I’ve been a patient at a large dental chain for the past four years. Depending on my circumstances, I’ve had work done at two locations – one close to home and the other near work. When I recently visited the office near my house, the dentist asked me who placed fillings on two molar teeth because they looked deteriorated on my x-rays. She said that I probably needed root canal treatment and crowns.

After I told the dentist that I received the fillings at the same practice to replace old silver fillings with white ones, she was silent for a few seconds. She explained that an infection would worsen the situation if I didn’t get root canals and new crowns.

I got a second opinion at a dental practice that is not a chain. The dentist confirmed that I needed root canal treatment and crowns. I’m unsure why the chain dental practice didn’t recognize that before wasting my money on fillings. How can I get a refund before leaving this practice? Thank you. Sierra from AL

 

Sierra,

We are sorry to hear about your experience. Placing composite fillings takes more skill and time than placing silver fillings. However, composite fillings are healthier for teeth, and when completed correctly by a cosmetic dentist, they preserve tooth structure and seal out bacteria. If you needed crowns instead of fillings, a dentist misjudged the condition of your teeth.

We recommend getting another second opinion to confirm that you need root canal treatment and dental crowns. Ask for a copy of your dental records from the chain dental practice.

Also, be upfront about getting another second opinion. If you want the work done by the first dentist from whom you received a second opinion, explain your disappointment with your treatment. Also, ask if they will help you get a refund from the chain for placing defective composite fillings or placing them when you need crowns.

After your new second opinion, if the dentist agrees that you need root canal treatment and crowns, ask your new dentist to call the dentist who placed the fillings. Your dentist should explain:

• You received an independent second opinion
• You need root canal treatment and crowns
• You want a refund

If the dentist from the chain dental practice doesn’t want to issue a refund, you can do three things:

1. Explain that you will post online reviews on social media and any review platforms the practice uses.
2. Tell the dentist you will file a complaint with the state dental board.
3. Explain that you are willing to speak with an attorney to help resolve the issue, although you probably don’t have a big malpractice case.

Although we can’t guarantee that the dentist will refund you, you can try.

Large dental practices usually have high overhead costs and are driven to be profitable. They often hire many dentists who come and go. Depending on which day of the week you have an appointment, you may receive care from multiple dentists. It can be challenging to establish a relationship with one dentist you trust. However, not all large practices are the same. Some consistently offer high-quality care.

Generally, dentists at smaller practices have a higher level of care, ethics, and professionalism. We hope your new dentist will restore your teeth and help you regain good oral health.

 

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie