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| - It has been about a year since I got my teeth cleaned, so I figured I might as well call up a dentist office. Based on all the positive reviews I felt Dentistry of the Carolina's would be a good choice. I have only ever had positive experiences at dental offices, but with all the negative stereotypes I am always worried when I start somewhere new. So, I gave them a shot and set up a new patient appointment. I asked the receptionist specifically if their new patient exams included a cleaning (because not all offices do them in one exam) and she assured me they did. So, I made my appointment for the soonest available time: about a month later.
I didn't mind waiting a month because I had a good feeling about my exam. When I walked into the office I was greeted by a comfortable waiting room.The office even went so far as to add leg massagers in several chairs (although it makes you wonder how long people sit in the office waiting for their appointment?). The warm feeling immediately froze as I was ushered by the cold receptionist. She quickly took all my paperwork from my hand and rushed through my check-in--as if I had arrived late. I made sure to arrive at least 10 mins early, and I even filled out all my new patient paperwork before hand. I printed out a copy of my insurance, and handed her a copy of my insurance statement (which included all my co-pay amounts). But she didn't seem appreciative, and just seemed annoyed to be checking someone in.
I didn't let her mood get me down, as I was so excited to get my teeth cleaned! I love dentistry, and always appreciate a good teeth cleaning. I waited about 20 mins for a cold, vacant, assistant to quietly usher me back to my room. I sat in the chair and had a sweet conversation with a different dental assistant, as she took my bite-wings and panoramic x-ray. She seemed nice and knowledgeable. But, then she said, "Ok, just wait here and the dentist will be in shortly". Ummm...wasn't I supposed to get a teeth cleaning? She explained that the receptionist only put me in for an exam, but not cleaning--even though I had specified that this appointment would be both. The sweet assistant seemed concerned once I told her, and went up to ask.
I waited quietly in the chair as a dental hygienist came in to do my perio chart. She had a fun personality, but seemed honestly confused about what she was doing. The tools weren't set up, the computer was on the wrong side of the room, and she didn't seem to know how to use the computer program. Once the assistant came back, she rudely tried to blame it on her. But regardless, the exam was messy.
The hygienist noticed I had stains on my teeth, and did seem concerned I wasn't going to have a cleaning. So I again asked if they could squeeze me in this morning; but they said they didn't have time. I was frustrated, but I knew it wasn't their fault.
Just a few minutes later the confused hygienist came back in and said she would go ahead and give me a quick cleaning, so I didn't have to come back. I thanked her and told her several times how much I appreciated her going above an beyond for me. I was very concerned I would have to pay my co-pay twice, and I was glad she was able to figure out something--despite the receptionists mistake.
A much as I appreciated her going above-and-beyond; it was honestly the worst cleaning of my life! It wasn't painful (since I do brush and floss every day), but I felt like I was swimming. She joked that she was "giving me a facial", but it really wasn't a joke. I have never had a cleaning where I felt like I was being waterboarded. Water went up my nose about 5 times, and I choked from almost suffocating. It was the oddest cleaning I have ever had. The whole experience lasted about 10 mins, which seemed very fast for a cleaning, but I was thankful as I didn't feel like drowning anymore. Part of me felt like she was upset at me for asking for a cleaning--even though it wasn't even my mistake!
After my drowning, I patiently waited for the dentist to come in. She walked around the corner, introduced herself, and told me I had cavities. Um...what? I really wish she would've been a little more friendly and personable upfront, before giving me the bad news. Perhaps she felt it was super common to have cavities, but I haven't had one in almost 20 years, so I was taken aback. She also explained that she wanted to redo my filling, but didn't explain why. I've never had a dentist so abrupt and rude. I really wish she would've taken the time to explain it to me further, but she seemed to be in a rush. She didn't even show me my X-Rays! I've never been to a dentist that didn't explain my treatment. The whole meeting with the dentist took only about 2 mins.
I checked out with the receptionist, who misquoted me on how much my fillings would cost, and went on my way.
Overall: worst dental experience of my life! I will not be returning anytime soon.
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