I am self employed and do not have dental insurance. This means I don’t get to the dentist very often. Honestly, it’s probably been over three years since my last appointment.
I heard about these dental discount plans and decided to give it a try. My big goal will be to find an affordable way to replace several of my missing teeth.
I checked out a new dentist and I had a funny feeling from the start. To begin, they had me fill out a ton of paperwork. I think it was mainly because I don’t have insurance. Then, they told me they’d like me to fill out some financial forms to see if I qualify for their financing program, which I found quite odd since I hadn’t seen the dentist yet.
After the cleaning and x-rays, the dentist told me that I needed four crowns and several fillings. He didn’t even look at my teeth! Then, he proceeded to give me the price tag of $4,000. There’s no way I can afford that kind of treatment plan.
I left the exam area in a kind of shocked state. So, when the receptionist tried to stop me to schedule the appointments for the work, I just walked out. Did they try to take advantage of me because I don’t have insurance or try to scare me into treatment, since it was obvious I hadn’t been in for awhile?
Realistically, it will be years before I could pay that off and it’s not even what I want. I was hoping to get affordable dental implants for my missing teeth or overdentures with a denture.
Does this situation sound strange? I won’t be going back.
-Diana in Indiana
Diana,
Your experience does sounds odd. The dentist should always examine your teeth after a cleaning before any kind of treatment plan is recommended. Then, a thorough explanation should be given about the specific procedures and you should be told why. At that time, you should be able to ask questions and possibly explore other options.
You are wise to not move forward with this dentist office. It sounds like you need to see an implant dentist or a prosthodontist for a full examination. Then, you can work together to find an affordable treatment plan that works for your budget.
Many offices will phase treatment over time or make a financing plan. Just be upfront about your insurance situation and the right dentist will be able to help.
Sorry that you had such a strange experience. Hopefully, you can keep moving forward and get those teeth replaced in the near future. It sounds like you may require some extensive work. So, even if it’s just a little at a time, it would be in your best interest to get started.
This post is sponsored by an implant dentist in Petaluma, Rick Lane.