I GOOGLED IT, SO I'M BASICALLY A DENTIST
Why aren't you on the list for my insurance anymore?
Our doctor was finding that the limitations of your plan restrict the time she is able to spend with you, as well as the quality of dentistry. She isn't willing to sacrifice either - you deserve better!
I received a list from my insurance saying I have to find a new dentist
That's absolutely not correct. We have several patients on your plan! Our doctor made the decision to change the relationship we have with your plan because they were asking us to downgrade our standard of care, and you deserve better!
Can you just send a pre-determination?
Can you tell me why you're wanting to send a pre-det?
We don't do many of those, but I'd be happy to get one out for you. The fee to submit a predetermination is $150, and we'll apply that do your treatment when you begin.
I don't want any x-rays today.
Tell me a little bit more...
What concerns you about x-rays?
Why is it important for you to get your teeth cleaned today? Other than a cleaning, what would you like to accomplish while you're here?
How important is prevention to you when it comes to your teeth?
Do you have laughing gas?
Do you mind if I ask who I'm speaking with?
Thank you so much for calling! Yes, we certainly have laughing gas - It sounds like you're looking for a new dentist. Tell me more!
I don't want an exam - just a cleaning
Tell me why it's important for you to get your teeth cleaned?
Do mind sharing with me why you're reluctant to have the doctor check your teeth?
I'll do what my insurance will pay for.
What if your plan doesn't cover things that are important to you? (have we established what's important from the patients point of view?)
Would it be helpful if you could spread out your financial obligation in the event you want to accomplish something that your plan doesn't cover?
Most patients have found that their dental plan is more of a 'rebate' or supplement, than actual insurance.
That's a lot of money! There's no way I can do it.
Yes it is quite an investment. Would it be helpful if we could spread out the cost over time?
You get to decide the pace of your treatment. Where would you like to start?
I want to get my teeth cleaned.
Great! Do you mind me asking who I'm speaking with?
I'm so glad you called! Why is it important for you to get your teeth cleaned?
What are you looking for in a dental office?
What else would you like to accomplish when you come in?
Do I have to do everything at once?
Absolutely not. You get to decide the pace! It sounds like you might want to spread out your treatment - tell me more...
Most patients like to minimize their visits and take care of everything in 1-2 well planned visits. What do you think?