How to Avoid Being Scammed by a Dentist

Dentists, like physicians have a code of ethics requiring them to place their patients' interests first. Additionally, every state has a dental board to regulate the profession and enforce standards of practice and conduct. Despite these safeguards, there are unscrupulous people in every profession. When visiting a new dentist, it never hurts to be cautious. Dentists are running a business and patients need to be smart, informed customers to safeguard themselves.

Instructions

• 1

  Inquire about a dentists' credentials before you make your first appointment. Follow up by checking for your state dental board for complaints or disciplinary action. Also check the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Better Business Bureau.

• 2

  Ask to see both the x-ray and the tooth itself if a dentist informs you that you have a cavity. Between dental mirrors and increasingly common video and electronic dental equipment with monitors, dentists can usually make it so that you can view your cavities. If the dentist has any hesitation showing you the problem, then you may want to see another dentist for a second opinion.

• 3

  Decline to move forward with any major dental work until you've gone for a second opinion. You should be concerned if a dentist sees you for the first time and wants to do a lot of work -- especially if you didn't expect it or were unaware of a problem. Ask for as much evidence as possible, especially x-rays.

• 4

  Avoid any treatments not covered by your dental insurance. Most dental insurance policies cover a range of legitimate, standard practice treatments. If a dentist proposes something not on the list, research it before agreeing to pay out of pocket. The American Dental Association and your state dental board can offer you information on any legitimate dental intervention.

• 5

  Go to another dentist if yours doesn't want to honor the prices required under your dental insurance plan. If your dentist accepts your insurance, then she is bound by the terms of her contract with your insurer, which usually includes a price schedule for patients covered under your plan. If a dentist isn't happy about her reimbursement rate, she should work it out with the insurer or send you to another dentist.