The goal of The Apprehensive Patient is to create an environment for those of all ages who feel apprehensive about going to the dentist, which will enable them to receive dental treatment in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. This is accomplished through a combination of compassionate doctors and staff, and state-of-the-art technology. Our ultimate goal is to create an experience in which patients no longer avoid dental treatment due to anxiety or fear.
A lifetime of ideal oral health and beautiful smiles can easily be attained through orthodontics or preventive dentistry, as well as general and cosmetic dentistry, including: implants, oral surgery, teeth whitening, endodontic treatment, periodontal treatments, and Invisalign clear aligners.
A lifetime of ideal oral health and beautiful smiles can easily be attained through orthodontics or preventive dentistry, as well as general and cosmetic dentistry, including: implants, oral surgery, teeth whitening, endodontic treatment, periodontal treatments, and Invisalign clear aligners.
Services
Dr. Christopher Kutney received his dental degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Dental School, now Rutgers Dental School. He also completed a general practice residency at JFK Medical Center in Edison. Dr. Kutney utilizes his education and 25 years of expertise and creative artistic skills to bring your healthy smile to life.
We recognize that all our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice.
Now, any dental procedure can be done in a completely comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. We are able to offer our patients the option of intravenous (IV) sedation or a combination of anti-anxiety medications. Both methods are safe but are determined by the level of comfort for the patient. Many people start experiencing anxiety merely thinking about their dental appointment.
Our practice is committed to providing you and your family with safe, gentle, and high-quality dental care. We understand that you or your child may feel anxious about visiting the dentist. We are sensitive to your needs, and it is our goal to make you feel comfortable visiting our practice while we provide the best possible care.
Reviews (10)
K. Inc
May 23, 2022
Was going there for a few years. Must've had 3 different dentists. Seems like they come and go. My last dentist was great, but I went a few weeks ago and my dentist looked like Prince, with a condescending attitude. I dont have a high tolerance for pain, and when he was going to extract a tooth, I asked if he could prescribe 4 controlled painkillers.
He said he didnt believe in prescribing them. I felt so embarrassed from the way he lectured me, like I was a drug seeker. I understand the liability doctors face when prescribing narcotics, and I know how easy it can be for people to get hooked. However, asking for 4 pills after an extraction, was not a ridiculous request. If a doctor cant responsibly prescribe something to ease their patients pain, or worse if the dont believe in doing so, they're no longer my doctor.
I dont need, nor have I ever asked for 30 pills.that's just unnecessary and dangerous. I left feeling like I was being judged, and I will never go back again. It's not just bc of pills, it was the attitude I got. Also after a series of xrays, the dr didn't even seem to know I was a current patient. If you're looking for a dentist, keeping looking bc this place has turned into a joke.
He said he didnt believe in prescribing them. I felt so embarrassed from the way he lectured me, like I was a drug seeker. I understand the liability doctors face when prescribing narcotics, and I know how easy it can be for people to get hooked. However, asking for 4 pills after an extraction, was not a ridiculous request. If a doctor cant responsibly prescribe something to ease their patients pain, or worse if the dont believe in doing so, they're no longer my doctor.
I dont need, nor have I ever asked for 30 pills.that's just unnecessary and dangerous. I left feeling like I was being judged, and I will never go back again. It's not just bc of pills, it was the attitude I got. Also after a series of xrays, the dr didn't even seem to know I was a current patient. If you're looking for a dentist, keeping looking bc this place has turned into a joke.
Phyllis Pesci
Feb 12, 2022
In 2013 I went to this facility for my dental needs. In December 2021 I decided to leave. I had an upper implant put which was a problem since day 1, fell out at three times and cracked once. In December 2021 the implant became loose and was told the implant didn't take the bones in my jaw receded. Now mind you, they do a bone implant before the tooth implant, so which bone receded?
After paying over $3,000 for the implant, they had the audacity to charge me an additional $278 to remove the implant and fix the partial to fit my upper teeth. When the partial broke, again, they said that the partial may break down the road and I should invest in a new one, as if I hadn't spent enough money. PLEASE be careful with implants anywhere you receive this procedure, especially at Apprehensive Patient.
After paying over $3,000 for the implant, they had the audacity to charge me an additional $278 to remove the implant and fix the partial to fit my upper teeth. When the partial broke, again, they said that the partial may break down the road and I should invest in a new one, as if I hadn't spent enough money. PLEASE be careful with implants anywhere you receive this procedure, especially at Apprehensive Patient.
Danielle Schacht
Jan 18, 2022
Elise Droste
Nov 24, 2021
Overall, I do not recommend, especially if you have any apprehension about the Dentist. I went here many many times for treatment. I had a good experience with the Dentists themselves but the reception and staff are not supportive or customer service oriented. I waited weeks to hear back about treatment options/pricing. So I decided to stop going to this practice as I didn't think they had the experience needed to effectively treat my issue.
I wanted to get some things done at another dental office and they were super rude about transferring my records. Update: Changed from 2 stars to 1. As you can see from the office reply to my review and the reply to others, this management takes very little responsibility for how they treat patients. After posting this the office manager called me and was very rude to me again - it was on speaker in the car and my husband couldn't believe her attitude and argumentative nature.
At some point you just need to accept that your business might make mistakes and need to take ownership of that. She didn't listen to my concerns about the receptionist telling me she would send records right away. My actual experience did not matter to her, she wanted to prove that she was right and I was wrong. She also told me that She didn't have notes that I was waiting for information from the office, so I must be wrong. Again, didn't listen to my experience of not getting a follow up call on pricing and scheduling for treatment, Even though when I called a few weeks ago, I was apologized to for no one getting back to me. It's such a shame when people can't take responsibility for their service and are not held responsible for their treatment of others.
I wanted to get some things done at another dental office and they were super rude about transferring my records. Update: Changed from 2 stars to 1. As you can see from the office reply to my review and the reply to others, this management takes very little responsibility for how they treat patients. After posting this the office manager called me and was very rude to me again - it was on speaker in the car and my husband couldn't believe her attitude and argumentative nature.
At some point you just need to accept that your business might make mistakes and need to take ownership of that. She didn't listen to my concerns about the receptionist telling me she would send records right away. My actual experience did not matter to her, she wanted to prove that she was right and I was wrong. She also told me that She didn't have notes that I was waiting for information from the office, so I must be wrong. Again, didn't listen to my experience of not getting a follow up call on pricing and scheduling for treatment, Even though when I called a few weeks ago, I was apologized to for no one getting back to me. It's such a shame when people can't take responsibility for their service and are not held responsible for their treatment of others.
J. D.
Nov 23, 2021
Update 11/2021: If I could give this practice 5 more stars I would! I had my second dental emergency (cosmetic) and the receptionist was able to get me a same day appointment, luckily. While Dr. Passaro, and the dental assistants evaluated the situation, the office manager reviewed the payment options with me. She explained everything to me regarding my dental insurance.
She was direct and to the point in what my insurance options were. While I did not want to hear that my insurance would most likely NOT cover anything, she was only the messenger. She was very knowledgeable. Dr. Passaro, who (again IMO, is extremely knowledgeable) started the reconstruction of the tooth with the dental assistant next to me. Both of them continually made sure I was ok during this unpleasant process.
I feel the dental team went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable, were pleasant and respectful to me and completed the work. Also of note, I have since had my teeth cleaned there. The Hygienist takes her job seriously. I had the best cleaning I ever had! I continue to highly recommend this dental practice! Previous review: Dr. Passaro is great.
Very nice and very knowledgeable. Staff is also wonderful. Appointments are generally on time. This practice is better than their sister company in Clifton. No comparison between the two offices. I would highly recommend!
She was direct and to the point in what my insurance options were. While I did not want to hear that my insurance would most likely NOT cover anything, she was only the messenger. She was very knowledgeable. Dr. Passaro, who (again IMO, is extremely knowledgeable) started the reconstruction of the tooth with the dental assistant next to me. Both of them continually made sure I was ok during this unpleasant process.
I feel the dental team went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable, were pleasant and respectful to me and completed the work. Also of note, I have since had my teeth cleaned there. The Hygienist takes her job seriously. I had the best cleaning I ever had! I continue to highly recommend this dental practice! Previous review: Dr. Passaro is great.
Very nice and very knowledgeable. Staff is also wonderful. Appointments are generally on time. This practice is better than their sister company in Clifton. No comparison between the two offices. I would highly recommend!
Ajay Patel
Aug 29, 2021
WORST PLACE YOU CAN GO! Don't ever go here! Why? My sister went to see Katherine because her tooth was aching. She experienced a slight pain and stinging when touching that area of her mouth over that tooth, drinking cold beverages, and chewing on food. (At this time she had a minor tooth infection) Katherine failed to recognize it was an infection that needed root canal therapy ASAP.
She actually offered a root canal OR crown, which would make matters worse and keeps the infection there spreading! My sister choose crown because of her recommendation. In the meantime, the infection SPREAD like wildfire! My sister had trouble sleeping, talking, and completing daily tasks. She had painful & restless nights. I've literally seen her cry trying to cope with the pain even with pain killers.
My sister had to visit another dentist for a crown. Her pain levels were through the roof at this point. The X-rays showed it to be a major tooth infection! This other dentist gave her the PROPER diagnosis of a root canal therapy. We got a referral to an Endo-dentist IMMEDIATELY for the treatment. All this is a result of Katherine's inability of finding the infection before it spread to uncontrollable levels.
If she told my sister it was a tooth infection, she would've have gotten a root canal. I would hate to see anyone else suffer because of her lack of experience in the field. Replying to owner's post: Katherine advised my sister with a crown OR root canal. Did you notice the keyword in the previous sentence? Crown was not even an option, if Katherine had figured out it was a tooth infection! Obviously, she didn't.
We called earlier today, to file a complaint and raise the issue. Your lovely receptionist said "ok" and simply hung up. Quality customer service :)! Fortunately, we found an actual dentist that recommended the relative procedure. I'm sure you're a good dentist but we just did not get that experience. Thank you, Ajay
She actually offered a root canal OR crown, which would make matters worse and keeps the infection there spreading! My sister choose crown because of her recommendation. In the meantime, the infection SPREAD like wildfire! My sister had trouble sleeping, talking, and completing daily tasks. She had painful & restless nights. I've literally seen her cry trying to cope with the pain even with pain killers.
My sister had to visit another dentist for a crown. Her pain levels were through the roof at this point. The X-rays showed it to be a major tooth infection! This other dentist gave her the PROPER diagnosis of a root canal therapy. We got a referral to an Endo-dentist IMMEDIATELY for the treatment. All this is a result of Katherine's inability of finding the infection before it spread to uncontrollable levels.
If she told my sister it was a tooth infection, she would've have gotten a root canal. I would hate to see anyone else suffer because of her lack of experience in the field. Replying to owner's post: Katherine advised my sister with a crown OR root canal. Did you notice the keyword in the previous sentence? Crown was not even an option, if Katherine had figured out it was a tooth infection! Obviously, she didn't.
We called earlier today, to file a complaint and raise the issue. Your lovely receptionist said "ok" and simply hung up. Quality customer service :)! Fortunately, we found an actual dentist that recommended the relative procedure. I'm sure you're a good dentist but we just did not get that experience. Thank you, Ajay
Marce A.
Aug 23, 2021
My name is Luz Rodriguez and am using my partners email since I don't have a Gmail account. I just wanted to say this place is hands down the best dentist office I've been to! Not only is everyone nice but they understand what it feels like to be scared and anxious about getting work done. i went it to have four fillings and it took about 45 mins.
The best part is that they never have you waiting more than 5 minutes to come in the back to sit down. Also they have everything ready. Thank you guys so much for making me feel comfortable!
The best part is that they never have you waiting more than 5 minutes to come in the back to sit down. Also they have everything ready. Thank you guys so much for making me feel comfortable!
Mahesh
May 04, 2021
Always a good experience. Have been coming here for the past 4 years for my cleaning and filling. Have never waited for more than 5 minutes for my visit. Taking appointments is easy and they send text messages to confirm. Parking is a non-issue. The hygienists are friendly and take good care while cleaning, and the doctors take time to explain the health of the teeth and give proper recommendations. I would give them overall 5 if only the rooms were a little bit bigger. The service is 5 !
Kyle Kane
Apr 15, 2021
The staff was very helpful to fit me in on short notice, and the doctor was very thorough in explaining each step of the process along the way. After a bit of initial shock from the novicane needles, the rest was smooth sailing. And the best part was that I wasn't rushed out the door; in fact, she continued to adjust my tooth until it felt just right. Thanks for making a scary experience much more palatable =
Diana Dou
Dec 19, 2020
My mother and I had an overall pleasant experience with our visit. From booking the appointment to interacting with the team and getting a tooth extracted, the entire visit went smoothly. The doctor explained in detail what to expect and our treatment options. We left feeling well-attended to. I already referred another one of my family members to this practice.
