Extended Hours

Experienced Dentists

Adult and Pediatric Services

A Team
You Can Trust

(650) 389-9222 Schedule An Appointment

Gentle Dental Palo Alto

853 Middlefield Road Suite 1, Palo Alto, CA 94301

New Patient Specials

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Hours

Monday 8:00-5:00
Tuesday 8:00-5:00
Wednesday 8:00-5:00
Thursday 8:00-5:00
Friday 8:00-5:00
Saturday 8:00-5:00

Service representatives standing by

Monday – Thursday: 7:15am – 8pm PST
Friday: 7:15am – 6pm PST
Saturday: 7:30am – 4pm PST

Schedule an Appointment

Please contact our office by phone or complete the appointment request form below. Our scheduling coordinator will connect with you to confirm the appointment.

New Patients

$50 Exam & X-Rays

Includes new patient exam and full mouth X-Rays.

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New Patients

$100 Off

New patients only. On services of $300 or greater not covered by insurance.

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Ortho Special

Braces from $99 Month

Flexible payment plans. Including FREE Orthodontic consultation.

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To Know Us Is To Love Us

LEARN ABOUT US

The Palo Alto Gentle Dental is conveniently located in the small shopping center at the northeast corner of Middlefield Road and Channing Avenue. Our office is north of Title Loans Express.

We accept almost all dental insurance plans, and for those without dental coverage we offer a Dedicated Dental Plan, which reduces the cost of most dentistry services by 20 percent or more. With free and low-cost consultations and payment plans, there are options for every patient in need. In addition to our late evening hours on Mondays, we offer Saturday hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment to ensure you get the oral health care you need when you need it.

Our ADA-compliant office provides all dental services for patients of all ages. Our kind and experienced staff performs routine cleanings, teeth whitening, and many other family dentistry services. We know how important it is for you to feel relaxed, comfortable, and safe while at the dentist, so you’ll receive all the respect and compassion you deserve while you’re in our office.

Give our friendly team a call today at 650 389-9222 to discuss your dentistry needs. We’re here to take care of you quickly, affordably, and on a schedule that works for you. We offer free parking and wheelchair accessibility.

Meet The Team

WHO WE ARE

Ayesha Qazi

D.D.S., General Dentist

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Ayesha Qazi

D.D.S., General Dentist

ABOUT ME
Dr. Qazi says, “I love to develop strong long term connections with my patients and their families by helping all their oral hygiene needs and restoring their smiles.”

“I am very passionate about creating awareness among my patients about the strong correlation between oral health and overall health of an individual.How the functional stability of the ideal occlusion positivity reduces the stress and leads to a more fulfilling life.”

After graduating from St. Josephs College, Dr. Qazi received her Dental Degree from the Baqai Dental College. To keep up with evolving technology, she’s a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Society and the Santa Clara Dental Society. She also speaks Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi.

Dr. Qazi says, “I love to spend time with my family and cooking delicious meals for them!”

Education

B.S., Pre-Med–St. Josephs College
D.D.S.–Baqai Dental College | Baqai Medical University

Affiliations

American Dental Society
California Dental Society
Santa Clara Dental Society

Hank Kashani

D.M.D., M.S.D. Laser and Cosmetic Periodontics

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Hank Kashani

D.M.D., M.S.D. Laser and Cosmetic Periodontics

About Me
As a Periodontist, Dr. Han Kashani making a difference in peoples lives–whether it is easing a patients anxiety, taking them out of pain or improving their smile. His goal is for you to enjoy a lifetime of vibrant oral health!
Dr. Kashani received his general dental education at the University of Tehran. Afterward, he transferred to the University of Iowa, where he studied the dental specialties of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, and received his M.S.D. degree. He is an active member of many organizations including the American Academy of Oral Medicine and the American Association of Periodontology. He has held a number of teaching positions over the years, most recently as Associate Professor in the Periodontology Department at University of California, San Francisco.
Dr. Kashani’s enjoys tennis, golf, skiing, and table tennis. He also dabbles in sculpture.

Education

D.M.D. – University of Tehran
Certificate, Prosthodontics – University of Iowa
Certificate, Periodontics – University of Iowa
M.S.D. – Univesrity of Iowa

Affiliations

Iowa Dental Society
American Dental Association
AM Academy of Oral Medicine
FDI
Northern Society of Perodontists
IADA
New York Dental Society
Santa Clara Dental Society
California Dental Association
American Association of Periodontology

James Kelso

D.D.S., Periodontist

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James Kelso

D.D.S., Periodontist

ABOUT ME
Dr. Kelso says, “I love caring for my patients. I only have their best interest at heart and consider it an honor and privelege that they have entrusted me with their dental health. I like motivating my patients about their oral health and helping them gain self-confidence by improving their smile.”

After graduating from University of the Pacific, Dr. Kelso received his Dental Degree from the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry at the University of the Pacific. He was awarded his Periodontic Certificate at the Oregon Health and Science University School of Dentistry.

To keep abreast of cutting edge technology, he’s a member of the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association and the Contra Costa Dental Association.

Dr. Kelso says, “In my free time, I relax by traveling, coin collecting, gardening and cooking.”

EDUCATION
B.S., Economics–University of the Pacific
D.D.S.–University of the Pacific School of Dentistry
Periodontic Certificate–OHSU School of Dentistry

AFFILIATIONS
American Academy of Periodontology
American Dental Association
California Dental Association
Contra Costa Dental Association

Mala Gopal

B.D.S., M.S. Pediatric Dentist

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Mala Gopal

B.D.S., M.S. Pediatric Dentist

About Me

Dr. Gopal says, “Clinical excellence along with personal care is my number one priority! I love children and feel I get transformed into their world of fun, imagination and magic.” Dr. Gopal loves her profession because it gives her the opportunity to interact with so many people on a daily basis. She feels fortunate to have a career that allows her to improve her young patients’ health, confidence and self-esteem.
Dr. Gopal received her Dental Degree from the Annamalai University School of Dentistry. She was awarded her M.S. in Pediatric Dentistry from the UCSF School of Dentistry. She’s a member of the American Dental Association, the American Association of Pediatric Dentists and the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry. She also speaks Tamil, Hindi and Kannada.
Dr. Gopal says, “I enjoy classical indian dancing, classical violin and cooking. I love to read and spend time with my husband, son, daughter and our labrador retriever!”

Education

B.S.D.–Annamalai University
D.D.S.–Annamalai University School of Dentistry
M.S., Pediatric Dentistry–UCSF School of Dentistry

Affiliations

American Dental Association
American Association of Pediatric Dentists
California Society of Pediatric Dentistry

Michael Li

D.D.S., M.S., Orthodontist

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Michael Li

D.D.S., M.S., Orthodontist

Dr. Li says, “Your Orthodontic care is my passion! I love working with my patients to help them to achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.” His goal is to work with patients to help them achieve and maintain life-long oral health while providing comprehensive and up to date dental care. He wants everyone’s experience to be as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

After graduating from the University of Chicago, Dr. Li was awarded his Dental Degree from the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. He received his M.S. in Oral Sciences and his Orthodontic Certificate from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. He’s a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists and the California Association of Orthodontists.

Away from the office, Dr. Li enjoys relaxing with his active family, keeping up with his favorite sports teams, and discovering new restaurants.

EDUCATION
B.S., Biology–The University of Chicago
D.D.S.–Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Orthodontics Certificate–University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry
M.S.,Oral Sciences–University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry

AFFILIATIONS
American Association of Orthodontists
Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
California Association of Orthodontists

Nazia Malik

D.M.D., General Dentist

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Nazia Malik

D.M.D., General Dentist

ABOUT ME
Dr. Malik, says, “My goal is to treat all of my patients as if they were family and to provide a caring and comfortable environment for everyone. I loved how dentistry is a blend of art and science. It’s a field where you continue to learn new things everyday. Being able to improve someone’s smile, and thus their self confidence, is incredibly rewarding.”

“I love being able to interact with and build meaningful, trusting relationships with people. I enjoy educating patients on their oral health so they feel comfortable with the treatment that they receive. I enjoy making a positive impact on my patients’ overall health, and I enjoy seeing my patients leave with a smile!”

After graduating from New York University, Dr. Malik, received her Dental Degree from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. She’s a member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association.

Dr. Malik, says, “Away from the office, I enjoy exploring the Bay Area with my husband, traveling and trying new things with friends and family.”

EDUCATION
B.S., Biology–New York University
D.M.D.–Boston University School of Dental Medicine

AFFILIATIONS
American Dental Association
California Dental Association

Niloofar Deyhim

D.D.S. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

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Niloofar Deyhim

D.D.S. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

About Me

Dr. Deyhim says, “I would like every patient to feel comfortable and thoroughly informed of their specific treatment and I would encourage any manner to be able to accomplish that. I enjoy being able to provide a professional environment for staff to flourish and for the patients to receive the best individualized care they deserve.”
After graduating from San Jose State University, Dr. Deyhim received her Dental Degree from the New York University College of Dentistry. She was awarded her Oral & Maxillofacial surgery Certificate from UCSF Fresno. She is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Association, the California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Fresno Madera Dental Society. She also speaks Spanish and Farsi.
Dr. Deyhim says, “Away from the office I enjoy traveling, learning new things and trying different restaurants.”
Education

B.S., Systems Physiology–San Jose State University
D.D.S.–New York University College of Dentistry
Oral & Maxillofacial surgery Certificate–UCSF Fresno Medical

Affiliations

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
American Dental Association
California Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Fresno Madera Dental Society

Reviews

SEE WHAT OUR PATIENTS HAVE TO SAY!

Jan 21, 2020

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Got my teeth cleaned, removed my wisdom teeth, and got Invisalign setup over multiple visits in the last few months. Nice team. Convenient to not have to be referred around to different places as they have oral surgeons and ortho’s there as well.

Oct 31, 2019

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

The front desk staff was so informative and had great customer service, they were awesome! The Dr. And the assistants were very knowledgeable and nice. Overall a wonderful experience!

Mar 13, 2018

Facebook • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

GENTAL DENTAL is just that. And I love that. They’re not always punctual with appointments, but they are open to active client participation in dental health. For example, I do not like X-rays (they really screw with my tinfoil hat), and I felt entirely comfortable negotiating a different set of procedures to take the “routine X-rays” out of the picture (sorry, bad pun) as well as an unneeded fluoride treatment slated for my visit. I appreciate being honored as a client when I’m not interested in their usual recommendations.

Mar 3, 2018

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

I had a bit of an emergency I was thinking about leaving Gentle Dental but the treatment I received made me A Gentle Dental girl My doctor is no longer with Gentle Dental and the doctor that took care of me was so wonderful. I was so happy and I will recommend Gentle Dental to my friends!

Gentle Dental Palo Alto replied on Mar 8, 2018:

Hi Mona Sylvanus, thank you for taking the time to leave a review for us at Gentle Dental Palo Alto. We're happy we could meet your expectations!

Jan 17, 2018

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Gentle Dentle in Palo Alto was a good choice for our 3 sets of orthodontics for our family! They do a good job of coordinating work if you have multiple family members you need to chauffeur in for a visits and they help with insurance (they have payment plans too). Dr. Saghafi is a great orthodontist. She is very thoughtful about your comfort along the way. I was a bit concerned with the reviews at first, but we benefited from staff changes and I couldn't recommend this place more for Orthodontics. They have all the Xray machines, etc... in-house so you don't need to go to an x-ray center, like some of the other offices we checked out. We're going to miss our visits - it was alway so pleasant to to catch up with each other.

Gentle Dental Palo Alto replied on Jan 19, 2018:

Hi P, thank you for taking the time to leave a review for us at Gentle Dental Palo Alto. We're happy we could meet your expectations!

Jan 13, 2018

Facebook • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Awesome place to be when in need. Dr. Hussan and her Staff are very caring accommodating and provide excellent care indeed

Jan 13, 2018

Facebook • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Awesome place to be when in need. Dr. Hussan and her Staff are very caring accommodating and provide excellent care indeed

Gentle Dental Palo Alto replied on Jan 18, 2018:

Rick Winstead, we're happy to hear you had such a positive experience with our team!

Nov 2, 2017

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Able to set appointment within a few days. Pleasant over the phone. Able to send docs ahead of time and doctors were able to use these ahead of time for appointment. Dr was very nice and easy to work with. Then had a chipped tooth and fixed efficiently. Same day appointment for that visit, since it was front tooth and emergency for me to get back to meetings at work.

Gentle Dental Palo Alto replied on Nov 22, 2017:

Ian Starkel, we strive for 100% satisfaction, and it is great to see you had such a positive experience at Gentle Dental Palo Alto.

May 26, 2017

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

I don't usually leave reviews but i had to for Gentle Dental. Very professional and answered all my questions . The Dr.s and Nurses explained everything I needed to know.

Gentle Dental Palo Alto replied on Jun 2, 2017:

Dear Syed Zaidi, Thank you for taking the time to post your kind words. At, Gentle Dental Palo Alto, it means a lot to us to know you had a great experience and we look forward to seeing you on your next visit.

Feb 20, 2016

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

My favorite dentist far. They were very professional and knowledgeable when it came to all of my questions, since I'm a noob when it comes to this insurance stuff.

Jun 26, 2015

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

There are awesome I just love going to there office..

Jul 31, 2014

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Dr. Trang Thai was very professional and knowledgeable. She made efforts to explain everything in detail, saying it is important to her to provide education to her patients. She also mentioned that she is part of a study group consisting of her (a dentist), an orthodontist and an endodontist -- they get together to discuss difficult cases. This indicates that dentistry is not only a job to Dr. Thai, but that she loves the profession and is continuing her education in it.

May 13, 2014

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Best dentistry ever! I have been coming here for a very long time and I highly recommend this place. Thank you for great service!

Feb 17, 2014

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

I don't particularly enjoy sitting in a chair and having my teeth poked at by pointy metal instruments, but since it has to be done, I'm glad that Dr. Mimi Salkola is my dentist. She is one of the friendliest people I know, and I can tell that she genuinely cares about her patients. I had a couple of deep cleanings done a few weeks back, and on both occasions Dr. Salkola called me from her home the following evening to ask how I was doing. She is very good at what she does, and the procedures she's done for me (including a recent crown) have all been relatively painless.

Feb 11, 2014

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

I've been with Gentle Dental for about five years. I have an extended circle of friends in the Peninsula and South Bay. I've sent dozens of them to Dr. Mimi Salkola and Gentle Dental, and every single one has given me a glowing report of their experience. Dr. Salkola is exceptional - she is highly competent, caring, and personal. She offers options and is sensitive to all issues including finances and patient comfort. In my 70 years I have not had a better dentist - not one comes close.

Feb 3, 2014

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

I've been with Gentle Dental for about five years. I have an extended circle of friends in the Peninsula and South Bay. I've sent dozens of them to Dr. Mimi Salkola and Gentle Dental, and every single one has given me a glowing report of their experience. Dr. Salkola is exceptional - she is highly competent, caring, and personal. She offers options and is sensitive to all issues including finances and patient comfort. In my years I have not had a better dentist - not one comes close.

Dec 7, 2013

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Great service, gentle and friendly

Oct 11, 2013

Google • Gentle Dental Palo Alto

I was very happy with my first visit. Dr. Thai was incredibly nice and sympathetic in explaining the problems I had and the solutions that were available.

See How We're Different

Services
Insurance & Payment

General Dentistry

Our general dentistry services take care of the daily dental needs of you and your family.
Learn More

Preventative Services
Restorative Services

Pediatric Dentistry
Emergency Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Our cosmetic services include a variety of treatments for patients looking to enhance their smiles.
Learn More

Teeth Whitening
Dentures & Partials
Veneers
Inlays & Onlays

Crowns & Bridges
Implants
Bone Augmentation

Specialty Dentistry

Our extensive network of neighborhood practitioners make it easy to find dental specialists.
Learn More

Orthodontists
Endodontists
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

Periodontists
Prosthodontists

Pediatric Dentistry

Our pediatric services include a variety of treatments and specialties for patients looking to enhance their smiles.
Learn More

Insurances We Accept

Gentle Dental accepts most dental insurance plans and options. If you do not see your insurance plan below, contact us and we will be happy to assist in confirming your existing insurance provider.

View More Insurance Plans

DELTA CA-PPO
DELTACARE PMI HMO
CIGNA PPO
METLIFE PPO
UHC-DBP HMO
AETNA PPO
AETNA DMO
CIGNA HMO
GUARDIAN PPO
ANTHEM B/C CA HMO
MET SAFEGUARD HMO
HEALTHCOMP
UHC - BLUE SHIELD PPO
UNITED HEALTHCARE PPO

...and many more.
Call to see if your insurance is covered!

(650) 389-9222

Questions about Insurance?

If you have dental insurance and are concerned about coverage do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly staff. Our team here at Gentle Dental will help you with any payment or insurance questions you may have and will work closely with you to help you get the most out of your dental plan.

About Payment

Gentle Dental aims to be as gentle on your wallet as our dentists are when providing treatment. Our professional staff will help you get the most from your dental insurance benefits and explain any deductibles and co-pays to you.

Payment options include cash, major credit cards, discount plans, and private financing.

Our In-House Discount Plan – The Gentle Dental Plan

For more details or to enroll, visit: www.gentledentalplan.com or call 1(800) 903-2532.
You can also enroll at one of our locations.

Flexible Financing

We understand that you don’t always have the cash at hand, that’s why we accept most major credit cards and offer flexible financing options which can be helpful if you require more extensive work, orthodontics, or cosmetic procedures that aren’t covered by insurance. These plans can offer:

Low down payment and no interest¹
No money down and no interest²
Extended terms up to 48 months at 14.9% promotional interest rates³

We want to make paying for dental services as easy as possible. For more information, call us toll-free at 1-800-GENTLE1 to get in touch with the Gentle Dental Office in your neighborhood.

Valid photo ID and checking account, credit card or debit card required.
On approved credit. For promotional purchases over $300 if paid in full within promotional period. If promotional purchase is not paid in full within promotional period, interest will be imposed from the date of purchase at 26.99% APR.
On approved credit. For promotional purchases over $1,000. Fixed monthly payments based on repayment over 24, 36, or 48 month period.

Don’t see the service you need? Give us a call!

(650) 389-9222

Other Resources:

FRIENDLY, CONVENIENT & FLEXIBLE

Gentle in So Many Ways

Gentle on Your Mind

Our experienced Dental Professionals use the latest techniques to be as gentle as possible.

Gentle on Your Wallet

We accept most insurance plans, have a discount plan for those without, and offer flexible payment options.

Gentle on Your Schedule

We make your life easier with convenient hours including evenings and weekends.

A Team You Can Trust

Gentle Dental Palo Alto

Hours

Schedule an Appointment

New Patients

$50 Exam & X-Rays

Please enter your information to download the coupon!

New Patients

$100 Off

Please enter your information to download the coupon!

Ortho Special

Braces from $99 Month

Please enter your information to download the coupon!

To Know Us Is To Love Us

Meet The Team

Ayesha Qazi

Ayesha Qazi

Hank Kashani

Hank Kashani

James Kelso

James Kelso

Mala Gopal

Mala Gopal

Michael Li

Michael Li

Nazia Malik

Nazia Malik

Niloofar Deyhim

Niloofar Deyhim

Reviews

General Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Specialty Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry

Insurances We Accept

Questions about Insurance?

About Payment

Our In-House Discount Plan – The Gentle Dental Plan

Flexible Financing

Other Resources:

Gentle in So Many Ways

Gentle on Your Mind

Gentle on Your Wallet

Gentle on Your Schedule

A Team
You Can Trust