A Shop For Smiles
Richard Hagstrom, DDS:
Practice Profile Page

Richard-Hagstrom-dentist

A Shop For Smiles
Richard J. Hagstrom, DDS
La Mesa, CA

★★★★★

35 REVIEWS
0 BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS

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DENTAL TREATMENTS I OFFER

MY CLEAR ALIGNER SERVICES

MY OFFICE HOURS

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BEFORE & AFTER PHOTO GALLERY

MY TOP PATIENT REVIEWS

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DENTAL TREATMENTS OFFERED

A list of major dental treatments which I offer my patients:

Dental cleaning

White fillings

Crowns

Inlays & onlays

Bridges

Clear aligners

Sedation dentistry

Porcelain veneers

Teeth whitening

Dentures & partials

Root canal treatment

Tooth extraction

TMJ treatment

Dental implants

CLEAR ALIGNER SERVICES

Offers Even28 at-home™? No

Offers Even28 at-dentist™? No

Offers Invisalign®? Yes

OFFICE HOURS

Monday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Tuesday: 7:00 am to 2:00 pm

Wednesday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Thursday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Friday: Closed

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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BEFORE & AFTER PHOTO GALLERY

COMING SOON

PATIENT REVIEWS

Check out what some of our happy patients are saying about us:

Sarena M. from Del Mar, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Dr Hagstrom and his team have really helped me overcome my anxiety with going to the dentist so I would highly recommend them! They are very supportive and listen to my questions/concerns in a very patient and understanding manner. I have had multiple intensive procedures such at root canals, cavities, tooth extractions and they always make sure that I feel comfortable, safe and relaxed to get through it. Trust me when I say I would drive the extra mile or even pay the extra dollar to feel at ease while at the dentist and this is why you definitely should check them out! -Sarena Mezzacappa

Franklin Maphis (Source: Google)

★★★★★

I called A Shop for Smile’s office, as a new patient, with a dental emergency on a Monday morning. I had a serious injury involving a fractured and chipped front tooth and Dr. Hagstrom was recommended by a friend with a similar problem. I was very concerned about the future appearance of such a visible tooth. From the beginning, they were very understanding and empathetic and they worked me in that same day. I was fully prepared for a painful, invasive and very expensive visit, but willing to accept all of that because I was more afraid of a disfigured and dysfunctional front tooth. The entire staff went above and beyond to calm me down and keep me comfortable. I was given several options for pain management from very minor numbing to light-mid sedation. I initially opted to come back for as much sedation as possible, but after being there and indirectly observing the other procedures and noting the upbeat demeanors of the other patients, I felt comfortable enough to go through with the complete repair of my tooth that day. Dr. Hagstrom and his staff did a great job. Discomfort was minimal and my tooth looks better than it did before and is fully functional. Michele in the front office worked very quickly with my insurance, keeping me up to date, answering my questions and working out a reasonable financial plan that I could manage. This was one of the most traumatic dental conditions I’ve ever had treated and it turned out to be one of the positive dental encounters I can remember.

Katherine J. from Santee, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

i cannot say enough good things about the team at A shop for smiles! Every visit that I have had with them has been a pleasant one, and I actually enjoy going to the dentist! You can’t say that about very many dentists! I recently had an inflamed gum that needed surgery to remove wisdom teeth fragments from a different dentist who had decided to leave them in! Needless to say, that was painful. But as painful as it was, Dr. Hagstrom always had my comfort in mind and did everything possible to get me through it comfortably. The entire team is at A Shop For Smiles is dedicated to their clients and their healthy smiles! Thank you for taking care of my smile, Dr. H!

Sally W. from La Mesa, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I was referred to Dr. Hagstrom by a very dear friend, but was not expecting the amazing, compassionate care I received. I had broken my tooth and contacted Dr. Hagstrom on his emergency line (on the weekend). His wife contacted me taking time away from her family time to return my call. She contacted her husband, Dr. Hagstrom, and he returned my call within a short period of time. He met me in his clinic within an hour along with his associate, Michelle, and performed emergency services. During the procedure, Dr. Hagstrom explained each step of the process which reduced my anxiety tremendously. They were genuinely concerned for my health. I’ve had two follow-up appointments since the initial visit and each time was treated as a priority with follow-up calls to ensure my needs were met. Dr. Hagstrom and his staff are amazing and I highly recommend them.

Tony Francoeur (Source: Google)

★★★★★

I absolutely trust Dr. Hagstrom with all our Dental needs. He has taken care of all of our family. This office treats you like one of the family. They are also so helpful when it comes to helping with financing, payments, etc. They are the best. 5 Star service all the way from the moment you step in the door. Michelle the patient financial coordinator is so helpful and makes you feel at home. Mary is a careful and thoughtful hygienist and does an amazing job. What an easy experience, would totally recommend to friends and family.

Katiana M. from Alpine, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I’ve been afraid of the dentist since preteens (like shaking in the chair and crying – terrified), but my gosh did this place make me feel so much better. The people are so friendly and put me at ease so quickly, I love it here. Very thorough with their explanations of what they’ll be doing before they do it, quick to joke while still being professional. All around lovely people that I will definitely be coming back to see again.

Ann G. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

First let me start out by saying I am afraid of dentists.  I have had bad experiences in the past, starting out with my first visit as a child.  I am so scared that my hands get clamly, I tremble and sometimes cry.  From the moment I talked to Megan on the phone to get an appointment for a cracked molar, to the paperwork with Michelle and the procedure with Dr. Hagstrom, I was so glad I choose this dentist!  They explained everything so there would be no surprises and they treated me so well that I was able to relax.  Dr. Hagstrom and his team truly care and I would highly recommend them to anyone with a fear of dentists.

C. Wilson (Source: Google)

★★★★★

Dr Hagstrom is an Exceptional Dentist and keeps up with all the latest technology in dentistry. He is also compassionate and will treat you like family!! Mary the hygienist will get those teeth clean and feeling good she is the best! Michelle the office manager always makes you feel welcomed and always has a smile for everyone! I hate going to the dentist but The Shop for Smile Team definitely makes it easier and less stressful so I am able to keep a healthy mouth that leads to a healthier body!!!!

Peggy Wikstrom (Source: Google)

★★★★★

This is the best place for people who are afraid of having dental work done. They offer sedation dentistry, the staff is very friendly and they communicate with Dr. Hagstrom if there are any questions or concerns regarding the patient. Dr. Hagstrom will either come to the room immediately or tell his staff the answer. They fully explain the procedure to be done and how it will be done and make sure you fully understand and have no fears.

Malina S. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Dr. Hagstrom, Mary, Michelle and the rest of the staff are wonderful!! It is so hard to find a caring, thorough, knowledgeable, skillful dental clinic and I’m so relieved to have finally found one I like!! I love this place!  They work with you financially, and are dedicated to mske your smile and teeth beautiful!! I’m so excited because my teeth were a mess!! They also go out of their way to make you feel special with extra perks like snacks and toys for kids, teeth whitening strips, bonus gift cards, etc.  It’s also a very nice environment-the clinic is always clean, has a peaceful vibe, and the staff is very friendly and helpful!!! I highly recommend a shop for smiles!!!

Michele H. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Just because I am the doctor’s wife doesn’t mean anything when it comes to going to the dentist.  Dr. Hagstrom and his great team treat all of his patients with kindness and respect.  From the time I was a kid going to the dentist meant fear and pain.  I wouldn’t get out of there with less then 2 (or 4) cavities at a time.  Grant you, times have changed….I don’t remember anyone teaching me how to brush and who knows if we even had floss back then.  But at A Shop for Smiles…they teach you those small tasks…which for some seem huge.  Mary, the Hygienist, is awesome.  She is gentle and really nice.  She had to give me a shot and it didn’t even hurt.  WOW!!  For me that’s huge.  Because that’s where my fear comes in is with those shots.  But if I want to keep my teeth, I have had to walk through my fears and at A Shop for Smiles, they have helped me to do that.

Gennifer Jay (Source: Google)

★★★★★

While no one looks forward to going to the dentist, Hagstrom always does his best to deliver top quality service. Everyone here is very friendly, making you feel welcomed and comfortable. The practitioners are all excellent at what they do, providing the best possible dental treatment with minimal discomfort. I really like the beach theme of the place too – it’s a nice touch that helps you relax a bit while getting work done. Some of my friends have had a tough time getting ripped off by their dentists with unnecessary procedures, but I’ve never had that problem here. It’s an honest, locally owned shop that deserves a lot more attention.

Lawrence L. from Serra Mesa, San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Dr. Hagstrom and his staff (most communication with Michelle and Mary) have taken care of my family’s dental needs for the past 4years and I couldn’t be more happier to leave them a final review. I highly recommend them for all of your dental needs. My family is leaving the area and will really miss all that each of you have done for us. Happy Holidays A Shop for Smiles…we will miss you all dearly. Thanks for always being personable and remembering the little details. ~ The Latimer family

Juan D. from La Mesa, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Where do I begin….This has been by far one the best experiences I’ve had with a dental office and staff. Dr. Hagstrom has always been a pleasure to work with and his staffs customers service is emasculate and second to none! I’ve tried this place out several years back when I needed some teeth whitening and he delivered flawlessly. Decided to use them again today for a crown that I desperately needed for a while and was holding off on due to finances and thinking it was going to cost me an arm and a leg. His exam fee was very reasonable and never made me feel that I needed to spend more than what I needed. He was so detailed and he explained what he found and what I needed through pictures and all,I was so impressed on his detail and dedication to his work. The cost for the whole procedure was beyond reasonable and he worked with me on all angles. Him and his assistant made me feel so comfortable during the whole process from beginning to end and the job came out perfect. He has definitely earned my my business and trust and also and now a  loyal customer. Would give them 100 stars if I could! I would Strongly recommend his services to all.

Annie S. from Vista, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Where do I start, this is a fabulous dental office. Everyone is very nice and helpful. In the past I was nervous about going to the dentist but not anymore. Dr. Hagstrom is very gentle and addresses any concerns you may have. The dental hygienist, Mary, is amazing and Michelle at the front desk is very sweet and always so nice. I also got my Invisalign here and I am very happy with the results

Jesse F. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

This is my second go at sedation dentistry and i must say these guys get it right. Dr Hagstrom and his staff have been stellar in addressing my needs. I can not recommend them enough. Price is competitive and unlike other dentist i have visited they make sure your 100% comfortable before any procedures begin. They have my mouth on the road to a healthy future and for that i cant thank them enough. BTW…sorry for being an ass on my last visit…..sedated.

Joe F. from Las Vegas, NV (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

Holy cow!!!!! Love them love them love  them!!!!! I live all the way in Las Vegas Nevada. And my daughter lives near a shop smiles dentistry here in La Mesa… She called me one morning with the worst tooth ache she’s ever had… I googled the best dentist office around in her area found the shop for smiles office…. My daughter was very nervous about going to dentist they made her feel so welcome and so comfortable… They did an outstanding job taking care of her and their follow-through and follow up with her was amazing…. I would recommend this dentist office to anyone…..she will be going back to finish off some other work she’ll be getting done….two thumbs up!!!!!

Alexa Sumner (Source: Google)

★★★★★

A Shop for smiles is a wonderful place. The whole staff is so easy to work with, and will always go the extra mile to help and make you feel comfortable. Dr Hagstrom himself is a wonderful and caring person. He is very understanding and really listens to his patient’s needs and concerns. I had such a great experience even after moving I continue to speak with Dr. Hagstrom about my dental needs. He was able to fit me in on my trip to the west coast to do a major operation for me. They are simply outstanding!!!

Amy Rudolph (Source: Google)

★★★★★

Dr. Hagstrom has been my dentist for 30 years. He is not only great at what he does, but is always pursuing new technology to be able to serve his patients better. He believes in excellence, so he has also surrounded himself with a fantastic team. I never hesitate to recommend A Shop for Smiles to anyone looking for a new dentist.

Ilona J. from Bonita, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I have been with Dr. Hagstrom and his team for almost 20 years. They have been so helpful and understanding and supportive of me and my family not only through dental situations but have also taken the time to get to know us and show care for what is going on in our life…ups and downs. It has helped me feel very relaxed when I go in for any procedure.  I have had A TON of dental work over my life and have sat in many dentists chairs over the years. I can honestly say that I keep choosing Dr. Hagstrom and his team for good reason. Any dental work anywhere costs more than I can afford. I’m thankful for their willingness to help me/us sort through this part as well.  Thank you Dr. Hagstrom and team! And shout out to Mary…wonderful hygienist for wonderful dentist.

Betsey G. from La Mesa, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

this is an amazing Dentist!  I went in very afraid of pain and what he would suggest, and besides feeling like I was part of their family, he worked with me on price, and I walked out of there with a beautiful smile I had not had in years.  He followed up the day after surgery (on a Saturday) just to make sure I was doing well!  Really, I can’t say enough.  If you have any worries about a dentist go to A Shop For Smiles.  They are caring, NO PAIN, and very affordable!

Donna S. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

My first visit to Dr Hagstrom’s office I was greeted with opened arms by Michelle who gave me a tour and introduced me to everyone including Dr Hagstrom. Then I went to Dr Hagstrom yesterday for a route canal and crown. I have to give him 5 stars, he assured me that my comfort was his chief concern. They asked what my favorite music was and provided me with a set of headphones And I didn’t feel a thing, in fact I didn’t even feel the injection of numbing meds being administered, his assistant could have been a little more gentle with her suction tube and a little quicker with her assistant skills but as far as Dr Hagstrom’s work, after the numbing meds wore off, not a bit of pain! How crazy is that? Right? Upon leaving I received a hug from the Doc for being such a good patient. Thank you so much Dr Hagstrom , oh and his dental hygienist “Mary” is TOP NOTCH love her too. See you guys again soon. Donna Shepard

Sheila Revivo (Source: Google)

★★★★★

I had been going to another dentist for years and thought I was getting good service. My insurance was not going to be covered for him anymore, so I switched to Dr. Hagstrom. He gave me a thorough exam and discovered ways to build up my receding gums to preserve them for the years to come. He works with care and shows real concern. He calls my home to see how I am doing after a procedure. The staff is welcoming and caring. The atmosphere is warm and friendly.

Dave Rice (Source: Google)

★★★★★

Dr. Hagstrom and staff went out of their way to come in on a day off in the middle of an ongoing national emergency to provide treatment that only became emergent due to years of negligence on my part. After receiving what in retrospect was horrible advice from a competitor, A Shop for Smiles was able to devise not only an emergency stopgap to save my teeth in the short run but a preliminary plan to begin restoring my mouth to health once it’s safe to resume normal business. I’m very much grateful for that.

J. S. from Vista, San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I have been seeing Dr. Hagstrom for over 20 years. He has handled numerous of my own as well as my families emergency and general dental needs with care, precision, and unprecedented thoroughness. There is a reason he graduated at the top of his class at USC. HIs long term staff especially Michelle and Mary and others are superb. They always get me the right answers when I need them the first time. Great place!!!

Tracey W. from Santee, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I’ve been a patient of Dr. Hagstrom for several years now and I wouldn’t consider going anywhere else.  The entire staff is absolutely wonderful and Michelle and Dr. Hagstrom always make sure to work within my budget when I need services, without sacrificing the health of my teeth.  The prices are higher than some other dentists but as far as I’m concerned, Dr. Hagstrom is worth it and I’ve NEVER experienced a “hard sell” as someone else said.  Also, they’ve never tried to sell me any “gadgets”.  I’ve always been spoken to honestly about what my oral health needs are and I’ve always been treated fairly.

Matthew W. from Chula Vista, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I LOVE this dentist office.  The staff is super friendly especially Mary (I think that’s her name).  I have most recently had a really good experience where I needed the laser treatment as I felt a cold sore coming on.  The laser treatment is a god-send for anyone who suffers from cold sores, the laser stops it in its tracks and I have gone from dealing with this for weeks to a day or two at the most!  I was met at the office after hours and treated and on my way.  I know it was a total inconvenience but was treated like it was no big deal…way cool!!!  Good luck picking a dentist, but you would be crazy not to try these guys!

Dawn G. from Santee, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I have pretty severe anxiety at the dentist due to bad experiences in the past. The team at this office is amazing. Instead of having me sit alone while waiting for the dentist after my cleaning, Mary the hygienist showed me pics of her puppy and cat which she knows keeps me calm. I went over 15 years without a real cleaning and I have had 2 in 3 months. Thank you Dr. Hagstrom, Mary, Michelle and staff for your kindness and empathy.

Gracie Jennings (Source: Google)

★★★★★

A Shop For Smiles is amazing! I came in with my mom for her dentist appointment and was just planning on sitting and waiting for her. Little did I know I would get delicious coffee and biscuits from the wonderful Michelle. The staff is incredible. They always greet you with a huge smile and make you feel welcome (even when you are not the patient). The quality of their dental care is also amazing!

Jasmine Greene (Source: Google)

★★★★★

Dr. Hagstrom listened to me. I had seen several dentists prior to finding him who kept discounting the pain and discomfort I was feeling in my tooth. It is my body after all and I think I know when something hurts. Dr. Hagstrom has the experience to find the cause of complex dental issues. I am forever grateful to him for not blowing me off like the others did and instead creating a comprehensive treatment plan to help resolve my dental pain. I highly recommend him if you want a kind, caring, intelligent and experienced dentist.

Julio N. from La Mesa, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

I couldn’t be more happy and amazed at how great Dr Hagstrom was. He takes such great care of your needs and concerns and also takes the time to get to know you. You feel like you have more of a friend when you in to get work done. I had a root canal on one tooth and a crown on another and went home painless! I am terrified of dentists but have full trust in him. His staff is also very friendly and amazing! Highly recommended!

Marie B. from Temecula, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

This is one of the few dentists that anyone will ever find that breaks all the stereotypes.  His staff is beyond skilled, the front desk will do everything possible to help you along and Dr. Hagstrom makes you feel like there is all the time in the world for you. Also, if you’re looking for the dentist that truly does it all painfree and at a quality level that you can rarely find this is the office to go to. I am having full implants and it couldn’t be going better. He did full sedation for parts of it and I was always comfortable. From my first visit I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else.

Chris D. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

A little over 7 years ago, I walked into A Shop For Smiles with an exposed nerve packed with putty I bought at CVS. I had been going to another dentist for a little while and during a procedure, he hadn’t numbed me well enough. He shot the Novocaine directly into the nerve without any warning. I jumped out of my chair, knocking everything off the tray and immediately ran out of the room. The dentist chased me around the office and kept screaming at me to “sit down and grow up”. This is a true story! I told the dentist to pack the tooth, give me anti-biotics and pain killers and that I would be on my way and find another dentist, one who cared and wasn’t so rough with patients. After doing some research, I found sedation dentistry and A Shop For Smiles! I was in a lot of pain when I first met with Dr. Hagstrom and his amazing staff. They made me feel at ease right away. They listened to my concerns and saw the shotty work the other dentist had done and had been unable to complete due to their lack of bedside manner. They made me feel extremely comfortable with the sedation process and by the time I left, I was confident that I was in good hands. I have been a patient of Dr. Hagstrom ever since. I have the WORST teeth known to man. Trust me, I probably take better care of my teeth than most people, and still, I have horrible teeth, it just runs in my family. A good, caring dentist is something that is important to me. I even have Doctor’s cellphone number, and he answers after hours, just in case I have pain/problems. I have used his cellphone, and he is always there for me. I would recommend A Shop For Smiles to anyone. Their office is clean and comfortable, their staff is friendly, and they take a personal interest in their clients dental health. Dr. Hagstrom is the best dentist I have ever gone and seen. His office staff knows me, they actually have taken the time to get to know more about me than just my teeth problems, and that says something! Thank you, A Shop For Smiles! I am sure I will be seeing you in a few months for my routine checkup!

Sarena Mezzacappa (Source: Google)

★★★★★

Dr Hagstrom and his team have really helped me overcome my anxiety with going to the dentist so I would highly recommend them! They are very supportive and listen to my questions/concerns in a very patient and understanding manner. I have had multiple intensive procedures such at root canals, cavities, tooth extractions and they always make sure that I feel comfortable, safe and relaxed to get through it. Trust me when I say I would drive the extra mile or even pay the extra dollar to feel at ease while at the dentist and this is why you definitely should check them out! -Sarena Mezzacappa

Stephen R. from San Diego, CA (Source: Yelp)

★★★★★

This was by far the best dental experience I have ever had. I went in with serious tooth pain, thinking I would need a root canal. Dr. Hagstrom and his staff were so kind and compassionate. They got me in right away, and made me feel completely comfortable. It turns out I only had an infection and was out for a low cost. They got me the antibiotics in house so I didn’t have to go to a pharmacy afterwards, minor, but very convenient. I left the office around 1 pm and was shocked (blown away actually) when Dr. Hagstrom personally me around 7 pm to see how I was feeling. It was above and beyond any expectations I had. It was my first trip to the office but I will never go elsewhere. Thank you, Dr. Hagstrom and staff for you amazing service.

A WORD FROM YOUR DOCTOR

Dr. Richard Hagstrom and his team at A Shop for Smiles are excited to provide meaningful, compassionate dental care to you and your loved ones in the La Mesa area. With more than 26 years of experience, La Mesa cosmetic dentist Dr. Hagstrom has the skill, knowledge, and technology to serve you and help you experience the healthy, beautiful smile you've always wanted. Conveniently located in La Mesa and near Central San Diego, Dr. Richard Hagstrom is a La Mesa dentist who offers a variety of family, cosmetic and sedation dentistry procedures. Our top-quality dental services include fillings, fixed bridges, Zoom teeth whitening, dental implants, and CEREC same day crowns. Dr. Hagstrom understands that people can be nervous about visiting the dentist. He has created a trusting and respectful atmosphere within his La Mesa dentist office so that uneasy patients can feel comfortable when learning about and undergoing procedures. He has also undergone several years of training and continued education to keep abreast of trends in sedation dentistry, while also providing the best service to his patients. Patient comfort, understanding, and care are our first priorities. We believe that good communication is the key to achieving a smile that will last a lifetime. Whether you are searching for a family dentist, teeth whitening, same day crowns, or someone who specializes in sedation dentistry in San Diego and surrounding areas, call us today! Dr. Hagstrom graduated number 1 in his class from USC School of Dentistry in 1987 and has been practicing in the El Cajon/La Mesa area since then. Dr. Hagstrom graduated from USC School of Dentistry in 1987 and has been practicing in the El Cajon/La Mesa area since. He completed a residency in Myofacial Pain Dysfunction at USC and trains annually at the Center for Advanced Dental Study in St. Petersburg, Florida. Dr Hagstrom is known as a "Physician of the Mouth" not just a "Tooth Doctor!" He does permanent restorative dentistry using the latest in proven cosmetic dental materials. Dr Hagstrom has been a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since 1995. Most recently, he has completed and earned his Fellowship in Implant Dentistry from the California Implant Institute. He also has advanced training in treating the "Dental Phobic" patient. Where his philosophy is to listen attentively to his patients and treat each one individually based on what they want to accomplish and in a manner that is tailored to fit their specific situation. He also employs the latest in sedation dentistry techniques.