PATIENTS' BILL OF RIGHTS ... People deserve ...  To be asked about the approach they want to take to their dental health. Preventive? Appearance focused? Wait for symptoms? To have emergency conditions treated without a complete exam if that is their choice.   (There will be limit to a dentists willingness to continue take responsiblity for patients who only call if they have a concern.) To receive a complete exam, including gum measurements (probing) and comprehensive x-rays. To know taking care of your gums (periodontal health) is a priority and can and should be treated as a priority even if you need to delay more costly restorative procedures. To be shown visible conditions (what the dental team sees) and to understand what may have caused the unhealthy condition and the benefits ‘to them' for treatment. Not to be told what they ‘need' when they are symptom free. To have a phased and prioritized treatment plan that allows them to plan to pay for services as they are rendered. Additionally, the option to apply for CareCredit financial services and pay for treatment with their 12 month interest free option. (You can apply on line for CareCredit) To have a dedicated consultation appointment whereby a knowledgeable dental team member discussed the criteria for recommending treatment be planned as HIGH PRIORITY, PRIORITY RESTORATIVE, PREVENTIVE, and ELECTIVE/COSMETIC. To be assured, in writing, HIGH PRIORITY and PRIORITY RESTORATIVE procedures completed within a year of diagnosis will be replaced at no charge a minimum of seven years providing they return for preventive hygiene as recommended. Ideally ... the benefit of a graphic presentation form with tooth numbers will be provided so patients have a record of your recommendations. Often patients prefer to make expensive/major decisions after a little time has passed, and in the safety and comfort of their home. Literally, everyone has a confidant they discuss doctor's recommendation with and a graphic helps patients understand treating teeth in the same area makes sense.   THE TRUTH ...  Given enough information, most patients do not make self-defeating decisions and their loved ones generally encourage them to take care of themselves. (Everyone knows ‘you can't take it with you.') Anything symptom free is not urgent therefore does not NEED TO BE TREATED as a priority. Provide written treatment recommendations and prioritize based on the risks patients are willing to take. Delaying or refusing recommended treatment will likely lead to condition worsening and becoming more costly. An emergency/urgent request for appointment time disrupts our ability to stay on time for patients who preschedule. Seniors have, or can plan affordability ... however generally their funds must last a lifetime so they are mindful of how they spend it. People who schedule preventive exams and hygiene are among the segment of our population who care about themselves on a level that meets their values.     ASK what THEY want and avoid telling them what they ‘need' or ‘what the Doctor wants to do...'   (Teach vs Preach)     Uncomfortable, symptomatic patients ACCEPT THEY HAVE A ‘NEED.   Mature people have dental history.  Phyllis trusts you are aware anything projected to last a long time, and looks natural and is strong enough you and chew on it ... will be costly.