Fourteenth Adjustment

Today I had a lower incisor re-bracketed. I think it was tooth 25. I wasn't told. I was under the impression that I was going to have more lower anterior teeth re-bracketed. I am not sure what is going on? I called the orthodontist office and left a message to get some answers, due to him racing off to the next patient. During our meeting (last month) I thought this appointment was going to include more. I also thought there would be a little more communication. I am really concerned about this office. I had to tell the Dental Assistant to tie a molar bracket in. It never seems that the orthodontist ever checks the Dental Assistants work. They never seem to know my elastics size (Korea), I always have to tell them. The assistant didn't even talk to the orthodontist, I swear she decided that I should wear elastics. They don't keep you informed and never ask if I have questions (even though I brought this up in my letter). My next appointment is 02/22/2010 at 8:50 AM. See the photos after the adjustment above.

Meeting With Orthodontist

I met with my Orthodontist on 01/04/2010 at 8:10 AM to discuss some of my concerns. I mailed a letter to the Orthodontist Office (see below) with my concerns and they wanted to have a meeting with me. The Orthodontist is the one who mapped out my treatment plan and stated they can get the "black triangles" smaller. He also said my bite is coming along great from wearing the elastics. He thinks the only compromise will be the missing lower incisor. He also appologized for the issues that I had last time. It was a productive meeting.

Complaint Letter:
December 23, 2009

To Whom It May Concern:

I went in for an adjustment on December 22, 2009. I saw Dr. XXXX (I normally see XXXX). The adjustment went fine and I had some questions that I wanted to ask. It seemed like my questions were a burden to Dr. XXXX I know the practice is extremely busy, but I as patient deserve time to ask questions. When I asked him a question it felt like I was “squeezing” it in between patients. The fact that I had to ask the question while he was working on another patient is also bothersome. I am sure the “no questions” approach works well with children, but I am an adult and I paid for the treatment and deserve to have my questions asked and answered.

My issue is that I am very concerned about the extraction site. Now that it is “somewhat” closed, the level of the gum is lower than the rest of teeth. Plus, there is a “black triangle” there because of the shape of the teeth. Dr. XXXX said there isn’t much that can be done about this and I should ask Dr. XXXX I know it isn’t a “big deal” to Dr. XXXX, but I can assure you it is a big deal to me. Who knows which doctor will be there next time? It is always varies.

I put my trust in this practice and I thought it was one where it can be an open dialogue between patient and doctor. This experience has me starting to regret my decision in choosing this office to perform orthodontic work. I know it is a little too late 17 months in to feel that way, but I do feel that way. I guess since I paid for the treatment I am out of luck and I have to go along with the ride and hope for the best.


Sincerely,

XXXXXX