About · Est. 1987
A long-established San Francisco dental practice, built on relationships and careful work.
For more than three decades, Dr. Leo Arellano has practiced dentistry in San Francisco with a philosophy grounded in clear communication, conservative judgment, and long-term patient relationships. This is not a high-volume dental chain.
-17+
Years in SF
UCSF
DDS, 1984
Meet Dr. Arellano
Experience that shows up
in the everyday details.
Dr. Leo Arellano earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UCSF School of Dentistry in 1984. He established his San Francisco practice on Geary Boulevard not long after, and has cared for many of the same patients — and their families — for decades since.
His training has continued throughout his career: periodontal surgery study through the University of the Pacific Periodontic Study Club, complete-dentistry coursework with Dr. Peter Dawson and Dr. Frank Spear, Nd:YAG laser certification for LANAP, and training in the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique.
The result is a practice that combines mature clinical judgment with current technique — applied conservatively, and explained clearly to every patient.
Philosophy of Care
"The best dentistry tends to be the dentistry you barely notice."
We favor conservative treatment — preserving healthy tooth structure when we can, and recommending larger interventions only when they're truly the right choice. We listen first, explain clearly, and we'd rather a patient understand their treatment plan completely than agree to it quickly.
Education & Training
A continuous record of clinical training.
Dentistry changes. Staying current is not optional — it's part of what makes care thoughtful.
1984
Doctor of Dental Surgery — UCSF School of Dentistry
1987
Established San Francisco dental practice on Geary Blvd
Ongoing
Periodontal surgery study — University of the Pacific Periodontic Study Club
Ongoing
Continuing study with Dr. Peter Dawson and Dr. Frank Spear (complete dentistry)
Ongoing
Nd:YAG laser certification — LANAP periodontal therapy
Ongoing
Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique training
Professional Memberships
Active member of
American Dental Association
California State Dental Association
San Francisco County Dental Association
San Francisco Study Club
What Patients Can Expect
A different kind of dental visit.
Unhurried appointments
Time to ask questions and time to listen carefully to your answers.
Clear explanations
Findings explained in plain language, with options laid out side by side.
Conservative recommendations
We treat what needs treatment — and watch what doesn't, yet.
Coordinated planning
When multiple steps are involved, the whole plan is mapped out first.
Calm clinical environment
A safety-conscious, careful office where you can relax.
Long-term relationships
Many of our patients have been with the practice for decades.
Ready When You Are
Let's talk about your dental care.
Whether you're new to San Francisco or returning to care, the first step is a simple conversation.