Why Get A Dental Second Opinion?

The purpose of Dental Second Opinions is to simply do that, give you a second opinion on any proposed dental treatment . We may present options and alternatives to treatment as well as the pros and cons of any of the proposed treatments.  Why would you want or need a Dental Second Opinion?  Do any of the following apply to your situation?

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1. If you are told that you need your fillings replaced only because they are old. They should be able to show you how they are fractured or decayed with x-rays and intra-oral pictures.

2.  If you have been drawn to an office by a coupon or discounted cleaning and exam and then you are told that you need a lot of work. Granted this may be true in some cases as there are many times things are missed or neglected. However, have the dentist show you why and a second opinion may be warranted.

3.  Excessive waiting time either in the waiting room or in the chair.  Emergencies may make this unavoidable occasionally, but when it happens with regularity, you may just be a “number”,  overbooked for production.

4. Any dentist should not hesitate to forward x-rays to another dentist when requested to do so. You should feel comfortable with where you receive your dental care.

5.  Did you get more than one option? Were the risks, pros and cons of each option reviewed. Also is it affordable for YOU. These discussions take time and be sure that you feel you got that time.

6.  If you are in an insurance plan that has a network. Insurance companies have “preferred” dentists, not based on ability or expertise but rather on the fact that they agree to be paid less per procedure in order to get more patients.  Think of a painter who agrees to paint a room for 40% less so that he has more rooms to paint. How could this decision effect his choice of paint, would he rush a project, will he come back for touch ups if its not done quite right?

7.  Most dentists are honest and will try to do the best for you in their practice.  The trend now in dentistry is that many offices are not owned by the dentist but rather groups, corporations or dental service organizations whose motivations are more profit oriented instead of focused on providing quality, comprehensive treatment.

8. Extensive treatment plans when you think your oral health has had no indications of issue.  While there may be problems with your oral health that have for whatever reason gone unaddressed over the years, be sure the extent of the treatment plans is explained to you and you feel comfortable with your diagnosis. A second opinion is warranted if you do not.

9. This should go without mention but in these times a patient should take a step back if they feel there is a lacking in any of the protocols related to sterility, cleanliness, and current recommendations due to Covid-19 and other current issues.

10. Atmosphere of the office and attitude of the staff are big factors in your comfort level. Is there a lot of staff turnover? Can you request to see the same dentist each visit?  Do you feel welcomed and appreciated as a patient?  For most people having dental work done is stressful enough without a negative office environment adding to that stress.

 

 

 

Our mission is to give a second opinion to reassure and educate a patient about any dental treatment suggested for them.