Carlos M. Valdes, DMD

I have been a patient of Dr. Valdes for several years. I trust him entirely. His staff is superb. His attention to my dental situations over the years has been meticulous. I used to hate going to the dentist. Now it is a satisfying experience. It's great to be in that chair knowing that Dr. Valdes is focused on me, rather than on the next patient in the next room. I don't know if he is taking new patients, but if you can become one of his, do it!

Over twenty years ago, I was having an issue with one of my molars. My dentist recommended that the tooth be extracted. I called a friend in Philadelphia, who is both an oral surgeon and teaches at the Temple School of Dentistry, for advice. He told me that Carlos Valdes, who was the best student he ever taught, had recently started practicing in New York. And, that is how I came to meet Carlos in 2001. Dr. Valdes said he believed we could save the molar for ten years and that advances in dentistry may further prolong its life. As my new dentist, Carlos examined the molar at each visit. In the last few years, the molar’s viability was becoming questionable. Recently, the tooth in front of the molar also became problematic. The time had come to see a periodontist, who recommended a bone graft around both teeth. The prognosis is the molar should last another twenty years. Dr. Valdes believes that teeth are the gateway to one’s health. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to preserve them. During every cleaning, each tooth is checked. Because of the attention given, I’m surprised Carlos hasn’t given them individual names. Over the past two decades, I have had several dental problems: cracked teeth, broken caps, cavities, and a major infection. During each procedure, including extracting a tooth and implanting the post, Dr. Valdes’ gentleness was exemplary. As someone who has sensitive teeth, this is greatly appreciated. I told Dr. Valdes at the first visit that I would need extra Novocain. He believed me. This gave me a great sense of comfort. I knew that I was in good hands. A few years ago, I saw a study confirming people with red hair needed more Novocain. Later, a 2021 study, funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, found a link (the MC1R gene) between red hair and pain threshold. Not only is the dental care unmatched, but the concern Carlos has for his patients sets him apart from his peers. Two friends who have had multiple implants from Dr. Valdes also sing his praises. One last note. A few years ago, a young waiter, new to the City, was having a tooth issue. Each time I saw him, the tooth was becoming more painful. The waiter couldn’t afford to see a dentist. I made an appointment with Dr. Valdes and asked him, after explaining the situation, to bill me. Carlos saw the waiter pro bono. Besides being a brilliant practitioner, Dr. Carlos Valdes is a wonderful humanitarian.

I have been cared for by Dr. Valdes and his amazing staff for more than 20 years. He is a master of dentistry, incredibly skilled and knowledgable, and equally as kind and caring about his patients. That can be said for all the staff as well—Arlen, the wonderful office manager, and Rosaura, the amazing dental assistant. They treat every patient like family. You know you really trust a dentist when you visit his office during a pandemic, and I recently had a visit where I was so impressed with all the precautions they have taken, such as high-grade HEPA filters, UV light air purification, checking my temperature and oxygen levels with a finger pulsoximeter, and protective gear for staff and patients. I felt completely protected and safe. I cannot recommend Dr. Valdes highly enough.

Dr. Valdes was recommended to me by a previous employer who couldn’t say enough good things about him. I’ve been seeing him for almost two years now and I am continually impressed with not only Dr. Valdes but his entire staff. Arlen, at the front desk, is so patient and knowledgeable with the insurance process and he can speak to dentistry and explain procedures to such a proficient degree. He makes you feel singularly attended to and is so very warm - truly an anchor for the office. Dr. Valdes’s dental assistant is a true professional and quick with all imaging, she knows exactly what to do even before the Dr. arrives in the room. They are PREPARED! The most uniquely impressive part of the experience, however, is actually being in the chair. Dr. Valdes understands the experience, and potential anxiety, from a patient’s perspective. From my first visit, I was blown away by the bedside manner of Dr. Valdes along with his assistant while in the chair. I could tell he had trained his staff in a nonverbal modality through their procedures, while you’re most vulnerable - mouth-open - to promote the relaxation of the patient. I feel calm going to see him, throughout the entire process. He has time to discuss my concerns and a treatment plan, and if I ever have a question as to the next steps they are extremely helpful. They keep excellent notes and details of each visit. I moved 2 hours outside of NYC and keep coming back for all my cleanings, care, etc because my experience visiting the office and with Dr. Valdes is consistently positive, professional, and unequivocally top-notch. Such great people at the office, truly exceptional. The office is also extremely CLEAN and they have taken every precaution through COVID, including getting certified as a medical office following strict policies. Dr. Valdes and his entire team are the the best dental office I’ve ever visited and I am so very fortunate to be one of their patients.

Update: It’s been a few months since I started going to Dr. Valdez and I still could not be any happier about my experience! The whole staff is amazing and treats you like family, especially Arlen who is always a ray of sunshine. Going there 1-2 times a month for 8 months was always a pleasure and made me feel so joyed. Each visit I knew I was getting closer to my desired results and every step of the process was so worth it. Now that I have the smile of my dreams I can’t stop smiling 24/7 which has improved my life in so many ways. My energy is so much more open and my relationships have improved because I’m so proud to smile. I never realized the impact smiling could have on my self esteem and others around me. Dr. Carlos Valdez is more than just a dentist, he’s an artist as if god moves through his hands. He always makes you feel so supported and comfortable and his staff radiates the same energy.