Dr. Ken Cirka, DMD - Gentle Dentistry
Approval Rate: 88%
Reviews 29
by mw146f77
Thu May 06 2010At first I was very impressed with the customer service. Everyone was very welcoming and friendly including the receptionist, hygienist, and doctor. I was surprised when they told me the bad shape my mouth was in and how much the cost to fix it would be. This came to me as a shock since I had a cleaning 9 months before and there were no signs of bad teeth or gums. I got two more opinions from dentists to make sure this work was indeed necessary as it would be a large expense. Both of them said that this was work that should not be performed on me. I was shocked and when I tried to get a refund for the money for the procedure which had not been completed yet, I had a very hard time doing so. I got responses such as, "Do you not trust us?", "I can't do that", "What are your other options", etc. The way with which the financial director spoke with me was very manipulative and uncomfortable. They finally refunded my money, but I felt very conflicted. They seem so nice and helpful,... Read more
by rjmbrd11623a
Tue Jan 19 2010I didn't intend on writing any reviews, although Dr. Cirka's office is very deserving of a good one, but I came across this page googling to get his office address before my appointment yesterday - I forgot what floor they were on! I was shocked to see the bizarre negative review here from a guy who's never even been to this office. Made me want to stop what I was doing for 15 minutes and write about my experience. I visited Dr. Ken's office in early December to inquire about veneers - I've had the desire and money to do it for a while, but put it off. I visited two offices prior to Dr. Ken's, and hands down liked his staff the best. A few people wrote here that they were "pushy" about getting work done, and I could not have had a less similar experience. Friendly, willing to answer any questions, and sincerely excited about what they do. I decided to go with this office for veneers after my first visit, left a check with the office manager (who insisted I didn't have to give on... Read more
by skiette221fad3_3
Tue Oct 27 2009Initially when I first started going there I was really happy with the service. They were friendly and personable. Then the office started growing and there were lots of new staff. So I got to see the technicians more than the dentist and it seems like they were just practicing on you. And for the price I was paying, I would have liked the dentist to at least check their work and I know two times that he didn't and then I had to come back at a later time to get something fixed that wasn't right. I went in for invisilign and came out with more dental work than I needed going into this process. My teeth did look great afterwards, but after treatment getting a retainer that fit was impossible. They kept making it in house and it was always done by the technician and it was either too short or cut my gums and I think they just got tired of making them for me so they said I had to keep the one I had, which didn't fit properly. I even wanted to pay for new ones if someone competant ... Read more
by roxy491b431e
Sat Sep 19 2009Do your research on lumineers before you get work done. The only type of porcelain veneer offered in this office are the cerinate lumineers which are very thin, yet do not have a realistic tooth quality, like regular thickness porcelain veneers. There is far more color shading andnatural quality to other types of porcelain, and the lumineers, being so thin are very limited in color and look very opaque once they are placed on your teeth. Also, I had to go to another dentist when one of my veneers kept falling off (within a year) and the result was a porcelain crown replacement on that tooth. Actually the porcelain crown is beautiful, with a natural look and color shade that the other teeth don't have. (although the dentist had to make the shade close to the other veneers so it would blend in ) Dr Cirka and his office are very nice and technical skills fine, but the quality of the materials (ie cerinate lumineers) are inadequate and generic. Find a dentist who works one to one wit... Read more
by nathanharmo125_733
Sun Aug 16 2009I'm 26, and I haven't seen seen a dentist since I was probably about 13 years old, or younger. I was scared, and nervous about what the dentist was going to tell me, but all my fears quickly subsided once I entered Dr. Cirka's office. From the moment I steped in the office I received something that you rarely get when you visit a doctor/dentist, first class service all the way. I felt special, wanted, and well cared from the begining of my visit to the end. They took the time to get to know ME not only as a patient but as a person. They fully explained all the procedures that were planning, and my visit even inlcuded viewing some very informative videos related to my care. I was assigned a dental assistant who stayed with me for the entirety of my visit. Even when there was no need for her to stay in the room, she remained to keep me company, and make me feel like a friend. I felt incredibly comfortable throughout my visit, and actually felt GOOD about leaving his office that I ... Read more
by rbzinbrynmawr1_518f4
Tue May 05 2009I recently had a root canal done at Dr. Cirka's office. I was horrified when I found out I needed to have it done and that I would be in the chair for 4 or 5 hours since I needed cavities filled as well. The only pain (minimal) I felt was from the numbing needles. The hygienist even massaged my jaw for me when she knew it was hurting. I had complications from the procedure and had Dr. Cirka's personal email address which I did not hesitate to use at any hour of the night to complain about my pain. He would respond in a timely manner and even absorbed the cost when he felt I should see an endodontist. My problems have been solved and I feel that I received excellent service. The office staff is incredibly nice and accommodating. They knew me by my first name as soon as I entered the office and you will never wait longer than 5 minutes. I would recommend Dr. Cirka's office to my best friend.The only downside is the cost. Take proper care of your teeth and you shouldn't have that big o... Read more
by beezkwee1c6f4e
Wed Apr 08 2009I hate going to the dentist. Seriously. I can't stand the drilling sound when they're cleaning your teeth. I'm always expecting the worst, terrified that there is something horribly wrong with my mouth. I've had way too many teeth pulled, had braces for way too long when I was a kid, and just generally don't like people poking around in my mouth. The minute I walked into Dr. Cirka's office, I felt more calm. I have to say, the atmosphere, the pleasant staff, everything was great from the go. (Not to mention the free consultation was a plus.) The hygienist was extremely up front about costs, and very gentle. She explained completely to me what was wrong, and the visit ultimately wound up costing me MUCH less than I thought it would.
by ay0513aeb5
Wed Oct 15 2008I have a general fear of dentists. When I went to Dr. Cirka's office a year ago, I knew that I needed work done but had been too fearful in the past to get it done elsewhere because most dentist offices are set up like an assembly line. Dr. Cirka's office gives you a comfort level that I have not felt at any other dentist's office. They explain everything to you and allow you time to process the information. I am no longer nervous about going to the dentist. Even when I am not scheduled to see Dr. Cirka, he takes the time out to stop by and say hello. I highly recommend his office. It has been a great experience for me.
by roper244144516
Tue Oct 14 2008I have been going to Dr. Cirka's office for a little over a year now, and he and Dr. Silva are definitely two of the nicest, most professional dentists I've ever met. I guess the reason I am writing this is beause I read the review below. I know for me, I had been told a few things that I wasn't so sure I needed, but after sitting down with the doctor, he totally explained (and showed me) why I needed a few things that were NEVER brought to my attention at my previous dentist. I've seen Dr. Cirka and Dr. Silva now, and I'm 100% comfortable with both. My hygienist, Jen, is amazing, and always goes above and beyond when it comes to my dental health. I've never felt anything has been pushed on me, but quite the opposite -- I feel like if I NEED something, they aren't afraid to offer it to me. I guess it depends on how you look at things to see how you perceive it, but I'm the type of person when if you explain and show me, then I'm fine with what needs to be done. I would, and ha... Read more
by m9915860c
Mon Oct 13 2008They are very nice and they did a good job with cleaning. But, for myself and for others that I know, it was clear that they tried to make a strong case (exaggerating the need) for expensive work to be done. Telling me what I needed, but without my approval, they were already starting to do the expensive work. Once I realized it, I asked how much it would cost, and then I had to ask them not to do it yet as I was not prepared to spend that kind of money. They put some more pressure on me, until I had to say that I dont know if I can afford it. They finally backed off after I didnt accept their next pressure point, installment payments. This all had to be done in the dentist chair. I had gone in for a cleaning and checkup. Later I found out that the same techniques were used on friends that have gone to this office. Also, Dr. Cirka who's won these awards wasnt the dentist. There was someone else. I think the quality was good, but they use very high pressure sales tactics ... Read more
by kappharmd1d395_b
Tue Sep 30 2008After reading the reviews on this site, i just had to speak up: I have been going to Dr. Cirka's office for over a year. I do have dental insurance, so i can't speak to the prices, i don't even pay attention, but when i got invisiline with his office last year, i was helped by the sweetest guy ever to get a healthcare loan at 0% interest. I also got the scaling but it was well needed and worthwhile, my teeth and gums still look fantastic- but to the girl who complained: let's face it if you haven't gone to the dentist in 7 years- yeah you probably have the beginnings of periodontal disease. I have never had a problem with the staff, they know me by name, and i'm consistantly late- and they laugh when i tell them i swear i'll be there in 5 minutes, and say it's fine. I have only met two dentists, Dr. Cirka and Dr. Silva, i highly doubt that constitutes a dentist factory? Anti-dentite much?? I'm a pharmacist, and i know the demands placed on healthcare professionals these days, but i ho... Read more
by christinamg14f_b63
Thu Aug 21 2008I am a person that is terrified ::edit:: TERRIFIED of going to the dentist. I put it off for 7+ years until my mouth hurt so bad, I couldn't wait any longer. Having recently moved to the Philly area, I didn't have a local dentist, but a coworker highly recommended Dr. Cirka's office and she couldn't have been more right. Katelyn, my hygienist, is so friendly and very gentle, even making the somewhat painful procedures not as bad as they could be. She explained everything that was wrong in a way I understand (I'm not a dentist after all) and what would be done to correct the problems. She is fantastic. Also, after my first visit I met with the office manager who explained all of the costs and gave me a pretty damn accurate estimation of how much my insurance would cover. I have never, NEVER had a doctor do that. Fantastic! Everyone on staff that I have encountered has been nothing less than friendly, accommodating and comforting. Highly recommended!
by ajd1231f250e
Thu Jun 19 2008When I moved to Philadelphia for college I was faced with finding a local dentist in the metro area. It was a tough decision to make as I was extremely comfortable with my childhood dentist whom I had been seeing my entire life. So not knowing anyone in the Philly area I figured my best bet would be to hop online and utilize the famous "Google" search. After visiting several dental websites I was not impressed...that is until I found the Philly dentistry website with Dr. Cirka. Now that I think back it was Dr. Cirka's bio that was the driving force behind me scheduling my initial consultation. The fact that he went to Penn was enough for me. So I scheduled my appt. for a routine 6-month cleaning. From the moment I arrived at the office and was greeted by his phenomenal staff I knew I had made the right decision. Kim (my dental hygienist) was and continues to be absolutely fantastic. I have absolute trust in her and I know she's concerned with my oral health just as much as I am. Not ... Read more
by tbaez1cb5c1
Fri Jun 13 2008I can't say enough about Doctors Cirka and Silva and their wonderful staff. They offer such a warm and inviting atmosphere and state of the art equipment and procedures. I feel so fortunate to have been referred to this office. I am so confident that their office is going to give me the smile I've wanted for years. This is the first time I've ever looked forward to going to see the dentist. They got it all, expertise, atmosphere and are state of the art, I don't think I could find a better practice if I tried. If you want a gorgeous smile, go see Dr. Cirka :) you'll be glad that you did. TB
by roxcia120153
Tue Jun 03 2008I can?t say enough great things about Dr. Cirka?s office. I switched to this office base on a recommendation and cannot be happier. First, you rarely have to wait for your appt. And, I never waited longer than 3 minutes! I have very sensitive teeth, and can be a bit high maintenance when it comes to cleanings, etc. The staff is sooooo patient and nice. They truly care that you are happy and will spend as much time as needed with you to ensure that. Although an orthodontist was recommended to me for my Invisalign, I stayed with Dr. Cirka?s office and cannot be more pleased. I highly recommend this office!
by mdunkel17c712
Mon May 19 2008Everyone in the office is friendly and accommodating. They are professionals who act like they value your business. After all, it is a business. And to boot, the cleanings and dental work are phenomenal! You'll actually look forward to the dentist!
by myhangduong169_f05
Mon May 19 2008Dr. Cirka is one of the most professional and knowledgeable dentist in the area. He understands his patients and can give answers in a prompt and timely manner. The staff was caring and courteous with patients who were waiting to be seen by Dr. Cirka. Everyone on staff would greet the patients with kindess and the utmost respect. I would suggest Dr. Cirka to anyone who is looking for a qualified dentist who knows what he is doing. He is the best at what he does and assures his patients there teeth would come out looking perfect.
by tawhite1aef10
Mon May 19 2008For more than 15 years I was loyal and committed to a particular dentist who I, and other family members, entrusted our dental care. But when in an emergency, I was unable to see him, I had no choice but to call around frantically to be seen by another dentist. My 5th call was to Dr. Cirka's office and he was the first doctor who agreed to see me -- within the hour at that! It was a blessing in disguise, as I soon found out that my dental health was not as good as I thought it to be. Behind the nice smile were looming problems that Dr. Cirka picked up on immediately. As it turned out, I needed serious dental treatment, including work done by other specialists. Dr. Cirka and his staff are the epitome of professionalism and care! They alleviated my fears, answered all my questions, and treated me with the utmost respect and concern. On top of all that, Dr. Cirka restored my smile with one that's even better! He's the Best!
by alexnekras1b35_8d
Tue May 13 2008I was extremely impressed by the office staff, it's by far the most positive customer service experience I've had in a long time. Dr. Cirka was extermely skillful, careful, and he never rushed through any process. I'd recommend this doctor in a heartbeat to anyone.
by arinyak1dce55
Mon May 12 2008The staff is extremely nice and the atmosphere is conducive to what you would want in a dental office. They thoroughly assessed my needs during the free consultation and told me what I needed to have done in order to restore my smile to it's original luster. I started out with the gum treatment and now I'm currently using Invisalign. Every visit has been great and I barely have to wait at all when I arrive for my appointments. If you're looking for a friendly staff and great dental care/service look no further!
by bernadettep12f_d3e
Tue Apr 22 2008This office is amazing-- I tried a few other dentist in the city and just wasn't happy. I found Dr. Cirka online while looking for Invisilign dentists. Everyone in the office is so nice and I am so happy with my straight teeth. I highly recommend this office!
by unterdesign1db_b2d
Fri Apr 18 2008I was recommended to Dr. Cirka?s office by a friend. When I first arrived I felt really welcomed! Not just as a customer but as a guest. My first visit was slightly over a year ago and I have since had two checkups (initial first exam and then the 6 month) and a few cavities, etc. The staff showed much interest in my past dental history ? which had been far and in between. They took the time to understand my needs and took the time to go into great detail to breakdown any dental treatment that may be taken care of. I have told my friends, coworkers and family how wonderful his office is. The staff is great there and really show care for the health of my teeth and gums. Very detailed!!! The office is efficient and clearly works as a team. They send periodical emails and when it gets close to a checkup or procedure they send multiple reminders via snail mail, email and by phone. Maybe over the top for some but I like it. Pros: Convenient location, modern equipment, best mints Cons: NON... Read more
by littlejenni1b3_48d
Sat Apr 12 2008I went to Dr. Cirka for a consult about getting Lumineers. I knew from the first time I met him that he was the one that was going to do my Lumineers! From the scheduling of appointments to the actual dental work, everything went smoothly and as expected. As far as I am concerned, Dr. Cirka is an artist as well as a great dentist. He is so kind and friendly and his staff is extremely professional. I am so confident in Dr. Cirka that I sent my Husband and my Uncle there! And you should see my smile, my teeth are so perfect and natural looking that I can't stop smiling!!!!
by downtownphilly_16a15a
Thu Apr 10 2008I always recommend Dr. Cirka to all of my friends, family and business associates because of the results I have thanks to him! I am a current patient of Dr. Cirka and his team and found Dr. Cirka's office online after avoiding all dentists for several years. He recommended a plan of action that included referrals to other dental specialists and an orthodontist for adult braces---that was two years ago and today I have straight teeth and am very happy with my smile :-) The office is efficient and clearly works as a team. As a fellow professional--I appreciate that and will continue to send referrals.
by jenmae21109efc
Mon Feb 25 2008I was late for my appointment because I got off at the wrong subway stop. They called me to ask if I was five or less minutes away and I said "maybe", meaning "I think I'm less than five minutes away", but before I could clarify, the receptionist cut me off asking for me to get there as soon as possible. The office staff was friendly and smiling but were trying too hard and were insincere. I was scheduled for a cleaning and free consultation. The Hygenist did bite wing x-rays and my cleaning and told me I had early periodontal disease and needed a procedure called scaling. She also found two cavities and some teeth that needed sealants. After the Hygenist looked my mouth over and cleaned my teeth she proceded to tell me how horrible Periodontal disease was and how if left untreated horrible things would happen to my teeth. She also told me that even though I didn't have health insurance for the past seven years while I was in school I should have payed out of pocket to care for my... Read more
by juhaish1b7f0a
Tue Jan 22 2008This dental office really has the best mints! ha! Actually, when I first arrived I felt as if I was really welcomed! The staff showed much interest in my past dental work and took the time to understand my needs. They definitely weren't the kind of folks to rush you in, get paid, and send you on your way. I didn't actually get a treatment of anything yet, unfortunately, but i'm sure that when I need it...Cirka's office will be the place I go! Good Luck!
by allinthewords1_a0ec5
Wed Nov 21 2007I had been doing some online research after being disappointed with the care I was receiving at another office. Due to some financial set-backs in the past, I really needed someone who not only cared about me, but also had financial assistance programs available. I found Dr. Cirka's office online, and was impressed with what other patients had to say about the services. They have an option to come in for a free consultation, so I set up my appointment online. Within a matter of minutes, I received a welcome email and an appointment. Upon entering the office I was welcomed by the staff and instantly made to feel at home. They were so outgoing and friendly- so I knew I made the right decision. I had some X-rays taken and Dr. Silva examined my teeth- she discussed the course of treatment that is available to save some of my teeth that are in need of major TLC. This experience was so amazing- because I had never been to a dentist before who fully explained what I needed prior to the servi... Read more
by chocolatelover_0d736c
Tue Jul 17 2007I don't know those other people are talking about -- I have been going to Dr. Cirka for years, and have never had a problem! The staff is great there and really do show that they care for the health of my teeth and gums. I'm always reimbursed when they handle my claims, and don't have a negative thing to say about them. My conclusion is that it must be problem patients (see below) that are causing all the issues. To be perfectly frank, I feel better knowing that people like that don't go to the same dentist as me! Good riddance!
by contributor1b2_ac5_2005418521
Thu Nov 16 2006Philadelphia dentist offers dental exam, gum disease screening, oral cancer screening, bite analysis, four bitewing X-rays, jaw joint exam services.