The Value of a Second Opinion

When your dentist recommends a major procedure or expensive dental treatment, it is prudent to seek a second opinion from another competent dentist and make an informed decision. After all, it is your health and happiness at stake and such important decisions should not be made without knowing all your available options and the up and downsides of each of the treatment options.

As part of Austin Dental of Roswell’s commitment to offer the best dental care to our patients, we value second opinions appointments. Second opinions allow our professional staff to empower patients by helping them become fully informed of their care options.

When should you get a second opinion?

Unless you are experiencing a dental emergency, it can be educational and reassuring to seek a second opinion from another competent dentist for any of the following reasons:

• Your diagnosis is unclear.
• Your treatment options are unclear.
• You feel pressured to make a quick, uninformed decision.
• The recommended treatment sounds risky, controversial, or experimental.
• Your treatment results are not as expected or promised.
• You have lost confidence.
• Your dental plan requires a second opinion.

Where should you start?

If you desire a second opinion, it is a good rule to seek advice from a dentist with at least the same level, or greater experience as your current dentist.

Next, contact our offices and speak to one of our team members. Our team members will discuss your desires with Dr. Austin and schedule an appointment, if necessary.

What should you tell your current dentist?

You are not obligated to inform your current dentist that you are seeking a second opinion; however, most dentists will acknowledge their patients’ right to a second opinion.

If dental work has been performed already, be sure to ask for your x-rays and records to share with Dr. Austin. This information will help Dr. Austin understand what the dentist was faced with at the time of your first visit. Dr. Austin may also order new x-rays to complete her comprehensive evaluation.