Leon T. Merrick

I’ve been a patient of Dr. Merrick’s for 3 years but unfortunately, my most recent experience has left me not wanting to return. On 8/18, I got a filling on the upper left side of my mouth. The 2nd anesthesia shot felt unusually aggressive, and shortly after leaving I developed serious complications: prolonged aching, painful sores and cuts on my gums exposing my nerves. The left side of my mouth became extremely sensitive—something I have NEVER experienced before. At my follow up 8/25, I explained my pain and showed photos. Instead of also examining my mouth, Dr. Merrick quickly glanced at the photos and said, “Oh, that’s a viral infection.” He was very dismissive, especially given that the pain and symptoms started after my procedure on 8/18. He then resisted my MULTIPLE requests for an X-ray only agreeing after I kept insisting. Thankfully the results were normal, but his resistance to check was very troubling. I was not given antibiotics or meaningful treatment, just a pharmacy recommendation that I had to pay out of pocket for. I left feeling dismissed, unsupported, and that my very real concerns were not taken seriously enough. I've been dealing with the infection for more than a week now. While I respect the practice and have valued my prior experiences, this visit was unthinkable for me. As a patient, I hope that when concerns like this are raised in the future, they are met with more care, empathy, and reassurance. I'm hoping to find that care elsewhere.

Hands down, the best dental experience! Myrtle is wonderful! She walked me through every step of my cleaning and answered all my questions. Dr. Merrick was kind and informative and has a wonderful rapport. I was nervous to go in but left relaxed and so assured of my care. I would highly recommend making an appointment.

Dr. Merrick has NEVER failed me or my family. He is hands down the BEST dentist and cosmetic dentist in New York. If you’re in pain or have an emergency, his office will help you get right in and Dr .Merrick really takes his time to examine your issue and go over what is happening and what he suggests the service should be. Once agreed upon, he gets to Work!! He is very particular and cares about each individuals pain and concern and even checks up on you after you are home and surprised to get the call! Thank you Dr. Merrick!! And Myrtle is hands down the Best at cleaning and deep cleaning. You come out of this office feeling Great and taken care of. 5 stars isn’t enough!

Dr. Merrick saved my dental life! I first met him about 10 years ago, when I had fear of dental work and many serious dental issues. Over the years he has consistently given me patience, clear information about my situation, special techniques to minimize discomfort, and excellent skill and care so that now I have a beautiful and healthy smile - no small achievement! His chairside manner, humor and personal follow up make taking care of my dental health easy. I have to also compliment Myrtle, who is the most observant and thorough hygienist I have had.

The mouth is an intimate space. Therefore, it is important that the dentist you work with treats you with respect, acknowledges your personhood and is collaborative in their process. I went to Dr. Merrick for an emergency consult. Besides opening for the emergency, he exemplified all those traits during my visit. He walked me through the steps, showed me what he saw, and helped me understand what has happening with my teeth, in very clear, understandable language. It was the best dental consultation I ever had. If all dentist were like this, I would have gone more often as youngster.