Corporate Chains vs. Private Clinics: Which One Puts Your Smile First?
It’s 2025, and so much has changed in the dental world. Just this morning, I read that the number of dental practices being bought and owned by private equity corporations is approaching 65%. How will you know if your trustworthy old dentist has sold out to a corporation?
Stay with me next week, and I’ll teach you the signs to look for.
However, understand that corporations make money for their investors by selling you procedures that are needed or not needed in your mouth.
Most of the time, when doing a second opinion (which we do at no charge), I find that not all the dental options are presented to the patient.
Let’s consider the person who lost a back tooth and is told they need a dental implant. Although nobody needs a dental implant, it may be best for them; however, it may be too expensive.
How about the idea of a dental bridge? It’s often not recommended because it may not be as long-lasting, but it is usually 1/3 the price.
It is not a great sales technique for a young dentist working on a quota for their paycheck, so this option is often overlooked. Instead of both previous options, how about a flipper or removable partial denture?
It’s not a “fan favorite of an option,” but it works, and when made well, it can get you by, and it’s 1/20th the cost of an implant.
Or how about asking yourself the question, “Can you get by completely by not replacing that tooth?” have you read an obituary where the cause of death was a failure to replace a tooth? It should be your decision, and you should have all options open to you and explained to you.
This is guaranteed in our practice. We educate, discuss the pros and cons of each option, and tell you what each option costs and how much insurance will cover.
We will never be owned by a corporation. I’ve been with my patients for decades, and I will never sell out their oral health to a high bidder who makes money by selling procedures that ‘might’ be in your best interest. The key word there is ‘MIGHT’.
Are you looking for open, honest dentistry? Look no further than Dr. Ron Sherman and the fantastic team at The Issaquah Dentist.
Please browse our list of Pain-Free Dental Services and learn about what to expect on your first visit.