Anyone in the Harrisburg area use these Dentists? I have been going to this one dentist for years. All he ever does is insist on work done even though he knows that I do not have the money. I was thinking about trying one of the above, but am really afraid of going from the frying pan into the fire. I guess it is fear of the unknown, but I am afraid I might get someone worse. I told this other dentist several times that I don't have the money for all this work, and the last two appts. he is really getting smart A-- with me about it. I know that dentists are wanting to save teeth,etc., but he is taking it a little too far. One time he talks about one thing, the next time a different. It wouldn't be so bad if he would take payments, but he wants it all at one-says to use my credit card. He doesn't have to care, as he and his wife are both dentists. I don't begrude him his trips-he takes out of country vacations about 4 times a year and you set in their office and all they do while working on your teeth is talk about these vacations. I feel like saying, well, if you can afford to go like that, why can't you be a little compassionate and let your patients pay it in a few payments-but I won't when he is working on the teeth. I am due for another cleaning in two weeks and am just dreading this appt. Are all dentists like this?

No, not all dentists are like what you are describing. I don't know anything about the two that you are asking about, but I would suggest that you find a small private dental practice. If possible, ask around to friends and family until you find someone who is really happy with their dentist. Most will probably be happy to work out a payment plan in advance of your treatment -- I know my dentist does that. Also, don't be afraid to ask if the work needs to be done right away or if it can wait awhile and what are the risks if you wait. The dentist should be willing to explain it to you. I have done this before because I knew we were getting new insurance in a few months that would cover a lot more of the cost of the work I needed done.

You didn't say if you had insurance or not, but I would avoid any of the 'DMO' places. They are paid by the visit by the insurance company, so they make more money if they keep bringing you back and/or if they see as many patients as possible in a day. Even if you don't have insurance, that's how they run their practice and they would probably do the same for you. One of they hygenists at my dentist left (her DH lost his job and they needed health insurance benefits) and went to work for a DMO. She lasted exactly two days before she came back to her old job. She said it was horrible the small amount of time she was allowed to spend with patients. They wanted her simply to clean their teeth and move on to the next patient.

Good luck......
Sarah........mom to Jason & Devin