Smiles International
Benjamin Watkins III, DDS:
Practice Profile Page

★★★★★

DENTAL TREATMENTS OFFERED

Dental cleaning

White fillings

Crowns

Inlays & onlays

Bridges

Clear aligners

Porcelain veneers

Teeth whitening

Dentures & partials

Root canal treatment

Tooth extraction

TMJ treatment

Dental implants

CLEAR ALIGNER SERVICES

OFFICE HOURS (McLean)

Monday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Tuesday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Wednesday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Thursday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Friday: Closed

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

OFFICE HOURS (Washington, DC (M STREET) )

Monday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Tuesday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Wednesday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Thursday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Friday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

OFFICE HOURS ( Washington, DC (PENNSYLVANIA AVE) )

Monday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Tuesday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Wednesday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Thursday: 7:30 am to 4:30 pm

Friday: Closed

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

BEFORE & AFTER PHOTO GALLERY

PATIENT REVIEWS

I hate going to the dentist! It’s more than that. Still traumatized by childhood experiences, I am terrified of dentists. I procrastinate seeing a dentist until it’s an absolute emergency. By the time I get to a dentist, I’m not only terrified, I’m in pain and embarrassed. After all, as a successful professional, you would not expect me to have teeth rotting in my head!! Sound familiar? Then you will want to hear about my remarkable “find” in Dr. Ben Watkins. My trusted, long-time former dentist relocated. It took three years and a painful broken tooth to force me to look for a new dentist. My standards for a dentist are nearly impossible to find: compassion, competence, clarity, integrity, professionalism – and a gentle touch; and I want a skilled “technician” who is on the cutting-edge of dentistry, a pre-eminent expert. I was dogged in my search. The name of one dentist repeatedly rose above the rest: Dr. Ben Watkins. He was highly-regarded, eminently qualified and repeatedly recommended by all sources, including his peers. However, his reviews did not address how he might handle my deep-seated anxiety. I needed a dentist who cared about me and would understand my fears – one who was patient and willing to factor trust-building into his patient relationship and treatment approach. Dr. Watkins’ accolades were compelling but, in truth, it was my throbbing toothache that finally forced me to call his office. I broke into a cold sweat as I picked up the phone to schedule a consultation. From the first phone call and the reassuring, gentle persuasion of Genevieve, Dr. Watkins’ front desk assistant, and with every interaction thereafter, Dr. Watkins’ entire staff was caring, gentle, and proficient. They worked with a team synergy that reflected genuine respect for each other, their roles and their abilities. They were eager to answer my questions and share their knowledge, often anticipating the myriad of questions I had about my dental procedure, their amazing state-of-the-art equipment, computerized lab techniques and capabilities, and even the latest dental materials. I felt my anxiety lessen. Yet, anticipating meeting Dr. Watkins, I could feel my rapid heartbeat, the beads of perspiration on my forehead, the churning of my squeamish stomach and the icy cold of my clammy hands. Dr. Watkins immediately put me at ease. He intuitively acknowledged and responded to my anxiety. He sensed my need for information was a barometer for building trust and confidence in his capabilities. He spent about 30 minutes talking with me, asking questions and answering mine before gently examining my mouth. After thoroughly reviewing my x-rays, he explained what was necessary to address the immediate crisis of my broken tooth. My worse fears were confirmed – he would actually have to work on my mouth. I was terrified; and knew I had no other choice. I felt like a lamb being lead to the slaughter. However, to my great relief, while explaining every step as he progressed, Dr. Watkins gently rebuilt my tooth and created a temporary crown — .without pain!! He then developed a clear and comprehensive treatment plan, which included estimated costs and other top-notch specialists with whom he would partner to complete my dental work. Dr. Watkins exemplifies compassionate professionalism and he more than met my tough standards. He is the most technically proficient, remarkably knowledgeable dentist I have encountered in my decades of extensive dental work, with a team of assistants who meet his standards of excellence. He has unequivocally earned my trust and respect. And he is a genuinely nice, likeable guy! I hope by posting my experience, others who share my fears or have anxieties about going to the dentist will consider the talents of Dr. Watkins. Meet him…talk with him…decide for yourself. I have no doubt that you will choose truly “the best” – Dr. Ben Watkins. Linda

Dr. Watkins and his staff were great at fixing my teenage son’s chipped front teeth. They got him in very quickly after his accident, even working through their lunch hour. Everyone was professional, and friendly which made the dental procedure very easy for my son. Dr. Watkins was able to work magic in reattaching part of one of the broken teeth, as well as “creating filler pieces” to make both of the teeth look whole again. His teeth look great, you would never know that he went through this procedure. Thank you for letting Alex smile again Dr Watkins!!

Thank You Dr Watkins and thanks to each and every one we had contact with in that office. For accepting my special needs son’s difficult case in the first place, for the outstanding results achieved and for all the professionalism, patience and kindness. He now has an “international smile” he can be proud of. We even received little gifts and festive cupcakes on the last day !!! And my son’s special message to Dr Watkins : “Thanks buddy”

I broke a tooth off my implant late on Thursday afternoon.  I called the office and the staff went out of their way to help me.  Although my regular dentist Dr. Watkins wouldn’t be in the office Friday, the staff arranged for Dr. Kaihara to handle my emergency.  When I arrived Friday morning, the staff took me back immediately and Dr. Kaihara explained what he found and the corrective procedure.  During the procedure the nurses kept me comfortable, provided reading materials, and kept my son in the waiting room informed of my situation.  My only regret was that after the procedure was completed, Dr. Kaihara was already assisting another patient and I didn’t have an opportunity to thank him personally for his care and consideration.  Excellent dentists and an excellent staff.

Just wanted to comment on how comfortable I felt visiting Dr. Watkins for a dental appointment during these days of Covid-19. Upon entering the office I was asked to sanitize my hands before having my temperature, pulse, blood pressure, etc. checked. In addition, all office staff were masked throughout the appointment. Dr. Watkins was extremely courteous, friendly, and professional, as usual, and through their extensive and thorough precautions, he and his staff eliminated any concerns I might have had about possible exposure to the virus.

Dr Kaihara did a thorough exam and listened to me. He was honest and patient. Explained his impression and recommendation I spent some hours having dental work and he was gentle. He also has a lot of experience A visit to him worth it’s weight in gold. When I called after hours with pain , his partner Dr Watkins listened and even reached out to Dr Kaihara before giving me final advice. Have no doubt, You will be in great hands with this practice.

Dr. Benjamin Watkins III, arguably, is the best specialized dentist in the DMV. His support team is a large and important part of that claim. I came to his service today – solely and only because I trust his professional judgment (COVID19). I am confident that he made my health and safety his top priority. I am confident that Dr. Watkins will make all his patients’s health and safety his top priority. Joseph Evans, Ph.D.

Dr. Watkins is a high caliber professional who makes the well being of his patients a top priority. He is compassionate, listens well, and provides a through detained explanation of his patients problems and how that problem will be solved. His superb staff which includes Elaina, J.D., and others reflect the high standards of this practice. I have been a patient over 5 years, and always receive excellent customer service. I needed to see Dr. Watkins this week for an emergency and even though the calendar was booked, space was made for me. This is the type of service all patient/clients will be afforded. Also, I am somewhat skeptical going out to stores and offices due to the corvid-virus. However, I was extremely impressed with top notch screening and other safety measures and precautions this office is taking. I felt completely safe!

From the moment I walked through the door, I found an inviting environment from the coffee pot in the waiting area to the smiling, warm, and friendly office staff that greeted me with Good morning. Dr. Watkins takes the time to hear your thoughts and gives excellent advice. Then he and the fantastic dental assistants send you home with a picture perfect smile. 5 stars

Dr. Gary G. Kaihara and Dr. Benjamin O. Watkins III have earned a respected reputation within the dental industry. Each brings awarded and recognized expertise (including published features in the Washingtonian and Northern Virginia Magazine) to your dental treatment.

I couldn’t be happier with Smiles International! Dr. Watkins is very personable and thorough, and does a wonderful job of making his patients feel welcomed. He is great listener and his specialty in the field shows in his discussion of all the dental concerns and questions I had. The ladies at the front desk and the dental assistants are equally friendly. I truly felt that the entire staff went out of their way to make my experience as good as possible and I will definitely be a life-long patient!

We love Dr. Watkins and his extremely professional and talented staff!! We refer everyone we know to him. Dr. Watkins is an outstanding prosthodontist and Jennifer is an excellent hygienist! We can’t say enough good things about Linda, JD, Rick, Elena and Carol!! They are truly a wonderful group of individuals.

The staff was very professional and helpful. They don’t take insurance but as a courtesy will file for you. The dentist’s (Dr. Watkins) assistant was kind and gentle when taking various photos of my teeth of concern. Dr. Watkins had already read my history before my arrival and gave me three different options to consider for my next visit. I had a botched TMJ prosthesis surgery in 2009 that required a crown afterwards and now may require another plus other issues that he could take care of for me as well as two other options. I also need a periodontist that he referred me to. Dr. Watkins has a great sense of humor and good “bedside ” manner. He’s been awarded several “best of Washington DC prosthodontists and Best of NOVA Prosthodontists. He has offices in Washington DC and in McLean. There was another patient there when I was there who had been a long term patient of Dr. Watkins and had been to several other prosthodontic dentists and said once she was referred to him, she would never go to anyone else no matter where she lived, that she’d travel from anywhere just to continue to have him treat her dental issues. That was a big compliment to his practice and one that I needed to hear because I, too, had a complex case. Once meeting him and some of his staff, I was very pleased and he will definitely be doing some of my needed work after a botched surgery. His demeanor and ” bedside” manner is easy-going and knowledgeable. It’s unusual to find a great dentist and staff in the same practice.

From the moment I walked through the door, I found an inviting environment from the coffee pot in the waiting area to the smiling, warm, and friendly office staff that greeted me with Good morning.  Dr. Watkins takes the time to hear your thoughts and gives excellent advice.  Then he and the fantastic dental assistants send you home with a picture perfect smile.

AWESOME experience I had with Dr. Benjamin O.Watkins, III and his team at Smiles International. I’ve had the experience as a patient to work with Dr. Watkins for over one year. He is most definitely one of the Best of the Best!! He is personable, professional, thoughtful, caring, confident, competent and very genuine. I have always had issues with my dental health and wore lower dentures for most of my adult life. At 60 years old, I decided to get implants and I’m so glad I was recommended to Dr. Watkins. He took the time to talk with me and understand my concerns and provided me with step by step understanding of what the process would be like. He is a perfectionist and an extraordinary prosthodontist and person.   From my first visit, I was met with a kind and friendly front office staff (Linda and Jennifer) who explained my financial obligations along with options.  Dr. Watkins assistants Elena and Carol were always encouraging, complimentary and nonjudgmental.  They made me feel comfortable at every visit. If you are looking for excellence, a dentist who is humble and passionate about what he does…then go see Dr. Watkins and his team. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Wow you should see my SMILE!!

The staff is friendly and professional. The care they provide is first rate. They have implemented Covid precautions that are followed to the letter and should allay anyone’s concerns. I am telling you this as a retired dentist and current patient. You’ll be in the best of hands at Smiles International.

I have been a patient of Dr Kaihara and Mrs Kaihara the hygienist for many years. Over time I have been very happy with the improvement in my dental health based on their treatment and recommendations. My recent cleaning and checkup went exactly as planned, with no waiting upon my arrival, great care, and a very friendly, and professional staff. I highly recommend them.

Dr. Kaihara is probably the best dentist I ever had, even though I had also great dentists in Germany. He is very friendly, competent, and professional and extremely pleasant to deal with. His work is excellent, thought through, and he only performs treatments to the necessary extent; he does not perform unnecessary – more expensive – procedure but keeps the best interest of the patient on his mind. Never saw Dr. Watkins but the entire staff I got to know and work with over the past 13 years – in both his DC and McLean offices – is very nice, easy to deal with and competent. His hygienists are also very good. While he is not inexpensive and does not accept insurance, the office submits the paperwork to the insurance and I always felt it is worth to keep him as my dentists even though the amounts for out-of-network treatments have dwindled and it is ridiculous how little you get back; e.g. my insurance (Delta Dental) covers only about $50 of a standard hygiene session, so around 25%.

I first came here just for a consultation. Dr. Watkins was knowledgeable yet still down to earth. He took some kind of mold of my teeth and used it to make a sample of how my smile could look if i wanted to move forward. I decided to get the work done and am extremely pleased with the results. I was initially hesitant because the office is not in my insurance network, but they did file the papers to my insurance and helped me get reimbursed quickly. I highly recommend this office.  Well worth it.

The most dedicated team I’ve seen in a long time. Professionalism, patience and all the kindness in the world to my Down syndrome son. To Dr Watkins, assistants, nurses, receptionists, lab, we are more grateful than you’ll ever know. And I haven’t seen Omar so proud in a long time. He flashes a radiant smile every time he passes a mirror. Thank you

After my dental appointments, I was impressed with Dr. Kaihara and Dr. Watkins expertise in assessment and treatment of my dental condition. The hygienists and staff were friendly and professional. They have an on-site dental lab. I’d highly recommend Smiles International.

The people are first-class professionals. They are also kind and caring. I have been going to this practice for more than 30 years and have never had an unsatisfactory visit. Dr. Kaihara and Dr. Watkins have seen me through multiple root canals and crowns. Their Covid precautions are the best I have encountered.

Today was my first visit having to change dentists. Heard good things about Dr. Watkins and staff and when I arrived, everyone made me feel at home and welcomed. What I liked most about Dr. Watkins is that he gave his full time and attention to my concerns, I didn’t feel rushed and it was a comprehensive evaluation/consultation that left me emotional because I felt I signed up to an office that cared and would serve me well and had my interest and well being at the forefront. Would highly recommend Dr. Watkins

Usually nervous about the dentist, but the affable nature of the people there put me at ease right away. Everyone was kind, conversational, and informative. They made me feel like a person instead of just another patient. Dr. Watkins is the man, and special shoutout to Alina and Carol as well! Will be back and will recommend people if I have the opportunity to.

Dr.Watkins and his team are simply the best. I’ve been a patient at Smiles International for nearly ten years and I owe my smile (and the confidence that comes with it) to this practice. Going to the M St office feels like visiting friends. I couldn’t recommend the Smiles International family more highly!!

A WORD FROM YOUR DOCTOR