Dr. James Rapson, DDS

Dr Rapson got right to what could be causing my jaw and facial pain by first asking me some history of the pain, where it was and then did various muscle and jaw tests to see if they caused pain. They did not. He then spent 5 minutes explaining how the muscles, teeth and jaw works which was interesting and helpful. Dr Rapson is very experienced. He served 26 years in the Navy (I served in the Air Force) where he intensive training and exposure to every dental issue under the sun. He knows his stuff. I believe I was referred by o him by my neurologist and PCP to rule out TMJ as a cause of my intense facial pain. They have had difficulty coming up with a diagnosis. Dr Jepson ruled out TMJ within 10 minutes. You only get that level of confidence with experience. As a former military officer, his demeanor could be taken as condescending or arrogant, but it’s not. He just knows his stuff, is direct, and doesn’t mince words. I would recommend him to anyone with unexplained facial pain.

I endured 2 telephone 'visits' with this insufferable dentist, about a problem with the left side of the tongue. face, head & throat. He talked nonstop, barely listening, prescribing a 2 day program of setting a timer for each 25 minutes, checking the my tongue position. I had been so physically uncomfortable, that I was willing to try it. It did not help; he then insisted that it could NOT be a physical problem, only a behavioral problem. Remember, I have never even met him person. He advised setting up post-it reminders all around my environment. After informing him that his protocol was not helping, he again insisted that it could NOT BE A PHYSICAL PROBLEM, writing this in his notes "The possibility exists that this is a psychiatric problem or a secondary gain problem with the patient's sincere belief that she cannot control the behavior." I had to look up "secondary gain"-(any advantage, as increased attention, sympathy…". No physical exam, just a patronizing dentist.

Literally the biggest waste of time EVER! Can’t believe I took time out of my one day off after being referred and waiting 2 months to see this rude, cold, narcissist who talked non stop through the entire appointment then looked at the clock the rest. Don’t bother

First time visit - Apparently he was too busy working for Kaiser as I was told not to speak because he was running late. Just listen and if I had questions to make another appointment. Basically, shut-up and listen. I've never had such an experience with a doctor.

Dr. Rapson was dismissive, lacked bedside manner and did not show compassion for my concerns. He claimed that teeth grinding magically disappears at the age of 45. I would not recommend him to anyone.

I really liked him and his assistant, Chris (Christine). He listened to me and provided immediate feedback with extensive knowledge. He was intelligent without being arrogant, which I really admire and find to be a rare quality. He selected a treatment that is inexpensive and pain free. He sent me home with very detailed care instructions. I would recommend him to anyone with TMD related issues.