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South University Dental Associates provides orthodontic care in Fargo, North Dakota, treating children, teens, and adults.

About South University Dental Associates
Long-term relationships with doctors like Dr. Walter Samuel and Dr. Todd Debates anchor this general dental practice, which also offers clear aligners and TMJ treatment.
South University Dental Associates is a general dental practice that also provides clear aligners and TMJ treatment alongside routine care. Patients often mention sticking with the same doctor for years, citing a laid-back, thorough approach and a willingness to lay out pros and cons rather than push a particular plan. Gentle cleanings with little discomfort and calming care for anxious patients come up often, and the office is noted for fitting in emergency and urgent visits quickly. A few reviewers have run into scheduling friction or billing disagreements, but most describe a smooth, low-pressure experience.
Summary of 200 patient reviews, June 2025–September 2026, updated September 2026
South University Dental Associates provides orthodontic care in Fargo, North Dakota, treating children, teens, and adults.
The practice is led by Dr. Chad Bergan, Dr. Walter Samuel, Dr. Todd DeBates, and Dr. Alex Althoff, all members of the American Association of Orthodontists. The practice offers a range of orthodontic treatment options designed to address various alignment and bite concerns. Patients can access care through multiple doctors on staff, allowing for scheduling flexibility and continuity of treatment. Online booking is available for new patient appointments and consultations. South University Dental Associates accepts dental insurance and works with many insurance plans. For patients without coverage, the practice provides detailed cost breakdowns upfront and helps identify payment plans that align with individual budgets. Flexible financing options are available to accommodate different financial situations. The practice has earned a 5.0 rating based on 1,339 reviews, reflecting consistent patient feedback. Patients in the Fargo area can schedule consultations to discuss their specific orthodontic needs and determine which treatment approach may be appropriate for their case.
Treatments offered
Who They Treat
South University Dental Associates provides orthodontic treatment for the following age groups:
Technology & Equipment
South University Dental Associates uses modern orthodontic technology to deliver precise, comfortable treatment.
Orthodontists at this office
Dr. Walter Samuel, DDS
NPI verified · no bio or photo on file
Dr. Chad Bergan, DDS
NPI verified · no bio or photo on file
Dr. Alex Althoff
NPI verified · no bio or photo on file
Dr. Todd DeBates, DDS
NPI verified · no bio or photo on file
Insurance accepted
2 plans listedWhat patients say
Latest review 7 weeks ago
What patients praise
Things to know
Who it suits
Doctors patients mention
Orthodontic care in reviews
Orthodontic-related mentions here are limited, but include a patient fitted for a new retainer and another whose three children went through braces at the practice over several years. One later review noted a billing dispute over a past-due balance that led to a refusal of further service.
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| Theme | Praise | Criticism |
|---|---|---|
| Friendly staff | 69 | 2 |
| The dentist | 60 | 0 |
| Gentle, comfortable care | 25 | 0 |
| Clear explanations | 16 | 0 |
| Scheduling & wait times | 14 | 2 |
| Office & technology | 11 | 0 |
| Responsiveness | 8 | 2 |
| Cost, insurance & financing | 5 | 1 |
Recent reviews from Google
I have been going to South University Dental Associates for many years. I always receive excellent care from Dr. De Bates and his team. Everyone is so friendly and genuinely concerned about my dental health. I highly recommend this dental office!!!
Dr. Debates is absolutely the best dentist in FM. All the staff are amazing and I’d recommend them to anyone.
They make you feel welcome and less anxious as soon as you walk in the building. Overall great experience and everyone was friendly and knowledgeable.
Rachel and Dr Samuels are amazing!! Both are so gentle and so kind while working on my teeth!!
It’s frustrating when you schedule an appointment 6 months out, are called to confirm, and did. Then the day of the appointment we were told to come in earlier, because the hygienist needed to leave early. This was very inconvenient. I schedule my kids at the same time because I don’t like being at the dentist office for two hours. Then the hygienist took an appointment at the time we had. Unprofessional. Makes me feel like I don’t matter. Not great.
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