re: Is it legal for dental hygienists to open a teeth cleaning practice?

quote:

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From a non dentist standpoint. I would go to a place that did not have a dentist present in a heartbeat. My opinion and faith of dentists , based on my personal experience in the Baton Rouge market, is very poor. I put dentists on a level with car salesman. I don't trust them and try to avoid them as much as possible. That said I have a new dentist, not in BR, that seems honest. When we switched to her she was new and needed patients. I guess only time will tell if she stays honest or starts up selling.

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That's too bad that you feel that way. I sometimes feel the same way, but realize that it's just a few bad apples that spoil the public's perception about dentistry.

Can you detail what happened, how exactly were you upsold?

Prior to dentistry, I worked in medical sales and I am very cautious about how I talk to my patients about necessary treatments. About 5 years ago, I started a preclinical interview with all new patients where I ask them to rate the health of their oral cavity and what issues prevent them from having perfect oral health. I then ask them what they expect me to do for them and what their treatment goals are.

I have found that this interview relaxes the patient, gets them talking about their issues and allows me to offer treatments (if needed) that meets their goals without them thinking that they are being upsold (whatever that means). It also sets the table for a satisfied patient that is happy to refer their friends and family.

I wish you luck with your new dentist.