New Dentist, does this sound ok

tkingwimb

Just back from an early morning dental appointment at a new dentist based just outside of London.  I had been with the same dentist for many years and although they are good, they cant do my 9 monthly check up (which they cancelled in March due to corona) and will only be doing emergencies for the foreseeable future.  I have never missed a check up and was told I have very good teeth, having only had 2 fillings and wisdom tooth removal, I am 43.

The only dentist that would see me for a check up (after much ringing around) is the most expensive one in the area, and wants to do a filling, and replace the 2 other fillings (quote is for amalgam) which are about 8 and 5 years old plus a hygienist appointment at a price of £530.00.  I have booked all the work in, but wondered if this sounded suspicious, this price is if I sign up to their insurance plan at £20 a month and would be £650 if I don't.  Their examination was more thorough than my previous dentist, and this place does have a great reputation.

My wife is with a very good dentist, but they are not taking on new patients, and I feel I have not got much choice at the moment, just want some reassurance that this does not sound out of the ordinary.

brook2jack2

It is difficult for a new dentist because your old dentist will have a better view of how well you look after your mouth , there may be things they have been keeping an eye on for a while that hasn't deteriorated . A new dentist has no idea if something has just started to look a bit dubious or has been that way for years. 

It's difficult to say whether work needed or not without seeing you and x rays etc. Again prices between dentists vary , a ritzy practice in the southeast will cost more than a family practice in the north. 

Now is a very difficult time to move practices as few will have capacity to see anyone . 

The question is how did you feel about the dentist? 

tkingwimb

They seemed very thorough so I think I will go ahead with the work, I think you are right about my old dentist having a better view as he looked after me for many years, he has just retired, so will probably sign up with my wifes dentist when things get back to normal as they are more reasonably priced.  Thanks for the reply.