Second Opinions

I am often consulted for my opinion regarding treatment rendered or recommendations by other dentists. Disease within the mouth is often non painful, especially during the early stages, and hidden, especially to the untrained eye. Plus, treatment of dental disease can be expensive. So it's natural for a lay person to question some recommendations and seek ways to determine if they are accurate and reasonable.



For my existing patients-of-record who refer a family member or acquaintance for a second opinion I oftentimes do the consultation at no charge. I am here to help and if I can put ones mind at ease about a previous recommendation at minimal or no cost I am happy to do so. We only ask that the patient bring in copies of pertinent records, including x rays. If we have to take x rays or if the consultation is rather involved, usual and customary fees are charged.



When to seek a second opinion? Keep in mind usually there are options for the more involved treatment. So if a dentist is presenting a plan of treatment and implying there is only one way to treat the problem it might be wise to seek a second opinion. Or, if something just doesn't feel right about the office, sort of a "gut feeling", then may be the time.



Occasionally, I will recommend my own patient seek a second opinion! This happens when I see a new patient who is leaving their longtime family dentist, usually because of relocation for work, and I diagnose many teeth with decay. Their reaction is predictably one of surprise and maybe disbelief because while at their previous dentist they "never needed any fillings". This puts me in a tough spot because I'm new to them, they may not know me from Adam! But, if they have decay I am ethically obligated to inform them. After doing so I will discuss my treatment recommendations. Then I will always offer to make a copy of their records in case they would like to seek a second opinion. Usually, those that do seek a second opinion return to me for the treatment because my diagnosis was correct. My point here is that there is a certain level of trust needed in one's dentist.



I saw a patient a couple of years ago who was referred by an existing patient for a second opinion. This patient had been informed by his dentist of several years that he needed 10 fillings. I determined he had no decay, he needed no fillings. I'm not sure what his previous dentist saw that caused him to make such a recommendation but those sorts of experiences make me shake my head in wonder.



So, don't be afraid to give me a call and schedule a consult. I pride myself on my diagnostic skills and objectivity. I'm here to help.