Well That Didn’t Go Well

Dental chair

I went to the dentist yesterday for a routine check up and cleaning.  I had been to this dentist before, but had taken an almost two year hiatus from visiting him due to various reasons.  I knew I was overdue for a cleaning so I bit the bullet and scheduled myself for an appointment.

Let me tell you this.  It was two hours of sitting in a not very comfortable dental chair with plenty of grief to make my unhappiness with the chair seem a minor issue.  Two hours of the hygienist shaming me over the build up of tartar on my teeth, the length of time between this and my last appointment, and my evident poor flossing.  Two hours of being poked with a very sharp instrument and having the hygienist exclaim "Oh, you're bleeding".  Two hours of them trying to up-sell me an expensive "deep cleaning " treatment that I absolutely HAD to have to prevent bone loss, my teeth falling out and possible madness from the bacterial buildup between my teeth and gums.  Your teeth are very close to your brain don't you know?  Then they had the nerve to request $200 "at the time of scheduling" to schedule this appointment for deep cleaning that I really didn't want right now. 

Is this how it is now with dentists?  I felt really pressured to schedule this future treatment TODAY, RIGHT NOW, and by the way are you prepared to pay half immediately?

I left with a sore mouth and a bad mood.  I told them I wasn't prepared to pay anything at this moment  and that I needed to check my schedule.   Just because they were available and hot to trot sure didn't mean I was as well.  What ever happened to "Let's see how this appointment goes before we book $1600 worth of future treatments?"

120 responses to “Well That Didn’t Go Well”

  1. My dentist is also up selling procedures which seem crazy. Luckily I have a sister in law who is a dental hygienist so I always call her to ask. She believes most of these new procedures are unnecessary.

  2. My dentist is also up selling procedures which seem crazy. Luckily I have a sister in law who is a dental hygienist so I always call her to ask. She believes most of these new procedures are unnecessary.

  3. My dentist is also up selling procedures which seem crazy. Luckily I have a sister in law who is a dental hygienist so I always call her to ask. She believes most of these new procedures are unnecessary.

  4. My dentist and/or hygienist never dental shame me, find a new dental office. These upsells are new to me too, do you suppose the hygienist is on commission?

  5. My dentist and/or hygienist never dental shame me, find a new dental office. These upsells are new to me too, do you suppose the hygienist is on commission?

  6. My dentist and/or hygienist never dental shame me, find a new dental office. These upsells are new to me too, do you suppose the hygienist is on commission?

  7. I just scheduled my appointment for my cleaning after about 2 And a half years…I had no dental insurance with my job. I have heard I may be facing the same shaming…I am not looking forward to it! We do the best we can they are just people trying to do a job but I wont be made to feel guilty for doing the best i can.

  8. I just scheduled my appointment for my cleaning after about 2 And a half years…I had no dental insurance with my job. I have heard I may be facing the same shaming…I am not looking forward to it! We do the best we can they are just people trying to do a job but I wont be made to feel guilty for doing the best i can.

  9. I just scheduled my appointment for my cleaning after about 2 And a half years…I had no dental insurance with my job. I have heard I may be facing the same shaming…I am not looking forward to it! We do the best we can they are just people trying to do a job but I wont be made to feel guilty for doing the best i can.

  10. It sounds like I am in the minority.
    My dental office has never tried to up-sell my husband and I. In fact, I’ve brought up issues that bothered me and the dentist has said, “if it is not causing pain we won’t bother it”.
    I also have TMJ and the dentist has not pushed me into getting the mouth guard. He always just checks my jaw movement and as long as I am not having “big” issues he leaves it alone.
    The entire office knows that I only floss under duress. . . and they tell me that my cleanings would not be as intense if I flossed more often. . . but that is as far as it goes.
    From the sound of it we will be making twice a year return visits so that we can keep our dentist after we move.

  11. It sounds like I am in the minority.
    My dental office has never tried to up-sell my husband and I. In fact, I’ve brought up issues that bothered me and the dentist has said, “if it is not causing pain we won’t bother it”.
    I also have TMJ and the dentist has not pushed me into getting the mouth guard. He always just checks my jaw movement and as long as I am not having “big” issues he leaves it alone.
    The entire office knows that I only floss under duress. . . and they tell me that my cleanings would not be as intense if I flossed more often. . . but that is as far as it goes.
    From the sound of it we will be making twice a year return visits so that we can keep our dentist after we move.

  12. It sounds like I am in the minority.
    My dental office has never tried to up-sell my husband and I. In fact, I’ve brought up issues that bothered me and the dentist has said, “if it is not causing pain we won’t bother it”.
    I also have TMJ and the dentist has not pushed me into getting the mouth guard. He always just checks my jaw movement and as long as I am not having “big” issues he leaves it alone.
    The entire office knows that I only floss under duress. . . and they tell me that my cleanings would not be as intense if I flossed more often. . . but that is as far as it goes.
    From the sound of it we will be making twice a year return visits so that we can keep our dentist after we move.

  13. I had years of hating going to the dentist, but I have gotten my act together and now go twice a year because I found a better dentist. You definitely need to find a better dental practice. Good for you for not scheduling the other appointment immediately.

  14. I had years of hating going to the dentist, but I have gotten my act together and now go twice a year because I found a better dentist. You definitely need to find a better dental practice. Good for you for not scheduling the other appointment immediately.

  15. I had years of hating going to the dentist, but I have gotten my act together and now go twice a year because I found a better dentist. You definitely need to find a better dental practice. Good for you for not scheduling the other appointment immediately.

  16. What you endured from the hygenist is inexcusable and very, very unprofessional.
    As for the office asking for payment at time of scheduling, it used to be illegal for offices who offer service (like doctors, dentists) to “hold” your m money before serivice is rendered. Perhaps it still is illegal?
    I do wish I could see what I’m typing!
    Hugs!

  17. What you endured from the hygenist is inexcusable and very, very unprofessional.
    As for the office asking for payment at time of scheduling, it used to be illegal for offices who offer service (like doctors, dentists) to “hold” your m money before serivice is rendered. Perhaps it still is illegal?
    I do wish I could see what I’m typing!
    Hugs!

  18. What you endured from the hygenist is inexcusable and very, very unprofessional.
    As for the office asking for payment at time of scheduling, it used to be illegal for offices who offer service (like doctors, dentists) to “hold” your m money before serivice is rendered. Perhaps it still is illegal?
    I do wish I could see what I’m typing!
    Hugs!

  19. You need another dentist. Used to work in a dental office–a cleaning should be scheduled for an hour. My dentist would have suggested you come back in 4 months to do another cleaning and than schedule you for every 6 month. If you start flossing or using the GUM dental picks your bleeding should stop.
    Periodontal cleaning is a deep cleaning below the gums with shots for the possible pain. They schedule 4 appts to do a 1/4 of your mouth at each appt–which should be an hour.
    Feel sorry for you. Crappy appointment.
    Find a dentist and ask for referrals. I have referred friends to my dentist and they love him and his hygenists.

  20. You need another dentist. Used to work in a dental office–a cleaning should be scheduled for an hour. My dentist would have suggested you come back in 4 months to do another cleaning and than schedule you for every 6 month. If you start flossing or using the GUM dental picks your bleeding should stop.
    Periodontal cleaning is a deep cleaning below the gums with shots for the possible pain. They schedule 4 appts to do a 1/4 of your mouth at each appt–which should be an hour.
    Feel sorry for you. Crappy appointment.
    Find a dentist and ask for referrals. I have referred friends to my dentist and they love him and his hygenists.

  21. You need another dentist. Used to work in a dental office–a cleaning should be scheduled for an hour. My dentist would have suggested you come back in 4 months to do another cleaning and than schedule you for every 6 month. If you start flossing or using the GUM dental picks your bleeding should stop.
    Periodontal cleaning is a deep cleaning below the gums with shots for the possible pain. They schedule 4 appts to do a 1/4 of your mouth at each appt–which should be an hour.
    Feel sorry for you. Crappy appointment.
    Find a dentist and ask for referrals. I have referred friends to my dentist and they love him and his hygenists.

  22. I do not like the dentist office in general. Never been a fan. This one sounds especially bad. I would definitely find a new dentist at the least for a second opinion. They are rediculous expensive too. Good luck Nicole.
    Mary

  23. I do not like the dentist office in general. Never been a fan. This one sounds especially bad. I would definitely find a new dentist at the least for a second opinion. They are rediculous expensive too. Good luck Nicole.
    Mary

  24. I do not like the dentist office in general. Never been a fan. This one sounds especially bad. I would definitely find a new dentist at the least for a second opinion. They are rediculous expensive too. Good luck Nicole.
    Mary

  25. I haven’t had that problem with a dentist, but I have had that problem with doctors. In fact at my last doctor’s office, when I watch the door, there are sales people going in and out than there are patients. I kept looking until I found a doctor who wasn’t like that.

  26. I haven’t had that problem with a dentist, but I have had that problem with doctors. In fact at my last doctor’s office, when I watch the door, there are sales people going in and out than there are patients. I kept looking until I found a doctor who wasn’t like that.

  27. I haven’t had that problem with a dentist, but I have had that problem with doctors. In fact at my last doctor’s office, when I watch the door, there are sales people going in and out than there are patients. I kept looking until I found a doctor who wasn’t like that.

  28. We had this happrntoo. My husband was told he needed $15000, yes, $15000 dollars worth of work. We went to another dentist and they did recommend the deep cleaning too, probably necessary as we are in our 60s. They were very nice. He also had a cap replaced . I don’t think that the bill will be anywhere near $15000. The first place put a lot of pressure on the sell too. We felt like we were products, not people. Sounds like you need a new dentist. Maybe you do need deep clean( and deep pockets) but you need not be shamed!

  29. We had this happrntoo. My husband was told he needed $15000, yes, $15000 dollars worth of work. We went to another dentist and they did recommend the deep cleaning too, probably necessary as we are in our 60s. They were very nice. He also had a cap replaced . I don’t think that the bill will be anywhere near $15000. The first place put a lot of pressure on the sell too. We felt like we were products, not people. Sounds like you need a new dentist. Maybe you do need deep clean( and deep pockets) but you need not be shamed!

  30. We had this happrntoo. My husband was told he needed $15000, yes, $15000 dollars worth of work. We went to another dentist and they did recommend the deep cleaning too, probably necessary as we are in our 60s. They were very nice. He also had a cap replaced . I don’t think that the bill will be anywhere near $15000. The first place put a lot of pressure on the sell too. We felt like we were products, not people. Sounds like you need a new dentist. Maybe you do need deep clean( and deep pockets) but you need not be shamed!

  31. That is unacceptable. We have been fortunate in our small town to have excellent dental care at reasonable costs. The big city is two hours away with dental specialists who are also kind & patient with difficult cases. One such office actually has a tv commercial that they don’t care when you last saw a dentist; they’re just happy to see you now. You may have to travel a bit, but I encourage you to find another office for your dental care.

  32. That is unacceptable. We have been fortunate in our small town to have excellent dental care at reasonable costs. The big city is two hours away with dental specialists who are also kind & patient with difficult cases. One such office actually has a tv commercial that they don’t care when you last saw a dentist; they’re just happy to see you now. You may have to travel a bit, but I encourage you to find another office for your dental care.

  33. That is unacceptable. We have been fortunate in our small town to have excellent dental care at reasonable costs. The big city is two hours away with dental specialists who are also kind & patient with difficult cases. One such office actually has a tv commercial that they don’t care when you last saw a dentist; they’re just happy to see you now. You may have to travel a bit, but I encourage you to find another office for your dental care.

  34. You need a new dentist. I’ve faced that kind of high-pressure tactic before. In my case they insisted I buy an electric toothbrush, from them, and if I wouldn’t, they wanted me to sign a form saying that because I wasn’t cleaning in their recommended way, with their recommended product, they weren’t responsible for problems with my teeth. I didn’t like the pressure or the shaming, and found a new dentist. Good luck!
    And by the way, flossing isn’t so bad 🙂

  35. You need a new dentist. I’ve faced that kind of high-pressure tactic before. In my case they insisted I buy an electric toothbrush, from them, and if I wouldn’t, they wanted me to sign a form saying that because I wasn’t cleaning in their recommended way, with their recommended product, they weren’t responsible for problems with my teeth. I didn’t like the pressure or the shaming, and found a new dentist. Good luck!
    And by the way, flossing isn’t so bad 🙂

  36. You need a new dentist. I’ve faced that kind of high-pressure tactic before. In my case they insisted I buy an electric toothbrush, from them, and if I wouldn’t, they wanted me to sign a form saying that because I wasn’t cleaning in their recommended way, with their recommended product, they weren’t responsible for problems with my teeth. I didn’t like the pressure or the shaming, and found a new dentist. Good luck!
    And by the way, flossing isn’t so bad 🙂

  37. I was told at a dental appointment that my teeth were going to fall out and that I was going to have no bones left, etc etc. and that they wouldn’t even TOUCH me for a regular cleaning. I go every 6 months religiously. I left there in tears. I did a bunch of research on that particular dentist and found that this is “typical” for the practice that I had visited (it was one of those big “Sears” type of dental places). I had been trying to switch to a dentist closer to home. I immediately made an appointment with my previous dentist and she was like, “WHAT? NO! You don’t need a deep cleaning.” Now that she’s retired, I haven’t tried to find a new dentist yet. Ugh.

  38. I was told at a dental appointment that my teeth were going to fall out and that I was going to have no bones left, etc etc. and that they wouldn’t even TOUCH me for a regular cleaning. I go every 6 months religiously. I left there in tears. I did a bunch of research on that particular dentist and found that this is “typical” for the practice that I had visited (it was one of those big “Sears” type of dental places). I had been trying to switch to a dentist closer to home. I immediately made an appointment with my previous dentist and she was like, “WHAT? NO! You don’t need a deep cleaning.” Now that she’s retired, I haven’t tried to find a new dentist yet. Ugh.

  39. I was told at a dental appointment that my teeth were going to fall out and that I was going to have no bones left, etc etc. and that they wouldn’t even TOUCH me for a regular cleaning. I go every 6 months religiously. I left there in tears. I did a bunch of research on that particular dentist and found that this is “typical” for the practice that I had visited (it was one of those big “Sears” type of dental places). I had been trying to switch to a dentist closer to home. I immediately made an appointment with my previous dentist and she was like, “WHAT? NO! You don’t need a deep cleaning.” Now that she’s retired, I haven’t tried to find a new dentist yet. Ugh.

  40. Had a similar experience years ago. The dentist was one I had gone to for years but all of a sudden he had a whole new staff. They tried these tactics and were very rude. I went to a new dentist. New dentist is a no pressure kind of guy. Good luck on finding a new dentist.

  41. Had a similar experience years ago. The dentist was one I had gone to for years but all of a sudden he had a whole new staff. They tried these tactics and were very rude. I went to a new dentist. New dentist is a no pressure kind of guy. Good luck on finding a new dentist.

  42. Had a similar experience years ago. The dentist was one I had gone to for years but all of a sudden he had a whole new staff. They tried these tactics and were very rude. I went to a new dentist. New dentist is a no pressure kind of guy. Good luck on finding a new dentist.

  43. Oh my goodness – that’s terrible! No, I don’t believe that’s what’s going on in the dental world in general (at least I hope not!) I’ve never had my dental office try to up-sell me on anything and in fact my dentist tries to come up with solutions that won’t cost a fortune if possible. I’ve been going to my dentist for about 32 years and now really appreciate everyone in that office!! I live in fear that he’s going to retire (but he just hired his -just-out-of-dental-school niece and I know he’ll train her right!) Good luck with finding someone else – you don’t need to be treated like that!

  44. Oh my goodness – that’s terrible! No, I don’t believe that’s what’s going on in the dental world in general (at least I hope not!) I’ve never had my dental office try to up-sell me on anything and in fact my dentist tries to come up with solutions that won’t cost a fortune if possible. I’ve been going to my dentist for about 32 years and now really appreciate everyone in that office!! I live in fear that he’s going to retire (but he just hired his -just-out-of-dental-school niece and I know he’ll train her right!) Good luck with finding someone else – you don’t need to be treated like that!

  45. Oh my goodness – that’s terrible! No, I don’t believe that’s what’s going on in the dental world in general (at least I hope not!) I’ve never had my dental office try to up-sell me on anything and in fact my dentist tries to come up with solutions that won’t cost a fortune if possible. I’ve been going to my dentist for about 32 years and now really appreciate everyone in that office!! I live in fear that he’s going to retire (but he just hired his -just-out-of-dental-school niece and I know he’ll train her right!) Good luck with finding someone else – you don’t need to be treated like that!

  46. well, shite. that did NOT go well. Time to find a new dentist. 🙁 I’ve seen the same dentist for 30 yrs so it is easy peasy. I dread the day he retires. ;p

  47. well, shite. that did NOT go well. Time to find a new dentist. 🙁 I’ve seen the same dentist for 30 yrs so it is easy peasy. I dread the day he retires. ;p

  48. well, shite. that did NOT go well. Time to find a new dentist. 🙁 I’ve seen the same dentist for 30 yrs so it is easy peasy. I dread the day he retires. ;p

  49. You need to find a new dentist. Two years ago I moved to the big city and I go back to my small town dentist. It may be small town, but they are totally up to date on procedures. Good customer service is still pretty key in today’s market place

  50. You need to find a new dentist. Two years ago I moved to the big city and I go back to my small town dentist. It may be small town, but they are totally up to date on procedures. Good customer service is still pretty key in today’s market place

  51. You need to find a new dentist. Two years ago I moved to the big city and I go back to my small town dentist. It may be small town, but they are totally up to date on procedures. Good customer service is still pretty key in today’s market place

  52. Find a new dentist but do consider the deep cleaning! I joke that I have the cost of a car in my mouth but I have done everything I can to keep my teeth. I have the most wonderful periodontist too. I am complimented on my excellent home care but after deep cleanings, gum grafting and most recently root amputation (don’t remember the dental term of that) I’ve spent too much to give up now. Pockets are slowly closing.

  53. Find a new dentist but do consider the deep cleaning! I joke that I have the cost of a car in my mouth but I have done everything I can to keep my teeth. I have the most wonderful periodontist too. I am complimented on my excellent home care but after deep cleanings, gum grafting and most recently root amputation (don’t remember the dental term of that) I’ve spent too much to give up now. Pockets are slowly closing.

  54. Find a new dentist but do consider the deep cleaning! I joke that I have the cost of a car in my mouth but I have done everything I can to keep my teeth. I have the most wonderful periodontist too. I am complimented on my excellent home care but after deep cleanings, gum grafting and most recently root amputation (don’t remember the dental term of that) I’ve spent too much to give up now. Pockets are slowly closing.

  55. Amen!!! I totally agree. I want my teeth cleaned but don’t need a lecture on how I keep them clean!

  56. Amen!!! I totally agree. I want my teeth cleaned but don’t need a lecture on how I keep them clean!

  57. Amen!!! I totally agree. I want my teeth cleaned but don’t need a lecture on how I keep them clean!

  58. No all dentists aren’t like this now. My dentist retired and the new guys said I needed several procedures. I decided it was a good time to change dentists. I got a second opinion and I actually did need most of it. The new guy is one my husband and daughter had had good luck with. My son got hit with the deep cleaning and lots of work needed. He got a second opinion and was told no you don’t need any of that stuff. There was a good article I read about a dentist buying a practice to find the old guy was really taking the patients for LOTS of things that didn’t need done. A second opinion is not too much to do. I got one for my dog knee surgery! Good luck.

  59. No all dentists aren’t like this now. My dentist retired and the new guys said I needed several procedures. I decided it was a good time to change dentists. I got a second opinion and I actually did need most of it. The new guy is one my husband and daughter had had good luck with. My son got hit with the deep cleaning and lots of work needed. He got a second opinion and was told no you don’t need any of that stuff. There was a good article I read about a dentist buying a practice to find the old guy was really taking the patients for LOTS of things that didn’t need done. A second opinion is not too much to do. I got one for my dog knee surgery! Good luck.

  60. No all dentists aren’t like this now. My dentist retired and the new guys said I needed several procedures. I decided it was a good time to change dentists. I got a second opinion and I actually did need most of it. The new guy is one my husband and daughter had had good luck with. My son got hit with the deep cleaning and lots of work needed. He got a second opinion and was told no you don’t need any of that stuff. There was a good article I read about a dentist buying a practice to find the old guy was really taking the patients for LOTS of things that didn’t need done. A second opinion is not too much to do. I got one for my dog knee surgery! Good luck.

  61. Dentists go to conventions where they learn to up-sell. It seems unethical to me. It definitely seems more how you would expect a cosmetic surgeon to behave versus, say, the Dr. taking out your appendix. So sorry for your miserable experience. Hope your teeth feel clean, at least!

  62. Dentists go to conventions where they learn to up-sell. It seems unethical to me. It definitely seems more how you would expect a cosmetic surgeon to behave versus, say, the Dr. taking out your appendix. So sorry for your miserable experience. Hope your teeth feel clean, at least!

  63. Dentists go to conventions where they learn to up-sell. It seems unethical to me. It definitely seems more how you would expect a cosmetic surgeon to behave versus, say, the Dr. taking out your appendix. So sorry for your miserable experience. Hope your teeth feel clean, at least!

  64. How do they think shaming is going to make you want to come to the dentist more often? Instead, you will avoid it like the plague. Also, people don’t usually think of getting a second opinion from a dentist like we do doctors. Nothing wrong with getting another dentist’s take on the situation.

  65. How do they think shaming is going to make you want to come to the dentist more often? Instead, you will avoid it like the plague. Also, people don’t usually think of getting a second opinion from a dentist like we do doctors. Nothing wrong with getting another dentist’s take on the situation.

  66. How do they think shaming is going to make you want to come to the dentist more often? Instead, you will avoid it like the plague. Also, people don’t usually think of getting a second opinion from a dentist like we do doctors. Nothing wrong with getting another dentist’s take on the situation.

  67. Dentist 1 whom I liked very much retired. The people who bought his practice were like you described: they all had fake teeth that looked like Chiclets gum and insisted I needed straightening, whitening, etc., etc.
    Ask all your friends for recommendations. Now I’m with dentist 2 and he’s kind and does excellent, reasonable work. One of his early hygienists was wicked with that sharp probe and I calmly stood and took off the bib and said, “we’re done now.” I was fuming all the way home. The next day I called their office manager and asked to have a note in my file that all future appointments are with another hygienist. They got the message.

  68. Dentist 1 whom I liked very much retired. The people who bought his practice were like you described: they all had fake teeth that looked like Chiclets gum and insisted I needed straightening, whitening, etc., etc.
    Ask all your friends for recommendations. Now I’m with dentist 2 and he’s kind and does excellent, reasonable work. One of his early hygienists was wicked with that sharp probe and I calmly stood and took off the bib and said, “we’re done now.” I was fuming all the way home. The next day I called their office manager and asked to have a note in my file that all future appointments are with another hygienist. They got the message.

  69. Dentist 1 whom I liked very much retired. The people who bought his practice were like you described: they all had fake teeth that looked like Chiclets gum and insisted I needed straightening, whitening, etc., etc.
    Ask all your friends for recommendations. Now I’m with dentist 2 and he’s kind and does excellent, reasonable work. One of his early hygienists was wicked with that sharp probe and I calmly stood and took off the bib and said, “we’re done now.” I was fuming all the way home. The next day I called their office manager and asked to have a note in my file that all future appointments are with another hygienist. They got the message.

  70. Don’t go back!! there are many wonderful dentists, get references from friends. I love my dentists – don’t like having work done, but their office is fabulous, they give me options and never, ever try to convince me to have anything done that I don’t really need. We do not have dental insurance, and they never complain if we pay some each month when we’ve had a procedure. Ask around – dental care is important, and you need to find the right place.

  71. Don’t go back!! there are many wonderful dentists, get references from friends. I love my dentists – don’t like having work done, but their office is fabulous, they give me options and never, ever try to convince me to have anything done that I don’t really need. We do not have dental insurance, and they never complain if we pay some each month when we’ve had a procedure. Ask around – dental care is important, and you need to find the right place.

  72. Don’t go back!! there are many wonderful dentists, get references from friends. I love my dentists – don’t like having work done, but their office is fabulous, they give me options and never, ever try to convince me to have anything done that I don’t really need. We do not have dental insurance, and they never complain if we pay some each month when we’ve had a procedure. Ask around – dental care is important, and you need to find the right place.

  73. I was told 15 years ago that my gums were horrible and all my teeth would need to be pulled. This was a young fairly new dentist. I assume this was something they are now taught in school. I went for about 8 years without a cleaning because I had no insurance. I still have all my teeth and the gaps in my gums measure about the same as 15 years ago. I don’t react well when shamed by my dentist or my doctor. Good luck finding a new dental office.

  74. I was told 15 years ago that my gums were horrible and all my teeth would need to be pulled. This was a young fairly new dentist. I assume this was something they are now taught in school. I went for about 8 years without a cleaning because I had no insurance. I still have all my teeth and the gaps in my gums measure about the same as 15 years ago. I don’t react well when shamed by my dentist or my doctor. Good luck finding a new dental office.

  75. I was told 15 years ago that my gums were horrible and all my teeth would need to be pulled. This was a young fairly new dentist. I assume this was something they are now taught in school. I went for about 8 years without a cleaning because I had no insurance. I still have all my teeth and the gaps in my gums measure about the same as 15 years ago. I don’t react well when shamed by my dentist or my doctor. Good luck finding a new dental office.

  76. That is a horrible dental office! I have never had that sort of experience, even when I put off going for three years because of no insurance, the kids need it more than I, etc. I would definitely ask people you know to recommend a new dentist. I love my dentist.

  77. That is a horrible dental office! I have never had that sort of experience, even when I put off going for three years because of no insurance, the kids need it more than I, etc. I would definitely ask people you know to recommend a new dentist. I love my dentist.

  78. That is a horrible dental office! I have never had that sort of experience, even when I put off going for three years because of no insurance, the kids need it more than I, etc. I would definitely ask people you know to recommend a new dentist. I love my dentist.

  79. I think I have some information that can help you as I can very much relate to this. I get my teeth cleaned every 6 months religiously, floss regularly, and use an anti-plaque rinse daily and still get heavy plaque build up due to an over active saliva gland. I had a deep cleaning years ago (which I later learned that I did not really need) that was not done properly which resulted in slight receding gums in my lower from teeth area and it is now very sensitive. As a result I can hardly stand the scaling process of the cleaning process.
    The hygienist I have had for about 15 years uses a magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler- goggle it to learn more on the process. Find a dentist with a hygienist that uses this and you will be so glad you did. This process does not eliminate the scaling done with the instruments but it will be minimal. This is the only way I can stand to have my teeth cleaned. It does not cost extra at my dentist office. And certainly get a second opinion on what is needed. Good luck!

  80. I think I have some information that can help you as I can very much relate to this. I get my teeth cleaned every 6 months religiously, floss regularly, and use an anti-plaque rinse daily and still get heavy plaque build up due to an over active saliva gland. I had a deep cleaning years ago (which I later learned that I did not really need) that was not done properly which resulted in slight receding gums in my lower from teeth area and it is now very sensitive. As a result I can hardly stand the scaling process of the cleaning process.
    The hygienist I have had for about 15 years uses a magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler- goggle it to learn more on the process. Find a dentist with a hygienist that uses this and you will be so glad you did. This process does not eliminate the scaling done with the instruments but it will be minimal. This is the only way I can stand to have my teeth cleaned. It does not cost extra at my dentist office. And certainly get a second opinion on what is needed. Good luck!

  81. I think I have some information that can help you as I can very much relate to this. I get my teeth cleaned every 6 months religiously, floss regularly, and use an anti-plaque rinse daily and still get heavy plaque build up due to an over active saliva gland. I had a deep cleaning years ago (which I later learned that I did not really need) that was not done properly which resulted in slight receding gums in my lower from teeth area and it is now very sensitive. As a result I can hardly stand the scaling process of the cleaning process.
    The hygienist I have had for about 15 years uses a magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler- goggle it to learn more on the process. Find a dentist with a hygienist that uses this and you will be so glad you did. This process does not eliminate the scaling done with the instruments but it will be minimal. This is the only way I can stand to have my teeth cleaned. It does not cost extra at my dentist office. And certainly get a second opinion on what is needed. Good luck!

  82. Find a new dentist. I now use mouth wash 3-4 times a week that cleans bacteria out of my mouth. Also a water pik is heavenly for cleaning your gums. My husband needs deep cleaning and we are going to Progresso Mexico to the best dentist ever, will cost about $300 instead of the $1500 his dentist would charge.

  83. Find a new dentist. I now use mouth wash 3-4 times a week that cleans bacteria out of my mouth. Also a water pik is heavenly for cleaning your gums. My husband needs deep cleaning and we are going to Progresso Mexico to the best dentist ever, will cost about $300 instead of the $1500 his dentist would charge.

  84. Find a new dentist. I now use mouth wash 3-4 times a week that cleans bacteria out of my mouth. Also a water pik is heavenly for cleaning your gums. My husband needs deep cleaning and we are going to Progresso Mexico to the best dentist ever, will cost about $300 instead of the $1500 his dentist would charge.

  85. They told my husband the same thing because his teeth bled while they were doing a cleaning (of course they will…they are poking them with sharp objects). They made an appointment to start the procedures in 2 weeks. Meanwhile I had him use my water pick and do coconut oil “pulling”. When he went back they were surprised at the difference and said they didn’t need to do anything else.

  86. They told my husband the same thing because his teeth bled while they were doing a cleaning (of course they will…they are poking them with sharp objects). They made an appointment to start the procedures in 2 weeks. Meanwhile I had him use my water pick and do coconut oil “pulling”. When he went back they were surprised at the difference and said they didn’t need to do anything else.

  87. They told my husband the same thing because his teeth bled while they were doing a cleaning (of course they will…they are poking them with sharp objects). They made an appointment to start the procedures in 2 weeks. Meanwhile I had him use my water pick and do coconut oil “pulling”. When he went back they were surprised at the difference and said they didn’t need to do anything else.

  88. I am someone who has had problems with my teeth since chilhood and feel very quarlified to speak on this from a patient’s point of view. I agree find a new dentist and at least get a 2nd opinion. However, do not be surprized if he or she also recomends a deep cleaning. Bone loss is serious and can happen and will make the cost and pain of a deep cleaning seem like nothing. Meanwhile floss, floss, and floss.

  89. I am someone who has had problems with my teeth since chilhood and feel very quarlified to speak on this from a patient’s point of view. I agree find a new dentist and at least get a 2nd opinion. However, do not be surprized if he or she also recomends a deep cleaning. Bone loss is serious and can happen and will make the cost and pain of a deep cleaning seem like nothing. Meanwhile floss, floss, and floss.

  90. I am someone who has had problems with my teeth since chilhood and feel very quarlified to speak on this from a patient’s point of view. I agree find a new dentist and at least get a 2nd opinion. However, do not be surprized if he or she also recomends a deep cleaning. Bone loss is serious and can happen and will make the cost and pain of a deep cleaning seem like nothing. Meanwhile floss, floss, and floss.

  91. My husband and I had a dentist we really like unfortunately he passed away three years ago. The person that purchased the practice doesn’t share the previous dentist’s philosophy. I changed dentists and I’m on the fence with the new dentist. I’ve had a deep cleaning and i’ve been referred to a periodontist. I’m trying to remedy my gum situation on my own. Wish me luck. It is really hard to find a dentist that aligns with your personality.

  92. My husband and I had a dentist we really like unfortunately he passed away three years ago. The person that purchased the practice doesn’t share the previous dentist’s philosophy. I changed dentists and I’m on the fence with the new dentist. I’ve had a deep cleaning and i’ve been referred to a periodontist. I’m trying to remedy my gum situation on my own. Wish me luck. It is really hard to find a dentist that aligns with your personality.

  93. My husband and I had a dentist we really like unfortunately he passed away three years ago. The person that purchased the practice doesn’t share the previous dentist’s philosophy. I changed dentists and I’m on the fence with the new dentist. I’ve had a deep cleaning and i’ve been referred to a periodontist. I’m trying to remedy my gum situation on my own. Wish me luck. It is really hard to find a dentist that aligns with your personality.

  94. I think it is becoming the standard. This is the second dentist we have had since ours retired and they are trying to sell stuff and procedures as well. The one who took over our dentist’s practice was all about multiple xrays and the tech barely cleaned my teeth. It was like she had a vacancy in her head about what she was doing. I am in medium sized community Midwest. No one is in medicine to take care of their fellow mankind but for the almighty profit. It’s a shame. Good luck finding someone you can get along with.

  95. I think it is becoming the standard. This is the second dentist we have had since ours retired and they are trying to sell stuff and procedures as well. The one who took over our dentist’s practice was all about multiple xrays and the tech barely cleaned my teeth. It was like she had a vacancy in her head about what she was doing. I am in medium sized community Midwest. No one is in medicine to take care of their fellow mankind but for the almighty profit. It’s a shame. Good luck finding someone you can get along with.

  96. I think it is becoming the standard. This is the second dentist we have had since ours retired and they are trying to sell stuff and procedures as well. The one who took over our dentist’s practice was all about multiple xrays and the tech barely cleaned my teeth. It was like she had a vacancy in her head about what she was doing. I am in medium sized community Midwest. No one is in medicine to take care of their fellow mankind but for the almighty profit. It’s a shame. Good luck finding someone you can get along with.

  97. Since we moved several years ago, I cannot find a dentist who is NOT like this. The last one I went to offered to do a cleaning for $1200 (my previous cleanings before the move were $79)–so that was the last time I tried to go get a cleaning. It’s been about ten years now without a cleaning…and you know what? I don’t get abscesses any more. I used to get them all the time when I was getting regular deep cleanings. Isn’t that weird? My gums don’t bleed anymore, either. All those terrible things they said would happen to me if I didn’t get deep cleanings or have gum surgery didn’t happen. My gums are in better shape now than they were when I was getting them torn up with deep cleanings every six months and antibiotics shoved into them. (As a microbiologist, I want to ask: why don’t dentists respect oral normal flora?) For cosmetic reasons, I would love someone to scrape the tartar off them without all the upselling, but it seems like that service is a thing of the past.

  98. Since we moved several years ago, I cannot find a dentist who is NOT like this. The last one I went to offered to do a cleaning for $1200 (my previous cleanings before the move were $79)–so that was the last time I tried to go get a cleaning. It’s been about ten years now without a cleaning…and you know what? I don’t get abscesses any more. I used to get them all the time when I was getting regular deep cleanings. Isn’t that weird? My gums don’t bleed anymore, either. All those terrible things they said would happen to me if I didn’t get deep cleanings or have gum surgery didn’t happen. My gums are in better shape now than they were when I was getting them torn up with deep cleanings every six months and antibiotics shoved into them. (As a microbiologist, I want to ask: why don’t dentists respect oral normal flora?) For cosmetic reasons, I would love someone to scrape the tartar off them without all the upselling, but it seems like that service is a thing of the past.

  99. Since we moved several years ago, I cannot find a dentist who is NOT like this. The last one I went to offered to do a cleaning for $1200 (my previous cleanings before the move were $79)–so that was the last time I tried to go get a cleaning. It’s been about ten years now without a cleaning…and you know what? I don’t get abscesses any more. I used to get them all the time when I was getting regular deep cleanings. Isn’t that weird? My gums don’t bleed anymore, either. All those terrible things they said would happen to me if I didn’t get deep cleanings or have gum surgery didn’t happen. My gums are in better shape now than they were when I was getting them torn up with deep cleanings every six months and antibiotics shoved into them. (As a microbiologist, I want to ask: why don’t dentists respect oral normal flora?) For cosmetic reasons, I would love someone to scrape the tartar off them without all the upselling, but it seems like that service is a thing of the past.