I highly recommend our dentist Dr. Steven Kobayashi. My husband and I have been patients there for four years and last year we started taking my son when he was three. They were great. To prepare my son for his first appointment they had me bring him with me to my six month cleaning. He got to watch everything they did to me, play with the levers on the exam chair, and also got a cool tooth brush. His cleaning/exam was scheduled for the following week. They explained everything in terms he could understand, and he really enjoyed himself. The number is 525- 2899. The office is located on Kains in Albany. (It is in a converted house that backs up to Albany Tool Mart on San Pablo Ave.) Rose

I have just started to see a very kind, personable, mellow dentist in Albany. His name is Dr. Steven Kobayashi. He has child patients, as when I've been there I've heard him talking kindly to them. Getting fillings done was a breeze--he checked in w/ me countless times during the dental work to make sure I was doing ok. I've brought my baby son w/ me every time I've gone (half a dozen times) and he always talks to him, engages him and remarks on how cute and good he is. My former colleague who has two children recommended him to me. I will be taking my son to see Dr. Kobayashi when the time is appropriate. I don't know what insurance his office takes, but I know Delta is accepted. poppy

RE: Dentists Who Do Great Crowns
I highly recommend Dr. Steven Kobayashi at 730 Kains Ave. in Albany, 525-2899. I've gotten several (4 or 5?) crowns from him. He does not do his own work but is a perfectionist---a good trait in a dentist! If the crown isn't exactly to his liking he will send it back. Of course, that means another visit for me, but I am more than happy to do so for someone who won't settle for 'good enough.' The office is the most pleasant dentist's office I've ever been too which makes visiting them a real pleasure. Sally

RE: Dentists for the Fearful
I highly recommend Dr. Steven Kobayashi at 730 Kains in Albany, 525-2899. He's wonderful!! I referred a friend who is also highly anxious and he has been very happy. The entire office is upbeat and caring. Tell them Sally sent you :-) I've been there enough (with my own ''over-40'' teeth and my two kids!) that I joke about having my name over the door of one of the rooms. I've never felt this positive about a dentistry practice in my life. Sally