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Review 6/20/2011
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Called Gentle dental to set up a wisdom tooth extraction with anesthesia.
On the day of procedure,I asked if I owe anything just to be sure and was told no charge is needed. I understood this that the dental benefits were verified and would cover all of the 5 minute procedure. Immediately, prior to the procedure I was asked if I want to remove two out of my three remaining wisdom teeth at this time because the anesthesia is apparently covered only once a year. I declined and confirmed that I just want one tooth removed.
After the procedure, I started receiving billing reminders for due balance. Upon my inquiry, I was informed that the balance is due to MetLife's insurance declining to pay for the anesthesia. Anesthesia was the main reason for going with Gentle Dental so I was completely surprised that the dental office was not able to secure an approval and a subsequent payment from the insurance company for something that was the fundamental part of the procedure. Kept calling the office trying to resolve the issue. The billing dept representative (Veronica?) explained that I can only resolve this issue with her manager (Blanca). She was never available to talk and never returned my calls.
I feel that it was Gentle Dental's lack of due diligence to seek definitive approval for the anesthesia prior to the procedure and unwillingness to keep me informed of any costs to me.
Sending me the bill for their mistakes is unethical and most likely an illegal practice.
I had every right to believe that the anesthesia - the main reason for my going with Gentle Dental would be covered by the insurance.
If I had known prior to the procedure that I would be legible for the cost of anesthesia, I would have certainly given this a second thought and looked for alternative solutions including approaching other dental offices.
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