremy greco
2 years ago
I first discovered Dr. Ballan Tuck when I lived in Santa Cruz many years ago and needed an emergency procedure. He really saved me and my tooth. He was caring, professional and explained everything that he was going to do and why. Many years later, when I moved to SF, I continued to travel to Santa Cruz because of his services. Since then, he's moved to Piedmont, and I still see him, as does my family. He could move to LA and I'd still travel the five hours to see him. Dr Tuck is that good. His office staff has always shown this type of professional service as well. They always lay out the exact cost, and are quick with insurance information and what exactly is covered. I know a lot of people fear dentistry, but under the capable hands of Dr Tuck, your fears will soon be gone.
laura altamira
2 years ago
Great dental service. Kimmy cleaned my teeth very effectively and carefully. She took a picture before and after the cleaning. Also, Dr Baldwin examined my teeth at the end and explained the procedure I need to continue. She showed me all X-ray and walked me through each of them. This place has very good equipment.They are very professional.
Emily Walker
2 years ago
I completely agree with the previous reviewer regarding Dr. Baldwin and Dr. Wen. I had the same negative experience with Dr. Baldwin - she corrected me nonstop and made me feel like my dental problems were all my doing/made me feel pretty awful about myself and the future of my teeth. Dr. Wen on the other hand is fantastic and so compassionate and understanding. It literally was the polar opposite experience. See Dr. Wen!!
Hannah Diaz
2 years ago
I've had cavities for as long as I can remember, now I'm up to 15 cavities and have made my peace with dental work. I moved to the area recently and despite COVID restrictions, I really needed to find a new dentist. After asking for recommendations and reading reviews for dentists within my network, I found Sarah Baldwin! The office was mindful of distancing, mask-wearing, hand-washing, and required us to fill out a simple form before our visits to confirm we didn't have any recent symptoms. She explained the work I would need and the whole process went very smoothly. Now (almost) all my cavities are filled (still have one appointment left!) and I even convinced my scared of the dentist partner to get her teeth work done here! She said it was the best dentist experience she's had. Also, my partner is a trans woman and everyone was very respectful of her identity, even while handling the insurance which uses a different name.
Jana Dolsen
2 years ago
Very friendly staff and the office took all necessary COVID precautions. Would recommend!
Vicky Basulto
2 years ago
To Dr. Baldwin and staff keep doing what you are doing! Dr.Baldwin refilled an old cavity and it was literally painless - thanks to you Jenna and Jackie for your assistance ladies! The numbing shot (& I don't like shots!) was smooth and the work was done quickly. (About and Hour) I've been on the hunt for a good dentist and I am very thankful to found a Dentist I can count on and they listen to your needs. The overall experience and cleanliness of the office and staff are A+. Thank you ladies in the front Helen - I really appreciate my new Dentist home! :)
Emily Thompson
2 years ago
I've been bouncing around from dentist to dentist and have never been happy with the cleaning or the service. I am very happy here. The pricing is transparent, and I didn't feel like unnecessary services were pressed on me like I have experienced before. I will definitely keep going here for my dental care.
Breck Waldman
2 years ago
Dr. Baldwin and her entire office of dentists, hygienists, assistants, administrators and oral surgeon partners have provided me with superior treatments, cleanings and long-term dental plans over the last several years. Although I'm told I'm an outlier, I look forward to every visit to their office, and I've had many more than the average patient. My mouth has needed a lot of work, and they've elevated my dental health immensely. Their combination of skills and experience, empathy and patient education, clear billing practices and direct billing to dental insurance have been A+ in all areas. They run a busy practice, so book those cleanings and exams now! If you want and expect excellence, Dr. Baldwin DMD is where it's at.
Sergio Flores
2 years ago
Ive had both the best and worst dentistry visit of my life at this office. Dr. Wen is a delight! She was cheerful, empathetic, and best of all gave clear explanation for any work she did or recommended. I saw her for both a cleaning and filling and both were the gentlest and best dental experience I've ever had. A great dentist makes all the difference, I highly recommend her Dr. Baldwin was a nightmare. She was very rude, extremely patronizing and had horrible bedside manner. Dr. Baldwin verbally chastised me for even suggesting the nitrous could be turned up above 40% even though Dr. Wen noted I needed 70% in my previous appointment. I was harassed throughout the whole procedure and Dr. Baldwin had to use a second anesthetic midway because she failed to check my gums for sensitivity till halfway through the procedure, something Dr. Wen did not fail to do. She made me feel awful for taking up so much of her time and I would not recommend Dr. Baldwin to anyone. On the other hand the administrative side of the office is incredible. They always give a clear verbal and written billing summary before and after the appointments. They also use an electronic signing service for all their documentation that is very easy to use and actually saves time for a change. Best doctor's office experience I've ever had. The other reviews are correct, they do push cosmetic services unto you, but I found the suggestions helpful as I was able to easily get a billing summary for such services before making any decisions. I wish I didn't have to write this review but I've never been more mistreated by a medical professional before. Save yourself the trouble and ask for Dr. Wen, you won't regret it
Lauren Reisfelt
2 years ago
By far my favorite dentist I've ever had.
Jana Dolsen
3 years ago
Very friendly staff and the office took all necessary COVID precautions. Would recommend!
Hannah Diaz
3 years ago
I've had cavities for as long as I can remember, now I'm up to 15 cavities and have made my peace with dental work. I moved to the area recently and despite COVID restrictions, I really needed to find a new dentist. After asking for recommendations and reading reviews for dentists within my network, I found Sarah Baldwin! The office was mindful of distancing, mask-wearing, hand-washing, and required us to fill out a simple form before our visits to confirm we didn't have any recent symptoms. She explained the work I would need and the whole process went very smoothly. Now (almost) all my cavities are filled (still have one appointment left!) and I even convinced my scared of the dentist partner to get her teeth work done here! She said it was the best dentist experience she's had. Also, my partner is a trans woman and everyone was very respectful of her identity, even while handling the insurance which uses a different name.
choco chunk
3 years ago
tl;dr: Top of the line practice truly invested in providing great healthcare Dr. Baldwin is incredibly skilled and really looks out for the well being of her patients. A number of times, she has spotted developments early and helped me address them before they were cavities. As I've gotten older and my dental needs change, I feel confident that she is watching out for me. Administrative side of the office is also just on point! They have never made billing mistakes for me even when I had changes in insurance coverage. They are prompt with answering questions and are always lovely!
Vicky Basulto
3 years ago
To Dr. Baldwin and staff keep doing what you are doing! Dr.Baldwin refilled an old cavity and it was literally painless - thanks to you Jenna and Jackie for your assistance ladies! The numbing shot (& I don't like shots!) was smooth and the work was done quickly. (About and Hour) I've been on the hunt for a good dentist and I am very thankful to found a Dentist I can count on and they listen to your needs. The overall experience and cleanliness of the office and staff are A+. Thank you ladies in the front Helen - I really appreciate my new Dentist home! :)
Emily Thompson
3 years ago
I've been bouncing around from dentist to dentist and have never been happy with the cleaning or the service. I am very happy here. The pricing is transparent, and I didn't feel like unnecessary services were pressed on me like I have experienced before. I will definitely keep going here for my dental care.
Breck Waldman
3 years ago
Dr. Baldwin and her entire office of dentists, hygienists, assistants, administrators and oral surgeon partners have provided me with superior treatments, cleanings and long-term dental plans over the last several years. Although I'm told I'm an outlier, I look forward to every visit to their office, and I've had many more than the average patient. My mouth has needed a lot of work, and they've elevated my dental health immensely. Their combination of skills and experience, empathy and patient education, clear billing practices and direct billing to dental insurance have been A+ in all areas. They run a busy practice, so book those cleanings and exams now! If you want and expect excellence, Dr. Baldwin DMD is where it's at.
Lauren Reisfelt
3 years ago
By far my favorite dentist I've ever had.
Sergio Flores
3 years ago
Ive had both the best and worst dentistry visit of my life at this office. Dr. Wen is a delight! She was cheerful, empathetic, and best of all gave clear explanation for any work she did or recommended. I saw her for both a cleaning and filling and both were the gentlest and best dental experience I've ever had. A great dentist makes all the difference, I highly recommend her Dr. Baldwin was a nightmare. She was very rude, extremely patronizing and had horrible bedside manner. Dr. Baldwin verbally chastised me for even suggesting the nitrous could be turned up above 40% even though Dr. Wen noted I needed 70% in my previous appointment. I was harassed throughout the whole procedure and Dr. Baldwin had to use a second anesthetic midway because she failed to check my gums for sensitivity till halfway through the procedure, something Dr. Wen did not fail to do. She made me feel awful for taking up so much of her time and I would not recommend Dr. Baldwin to anyone. On the other hand the administrative side of the office is incredible. They always give a clear verbal and written billing summary before and after the appointments. They also use an electronic signing service for all their documentation that is very easy to use and actually saves time for a change. Best doctor's office experience I've ever had. The other reviews are correct, they do push cosmetic services unto you, but I found the suggestions helpful as I was able to easily get a billing summary for such services before making any decisions. I wish I didn't have to write this review but I've never been more mistreated by a medical professional before. Save yourself the trouble and ask for Dr. Wen, you won't regret it
Load more