My husband and I recently moved to the Twin Cities area which necessitated a change in our family dentist. My husband, John, recently went to a local dentist to have a wisdom tooth extracted and made an appointment to have a cleaning. (His last cleaning was approximately 8-9 months ago and he has had regular cleanings for the last four years.) I believe it's important to note that my husband does not have any Dental Insurance.
Immediately after the general cleaning procedure, the dentist came in saying that he wanted to discuss the x-rays and findings from the exam. He told John that he saw the need for a root canal and 10 fillings and informed him that he had gum disease! He told John that he was approved for up to $9000 in financing from the dental practice and recommended that he schedule three appointments, which John did--two for the root canal and one for the fillings. He was told the cost would be around $4000.
My husband was also told that there would be a $50 charge for cancelling the appointment, regardless of when it was cancelled. Please note that he made the appointments at least one week in advance.
I'm very concerned that this is some type of scam. What would you recommend we do? I'm trying to talk my husband into at least getting a second opinion from another dentist but he really feels that this Dr. is on the up and up.
Has anyone heard of this type of thing happening to patients without dental insurance? Please advise as soon as possible. Thank you!!
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