Amanda avoided the dentist for years because of severe dental anxiety. Eventually, she realized she needed treatment but struggled to overcome her fear.
While researching solutions, she discovered dental sedation and thought it might finally allow her to get the care she needed.
After scheduling a consultation, Amanda met with the dentist and signed a consent form for the specific procedures discussed. The experience gave her hope that she had finally found a way to improve her oral health.
The day of the appointment went smoothly. Sedation allowed her to complete the treatment without the anxiety she had always feared.
However, the next day she received a phone call that left her shocked.
The dental office informed her that the dentist had performed additional work during the procedure and asked her to pay for it. Amanda explained that she had never approved the extra treatment and didn’t believe she should be responsible for the cost.
The office responded by saying that if she didn’t pay before her permanent crowns were ready, they would refuse to bond them.
Amanda
Dear Amanda,
The Right Sedation Dentist Can Change Your Life
This is unacceptable. It’s also unethical. A dentist is never supposed to do work on a patient without their approval. You can’t give your approval while under the influence of dental sedation. Here’s my first suggestion. I want you to talk directly to the dentist. If he is an honest doc he’ll understand your concern and not bill you for the work done without approval. They should also bond your dental crowns on.
If they give you a problem with either one of those things, let them know you’ll be going to the dental board and a lawyer, if necessary. That should be enough to sober them.
Don’t Let One Bad Experience Stop You
You showed remarkable courage by facing your dental anxiety and seeking treatment. That’s a major step toward better oral health.
Fortunately, the sedation dentistry itself worked well and allowed you to complete the appointment without fear. The real problem occurred afterward with the billing issue.
Unfortunately, every profession has a few bad actors. This experience doesn’t mean that all dentists operate this way.
Rather than returning to this practice, consider finding a different sedation dentist with a stronger reputation.
How to Find a Trustworthy Sedation Dentist
When searching for a new dentist, take a few extra steps to ensure you choose someone reliable:
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Look for dentists who specialize in sedation dentistry
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Check Google Reviews or Yelp for patient feedback
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Pay attention to comments about communication and transparency
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Schedule a consultation and ask questions about treatment consent and costs
Reading patient reviews can give you a clearer picture of what others have experienced and help you feel more confident about your choice.
This blog is brought to you by La Crescenta Implant Dentist Dr. Robert Thein.