MariaElena Rodriguez, DDS - Torrance, California

Anthony V.

I had a very disappointing experience with Dr. MariaElana Rodriguez and South Bay Prosthodontics due to improper tooling and technique in attempting to remove an implant abutment. Ultimately, their recommendation was to remove the entire implant surgically--something that proved unnecessary after I sought a second opinion whom successfully removed the abutment because he ordered the correct tooling first.

Why South Bay Prosthodontics would proceed without proper tooling suggests lack of experience with the implant system and poor judgment to proceed without first checking with the system manufacturer.

Concerns with Treatment:

The prosthodontist assigned to my case (not Dr. MariaElena Rodriguez, but another doctor on staff, possibly Dr. Ikoma) exhibited noticeable shakiness in her hands, which made me uneasy. While this could have been fatigue, it was early in the morning, and it affected my confidence in the procedure.

The office did not have the proper tooling to safely remove the abutment. Instead, significant pulling and force were applied, causing discomfort and unnecessary difficulty - as well as risking damage to the implant.

After the initial attempt failed, Dr. MariaElena Rodriguez stepped in. When I asked if another specialist should be consulted for removal, she seemed surprised and somewhat dismissive, stating I could seek a second opinion but immediately recommending implant removal and replacement - read: surgery.

The claim that a previous periodontist had damaged the screw, making removal impossible, turned out to be inaccurate. While the periodontist whom removed the screw may have caused damage, he too did not have proper tooling either. I will be sharing similar sentiment with him about proper tooling. My second opinion confirmed that the issue was simply a lack of the correct tools. All that needed to be done was to order the proper tooling, even if this meant I needed to return.

Outcome After Seeking Another Opinion:

I went to another prosthodontist who properly evaluated the case, ordered the necessary tools, and safely removed the abutment with minimal effort, no pain, and no damage to the implant. This proves that the implant was salvageable and that South Bay Prosthodontics' recommendation for removal was premature and avoidable.

Feedback for the Office:

While I respect Dr. Rodriguez's surgical expertise, this experience suggests that the office should invest in a more comprehensive set of tools to accommodate various implant systems. Had the correct tooling been available, my case could have been handled efficiently without unnecessary discomfort or the extreme recommendation of removing the implant altogether.

For prospective patients, I highly recommend seeking a second opinion before undergoing any invasive procedures here. Proper tooling makes all the difference, and unfortunately, my experience suggests that South Bay Prosthodontics may not always have the necessary equipment on hand. Pre-maturely recommending surgical removal of a successful implant should always be reviewed by another professional before proceeding.

General:

While the front office staff was kind, and the first doctor was very nice - I wouldn't recommend proceeding with major work at this facility without getting another opinion first. Validate they have the correct tooling should you have an implant system. @SouthBay - attached is an image of the tooling that should have been ordered before proceeding with the procedure. The second place I went to was able to order the proper tooling by looking at the Xray and phoning the sales rep of the implant system.

Helen C.

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of being treated by Alessandro Rodriguez, DDS. She is the consummate professional and I was extremely pleased with her approach and the final outcome.
I have been coming to this dental office for many years and will continue to highly recommend this dental practice for their outstanding patient care, great understanding of complex dental issues and as always, their professionalism.

Nazila N.

Had a very brief visit with her to get second opinion , no exam involved as she requested to repeat all imagines in her office before she can comment ! Shortly after I received a bill for no service!!!

Robert G.

Very nice and efficient. All my questions were answered on my timeline. I was not rushed or hurried in any way. Great office environment. Would highly recommend.

Steve L.

Dr. Rodriguez and her staff provided me with exceptional care and professionalism, thank you again!

Clorinda D.

Fuhr M.