Second Opinion: Knowing When to Consider Seeing a New Dentist

People often find a dentist they love and follow whatever this professional recommends. However, when the dentist says an expensive procedure is needed, the patient might want a second opinion. Second opinions are very common in healthcare and should be normalized for dental care, too. Patients often hesitate to get this second opinion and pay for expensive treatments that may not be better. 

Why Get a Second Opinion?

Second opinions allow individuals to learn about their treatment options and how much each option costs. Taking the time to see multiple professionals before choosing a treatment option may save a person time, money, and pain. They won’t undergo a procedure that isn’t necessary when an alternative will produce the same results. While seeing a new dentist isn’t fun, there are times when this visit is essential. 

When to Get a Second Opinion

A person should get a second opinion when a dentist recommends extensive dental work, mainly when this work will be costly. For example, they may say several teeth need fillings when cavities have never been an issue. The dentist might also suggest replacing fillings because they are old. 

If the dentist recommends a treatment but cannot explain why it is needed, it’s best to get a second opinion. They may recommend removing wisdom teeth, for example, when the patient isn’t having issues with these teeth. If the dentist won’t share the patient’s X-rays or send them to a different practice, there is cause for concern. The X-rays belong to the patient. 

Requesting a Second Opinion

Before agreeing to extensive dental work, let the dentist know you want a second opinion. They should be comfortable with this request. Ask family and friends to recommend a provider for this second opinion or speak to the dental insurer. The insurer doesn’t want to pay for unnecessary work and will provide names. 

Who Pay for This Second Opinion?

Patients often find they must pay for this second opinion out of pocket, as insurance companies typically don’t cover these visits. However, more companies are now doing so because they recognize a second opinion might lead to a cheaper treatment plan, which means less money out of the insurer’s pocket. 

During the Visit

When scheduling an appointment for a second opinion, let the receptionist know the purpose of the visit. Have the current dentist share the X-rays with this provider and bring information regarding the proposed treatment plan developed by the primary dentist. Doing so makes it easy to compare treatment plans. 

Ask about the diagnosis and treatment plan provided by the primary dentist and what alternatives are available. Learn the risks and benefits of each option, along with the costs. Discuss payment and how much the insurance company might cover. 

Conflicting Opinions

It can be frustrating when two dentists disagree on how to treat a problem. It’s hard to know which path to take, and many patients struggle to choose. Choosing the dentist the patient feels most comfortable with is best, although price may play a role in the decision. Specific treatments might need to be repeated more often, so keep this in mind when choosing. For example, bridges won’t last a lifetime, but dental implants do if they are correctly cared for. Discuss the cost and longevity of each treatment option with both dentists. 

Second opinions are always beneficial, particularly when a patient needs extensive work. The regular dentist should be amenable to the patient seeking a second opinion. Once this opinion has been obtained, the patient can choose the path they are most comfortable with and will benefit their oral health.