I had a very frustrating experience with Dr Watanabe. I was a transfer patient due to family relocation. When I first saw Dr Watanabe I was in the middle of my ortho treatment.

My former orthodontist was moving my lower left molar forward to replace a missing tooth in order to save me an implant, the molar was suffered from some bone loss due to movement. Dr Watanabe only treated me once (changed wire once) in April; then he suspended my treatment and continuously persuaded/pressured me into a molar extraction and implant, even after my general dentist had given clearance upon his request.

I communicated with Dr Watanabe numerous times that I'm aware of the risk and that if the molar's situation worsen during the treatment, I will get an extraction and implant. I want to try anything possible to retain my natural tooth. However, Dr Watanabe ignored patient's wish.

Further more, Dr Watanabe shared my dental records with an oral surgeon and periodontist without my permission. Paid in full but not received any treatments in 3 months, I requested a refund. To my surprise, Dr Watanabe deducted some unfair charges from my full payment (over $1,000 deduction) which includes an item called "specialty consultation fee". He said that's for his time spent with the oral surgeon and periodontist discussing my case (without my permission).

When I questioned the fairness of specialty consultation charges, he even said "he will refund in full when I complete my ortho treatment with new dr and provide him my new x-ray upon completion". I'm amazed at his neglection of patient rights and privacy.

Please avoid his practice at all cost for his lack of respect towards patient and ignorance of patient's need!

Submitted Aug. 2, 2017