If you present a complex case to 10 different dentists, there will likely be 10 different treatment plans. These will be based on the personal philosophies, the training, the background experiences of successes and failures, and the personal preferences for certain types of procedures.
There is no absolute right or wrong, and for the most part each treatment plan could be explained and defended. What should take precedence however is understanding the patients’ needs and desires, and proposing a plan which is compatible with their wishes and budget.
It never hurts to have a second opinion. If a reasonable and honest treatment plan has been proposed, no one should be offended by this. Our office is happy to help our patients get a second opinion. With the digital age it is easy to share radiographs and other information.
It has also become a frequent appointment in our office to offer second opinion consultations for prospective and returning patients. We take time to thoroughly review the case, understand the diagnoses, and try to explain the viewpoint from which the treatment plan was presented. Sometimes I will disagree with the proposed plan because of my 35 plus years of experience and background. I try to predict likelihoods of success, or at least identify the degrees of risk for different approaches.
Our practice philosophy is to identify a conservative approach, one that utilizes minimally invasive principles and techniques, while maximizing the patient’s investment. We share knowledge and experience, and do not try to influence patients to switch to our practice. We do not accept all cases, only ones where there will be a good working relationship between doctor and patient, and all goals and limitations are clearly understood.
If you feel this approach would be of interest to your dental needs, please give our office a call to schedule an appointment. We’d be happy to help.