Patients' Testimonials 

Trish M. and Michael P.  (41 and 47 year old professionals)
My husband and I found Dr. Crete through 1-800-DENTIST when we moved to Michigan in 2004. We quickly learned that Dr. Crete and his staff were exactly what we were looking for.  My husband, who has had a fear of dentists since childhood, felt very relaxed and comfortable with Dr. Crete.  We found his staff to be very compassionate.

We also like Dr. Crete’s philosophy in that he doesn’t just treat the problem, he looks at any underlying dental issues and determines why the problem exists.  Dr. Crete then discusses, very thoroughly, with his patients his plan to fix the problem.  He is upfront and honest and truly cares about his patient’s overall dental health.

Another thing we like about Dr. Crete’s practice is that he doesn’t shortcut procedures. He takes the time to do it right the first time!   I personally found it very convenient that Dr. Crete is trained in the Invisalign clear braces technique so I didn’t have to see an orthodontist to straighten my crooked teeth.

My husband and I moved out of Michigan in 2006, but trust Dr. Crete and his staff so profoundly that we make the 6 hour drive from our current home to Dr. Crete for all our dental needs.

D.B.  (80 year old widow) 
A childhood accident damaged several of my teeth, and over time, resulted in an unattractive patchwork of crowns and bridges.  When the last of the damaged teeth became a problem I feared I would have to have a denture.  Dr. Crete listened to my concerns and designed a beautiful bridge which unified the entire area and gave me an attractive smile for the first time in many years.  Needless to say, I am very pleased with Dr. Crete’s work!     

Carol D (71 year old wife, mother and grandmother)
I have been a very satisfied patient for over 20 years.  I have always found the office staff very professional, courteous and caring.  This represents Dr. Crete’s philosophy and practice values. Several years ago I was tired of on-going dental problems and was almost embarrassed to smile.  Dr. Crete presented me with several options to restore my teeth and smile.  It never occurred to me to get a second opinion and when this major decision was made I had complete trust in his recommendations. The final outcome has always been totally satisfactory and I my new smile made me feel 10 years younger.  This was a huge boost of confidence for me after my first husband had died.  I trust Dr. Crete fully and respect him for always keeping his patient’s needs and concerns a priority. Dr. Crete seems to always care about his patients too.  He has always been aware of my low pain tolerance and he and his staff go the extra mile to always make me feel comfortable and at ease.  A few years ago he even came in early to treat a dental emergency I was having.  He called me after treatment to see how I was doing and the thoroughness of his follow up treatment was amazing. Dr. Crete and his staff have become like family to me.  I always tell them…”If there is ever a patient that you would want me to talk to, I’d be happy to be a reference for you!”  


Sandi   (mother, grandmother and teacher)
Go to the dentist? Not unless I absolutely had to!  Eventually I had a bad tooth ache and couldn’t avoid the dentist any longer. One of the very first things I ever said to Dr. Crete was, “Do you know CPR?”   I had planned on introducing myself first, but as I sat in the dental chair my fear caught up with me.  My hands were white- knuckled as I gripped the arm rests, I was hot and cold at the same time and my heart was racing so fast, I thought I might have a heart attack!  I guess that explains my first my first words to Dr. Crete.                 

Dr. Crete smiled, said he did know CPR and wanted to know why I had asked.  I told him how anxious I had felt every time I had to go to a dentist. I told him about some difficult experiences I’d had previously including some very painful ones.  He very calmly put his hand on my shoulder and said he would always do his best to make sure I was comfortable.  He also made me feel a lot better when he said he’d take each procedure slow and give me as many breaks as I needed.   He evaluated my problem and his treatment immediately relieved my pain.  That was the first step toward my conversion from dental phobia.  At a subsequent appointment Dr. Crete did a very though exam of my mouth and then talked to me about a long term plan he had to help me get the treatment I needed and work through my fears.  This plan was reviewed with me and I always knew what was going to happen ahead of time.  That was 9 ½ years ago.

Dr. Crete and his staff have kept their promises.  During any procedure, be it a routine cleaning or having crown work done, I have always been asked, “Are you okay? Do you need a break?”  Slowly but surely my dental fears diminished.                 

My long-term plan has been completed, I’m on maintenance now and I’m no longer a “white knuckle” patient.   I also feel very confident that the quality of Dr. Crete’s work is so good that it could last the rest of my lifetime.  At Dr. Crete’s office I really don’t feel like I am just a patient.  Every single member of his team treats me like a friend.  We share stories about our families and what’s happening in our lives.  Because of Dr. Crete and his staff, I don’t fear going to the dentist anymore.                 

I’ve told Dr. Crete for years that I would be glad to talk to any of his patients about my dental experiences if it would help anyone who is afraid like I was.  I’m glad he’s given me the opportunity to share some of my story.     

D. V. 
As an established patient of Dr. Crete since 1985, I would like to share a few reasons why I am completely satisfied with my on-going care. Dr. Crete and his staff have provided a comfortable and relaxing environment to discuss my concerns, fears and on- going options for lifetime dental care.  From the beginning, my best interests have always been addressed.
Whether a consultation, a routine visit, an emergency or actual procedure I always feel confident about the treatment I receive. I also appreciate the honesty and genuine concern that always accompanies my care.  I feel very confident, that with Dr. Crete’s on-going care and his knowledge of “cutting edge” technology,  I will keep my teeth for my lifetime.   
Thank you Dr. Crete and staff, for making “going to the dentist,” a positive experience.     


Don Jurgens (60)
Dr. Crete and his associates are very professional, friendly and have provided me with the very best dental work for over 20 years. I not only have complete trust in Dr. Crete’s professional work but also value the friendship we have established.   J.L. (initials only) (40) Since I’ve been one of your patient’s my smile is brighter, my confidence in how I approach people with a friendly “hello” is so much easier.  Your staff is really friendly, not to mention easy on the eyes ( LOL)! and who to practice my smile on more than them! J Thank you very much for the work you have done. Looks great!   

David Ausema (50) 
I have been a patient of Dr. Michael J. Crete’s since the early days of his practice, my first visit to him was in 1986 (23 years ago) and I had allowed my dental health to deteriorate to a point where I did not think it was possible to repair the damage and keep my natural teeth.  I figured I was destined for a future with dentures.    Dr. Crete examined my teeth and x-rays and was confident that he could restore my oral health. The treatment was extensive, but soon I was once again able to smile and feel at ease in social situations.  It was totally worth the time and money I spent.  I continue my relationship with Rivertown Dental Associates today because of the excellent treatment and professional manner in which I am treated.  I feel that I am receiving the best in dental health procedures and his entire staff emulates the philosophy of keeping your own teeth for a lifetime.  I would recommend anyone to this fine dental practice.     

J. D. (41 year old father and professional)   
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for doing the bonding on my front teeth. I could not be happier with the result!  You are a true professional and I appreciate your kindness and generosity.

Laurie Weeks (Engineer and business owner)
A childhood accident left me without my two permanent front teeth.  The solution back then was a partial denture that I wore for over thirty years!  Over time, the partial became difficult to wear due to shrinkage of my gums and bone loss where the teeth are missing.  I began searching for a dental professional that would tackle this problem and provide me more up-to-date modern option.

I recently moved back to the Grand Rapids area and asked my current dentist for a referral to a progressive dentist that could help me.  That is when I met Dr. Michael Crete. Dr. Crete and his team went right to work on potential solutions for my partial.  He did a more thorough analysis of my oral condition than I had ever had and ultimately used his knowledge and expertise to create some treatment options for me to consider.  We discussed the alternatives and after several months and much dedication on my part, the treatment was completed.   Dr. Crete used the best technology that is available today and I now have a smile that I flash to everyone I meet!  Thanks Mike and team!

K. A. L.  (medical professional)
Just amazing!  The dental work that Dr. Crete did for me brought my smile back!!  Instead of hiding in the back of photos….I am grinning for photos like a college kid again. Their office is pristine, Dr. Crete and his staff are very attentive and professional, and the results that get are awesome!!  Thank you so much, it was totally worth spending the time and money to final have it done right!!

Many of our patients continue to provide us with positive feedback and raving reviews. If you have a testimonial you're interested in sharing with us, we'd love to hear from you!
Also, don't forget to refer a friend to our practice!