Smile Design Dentistry Reviews (%countItem)
Smile Design Dentistry Rating
Address: 601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, Florida, United States, 33602
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I was recently at this location for a yearly exam, xrays and cleaning. I was charged $98 for the services even though my insurance covers this. When I asked about it, I was told that my insurance did not cover any of these services. I have had Humana for several years and all of this was covered in the past.The office manager, Heather said that these companies sell the policy with no knowledge of what is covered. When I got home, I checked my benefits schedule and they in fact do cover. Heather also is not returning my phone messages left yesterday and today to discuss. What is really disturbing it that when you are in the dentist chair, they ask for your credit card, charge you then you discover what they've charged after the fact.
Product_Or_Service: dental
Refund I want my money back, $98. I can send them the codes for the proper billing since they don't seem to know how to code.
Please accept our apology as there was an oversight when reviewing the insurance plan details, however the office has since corrected the error.
The patient is being issued a refund for the full amount charged for the office visit in question, by the same method she paid.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)
The office called me today and said the mistake was fixed and my money refunded for the services. Thank you.
Charged inaccurately for broken appointment. I arrived on time for my rescheduled appointment.
I originally had an appointment for 8:00 am on May 5, 2020. I received a call at 8:15 asking my ETA. Although I was very close to the office I understood that the procedure I was scheduled for was labor intensive and taking me back at 8:20 may affect other scheduled patients. I made another appointment for 11:00 am the same day. I left and came back for the second time that day promptly at 11:00 am. I was instructed to wait outside due to the corona virus guidelines and some one would come to get me when the dentist was ready for me. I called at 11:15 to see if I was able to come in but was told no. The office assistant told me that she has already told me to wait outside until I was called. At 11:30 I knocked on the door and was told that they were still not ready for me and they were working me in. Why was I told I had a rescheduled appointment for 11:00 AM. After 30 minutes of waiting outside I left. I informed the worker at 11:30 that I was leaving when she told me I still could not come in. I was charged for "broken appointment". I don't think that is accurate because I did show up for my appointment. I came once at 8:20 and then again at 11:00. I found it unreasonable to be kept waiting in a parking lot for over 30 minutes without any info on when I may actually be able to come inside. I was even more chagrined to see I was charged a broken appointment fee.
I would like the billing to be adjusted. They should inform customers that if you reschedule, you will be worked in and may be seen whenever they are able to which may be much later than new scheduled time.
Good afternoon,
Ms. was late for her appointment set for 8:00 am by 20 mins. We offered her a later appointment in order to try and work her back in to the schedule. Our front desk rep explained that we were fitting her in and to please bare with us as we were trying to accommodate patients that we had to cancel from the previous 8+ weeks due to COVID-19. We did ask Ms. to wait outside due to CDC recommendations for Phase 1 reopening in regards to dental practices. We are making ALL patients wait outside or in their car until a room is ready for them.
There was a bit of a wait, again due to circumstances of rescheduling/accommodating 8+ weeks of patients.
Our doctor asked that she be charged for a broken appointment, as she was late for her original appointment and then left on the second appointment.
We will offer a courtesy discount for her broken appointment fee this one time.
Thank you.
My previous dentist of 20 years does not cover me under my Medicare program so I chose this office to have my regular checkups done. When I first went there I made certain they were ONLY to provide a cleaning and checkup while they sent for my records from the other office. NOTHING ELSE! I also noted that I had been seeing my previous dentist every 6 months like clockwork for 20 years and that the cleaning and general introductory checkup was all I required. They said they had to do X-Rays for their file records even though I mentioned they were recently done and in the records they were to request.
As mentioned many times in the posts below I too had an extra item bill... $223 of extra service including a very expensive mouthwash that was no requested or required - all of which were NOT covered or requested. On top of that, they never completed the requested cleaning - no buffing or floss! Regardless of what they call their procedures, they told me it was a cleaning process. They have MANY ways to call procedures something that is not going to be covered yet they refused to honor my initial demand. They wanted to schedule deep cleaning sessions which I found out later were not required at the time. They never even called or tried to setup an appointment - thankfully!
I called my healthcare provider and complained. I was told some Dental offices do this for extra billing because they don't make enough under medicare program plans and that the dental practices are still not regulated as they should be. This practice has chosen to provide care under the Medicare program for seniors. Once again seniors are being targeted for out-of-pocket expenses and extra billing. If you cant make sufficient money from the Medicare programs, and have to resort to these billing practices, do us all a favor and get out of it!
What part of "NO PROCEDURES OR SERVICES ARE TO BE PERFORMED THAT ARE NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE" do they not understand?
You will find all kinds of rebuttals from this practice under the complaints below which I find insulting. If they would simply follow their patients requests they might have a better rating and far less complaints.
Bottom line... I would not trust this practice ever again.
I am due a refund of $1970.00 for two root canals that were not completed. Office manager said it should be within 2 weeksits now nearly 7 weeks.
I have been a faithful patient at Smile Design dentistry in Dade City, Fl for the past 10 plus years. I have always paid my fees when services were rendered, and I have never been late, and if an appointment had to be changed, I called well in advance to reschedule. My experience with Dr. Milli P. has been professional and I have been pleased with her work. Unfortunately my last few visits have been acceptable. I had voiced previous concerns to her about her associate.
I was in the office on January 22, 2020 due to pain in my upper teeth involving tooth #4 and #5. She advised me I would need root canals on both teeth and they would need to be done by "Dr . Gary". At that time issues she felt he could take care of my problems. He initiated the treatment on January 29, 2020. My pain did not improve and he did not complete the procedures on subsequent visits. After 3 rounds of antibiotics and tunneling in my palate, I sought out a second opinion with an Endodontist. The final visit to "Dr. Gary" indicated a lack of concern, as he did not even look at my teeth of check the level of swelling in my palate. I might add that I do have concerns that his treatment did not meet the minimum standard of care for a patient with the severity of infection that I've had. I paid a total of $1970.00 dollars on January 29th, for payment of the entire procedures.
My visit to the Endodontist was accomplished on February 12, 2020 where he began the first of two root canal treatments on teeth #4 and #5. I contacted Smile Design the same day and reiterated my issues with them. I was advised my complete payment of $1970.00 would be returned to be by check. It is now going on 7 weeks and I have not yet received my refund. I was advised by the office manager in Dade City, FL that it would be around 2 weeks.
I will be moving my dental care to another office after this absolute disgusting management of my dentition and fees. Not once did I ever leave the office without paying what was owed. In addition, I will never recommend this office even for something as simple as a cleaning to anyone. I expect to hear from the billing office regarding my concerns as stated.
I simply desire a refund of $1970.00, the cost for two root canals that were not completed. I had to seek care with an Endodontist for a severe infection was not taken care of by Smile Design.
A refund check was issued and patient should receive by March 31st. Thank you.
Please see attached.
After audit of the patient's account, an additional $290 is due to the patient. A check for this amount was submitted today to our bank for disbursement to the patient. Total patient refund including this amount is $1550.
The patient paid $1986, however our doctor did begin treatment on both teeth which in turn incurred charges. The patient did not give us the opportunity to continue treatment before seeking treatment elsewhere, and requested a refund AFTER the treatment was completed by another provider.
The patient has been given a copy of her records as well.
Thank you.
Promised a refund on dentures that I had prepaid for but could not possibly wear. That was on Jan. 27,2020 and I have not received it yet.
I went to this dental business to have a new partial dental plate made. I was told that I had have my remaining teeth pulled first. Which they did on 11/11/2019. In a couple weeks I got what was suppose to be my "temporary" denture. But I was horrified by how they looked and felt. They said they would make me another one at no charge. I went back for more fittings. On Jan. 27,2020, I got what was to be my new denture. I almost passed out. The upper part of the teeth were just fractions from the top of my bottom teeth. And they extended over and almost to the bottom of my teeth. I again could not accept them. So the office manager came in, told me leave both sets of dentures and that they would refund me the $1,600.00 I had prepaid. I have contacted them many times since. They have told me twice now that the check has been cut and I should receive it soon. I was told 3/3/2020 that I would have my check today. I did not receive it. I have had to go to another dentist in the mean time and start the process all over again. I am 68yrs old, retired and on a fixed income. I cannot afford to lose this much money.
$1600.00
The check was issued early March and we show the check was cashed on 3/11/2020. Copies of cashed check on hand as needed. Thank you.
Smile design (S.D.) is billing me $907.40 over what was agreed for dental work 5/20/I9. I paid $3500.00. Delta D. Paid $287. I do not owe any $ to SD.
DELTA DENTAL informed me that I do not owe SD any more $ due to the contact agreement between them.
Please have SD STOP HARRASING ME FOR THE $907.40 that I do not owe them according to their agreement with Delta Dental Insurance. They have called and sent bills to me excessively. Thank you
Mr. had treatment on 5/14/2019, which was submitted to ins company. They paid a portion and the EOB-Explanation of Benefits stated they could not see all the teeth in the x-rays submitted. You can clearly see all the teeth in question, and therefore I submitted an appeal and they denied, sent 2nd appeal denied again. I have exhausted all efforts to get this paid. As you can see I have addressed several times (see attached history of appeals/x-rays sent). The first thing all ins companies tell you is that coverage is not a guarantee of payment. Mr. is responsible for the portion ins co did not pay unless he is able to get them to overturn the appeal.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Smile design informed me they had submitted additional information to *** about the dental work performed on me last year. I have not heard back from Smile design the results of the information which was submitted by paper copy thru the US Postal Service.
Smile design did offer a proposed settlement of deducting 20% from the $907. I still think this money is not owed by me. My insurance company; *** has told me in the past that according to a contracual agreement with Smile Design I do not owe Smile Design any more money.
I have already paid Smile Design $3,500 for a lower "canine" bridge (6 lower front teeth in one span).
I do not consider this matter closed. Smile design is still sending me threatening bills for $907)
We can provide Mr. with tracking #'s for the x-rays we included with his claim in which the insurance company is stating they are not included on "said" xrays. Mr. can file a grievance against his insurance for not paying his claim. Normally once this happens, the insurance company pays. Please contact Sophia at the Spring Hill office for this information.
Thank you.
I was charged for services I did not request nor was covered by my insurance coverage. I made an appointment for a bi-annual cleaning and check-up that would have been completely covered by Humana. Without my agreement or knowledge, this practice switched me to a "deep plane cleaning" that left me with a $67 out-of-pocket payment, plus I never saw a dentist. In the 3 years I have used this practice, I was always subjected to their efforts to up-sale me for services not covered by my insurance. This was the last straw. BEWARE! There are too many honest practices out there that will appreciate your business and treat you honestly and professionally.
The service charge procedures of this office is misleading. My wife was told that the procedures that were going to be done were covered by the medical plan, and then there was a bill for the same procedures that the front desk had told her that the plan covered them. On the last occasion, my wife received a collection bill for $ 95. My wife called them to claim them and they told her that the patient was responsible for verifying that information. They are irresponsible and thieves. At the front desk, the person in charge of transmitting to the medical plan the information of the procedures that will be carried out on the patient is responsible for informing the patient if the medical plan covers them or not, so that the patient decides If you do them or not. What is certain is that the medical plan informs that the procedures do not cover them and they lie to the patient so that the procedures are performed and then charged to the patient.
To further assist, please provide the office name and location and we will be happy to look in to this matter for you. Thank you.
Please see attached complaint and documentation received from consumer
Please see attached.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I pay for Dental insurance through Humana. Per Humana they have a contract with the provider (Smile Design). The provider submitted a claim for $3424.00 and Humana directed the provider of the amount they are "allowed" to collect for those services, which is $1704.00. Humana paid the dentist office $1042.72. The explanation of benefits clearly states that the amount I am responsible for is $877.28. Therefore per their contract with Humana they should apply a contractual adjustment for the difference. I paid $2603.16 on 8/19/19. Humana has advised me that I should have only paid $877.28. The dentist office refunded me only $169.92. I would like to be refunded the remainder of what is due to me per their contract with Humana. Humana is investigating them for balance billing which is insurance fraud.
Good evening,
I encourage you to reference the letter that explains the billed amount, and outstanding EOB that we have not yet received from the insurance company regarding D7953. Once we receive that, we can continue our audit.
You may contact your insurance company for a copy of the EOB for D7953 as this may be available to you sooner than it is for us. If you are able to obtain the EOB, you can forward to ***@thesmiledesign.com.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I pay for Dental insurance through Humana. Per Humana they have a contract with the provider (Smile Design). The provider submitted a claim for $3424.00 and Humana directed the provider of the amount they are "allowed" to collect for those services, which is $1704.00. Humana paid the dentist office $1042.72. The explanation of benefits clearly states that the amount I am responsible for is $877.28. Therefore per their contract with Humana they should apply a contractual adjustment for the difference. I paid $2603.16 on 8/19/19. Humana has advised me that I should have only paid $877.28. The dentist office refunded me only $169.92. I would like to be refunded the remainder of what is due to me per their contract with Humana. Humana is investigating them for balance billing which is insurance fraud.
We have received the Explanation of Benefits from the insurance company for D7953 x 4, that reflects 100% patient responsibility up to the UCR of $875 per tooth. We are not planning to debit the patient's account for the "allowable" rates.
We will comply with any inquiry the insurance company requests as needed.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)
It is very unfortunate that Smile Design Spring Hill conducts dishonest practices by first not abiding by their contract with patients insurance. Secondly, by not advising the patient of this before dental work begins. Thirdly, by claiming three months after dental work was completed, that a procedure was done that the patient was unaware of. I will not recommend this practice to anyone.
Consistent pain when eating even after crown adjustment. Dentist said if it continues it's just the way it is. Try sensodyne toothpaste.
I went in to get my teeth cleaned and one tooth looked at. I wasn't having trouble with any other teeth but the dentist insisted I needed three crowns, costing me $$2000. After crown placement she said if I have sensitivity or pain in a few days to come back as the crowns may need adjusting. I went back and had them adjusted. After she adjusted the crowns she said if I still have sensitivity and pain it should go away in a few days. If not, then I need to try sensodyne toothpaste because this sometimes happens when people have their crowns replace 3X. I thought that statement was kind of odd since this was the first time I had crowns placed on these teeth. It has now been about a month since I had the work done and I feel pain Everytime I eat.
I would like my insurance company to be reimbursed for the work and a refund for the $2000 charged on my care credit account.
Mrs. *** was seen in the office on July, 9, 2019, an exam and X-rays were performed. A treatment plan was presented and patient agreed to start treatment same day. Mrs. needed crowns on 3 teeth due to large existing older amalgam fillings which were showing sings of fractures and recurrent decay. On July 24, 2019 all crowns were seated and patient was informed she may need some adjusting. Mrs *** came in on August 7, 2019 for an adjustment. At that visit she was informed she may need further treatment at an Endodontist if sensitivity continues or may need additional adjustments. X-rays confirm crown are sealed at the margins and all 3 look good. Dr. Bressler would like to see Mrs. again for possible adjustments or possible endo referral at her convenience. Clinical notes can be provided as needed to support the information included in the letter.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
This statement of their response is inaccurate, "At that visit she was informed she may need further treatment at an Endodontist if sensitivity continues or may need additional aadjustments." As I wrote in my original complaint, I was told by the dentist, if my teeth still bothered me then I need to try SSensodyne. That's why I felt I needed to file a complaint. I no longer feel comfortable going to this dentist and I asked for a.refund so I can use the money to.go.to another.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
As stated previously, I do not feel the business is being truthful and no longer feel comfortable seeing this dentist. Coming in to get a referral to see another dentist does not help me considering I will now still have to pay the $2000 for the inadequate work on my teeth, plus pay for it to now be adjusted/fixed. I can see that Smile Design Dentistry and their current dentist really has no intention of helping with the problem she created. I would definitely urge others to ask questions about things like this prior to having a dentist complete work.
We are unable to fulfill ***'s request for a refund at this time as there is no evidence to support the crowns as being defective/unsound. Dr. *** office manager confirmed that a referral to see an Endodontist for an evaluation was mailed out to the patient on 9/17/2019, as *** does not wish to see Dr. Bressler at this time. Once *** seeks an evaluation from the Endodontist, or another general dentist regarding these teeth, we can assist as needed for additional resolution or needs.
not fixing problem and treating with no respect
had dentures mad though medicare. bottom set was adjusted by tech. top set was not made correctly and I complained to tech he tried to fix but said I had to se the doctor. I was kept waitinf for over an hour the first time in chair and had to have manager chase down dr. he knew the problem but gfinally came in put some paste on the upper and said try that, even though I had already informed him that I could not use them. when they were copied the depth was not set correctly and the do not fit in my mouth. I then waited 3 weeks and called them was informed I had to wait to see dr. the da of my apt was cancelled as I gather dr works when he wants to. I finally got an apt for tues at 3pm. when I arrived there were 10 people in the waiting roo, three of whom walked out becuse they could not be taken care of in time. at 4 pm I was led in to the back was told dr would be right there, again had to get mgr to trrack down dr. he finally came in gave a quick look and said be right back have to take pictures and see if lab can do anything, needless to say 20 min later he staill had not reeturned and I left. I am disabled and cannot stay in the chair long. I never received a call from them. I called the corporate office and issued a complaint and was informed a dist mgr would investigate. 1 week later and I have not heard from them. the bottom line is I have a denture I cannot use and doesent seem to phase this dr at all. if you are a paying customer and he can sell you more services he pays attention if you as in medicare been paid up front and no further profit to be made he treats you like you dont exist. I cannot complain about staff the girls were very nice, but they seem extremely frustrated on the conditions there
have their area mgr call me and try to resolve this issue through them as a district mgr should
After the Office Manager reached out to Mr., he agreed to come to the office today. We are remaking his denture for him. Mr. appeared pleased with the visit today, and thanked the team for helping him.
(The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)
they reached out right after this complaint . they scheduled me an appointment and when I arrived they went out of their way to rectify the situation.
Worst dental office ever. I went to my 6month check-up and cleaning. Dr. Honig didn't find any issues with my teeth, then the hygienist comes behind him and issues her own diagnosis just to charge me more to my insurance and more copay money for a deep cleaning that I didn't needed instead of my routine clean-up, of course she's getting more money to do a deep cleaning... sounds like a total fraud to me.
The doctor completed his portion of the clinical exam and communicated before leaving room, that the hygienist would take gum measurements and let you know what cleaning you will need. Noted that you reported history of periodontal treatment in the past.
After the hygienist explained your localized loss of attachment and the need for localized treatment, you agreed with the need for periodontal treatment until the estimate of cost was presented. We understand you were expecting your hygiene visit the same day, and understand time is limited for our patients due to work, or other commitments. However due to the type of treatment warranted for your periodontal findings, time did not permit the same day.
Your dental health is our top priority, and we would not want to compromise that by not allowing our team the appropriate time to complete your treatment.
Your statement is completely fslse. Of course, your company will make up uneeded extra services to charge more money to my insurance company and consequently me, the consumer. That's fraud and it's illegal. Your reviews from other customers says so. I went to another clinic and they didn't find the need for a "deep cleaning" like you did and got my regular cleaning without any issues. I reiterate, your company's a fraud and would never go again or recommend. Reporting to Consumer Protection Agency is being considered as well.
they said they honor my insurance never did they honor what was allowed by my insurance plus they threw away records that's against the law...
they charged me and should not have I have insurance. plus they threw away my medical records. I had to call the cops and get them involved. they lied to the cops and everything. however my insurance company is doing a internal investigation on the dentist. very unprofessional. they write in blue ink against law in the medical field. they made a written statement of what was owed, I didn't owe nothing first of all secondly they wrote instead of filed it and put it in my file. another against the law to write on a statement
for the dentist to be closed down, found out this is an on going issue. they were closed down a few times before. however they keep on reopening offices and doing the same thing, they have not learned a lesson. they need to be shut down lose their license and thats the way i feel
In response to this complaint, *** holds a zero balance with our dental office dating back to April as we adjusted this off as a courtesy. Her balance was due to limits on her insurance associated with xray frequencies.
Unfortunately, we've had to resort to dismissing the patient from the practice due to a conflict of patient/provider relationship and allegations that are not supported.
In reference to the involvement of law enforcement, the officer who responded to the call provided his contact information to reach out to him if she comes to the office again, and he will issues a trespass.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Because they are full of hot air first of all the *** company told them not to charge me I have humanahumana gold plus plus medicare and medicaid if they took my insurance like they admitted they did and verified my insurance they would of found out I owed nothing from the beginning. Secondly they said I can't come back because I had cops there due to them throwing out my statements that was written on which is against the law and written in blue ink I wanted a copy of it they threw them out till today no copies received they double bill and lie about accepting insurances look at prior complaints you guys were shut down how many times for wrong doing next is putting the wrong doing in jail and the docs lose their business and license I work and come from med billing from quest after twelve years I know how to bill and I'm a medical assistant I know the do and do nots about throwing away medical statements and records to cover up your guys mistakes as far as not being allowed back good as far as doing me a favor by taking care of charges that's your mistake because I owe you guys nothing my copay is zero you get that and ins is doing an investigation too. I'm not done I'll keep on going till I achieve my goal with you people
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
There's no excuse to throw away any report sounds like you have something to hide be throwing it away why because you are trying yo cover up a wrong doing and however your supposed to keep records for 7 years even dental records
As communicated previously, we do not have a copy of the statement sent to you. Being the balance on the account is at zero, we are unable to provide a statement showing a previous balance and do not keep copies of prior statements as they are sent out electronically.
Thank you.
I ordered dentures July 2018 and they took weeks and weeks for them to come in and each time they did not fit and now they broke twice since then.
I ordered dentures in July 2018. They did not fit properly each time I went to pick them up. They were delayed for weeks. I finally received. November of 2018 they broke. They said would be several weeks for a repair. Had to leave town for work and needed them much sooner. Had to take them to another dentist for repair and cost $345 in November of 2018. Now it is May 5, 2019 and the dentures broke in the same spot again. This time I called *** again and they told me because I took the dentures to another lab, they void the warranty. This is the second time they broke in 10 months in the same spot, and they have not fixed it either time. I will have to pay another $345 to repair again. When I spoke to the office manager, she was very rude as she usually is when I go in the office.
I would like *** to stand by their product and fix the dentures that broke and they never had to repair for the 2nd time!
presented for new partials on 5/18/2018. Patient signed treatment plan and accepted treatment to begin new partials. To complete partials, the patient required multiple visits. This was explained to the patient and patient accepted treatment and proceeded to move forward with treatment. Upon completion of the partial, Dr. Van G. was not satisfied with the final product and sent it back to the lab for review and repair. This was explained to the patient. Patient understood and was aware of what was going on. When the partial was finally completed, the patient was happy with the final product. Patient was advised upon delivery that he may need adjustments. Patient had an appointment on 2/8/2019 but no-showed. Patient did not follow up with us for another visit. On Tuesday, May 7th, 2019. Mrs. called our office explaining that her husband's partials broke. She also informed us that since the last time he had been in our office he was forced to go to another dentist to repair the partial because we had no appointments available. I advised Mrs. that since the partial was taken elsewhere that the repair should be under warranty where Mr. took the partial for repair. Mrs. was very upset and stated that we should repair it because we did the partial here. Patient called our complaint hotline and expressed her concerns. Upon reviewing Mr. case with my Manager we agreed to have the patient come in to review the partial with the dentist and see how we can resolve the issue for the patient. I called Mrs. on Wednesday May 8th, 2019 and let her know that we would like to have Mr. come in so the Dr. could take a look at the partial. Mrs. said she would call her husband and would call us back since he would like to look at his schedule before scheduling. Mrs. never called back. Mrs. called our Regional Manager and informed her that while I was on the phone with her, her and her husband were back at the dentist that did the repair and wished to not speak with us. Patient requested we refund her for the repairs they paid for. Patient was refunded $720.00 on 5/9/2019 for repairs.
The business did not deliver what they suppose and what I needed from them to do, and probably they were incapable to accomplish the task.
On March seventh I went to Dr. Mohammad B.'s office to place two crowns on teeth (***). He took 5 X-rays and also the impression and sent to the lab.
Two weeks later I went for a final placement of the crowns. After he tried them, he decided that they don't fit properly and he has to send them back to the lab.
Without any explanation or obvious reason he started to take X-rays, and after the fifth consecutive X-ray to the same spot. I objected saying : that I have been exposed to a harmful radiation unnecessarily . The doctor who was at the switch of the X-ray machine replied with an insolent, impolite manner, which doesn't pertain to a doctor-patient relationship in any way , shape or form: " we will take as much as we want ... you could go wherever you want"!.
Still, even after my objection, he took another four X-rays to the same exact area.
I found Dr. B.'s behavior is extremely unsettling and troubling to say the least, as he carelessly disregards patients' health by exposing them to a harmful radiation, with a cumulative negative effect, even in a small doses. This behavior should not be excused or justified, whether it was intended or due to lack of experience.
I asked him, when the crowns will come in two weeks, are you going to take X-rays again ? He said :"yes , many more ". He also did not assure me , or was confident that is going to work.
I had to go somewhere else, and I got them done in Dr. I.'s office with only two X-rays: one prior and one after the placement .
Dr. B. also ignored the letter I've sent him, and seemingly refused to issue me a refund ($980) . Because, In reality what I have got from the two visits to his office, only the exposure to a total of 14 X-rays.
Just a refund of ($ 980)
In response to this complaint by Mr., the patient came to our office on 3/5/19 complaining of pain in the UR area. Upon examination Dr. B. determined that the patient needed crowns on teeth *** and . The patient agreed to start treatment that day, and left the office with temporary crowns.
The impressions were sent to the lab to fabricate permanent crowns, as we do not have on onsite lab.
The patient returned to the office on 3/19/19 to have his permanent crowns cemented. X-rays were taken prior to the permanent crowns being cemented to ensure they were clinically sound prior to permanent cementation. It was determined by viewing the xray, that tooth *** had an open margin and tooth *** had significant overhang.
Dr. B. explained this to the patient and let him know that we would need to take another impression and have the crowns adjusted/remade by the lab as the crowns were not clinically sound for final cementation. Additionally he explained if we did not have the crowns re-made the overhang would be plaque traps and lead to more issues in the future including the possibility of recurrent decay. The patient seemed to understand what Dr. B. had explained.
New impressions were taken, the temporary crowns were recemented, and the patient was scheduled to return on 4/4/19 to have the new permanent crowns cemented. Mr. did now show for his appointment on 4/4/19 to cement the crowns that were re-fabricated.
We later received a letter from the patient stating he had gone somewhere else to have the crowns done as he did not feel comfortable seeing Dr. B. for treatment. I attempted to call the patient twice (once on 4/19/19 and again on 4/26/19) at *** to issue a full refund to him for services. I left messages both times with no response.
On 5/7/2019, an email was sent to the patient to the email provided on his new patient paperwork (***) requesting that he contact the office regarding the refund status on his account, as we need to obtain his credit card information in order to process. Mr. replied refusing to contact the office, and has not provided the requested information needed to process the refund.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I haven't received the refund yet.
Mr. wife emailed the office requesting information about the cost difference. Being Mr. did not list her on the HIPAA portion of his paperwork, the office was unable to provide this information. The office emailed her back asking to have her husband contact the office. She replied stating to just send it again and we stated the same thing her, that her husband would have to contact the office to grant permission. To date, he has not contacted the office nor provided the permission/consent to release information ot his spouse.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)
Her response is irrelevant and nonsensical, as she has no legitimate justification for the money they took. Ordinarily, any business will send you a clear-cut and transparent invoice for the charge(s) and give you a receipt when you pay - none of that has happened. At this time no point to continue the discussion as they have already decided to swindle the money.
I want to thank Revdex.com for their superb job and help.
WEST COOAST DENTAL (WCD) ACQUIRED SMILE DESIGN DENTISTRY IN EARLY 2018. ON/AROUND 03/13/2018, THEY REQUESTED PAYMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $498.80.
UPON INVESTIGATION OF EOBs, RECEIPTS, AND STATEMENTS, I FOUND WCD OWE US THE AMOUNT OF $439.60. ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION WAS PROVIDED TO WCD ON/AROUND 05/16/2018.
DESPITE SEVERAL FOLLOW-UP LETTERS, WCD REFUSES TO RESPOND OR REIMBURSE THE $439.60
Product_Or_Service: DENTAL SERVICES
Refund REIMBURSE THE AMOUNT OF $439.60
We have audited the accounts for Maria in both the Orange *** and *** offices, and there isn't a credit/refund due. There is a balance of $410.20 however the balance was adjusted off her account in April 2018 resulting in a $0.00 balance. We acquired this office in 2017, after Maria had services, however we have access to her ledger history of charges that we used to complete the audit. Maria did submit an audit of her own, however she used "Submitted Charges" off the EOB's which reflect UCR fees, when she would have needed to use the charges off her ledger that reflect her insurance fees. As a general rule, all dental/medical claims are submitted to carriers with UCR fees, but doesn't mean this is what was used to charge the patient. We will be more than happy to provide a copy of the audit we completed, along with copies of her patient ledgers from both offices.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
My numbers are based on the EOBs because, as indicated on each and everyone of the EOBs, "Participating dentists have agreed to charge the patient only the amount indicated as the patient responsibility". In other words, they cannot claim that the patient can be charged more than what they agreed to.
Attached is copy of an EOB as evidence.
Copy of all EOBs were provided
As stated in our last response, the charges on the EOB's are NOT what was charged to the ledger. Standard practice is to send UCR (Usual and Customary Rate) fees, and NOT the contracted fees, on the claims, which then is reflected on the EOB's.
A refund is only due if the patient pays over what the insurance states is their responsibility, taking in to consideration items that are NON-billable like the $99 cosmetic fee charged for all 3 crowns. These items you will not see on the EOB's as they are non-billable and due by the patient.
We will be more than happy to provide you our audit with copies of the ledgers upon request.
Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
EOB clearly states that "participating dentists have agreed to charge the patient only the amount indicated as the patient's responsibility", not the UCRs...
Dr. Jim B. was very unprofessional at my last dental visit. I informed him of a concern with his office repeatedly failing to follow up on a bill that was not resolved with my insurance. In addition, I was not pleased with the newly appointed hygienist assigned to administer my cleaning. After discussing the issue, Jim B. immediately dismissed my concerns and stated, "you are just being difficult." He further informed me, "if you want customer service, you have to go to a restaurant." He informed me that I indeed did not need to contacted regarding the issue. He was degrading and unprofessional which is unwarranted and unacceptable behavior.
Other (requires explanation) A written apology acknowledging his behavior. Participation in customer service training that is provided to ALL medical staff.
Ms. complaint has been reviewed and was dismissed from the practice on 10/29/2018. Below are the notes regarding her visit on 10/29/18 that lead up to the dismissal.
We called to confirm Ms. upcoming hygiene appointment and she was hesitant to confirm due to the balance on her account that she had been trying to resolve. The newly appointed office manager assured her that her concerns would be researched regarding the balance/pending claim from 2017 and would get back with her. After contacting the insurance company and resolving the balance issue, the office manager tried calling the patient but had to leave a voicemail explaining the issue had been resolved, with locating the ins payment that would clear her account. The office manager also stated she was confirming the appointment on 10/29/18 but if she decided to not keep the appointment, to please contact her. She did not. Ms. arrived at her appointment as scheduled and was unpleasant when checking in, stating she never heard back from the office manager. The OM apologized and explained that her account concern was resolved, and she attempted to contact her but had to leave her a message, to which the patient confirmed she didn't listen to. After the patient was taken back to the treatment room, Dr. Buckley came into the room to treat Ms. and she immediately told Dr. Buckley that the front staff had horrible customer service skills and didn't know what they were doing. She proceeded to tear off her bib, asked for a toothbrush and started brushing her teeth in the treatment room, stating "I'll just brush them myself and do a better job than her!" Dr. Buckley expressed to the patient that this is a dental office, we don't have "customers" or "customer service". He tried using an analogy that restaurants have customers, Amazon has customer service, and that she was a "patient". Ms. continued to speak, interrupting the doctor, now pointing, and Dr. Buckley suggested that if she didn't feel confident in our office team, then Ms. should seek another practice. Dr. Buckley escorted Ms. to the front desk for the office manager to address any other concerns she had before leaving. She again stated said never heard back about her account balance with the office manager again communicating that she was sorry, but the voicemail Ms. confirmed earlier that she didn't listen to, explained the issue had been resolved. She then requested we cancel all her family's future appointments as she would not be returning. We in turn sent the patient a dismissal letter via mail the same day. Apologies were made the day of her appointment which are appropriate for the matter at hand. We wish Ms. well.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
The response is untruthful and in accurate. I never used the descriptions he stated and his new staff repeatedly failed to follow up with me. In addition, the hygienist was not properly suction my mouth causing me to gag which is why is discontinued her services. Of course, Dr. Buckley is omitting his tone and he did not escort me as I walked up front after I brushed my own teeth. I will continue my claim with the Medical Board and request an investigation into his practices. Poor customer service and unprofessionalism will be reported. He is exaggerating my actions and omitting as well as dismissing how he scolded me and handled the matter.
We are sorry Ms. feels this way, and hope that she will find another dentist to meet her needs.
Please see attached complaint and documentation received from consumer
On 4/10/18, patient was presented a treatment plan for extractions #23/#26 and bridge #19-30. Patient agreed and signed all documents. Patient had #23 & #26 extracted and bridge #19-30 prepped. Patient returned on 4/25/18 for final impression of bridge #19-30. Patient then returned on 5/10/18 and bridge #19-30 was temporarily cemented to make sure patient liked the bridge. Patient returned on 5/17/18 pleased with treatment, and had bridge permanently cemented. No concerns noted and patient left. Consents & treatment plans for treatment can be provided as needed.
Please see attached signed HIPAA letter received from consumer
Please see attached treatment plan signed by the patient including extractions and new bridge spanning from tooth#19 to #30. I've also provided the diagnostic xrays for Mr..
Dr. Z. is out until Tuesday, so I will not be able to provide the feedback to your last question until Wednesday.
Please see attached rebuttal received from consumer
I was told one price for completion for work to be done.Was not fact,on leaving was given another price for completion.
On 10/2/2017,the dental tech gave me a price of 2100.00 for completion.I financed the procedure through Greensky Financial.When the first phase was completed,I was given a second sheet that said it was going to cost me another 2945.00 to complete the job.I was lied to.They had me apply to Greensky before the work could be started and was approved for up to 10,000.00.Since I was given a price for 2100,that's what I borrowed at 28% interest.After sending a detailed letter to the dentist,I heard nothing.I then went on their website and complained about what I was told it was going to cost,I was sent a message and they said a manager would contact me and discuss my concerns.That never happened.I am still wearing the temporary plate.This is so wrong.I am on a fixed income and borrowing that much made things tight,but had to be done.When I went in to Smile Design.I had to have a few teeth pulled and a bottom plate put in.This what I asked for.This is not what I recieved.I do have all of my paperwork from day 1.Between the dental tech and the dentist,Ishould've have been given the real amount to complete the job,not just the amount done for that day.
The price of 2100.00 was what I was told and I asked the dental tech if this was the completed price and she said yes.This is why I only borrowed that amount.I have tried to contact them and I have recieved no response.They got paid and decieved me at the same time.
We completely understand your concerns and frustrations and have been attempting to contact you via telephone several times with no response. We are unable to resolve this unless you return the call to our office and speak with our Office Managaer Diana. Thank you.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Smile Design Manager,you say you have tried to contact me regarding my issues.I have not recieved a response per phone contact.My cell number is XXX-XXX-XXXX.It should be your responsibility to contact me,since this is an issue that was generated on your end.I am very frustrated with your facility on Boyette,because I was lied to about the charges that I was told to be a completed job.Hopefully you as a manager will take the responsibility of contacting me.I have read the other reviews from this location on Boyette and I see that I am not the first person that has had problems with this location.Please contact me concerning this issue.
The patient was left a voicemail by Diana on 9/27/2018 with the info belo. To date, we have not heard back from Mr..
We are offering to make his final dentures for $400 total cost. We reached out to the lab and they approved giving us a discount so we will do this at cost for him.
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I have already given Smile Design around 2600.00.They quoted me 1975.00.I did talk to Diana and was told for another 400.00 on top of what they have been paid,they would finish the job. I will never set foot back in their office and I will do everything I can to give negative reviews on this office.They have done me wrong and by seeing other reviews, I am not the only one. I have filed a complaint with Consumer Affaires Department also.My denture will be taken care of,but it won't be done by the liars at Smile Design. I hope they can sleep well at night knowing that they lie to their customers.
Don't go here! They advertise a great new customer price then bill your insurance more than advertised and also bill you. They started as Lakeland Smile and have changed names two times. The $69 new customer price turned into about $200