Ridge Road Dental Care

The following narrative is in response to your letter regarding case ID [redacted]. First, there is no pre authorization needed for routine dental extraction procedures. It is always a good general practice to inquire about finances prior to starting the procedure (ie: should not assume). The patient...

or guardian, first responsibility is to pay the bill. Nitrous oxide was used at the dental extraction visit, at the mothers request. The patient did awesome. Three teeth were extracted: (2) intact. and the third one was in several small fragment~. Since only two intact teeth were returned to the patient, the morn thought that only two were extracted. The mom made so much of a fuss over this, that credit ($231.00)) was given for the third tooth that was extracted. The claim ($825.00) was submitted to the insurance company, and it was paid in the amount of $188.00, leaving remaining balance ($406.00) owed by the patient. Prior to the restorative (ie: filling) procedure the usage vs the non-usage of nitrous oxide was discussed with the patient and it was mutually agreed to do the procedure without nitrous oxide. The patient did not demonstrate any sign of anxiety whatsoever and again did awesome. She did not indicate at any time during, thw procedure that she was uncomfortable. She is a very intelligent young lady and smiled and seemed happy after the fillings were completed. The mom, however, was very forceful and demanding, as it was she who insisted upon the use of nitrous oxide for the procedure, not the patient. I regret that it was an uncomfortable experience for the.•mother of the patient , however the clinical experience for the patient was comfortable and relaxed. The fee that is in my fee schedule may be commensurate with practices in our area or it may be higher; but to consult with other practices regarding fees b considered price fixing and  violates antitrust laws.  There is a landmark case in the dental literature from about 25 years regarding exactly this subject. Finally, the mother's narrative is filled with falsehoods.  This is a high end dental practice and is run very professionally.  The only unprofessional demeanor is that of the mother who is resorting to low key slur tactics and insults to avoid paying the bill in full. For approximately 30 years I did legal work for local and regional attorneys, reviewing malpractice claims and complaints.  I can tell you straight away that this complaint totally lacks merit.  Thank you