While I understand the concern, it seems odd that a patient
would want to choose their dentist based solely on price. After all, the quality of the dental treatment
to be performed should be of equal, if not greater importance.
A few telephone surveys to the dentists in the area you
desire should give you a general idea of the range of fees.[1] You should know that many dental offices will
be put off by such inquires for a couple of reasons. The first is that while
there are many cookie cutter aspects to what dentists charge in your routine
maintenance, each patient presents a unique set of circumstances and delivery
challenges. As such most dentists want to meet you and develop the continuing
relationship in helping patients overcome their current dental problems and move
forward with periodic check-ups to maintain your oral health. A phone call from a person "checking out
the best prices in town" doesn't typically fit that ideal of doctor
patient relationship. It’s really not
like buying tires or getting an oil change.
Secondary to this is the dental office personnel realize
that phone inquiries often result in "apples and oranges"
comparisons. Without an examination by the
dentist it is impossible for the dental office to know exactly what work is
needed, and thus it is impossible for them to give you an accurate idea of the
fee. The uniqueness creates a possible variation
in the treatment and the fees associated with the treatment. Even
using the same dental terminology when calling various dental offices can result
in different interpretations of the work being asked about.
Most dentists would consider a consultation appointment to
be an excellent way for a potential patient to determine the cost of the
specific dental treatment they need and for the patient an excellent way to
meet and experience the office environment in which the treatment will be performed.
Many dentists will likely no-charge an examination fee for this visit. And if
there is a charge the receptionist making your consultation appointment should
be able to quote this fee precisely.
Finally, ask your friends and coworkers who their dentist
is. Reputations travel, and your friends will know
who has treated them well and will most likely have an insight into the fees
charged by their dentist compared with other dentists in your area.
If we can be of assistance feel free to give us a call for a
free consult.
Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC
290 Carpenter Drive, 200A
Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328
404-256-3620
[1] And
what’s interesting about this process is that in no way could you do this with
a physician and their services. They don’t
have a clue what they charge for their services.
