How to Turn in a Bad Dentist

A trip to the dentist can be a stressful and harrowing experience. While most dentists are ethical and trustworthy professionals, occasional problems do crop up. Individuals may get upset if they receive sloppy dental work, have unnecessary procedures performed on them, or if the dentist overcharges for services provided. Fortunately, there are procedures in place to turn in a bad dentist.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your dentist and let him know your concerns. Mistakes can be made by both the dentist and the dental staff. Often problems go unnoticed until they are mentioned. Many dentists will attempt to rectify the situation immediately.

• 2

  Write a letter of complaint. If the meeting with your dentist is unsatisfactory, outline your grievance in writing. Dentalwatch.org recommends crafting a formal letter listing the facts of your grievance without any recommendations or emotional language. Make an extra copy for your records.

• 3

  Research which dental societies your dentist maintains membership in and send them a copy of your complaint letter. While the dental societies are not governmental organizations, most dentists agree to abide by their dispute resolution or arbitration procedures.

• 4

  Report gross negligence or unprofessional behavior to their state licensing board and the American Dental Association. Send them a copy of your complaint letter. They usually require a written report to open an inquiry against a dentist; But these boards have the power to sanction guilty dentists with fines and license suspensions.