About
Smiles on the Upper Westside is a premier dental practice located in the heart of New York City's Upper West Side, renowned for its patient-centered approach that combines cutting-edge dentistry with a warm, family-like atmosphere. Established in 2002 by Dr. Shaun G. Massiah, a trailblazing African American dentist, the practice has grown from a visionary solo endeavor into a fully coordinated team of dental experts under one roof, serving the diverse communities of the Bloomingdale District and Manhattan Valley. Dr. Massiah's journey began with a profound commitment to excellence, opening his doors with the goal of transforming dental care into a trusting partnership rather than a clinical transaction. Over the past two decades, Smiles on the Upper Westside has become a beacon of trust and innovation, consistently earning top ratings—such as a 4.7 out of 5 from 47 verified reviews on platforms like Rank My Dentist—thanks to its emphasis on communication, education, and personalized care.[1][2][6][7]
The mission of Smiles on the Upper Westside is clear and unwavering: to foster a strong bond of trust from the moment patients walk through the door, enabling the delivery of the absolute best dentistry possible. This philosophy drives every interaction, with the team working collaboratively toward shared goals of healthy teeth and gums, restorative solutions, and beautiful smiles. What truly sets this practice apart is its spa-like environment, infused with soothing music, aromatherapy, and a diverse, welcoming staff that treats patients like family. Reviews consistently highlight the 'beacon of light and positivity,' the 'warmth and care,' and the educational approach that empowers patients to make informed decisions—often noting how the team recalls prior conversations and assists with insurance navigation.[2][4][5][6][8] Unlike many high-volume dental offices in NYC, Smiles prioritizes quality over quantity, boasting excellent wait times (99% of patients under 30 minutes) and high patient retention rates, making it a 'home dentist office' for many.[6]
Services at Smiles on the Upper Westside encompass a comprehensive spectrum of general, restorative, cosmetic, and specialized dentistry, all provided by a highly trained team. Core offerings include routine cleanings, exams, dental implants, Invisalign for orthodontics, periodontics, and advanced cosmetic procedures like whitening. The practice excels in complex cases, with specialists such as Dr. Alan M. Smolen, who brings over 30 years of experience in prosthodontics and personalized solutions for intricate problems; Dr. Daniel A. Narain in periodontics; Dr. Arielle C. Statham in general dentistry; and Dr. Shaun Massiah himself, specializing in general dentistry, orthodontics, dentofacial orthopedics, and periodontics. This multidisciplinary expertise under one roof eliminates the need for multiple referrals, streamlining care for families and individuals alike.[1][2][3][6]
The unique value proposition lies in its blend of clinical precision and emotional comfort. Patients rave about the 'high-tech equipment,' 'light touch,' and 'professional yet relaxed' vibe, where complex work—from extractions to implants—is handled with patience and positivity. Dr. Massiah's leadership, marked by his former role as ADA Success speaker and President of the Greater NY chapter of the NDA, ensures the practice stays at the forefront of advancements through ongoing seminars and training. As a Black-owned practice, it proudly contributes to diversity in dentistry, fostering an inclusive space that resonates with NYC's multicultural fabric.[1][7]
What distinguishes Smiles from competitors is this holistic integration: top-tier dentistry meets genuine hospitality. In a city where dental anxiety is common, the practice's family-oriented rapport, detailed attention, and commitment to exceeding expectations create lifelong loyalty. Conveniently near Central Park West, Riverside Park, and the West 96th Street Station, with extended hours (up to 7pm on Mondays), it accommodates busy urban lifestyles. Whether addressing routine needs or transformative smiles, Smiles on the Upper Westside delivers not just healthy mouths, but confidence and joy—proving that exceptional dentistry is about building relationships as much as building smiles. With glowing testimonials like 'hands down the best service I've ever encountered' and 'they make you feel so comfortable and not ashamed,' it's no wonder patients return and recommend without hesitation.[4][5][6] This dedication positions Smiles as a standout in NYC's competitive dental landscape, where trust truly transforms care.
