I’m really embarrassed and think I’m in trouble. I think that I finally found the best implant dentist in my area, but I’m afraid he will not see me. I have been doing a lot of research and had had several consultations.
I need four teeth replaced with dental implants and I felt like I needed to do my due diligence. I also need a couple crowns done and a root canal. So, I wanted to shop around and see who would have the best treatment plan.
I narrowed my search down to two implant dentists. They both had good reputations and I enjoyed meeting them. But they had completely different approaches. The first one wanted to do four separate dental implants. The other dentist recommended three dental implants and using two of them to support a dental bridge. This made the cost a lot different. So, I couldn’t help myself. I went with the lesser expensive option.
Next, I made the appointment and I had a horrible experience. He was very rough and I have had to go back in for multiple times for adjustments and he hasn’t even started the implant process. The fillings he did just don’t feel right. He keeps telling me that my discomfort is in my head. And this last time, he abruptly told me that this would be the final adjustment he was willing to make. I think I made a terrible mistake!
Now, I really want to go see the first implant dentist because I think he is the best in the area. He knows I didn’t choose him for the original work. What am I supposed to do? What would be the best way to ask him to see me again?
-Paul in Ohio
Paul,
Well, it sounds like you are really doing your homework, which is great. Far too many people just go with the first opinion.
To be honest, it sounds like you may be over-analyzing your opinion of the first dentist. If he truly is the best implant dentist around, then it is doubtful that he has any negativity toward you and your decision. Just be honest. Patients get second opinions all the time and he probably isn’t holding any kind of grudge.
Sadly, it’s always difficult to know how things will end up when choosing a dentist. He may actually be proud that you came back to him, after you have had a negative experience elsewhere.
Be upfront about your problems and explain your situation. A reputable implant dentist will want to help you get things figured out. He may be open to different treatment options as well, if budget is still a factor. Don’t worry about it and make the call for another consultation.
Let us know how it goes?
If you were calling James T. Gavrilos, DDS, who is an implant dentist in Barrington, he wouldn’t have any hard feelings. He would be empathetic and be motivated to help.