My dentist was very rude I have cavities and chipped teeth

Q. Hi there, I’m 24 and have got problems with my teeth that really bring me down. I have several teeth with cavities and which have chipped. I’ve not been registered with a dentist in a while as I’ve moved houses a few times in the past 10 years. I recently registered with a local dentist and visited with the intention to finally sort out my teeth regardless of the cost, I really wanted to save all, if possible of my teeth. The dentist was extremely rude and demanded that he pulled out all of my chewing teeth (molars) on one side as well as a few of my 1st and 2nd molars which I was uncomfortable with, I asked whether he could save them which he was very unwilling to do as it would be expensive (which I didn’t mind) and he didn’t want to do as its time consuming. Besides this he got aggressive and very rude because I was quite determined to keep my teeth. I understand he is an expert but don’t feel he was being fair as he was thinking of saving his own time rather than my needs. I am very upset about the state of my teeth as I feel they are extremely important to me, also I’m getting pain on my gum which I feel could well be an abscess. It hurt about a year ago and seems to have come back and can be quite intense. What would you say is the best option for me? I just feel extremely embarrassed about my teeth and feel very let down. I’m lost as to what to do as if I was to approach another dentist I would be very embarrassed. Any help would be very much appreciated.

 

A. I’m very sorry to hear of your bad experience with dentistry. Most dentists nowadays are very understanding and keen to help patients out in the best possible way.

I would advise you to ask your friends who their dentist is and whether they think their dentist would empathies with your situation. Within my practice we find out what the patients’ wishes are first and what their concerns are. Following this a comprehensive assessment is made of their mouths and all the possibilities of treatments are discussed. There are sometimes reasons why treatment is not possible. In these cases the reason for the need to remove the teeth is openly explained so that the patient can properly understand their situation. Communication is a priority.

The above is in my view essential and gives you a guide to what you should expect from modern dentistry today. I hope this helps you feel motivated to finding a dentist who can help you.

Dr Julian Caplan – Director on the board of the BACD View My Profile Dr Caplan

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