I moved to the area from out of state last year. Prior to then my previous dentist had me scheduled for once per year cleanings since I do such a good job cleaning my teeth and I had only had one cavity in my life (I'm in my late 30s).
When I first visited Dr. Bader last September I was told I had a cavity and because of gum issues I should come in for cleanings every 3 months. I was quite surprised. I had the cavity filled, but due to finances I waited six months for the next cleaning.
In March I went in for my cleaning and was told I had two more cavities!
Here's where I have an issue. At both cleanings, the hygienist told me everything looked fine and it wasn't until Dr. Bader came to look that cavities were spotted. The cavities were not spotted on x-rays, but she saw "shadows" on my teeth. I can't prove that I don't have the cavities (until I visit another dentist), but I find it very suspicious that I had one cavity my whole life and then all the sudden have three in six months, and go from once a year cleanings to needing cleanings every three months.
I worked in the dental field for seven years, which I did not disclose to Dr. Bader or her team, and I discussed this with a friend of mine in the field and she also found it very suspicious. She said if there was a "shadow" normally they would just keep an eye on it, not do a filling immediately.
Also, during the second visit the hygienist said they were doing a new oral cancer screening and shined a light in my mouth. She made it sound like this was just part of the visit. However, when I left I was charged $25 for the screening (I don't have dental insurance and pay cash). I don't appreciate having a procedure done at an extra cost without my authorization (after I complained, I did get a refund).
Again, I can't prove anything yet about the cavities, but I feel very uncomfortable at this point about going back. I'm going to go to another dentist for my next visit to get a second opinion. I will post an update at that time.