My wife and I went to our very first appointment as new patients with Dr. Franco Girard at Oaklands Dental, and this is a summary of the dialogue that transpired;

Both of our records of current x-rays and oral history were forwarded to Oaklands Dental and they confirmed they had those records.

It was understood by our appointment that we were going to Dr. Girard for just an exam and consultation. My wife had the first appointment.

The dental assistant proceeded to tell her that Dr. Girard makes all of his patients have a cancer screening and a new set of x-rays taken. My wife said that they (Oaklands Dental) have a current set of radiographs that were previously sent to them and didn't want a cancer screening as both her and I are non-smokers with no history of mouth cancer.

Dr. Girard arrived and said that he requires all of his patients to have a yearly cancer screening (NOT covered by any insurance) and yearly x-rays (most insurance companies only cover x-rays every 2 years). My wife declined and again told him that we are only going with what our insurance will cover and not interested in paying for something we don't believe that we need.

Dr. Girard was agitated with her and continued to "up sell" her on what he wanted to do without listening to my wife explain that she just wants an exam.

During this time, she texted me this dialogue as I was sitting in the waiting room. I approached the receptionist and asked why the doctor is demanding a cancer screening every year. They said "we do this to all of Dr. Girards patients."

I then told my wife that we are done and I was approached by Dr. Girard and he was angry and agitated and caused me to question him in a forceful manner as he made me feel highly uncomfortable with his actions (body language, facial expressions, etc.). He would not listen to me and we just turned around and left.

I have to say that this dentist was the most unprofessional person I have ever met in my life. Honestly, his "upselling" and trying to push extra, out of pocket expenses on new patient's is despicable. He acted like he use to be a fast food worker who got paid by up-selling fries and a pop so he could get more money in his pocket.

A fake, dishonest individual. We are now in the process of filing a complaint against this guy with the BC College of Oral Health Professionals.


Oaklands Dental
0 star rating 1 ReviewCategories: General Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentists, Orthodontists

Submitted Jan. 2, 2024

This dentist is great and always cheerful. My hygienist Samantha is absolutely top notch and Stephanie in the office is a joy to interact with. Thank you all so very much.

Submitted June 27, 2023

I'm interested to find reviews saying that the dentist answered all of their questions competently. I was asking questions and being met with "I'm not worried, I do this all of the time and if you aren't confident to be here, a hundred other people would like to sit in this chair". This didn't help ease my anxiety regarding replacing my filling, as I sat there with freezing in my mouth asking about the routine procedure. I was met with the ego of a man who felt like his patients shouldn't ask questions about their own dental health. The dental assistant seemed surprised by the interaction. When I asked why I was being met with cold remarks by Dr Girard, while I sat there with a dam in my mouth, he abruptly sat my chair up and said to find another dentist, we aren't compatible. Never have I considered "Compatibility" with a dentist- it's much different than finding a therapist. But, here I go. Must say, I imagined a different result otherwise I would never have scheduled the original appointment. Best of luck to you, sir.

Submitted Jan. 27, 2023

The hygienist was friendly and chatty to begin with but then barely said a word for the remaining appointment and for no apparent reason. She was overly aggressive in scaling and seemed distracted. She would constantly look up while continuing to scrape at my teeth and slipped numerous times up into my gum line. She mentioned I had inflammation of the gums but when Dr Girard came for inspection he said I had zero inflammation and was doing a great job. I left with a sore mouth and wish I had spoken up sooner and mentioned something as she could do more damage than good. As for Dr Girard he was pleasant but I don’t think I will be returning.

Submitted Dec. 4, 2021

A very professional, caring and competent staff who make you feel welcome and at ease when you visit. Dr. Girard is an excellent dentist who takes the time to explain procedures and answer all your questions. If you are nervous about needles, he is the dentist to see as you don’t even feel the freezing...a big plus for me. I’ve been very happy with the dental work I’ve received from Dr. Girard and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him and his wonderful staff to anyone.

Submitted Sept. 9, 2020

Just wanted to add my “thank-yous” to let Dr. Girard and his team know how much we appreciate their always-excellent care and concern.

Submitted July 31, 2020

Dr Girard helped me out on the phone during the pandemic and didn't even charge me. Even called to check up on me later. Thanks!

Submitted May 22, 2020

Dr Girard was covering for my regular dentist while he was away. He and his team were wonderful and helped me get out of pain. Wonderful office and staff.
Thanks again

Submitted Sept. 23, 2019

Very professional. Nice people. Great office. I would strongly recommend!

Submitted May 3, 2019

My front teeth were in terrible shape. A friend recommended I go see Dr Girard for a second opinion. He explained everything clearly and got it fixed. I can smile again!

Submitted April 22, 2019