I have wanted to become a dentist since the age of four. I interned with Dr. Butera for 7 years helping me prepare for a career in dentistry. Sapna participates in many other activities, predominately focusing on her dance. She has attained professional status in two kinds of Indian Classical Dance and will continue her dance instruction beyond her graduation. Sapna is now attending New York University School of Dentistry with an expected graduation in 2023.
Dr. Gene Butera was born and raised in West Hempstead, New York. His ambition and drive to become a dentist was evident at an early age. Since his father was a general dentist, and he maintained a home-based practice, it was easy for Gene to help and observe his Dad. From as early as age 9, Gene would be observing procedures chairside, developing x-rays and establishing his strong communication skills with patients. His loving relationship with his Dad only reinforced his career path.
After Chaminade High School, Gene went on to Boston College and received his BS in Biology and BA in History graduating cum laude. Following college, Gene entered Georgetown University, School of Dentistry where he received his D.D.S. degree. Upon graduation, Gene fulfilled a life dream and opened his practice with his father in West Hempstead. They practiced there until 1999. Then, with the practice outgrowing the 'home', Gene moved the office to a new, state of the art facility in Garden City where it remains today. Dr. Gaetano Butera retired in 2006, but his skills, knowledge, compassion and teaching are still present.
Dr. Gene is a member of The Academy of General Dentistry and all its local and state constituents. He actively seeks and maintains a strong continuing education curriculum, having taken over 1100 hours of post graduate training. He is one of the recognized leaders in implant prosthetics on Long Island. His practice runs the full range of treatment, from children to senior citizens, offering all phases of dental care including but not limited to cosmetics, restorative, bleaching, veneers and crowns.
He was recognized, both Federal and State, for his contributions as a member of the Dental Forensic Team that helped to identify victims from the attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 and the crash of American Airlines Flight 587. He was awarded the honor of 'America 's Best Dentists' for 2013. Dr. Gene is an attending doctor at Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, New York where he teaches in the General Practice Residency Program.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 17 reviews
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2 years ago
The long and short of it is: Dr Butera has to be the BEST dentist I have ever been to in my life. This is NOT a one time visit review! I have had many dentists over the years as I moved all around the LI area even as far out as the Port Jeff area vs W Hempstead where I started with him years ago. Moving so much unfortunately due to convenience of travel time, I had to choose other dentists because of distance. I returned to Dr Gene recently, as I now have more time to travel a bit from my home. WOW the difference in his sincere care for you as both a person, AND as his patient, is like no other dentist I have ever been to. I had a dental issue recently after hours. Left a message for Dr Gene. He was so kind to try and help me with some answers to my concerns by phone, the office wasn't even open anymore! That alone shows how much this guy cares about his patients. As to actual dental work I have never had such pain free dental work with any other dentist. From what I know, Dr Gene's father was also a dentist, so you are getting just tons and tons of experience in this office. The staff was great too, super nice and helpful as well. If I could give Dr Gene 10 stars I would...What a great dentist AND person!!
Bob&Missy Meyer
2 years ago
What I put here is a warning to others. If this happened to me it can happen to you. I 'm so devastated to be writing this. I was Dr. Butera's patient for nearly 40 years. I've never had a problem with him. My last review was 5 stars and nothing but praise for his expertise & chairside manner. That has changed drastically. And not because of the doctor. Due to character limitations, I am unable to present the facts of a very unfortunate incident that happened in March. It should never have happened. It didn't involve Gene at all but someone else in the office who apparently has the power to tell you to "It's time for you to go find another dentist." All because she couldn't understand what I was trying to tell her. Hanging up on a patient is unprofessional. Patient abandonment is unethical. I wish I could tell the full story but there isn't space. I was basically "cancelled" by someone other than the dentist. No appeal was possible.. It was a minor misapprehension which this person turned into a major disaster--over nothing. I was trying to explain about a discrepancy regarding an exam/cleaning appt their receptionist made a mistake on in Sept 2020, that affected an appointment in March. That's all it was. There was no upsetment on my part, only confusion, which I was attempting to get clear. This was not allowed. The person at the heart of this story basically flipped out on me over the phone & started raising her voice. I asked why she was raising her voice. I was perplexed over her aggressive reaction to me trying to explain an innocent mistake by their receptionist Sepna. THAT question is what cost me a 4 decade relationship with my dentist. Angry & unable to understand the points I was trying to clarify, she hung up on me. It was shocking. i waited a few minutes & called back to try to rectify the situation. It was too late. This person's mind was made up. My being baffled turned to being stunned when she told me sarcastically to "Have a nice life." I was literally shaking at this point, and very upset. As she was hanging up on me for the second time I called her the B-word. She was behaving like the B-word & I had had enough of her rude treatment. I'm not proud of saying that. I wish I hadn't, but I was beside myself. Cancel Culture has reached our Long Island haven--ironically, by a person whose stated goal is to spread peace & good energy. When I was summarily scrapped by this person over a slight misapprehension, I flipped out too & said what I said. I'm sorry I did. This is barely the nutshell of what occurred but its the best I can do to get some of the story out. I debated with myself since the day of the incident, 3/4/2021, whether to say something or not. I've decided I had to, in the hope that other patients are spared such unprofessional & cruel treatment. If you're a long time patient here be very careful. If you tick off this particular person (and you might not realize you've done it) you too could be instantly cancelled & dismissed. If you're thinking of coming here just be discerning. If your instinct tells you something isn't right in this office, listen to your instinct.
Nancy H
2 years ago
Gene Butera has been my dentist for 20 years, and I could not be happier with the care that I've received during that time. He is an excellent dentist who utilizes state-of-the-art technology, loves his work, truly cares about his patients, and employes an excellent staff. He is also one of the kindest and most compassionate people that I know, with great integrity, a cheerful and easygoing demeanor, and a wonderful sense of humor...I actually enjoy my visits to his office. As someone who has had numerous and ongoing dental issues throughout my life, I have complete faith that, with Dr. Butera. I am always receiving the best possible care and can always count on him and his staff in an emergency. I have recommended Dr. Butera to numerous friends, family, and colleagues over the past two decades, and they have all been delighted with the care that they receive. On both a professional and personal level, it is a pleasure to be a patient of this practice...I feel very fortunate to have found them.
Nancy H
3 years ago
Gene Butera has been my dentist for 20 years, and I could not be happier with the care that I've received during that time. He is an excellent dentist who utilizes state-of-the-art technology, loves his work, truly cares about his patients, and employes an excellent staff. He is also one of the kindest and most compassionate people that I know, with great integrity, a cheerful and easygoing demeanor, and a wonderful sense of humor...I actually enjoy my visits to his office. As someone who has had numerous and ongoing dental issues throughout my life, I have complete faith that, with Dr. Butera. I am always receiving the best possible care and can always count on him and his staff in an emergency. I have recommended Dr. Butera to numerous friends, family, and colleagues over the past two decades, and they have all been delighted with the care that they receive. On both a professional and personal level, it is a pleasure to be a patient of this practice...I feel very fortunate to have found them.
Bob&Missy Meyer
3 years ago
What I put here is a warning to others. If this happened to me it can happen to you. I 'm so devastated to be writing this. I was Dr. Butera's patient for nearly 40 years. I've never had a problem with him. My last review was 5 stars and nothing but praise for his expertise & chairside manner. That has changed drastically. And not because of the doctor. Due to character limitations, I am unable to present the facts of a very unfortunate incident that happened in March. It should never have happened. It didn't involve Gene at all but someone else in the office who apparently has the power to tell you to "It's time for you to go find another dentist." All because she couldn't understand what I was trying to tell her. Hanging up on a patient is unprofessional. Patient abandonment is unethical. I wish I could tell the full story but there isn't space. I was basically "cancelled" by someone other than the dentist. No appeal was possible.. It was a minor misapprehension which this person turned into a major disaster--over nothing. I was trying to explain about a discrepancy regarding an exam/cleaning appt their receptionist made a mistake on in Sept 2020, that affected an appointment in March. That's all it was. There was no upsetment on my part, only confusion, which I was attempting to get clear. This was not allowed. The person at the heart of this story basically flipped out on me over the phone & started raising her voice. I asked why she was raising her voice. I was perplexed over her aggressive reaction to me trying to explain an innocent mistake by their receptionist Sepna. THAT question is what cost me a 4 decade relationship with my dentist. Angry & unable to understand the points I was trying to clarify, she hung up on me. It was shocking. i waited a few minutes & called back to try to rectify the situation. It was too late. This person's mind was made up. My being baffled turned to being stunned when she told me sarcastically to "Have a nice life." I was literally shaking at this point, and very upset. As she was hanging up on me for the second time I called her the B-word. She was behaving like the B-word & I had had enough of her rude treatment. I'm not proud of saying that. I wish I hadn't, but I was beside myself. Cancel Culture has reached our Long Island haven--ironically, by a person whose stated goal is to spread peace & good energy. When I was summarily scrapped by this person over a slight misapprehension, I flipped out too & said what I said. I'm sorry I did. This is barely the nutshell of what occurred but its the best I can do to get some of the story out. I debated with myself since the day of the incident, 3/4/2021, whether to say something or not. I've decided I had to, in the hope that other patients are spared such unprofessional & cruel treatment. If you're a long time patient here be very careful. If you tick off this particular person (and you might not realize you've done it) you too could be instantly cancelled & dismissed. If you're thinking of coming here just be discerning. If your instinct tells you something isn't right in this office, listen to your instinct.
Matt Parmiter
3 years ago
Dr Butera has been my dentist for 30 plus years. He saved multiple teeth of mine after a terrible accident playing sports, which I still describe as a miracle 25 years later. I've told my story to other dentists and they are shocked how good my teeth look. He also installed a crown about 15 years ago that has held perfectly since. From a basic cleaning to serious work look nowhere else. Dr. Butera is simply the best.
Randall K
3 years ago
I started with Dr Gene Butera's dad when I was growing up in W Hempstead. When I got a bit older I moved a few times so lost touch with both Dr Gene and his dad. In my lifetimes guess I have had about 5 regular dentists I saw overall, but without a doubt I trust Dr Eugene Butera the most, and besides being a super nice guy, he puts you at ease (haha well as much as a dentist can) and he's got a ton of experience. My last dentist SO totally messed up my teeth and gums I decided even though Dr. Butera is out of my dental network, I now need the BEST. I have now returned to his practice and you can just feel how much he cares, how competent he is, and so far has been totally pain free. His staff is also fantastic and nice. His wife Wendy works at the practice and she is both very professional but also extremely likeable. His dental assistant named Cindy is also great, and there's a very and helpful staff member named Sapana who has been helpful too. To sum up my novel you may notice a point of difference here with Dr. Butera. He has patients that usually have been with him for years and years. Other dentists often get a positive review after maybe just an emergency visit but then seems, no other history "long term." If you want a GREAT dentist who can do it all, really tries to minimize any pain if at all, and does things RIGHT..Look no further than Dr. Eugene Butera and his practice!
Matt Parmiter
4 years ago
Dr Butera has been my dentist for 30 plus years. He saved multiple teeth of mine after a terrible accident playing sports, which I still describe as a miracle 25 years later. I've told my story to other dentists and they are shocked how good my teeth look. He also installed a crown about 15 years ago that has held perfectly since. From a basic cleaning to serious work look nowhere else. Dr. Butera is simply the best.
Randall K
4 years ago
I started with Dr Gene Butera's dad when I was growing up in W Hempstead. When I got a bit older I moved a few times so lost touch with both Dr Gene and his dad. In my lifetimes guess I have had about 5 regular dentists I saw overall, but without a doubt I trust Dr Eugene Butera the most, and besides being a super nice guy, he puts you at ease (haha well as much as a dentist can) and he's got a ton of experience. My last dentist SO totally messed up my teeth and gums I decided even though Dr. Butera is out of my dental network, I now need the BEST. I have now returned to his practice and you can just feel how much he cares, how competent he is, and so far has been totally pain free. His staff is also fantastic and nice. His wife Wendy works at the practice and she is both very professional but also extremely likeable. His dental assistant named Cindy is also great, and there's a very and helpful staff member named Sapana who has been helpful too. To sum up my novel you may notice a point of difference here with Dr. Butera. He has patients that usually have been with him for years and years. Other dentists often get a positive review after maybe just an emergency visit but then seems, no other history "long term." If you want a GREAT dentist who can do it all, really tries to minimize any pain if at all, and does things RIGHT..Look no further than Dr. Eugene Butera and his practice!
Rosanna M
5 years ago
Dr. Benny Tong is an amazing dentist!!! I never write reviews but had to share my experience. I've been terrified of the dentist and had very bad experiences but he changed my entire perspective! He is extremely thorough, honest & has the patients best interest. Most dentists are all about the $$$ but he is not. He was very gentle with my extraction- painless & quick. The crown he made for me was the perfect shade & looked gorgeous compared to my previous crowns. He's honest, down to earth & very easy going which is nice so you feel comfortable. Highly recommend him!!!
Rosanna M
6 years ago
Dr. Benny Tong is an amazing dentist!!! I never write reviews but had to share my experience. I've been terrified of the dentist and had very bad experiences but he changed my entire perspective! He is extremely thorough, honest & has the patients best interest. Most dentists are all about the $$$ but he is not. He was very gentle with my extraction- painless & quick. The crown he made for me was the perfect shade & looked gorgeous compared to my previous crowns. He's honest, down to earth & very easy going which is nice so you feel comfortable. Highly recommend him!!!
Dan DiPasquale
6 years ago
Dr. Butera has been our family dentist for more than 15 years for a reason. He is by far the most professional, polite, knowledge and absolute best at what he does. I was a dental assistant for years and I can say confidently this is the type of dentist you want. He is great what he does and he is always updating his craft and equipment. He makes you feel welcome and comfortable and his office is very clean. He's honest and has only your best interest in mind. I have seen his new associate Dr. Tong twice now and he is a perfect fit. He is also super professional and friendly. I would strongly suggest you call them if you need a dentist for you and your family. I have referred about 5-7 people who all still use him and love him.
Sapna Punj
6 years ago
Love the feel of the office. The dentists and the staff all have such a great energy.
san c
6 years ago
Dr. Benny Tong provided a wonderful dental experience for me. He was friendly, thorough, and gentle! Taking x-rays has always been tough for me (I have a sensitive gag reflex), but Dr. Benny somehow made it comfortable, and I made it through my x-rays without gagging once. I also felt that was not overly aggressive with his treatment suggestions, and could tell that he really cares and wants only the best for each patient. Will definitely be coming back!
Bill Daly
6 years ago
Dr. Benny Tong is a fine addition to the already wonderful team at this Practice. Dr. Tong was extremely proactive in stabilizing a cavity-ridden tooth and provided in detail the techniques and great benefits of brushing and flossing. Throughout whatever procedure he was performing, he kept me informed of what to expect and why each step was necessary. Both he and Dr. Butera are Highly Recommended for their dental skills and pleasant demeanor.
Tom V
6 years ago
Excellent dentists. Personable and caring. I've been going to Dr. Butera for many years. I highly recommend him!
Linda Cucci
6 years ago
Dr. Butera has been my dentist for many years. He is one of the most warm, caring and honest people I know. I have complete confidence in his professional skills. He always takes the time to explain in detail any procedures he recommends and why they are necessary. Recently I had some dental services performed by Dr. Tong. He is a great addition to the office. He is friendly and made me feel comfortable during a root canal. I believe they both truly care about their patients.
Michelle Okada
6 years ago
I have been visiting the office of Dr. Butera for many years now and I can honestly say that I can't imagine a better dental practice. Dr. Butera and staff are incredibly friendly, caring and skilled. The addition of Dr. Benny Tong is a perfect fit, and my recent experience as his patient was wonderful. I highly recommend the dental practice of Dr. Eugene Butera and Dr. Benny Tong!
M M
6 years ago
Dr. Butera has been my dentist for more than 30 years. He is extremely thorough and his work is superb. He takes the time to explain exactly what he is doing and he makes you feel very comfortable at all times. I have also recently had some dental work done by Dr. Benny Tong and he is excellent at his craft. He answers any questions I have about the work he is doing on my teeth and he explains everything in a very precise manner. The office is very clean and the staff is very nice and helpful as well. I definitely recommend this office if you are looking for top quality dental work.
Dena Angone
6 years ago
Very friendly doctors who take their time and are extra gentle. Highly recommend either dr butera or dr Wong. My whole family uses them . 5 stars !!!
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