Roderick Place was named COO of InterDent in 2017 and assumed Co-Leadership as Chief Executive Officer in 2018. Mr. Place has extensive experience transforming private equity backed healthcare companies through his strategic leadership, focus on operational excellence, clinical leadership collaboration, and structuring of field operations and corporate support teams. Mr. Place is also accomplished in leading boards and executive teams through expansive growth in mergers & acquisitions, DeNovo, due diligence and market consolidation. Before joining InterDent, Mr. Place served in executive level operations roles with Western Dental, MedQuest Associates and Alliance Healthcare. Mr. Place is also the Managing Director and Co-Founder of MedSummit Solutions, LLC. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Grand Valley State University.
Matthew Wickesberg joined InterDent as EVP/CFO in 2016 and assumed Co-Leadership as Executive Vice Chairman two years later. In 2019, he was further elevated to Co-Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Wickesberg is an experienced board member, executive officer, and lender with a deep background in multi-site hospitality and healthcare industries. He is also experienced working with lending institutions and private equity firms through structuring capital, due diligence, mergers & acquisitions, and uncovering portfolio synergies. Prior to joining InterDent, Mr. Wickesberg served in various senior finance roles with HOA Restaurant Group, ZTejas, Inc., and GE Capital. Mr. Wickesberg received his Bachelor of Science in Finance from Oklahoma State University and his MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management.
Dr. Heather Hawkins has committed her career to patient care while understanding current healthcare trends and value-based comprehensive care. Dr. Hawkins has an expansive clinical, academic and operational background, including leading medical-dental integration as well as quality and risk management for multi-site healthcare organizations. After 12 years of practicing general dentistry, she expanded her skills with several key roles in academia. In 2012 she joined the team at Adventist Health in Northern California, a multi-site health care organization with over 5,000 medical and dental staff physicians, as the Director of Quality. In her leadership role there, Dr. Hawkins led expansion and integration across the health system with medical and dental clinic management and an emphasis on comprehensive care models addressing patient risk factors, active disease and preventative measures. Dr. Hawkins earned her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) from Nova Southeastern University in Florida and her Advanced Education in General Dentistry Certification from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Dr. Manu Chaudhry has dedicated his career in the pursuit of dental health care, improving clinical quality and access to care, and transforming delivery of care to improve overall health outcomes. He is a dynamic and mission-driven leader with extensive leadership experience over multi-region dental practices, and has also founded multiple collaborative organizations that reduce oral and overall health disparities. Dr. Chaudhry is a board member of Healthier Kids Foundation and holds a Masters of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, San Diego and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of the Pacific.
Sandra Lau is a seasoned legal adviser with over fourteen years experience acting as General Counsel of multiple dental healthcare corporations. Ms. Laus responsibilities include advising executive management, supporting strategic growth initiatives, overseeing all aspects of the corporate legal function including HIPAA, state and federal regulatory compliance, corporate transactions and governance, mergers and acquisitions, and risk and litigation management. Before Joining InterDent, Ms. Lau served as General Counsel at Western Dental. Ms. Lau holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles and a Juris Doctor from Loyola Marymount University.
Bernard Piccione has extensive experience across a wide range of industries delivering complex enterprise-scale information technology solutions to achieve major global business value and objectives. Mr. Piccione excels at driving sustainable business growth through IT modernization, solution development, and global transformation initiatives while building strong partnerships to better leverage technology solutions. Prior to joining InterDent, Mr. Piccione served as CIO for Ingenuity Advisory Partners, Inc., Complex Care Solutions, Inc., and MagnaCare. Mr. Piccione holds a Bachelors and Masters in Computer Science from Boston University.
Darrin Kellaris is a senior marketing executive with over 20 years experience specializing in digital marketing, social media, and brand strategy. Mr. Kellaris offers a record of success in creating and driving marketing strategies that strengthen revenue, margins, and market share by elevating brand authenticity and relevance. At InterDent, he leads all aspects of marketing including digital and social media, brand positioning, and performance analytics. Prior to joining InterDent, he led marketing efforts at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and IHOP. Mr. Kellaris holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing from San Diego State University.
Diane Stern brings almost 20 years of dental services organizational experience specializing in organizational design and strategic partnering. Ms. Stern is responsible for Human Resources planning and strategy for recruiting, retention, benefits and performance management. She built her HR leadership experience through roles at Coast Dental, PrimeCo Wireless Communications and LabCorp where she focused on employee programs to increase engagement and satisfaction along with operational efficiencies. Ms. Stern holds a Bachelors degree in English Literature, Education, and Business from the University of Tampa and volunteers at KMR Group Foundation.
Reviews
Rating 3.8 out of 5 based on 87 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAyana Ibarra
a year ago
I had a great overall experience. My appointment was initially going to be in October, but they called and offered an earlier appointment since I was having a little discomfort. I checked in at 10:20am and was in the chair by 10:30am. The doctor and his team came in, introduced themselves, explained the process, and made sure I wasn't nervous or had concerns. They started by numbing my gums and giving me the shots in the areas they would be working on. By 10:54am, they were done. They removed 2 wisdom teeth. They had my care package ready, doctor's note, and a prescription already filled at CVS. I have never experienced this with a dental office. I would definitely recommend this place.
Rene Larson
a year ago
Was early to my appointment and still had to wait over an hour and a half to be seen. Dentist only looked at x-rays didn't bother to look at my teeth. Told me I need an extraction but when I told her I was in pain just left and went to the next patient. Sent me out with basically nothing but a referral was told to call in and check for when a surgeon might be available finally scheduled out for 3weeks with no medication to help with the pain. Worst experience I have had by far. Update the teeth I was told I was going to need to get extracted was actually salvageable and saved by another dentist. They pay for good reviews so don't always believe what you read.
Nalee Staton
a year ago
First made a point to be sure that my insurance covered the work PRIOR to doing work with Gene***. The office assured me it was covered and even had me pay a small fee of what wasn't covered. NOTE THAT MY CHARGE DOES NOT SHOW ANY PAYEMENT'S MADE*** Yet, the office still charged me full pricing and was not transparent in anyway. When it came time to needing assistance in solving this problem . Still not very helpful in assisting me with the bill that I should be covered for! I would be very happy if they were just transparent from the beginning with my very detailed questions. I have requested Gene on several occasions and spoken with her once. Note that this is who I spoke with before I got any tooth work done at this office and she told me there should be any surprise rates.
cris briseno
a year ago
Best Dental experience to date. Not sure why they only have 2 stars, but if I could give them 6 I would. Staff is nice and the dentist is great. Had my first root canal and was terrified, but just as my wife had told me they are very good they didn't disappoint. The very nice lady that does the billing did move faster than a speeding bullet which was very impressive. Very clean facility and organized. I highly recommend this dentist and will tell all my friends and family about them. Oh and be ready to fill out paperwork
Jim Arnold
2 years ago
Not gentle. Very expensive
Melody Paredes
2 years ago
Considering I hadn't been to a dentist in years until recently and I needed a deep clean, this was a very pleasant experience. Ellie made sure I was comfortable throughout the procedure and thoroughly explained it. I truly understood why it was necessary and saw a huge improvement immediately afterwards. I highly recommend this office and especially if you have any hesitations regarding pain or business practices. Their integrity and kindness are of the utmost quality!
Jesseanna Bradley
2 years ago
My first visit went great. The staff was very nice and everyone was considerate with my deafness and I appreciated their communication patience with me. They were able to work it out with my dental insurance and explain the cost. The place is clean and nice. I'm definitely bringing the rest of my family there. :) 8-16-2022 *UPDATE* I went back last week to get my root canal done. The dentist was amazing once again and the staff was so nice and assuring towards my treatment and needs. I still give them 5 stars!
Rene Larson
2 years ago
Was early to my appointment and still had to wait over an hour and a half to be seen. Dentist only looked at x-rays didn't bother to look at my teeth. Told me I need an extraction but when I told her I was in pain just left and went to the next patient. Sent me out with basically nothing but a referral was told to call in and check for when a surgeon might be available finally scheduled out for 3weeks with no medication to help with the pain. Worst experience I have had by far.
Kenneth Barnwell
2 years ago
The dentist and techs we dealt with were great, but honestly, the girl at the front desk had the worst attitude ever. This wasnt a one-time thing either, it was three visits in a row. At one point the girl threatened to cancel the upcoming appointment because I asked for additional copies of forms. I finally just asked for a copy of x-rays so we could go somewhere else to get the work done. I work in social services and take clients to the dentist regularly. This was my worst experience ever at a dental office. Beware
Jani c
2 years ago
I was pleased with my care and the staff compassion
Cici D'Bourbon
2 years ago
Great job guys, all of you are very professional, from the front desk to the back end, and the Dr's, thanks for taking care of my dental needs so far, and answered every question I have!... made me feel like home, I sure will recommend you!!!
Melynda Mattas
2 years ago
This is the best dental office In Chula Vista ! Dr Fay and Elena and Marlen and Melinda are great assistant's . The front office staff are incredible Laura Jean and Isa are so friendly and welcoming . I recommend my family and friends come join me as a patient at Gentle Dental. Thank you for taking good care of me ! I'll be coming back .
Elizabeth Lotts
2 years ago
This is the best dental office I found I give them 5 stars for good front desk service an the people in the back as well they're very friendly an nice an the doctor that did my crown"s she was the best she was very very gentle with me an I ask before she poked me with that needle I suggested if she could shake my cheek a little so I don't feel the needle NO pain ... She is the best I recommend my family an friends to General Detal in chula vista see you soon Dr. Needles is the best on doing Extractions feel NO PAIN!!! They accept dental cal from medical assistance
Diana Herrera-Manzana
2 years ago
This office has the most mediocre service, I don't even know where to begin. The ONLY staff the was helpful were the pediatric dentist and his 2 assistants that work once a month in the office. Unfortunately they only treated my son once. On the first appointment they took x-rays and the general dentist recommended he see the pediatric periodontist. That appointment was almost a month later. 2 days before that appoint front office calls and says the appointment will be cancelled because a referral is needed, that she could schedule with a general dentist. I can't understand how she could not see our appointment history, the xrays AND referral sitting in his ELECTRONIC chart! We figuered it out and I managed to keep the appointment still enfuriating, I know. 2nd appointment with the pediatric dentist went great, a different staff member informed me that everything was covered by the ins. I requested a day off from work for his 3rd appointment for the following month. A month in advance! Of course Laura calls on Monday to confirm his appointment for Thursday so I think everything is great. Tueday I get a call that my ins will not cover services with a pediatric dentist and that I need a referral!!! So they confirm appointments before they verify your benefits and they wait until the last minute to do so.They don't take the time to review a patients chart before they open their mouths to say all this nonsense. After spending 40+ mins with the ins I was able to keep my sons appointment with the gen dentist only to get a call back from the front office stating the dentist reviewed his chart, that she remembered him and tried treating him with no luck. Completely outrageous! That lady didn't even touch him and my son was NEVER uncooperative from the very first visit. She flat out did not care and did not even try. Now my son is waiting with half of the treatment needed until I can find another dental office that has the intelligence to provide decent costumer service. I hope sharing my experience will help another mother not go through the same situation.
Melissa Epps
2 years ago
I really don't know where to start. First they are a couple of people that work in this office that are really nice the rest are evil. They are very pushy and bossy and don't seem to care that they are speaking to other human beings, they are extremely disrespectful. I will never ever come back to this place or recommend anyone to this place. If I could give a negative number for the rating I would!
David Wellington
2 years ago
(Translated by Google) The aiming was plasent (Original) The visant was plasent
Amelia "QUEENBOSS" Johnson
2 years ago
The name says it all !!! Everyone is friendly here, they made me feel very comfortable.
Debbie Lathrop Lechner
2 years ago
Thorough, kind and clean! I felt like they really cared about my dental health and listened to me! Thank you Dr. Fay, Elena and Ellie!
Ray Haugh
2 years ago
When we arrived for our appointment, the receptionists told us that the call center had misappropriated our appointments, and that we would need to come back in about a month. Fortunately, the Office Manager was there and saved the day by taking care of us. I give her 5+ stars. She was kind, sensitive to our situation (I had appointments for my 5 and 7 yr olds), and extremely professional. I wish my company had staff like her. Unfortunately, the two receptionists, who couldn't care less, were not very helpful and made me hesitate in returning.
Jennifer Mojica Academia
2 years ago
Dr. Kallaos is the best! Francisco took great care of me while the Doc was doing his craft! Chula Vista, Ca, Gental Dental
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