Best dentist and dental staff in the world! And I need to share a little bit of my history with dentistry so you can understand how very serious I am in my praise. If you've had the kind of horrible experiences I've had with dentists in the past, look no further. You're about the have the best dental experience of your life. But first, that pre-Rice history. I won't get too into details, but suffice it to say, every last experience I had with dentists as a child was downright miserable (including one who literally had me in tears and then told me "Shut up, it doesn't hurt"), to the point that I learned to fear and hate dentists. So, as soon as I became an adult, I quit going to the dentist. I didn't visit a dentist for years. You can imagine the cavities I started to develop. When I finally did return to a dentist (still not Dr. Rice yet) to get some cavities filled, it was no better. And I remembered why I hated dentists so much. THEN, then I moved to Athens. I still needed a couple of cavities taken care of, but didn't have a whole lot of money. I originally found Dr. Rice's practice because they accepted Care Credit, which I needed in order to be able to cover the costs of fillings since I had no dental insurance at the time. Of course, not yet knowing Dr. Rice, I was initially dreading yet another abysmal experience. But from the moment I entered the building for the first time, everything changed. The greeting from the staff was pleasant. The interior was as clean and nice as anything I'd ever seen. I think they could tell I was nervous, but they did everything they could to set me at ease. The assistant who got everything ready for the filling was the friendliest I'd ever encountered. And when Dr. Rice himself showed up, he talked to me first, asked some questions, got to know me a little. And no sooner had I mentioned my horrible past with dentists, then he set to work reassuring me. Dr. Rice's number one goal is for your experience to be as comfortable, pain-free, and downright pleasant as possible. I didn't think this was possible at a dentist's office, but he proved me wrong. He makes a point of always believing the patient, which should be the norm among dentists, but is a truly and remarkably rare trait. If you tell him you are in pain, he will believe you, and he will do everything he can to make sure the pain stops BEFORE he continues working on your teeth. And I cannot tell you enough how much that meant to me. A previous dentist wouldn't believe me when I told him I was still in pain, and I ended up feeling the ENTIRE filling procedure. When I told Dr. Rice that story, he was genuinely horrified, and promised me that would never happen in his office. And he was right. I lived in Athens for three years, and some of the best memories I have of living there are my visits to Dr. Rice's office. Yes, you heard me. Before Dr. Rice, I always dreaded going to the dentist. It was probably my least favorite thing ever. But after that first visit with Dr. Rice and his incredible staff, I actually LOOKED FORWARD to every single visit. I didn't even mind if I got a new cavity, because it meant I got yet another wonderful visit with my favorite dentist (two words I never had thought could go together). Everyone there got to know me, and I got to know them, and they actually remembered things about me. I actually felt like I mattered to them. I could keep gushing, but I think this review is getting too long. So I'll just say it again: if you're looking for a dentist, especially if you've had bad experiences in the past, look no further! I've unfortunately moved too far away to be able to still visit. But let me tell you, I would have continued coming here even if I were three hours away. If I could have brought his entire practice with me, I would have. Unfortunately, I had to leave them behind in Athens. But now that I know what a positive dental experience is like, I can at least be sure to find other good dentists in the future. I now know they do exist. Thank you for everything, Dr. Rice! Best. Dentist. Ever.

I have had a wonderful experience at this office. I had a terrible fear of the dentist based on past experiences. This staff is so wonderful, patient and kind. Dr. Rice is calming and gentle. They always work to get me an appointment time that works and I love the email and text appointment reminders. I can't say enough good things about this whole office.

Always kind, professional and the most excellent service and work! Best in Athens, GA. Would highly recommend to anyone. Listen to concerns, non judgmental. A good place to go if you have dental anxiety. Great staff! Dr. Rice is a wonderful dentist. Again, Highly recommend if you are looking for a new dentist or to switch.

Finally got to have my cleaning and checkup with Kristy and Dr Rice! The virus had caused the cancellation of my April appointment. Dr. Rice and his staff have taken great pains to provide a clean and safe environment in the office through protective equipment and clothing, cleaning between each patient and staggered appointments so patients do not come in contact at any time. They have done everything possible to protect themselves and the patient. Thank you all for the extra time and cost this process is taking, and still provide the high quality of service you always give us.

Friendly, efficient and effective just the way I like it. These people are great see for yourself!