It's never great to receive bad news when you're in the dental chair, especially when you're told that you need one or more complex treatment procedures. Receiving that type of news may cause you to question if you're getting good advice about your dental care.
If this is the case for you, it never hurts to consider getting a second option about your treatment options. Especially if the cost or complexity of your treatment plan has you questioning or feeling concerned.
At Lucio H. Kim, DDS, located in Glendale, CA, we're happy to offer complimentary second opinions to patients who need more information or clarification about their dental treatment. A complimentary visit also saves you from additional out-of-pocket expenses when considering dental treatment.
How to Book a Second Opinion Appointment
When you book a second option appointment, let the staff know what you're looking for and your concerns. Try to have the first dentist transfer all your records, typically x-rays and maybe photos, to your second opinion dentist, which can save you time and money.
Bring your treatment plan with you so your second opinion dentist can review the recommendations and give you their thoughts. These appointments typically don't last longer than 30 minutes.
When Should I Seek a Second Opinion?
Patients visiting a new dentist for the first time who receive an extensive or complicated treatment plan they weren't expecting may want a second opinion. Some other things to consider are:
- Did the first dentist present you with x-rays and photos that corroborate the need for the treatment they've recommended?
- Are you experiencing any discomfort? (This could be an indicator of tooth decay or other problems)
- How aggressive was the treatment plan presented? Do you have any alternative options?
- Did you feel comfortable with the dentist and their team?
- Was the dentist willing to transfer your records for a second opinion?
Think about your answers to the questions above and your feelings about the treatment presented and the care you've already received. It doesn't hurt to seek a second opinion if you feel uneasy about the dentist, their team, the care you received, the treatment recommended, or any other aspect of your experience at their dental office.
You want to have complete trust that the dentist you work with has your best interests in mind.
What Treatment Procedures Should I Seek a Second Opinion On?
The more complicated and invasive the procedure, the more you may be inclined to question its necessity. Here are some procedures you may want to consider seeking a second opinion on.
Dental Implants
Tooth implants can be a complex and lengthy procedure, and you want to feel completely confident about who you're working with. Talking with more than one dentist about implant dentistry is not unreasonable.
Not every dentist places tooth implants, so you may want to work with someone with the skills and knowledge for implant placement and restoration so you can work with the same team throughout your procedure.
Root Canal Treatment
If you've been told you need a root canal, it's likely because you have an abscessed or infected tooth, which can be painful. Since this is a more invasive procedure, you may consider seeking a second opinion from a specialist or endodontist.
Tooth Extraction
If you have teeth beyond what root canal treatment can save, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. Removing a tooth may also be necessary for orthodontic treatment or dentures. Talking with an additional dentist about your options doesn't hurt if tooth extraction has been recommended.
Tooth Decay or Cavities
Leaving a new dentist with recommendations to fill a few cavities is common. If you're questioning the treatment plan, it doesn't hurt to consult another dentist for a second opinion about which teeth need treatment and which can be monitored. That way, you can proceed with treatment with the utmost confidence.
Do You Need a Second Opinion in Glendale?
If you or a loved one has questions about treatment recommendations and is looking for a second opinion "dentist near me," look no further than Dr. Kim and his team. We'll be happy to meet with you, review your current treatment recommendations, and give you an honest opinion about what we think are your best options.
You can book an evaluation with Dr. Kim online or call our Glendale dental office at (818) 242-3739.