Dentists, Please read this and respond

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#1 Post by **Jupiterhouse** » Thu May 31, 2007 9:26 am

I am 30 years old, live in New Jersey, USA.
I started Orthodontic treatment with regular metal braces last year August. I had 4 tooth removed, 2 each in upper and lower jaw to align my teeth properly. At the time of treatment the dentist predicted that the gaps would take about 2 years to close(treatment time)so, i would be wearing braces for 2 years.
But the gaps closed very fast and at the last appointment, the dentist said it ( treatment /gaps) would possibly be over this coming june end(about 4 weeks from now).
I signed a contract agreeing to pay 4500$, 1/3 at start of treatment and rest spread as monthly instalments.
Since the treatment is getting over a lot more quicker then anticipated ( in just 11 months instead of the anticipated 24 months), should i ask the dentist for a discount in the fees he is charging me?
i would appreciate your feedback on this..
thanks!

#2 Post by **Kevin** » Thu May 31, 2007 9:42 am

I'm not a dentist, but I think you should check your contract. Are you paying for results? Are you paying for an estimated amount of time (meaning there's a clause in there saying you'll pay more if your treatment goes longer than expected)?

If you're paying for results and you're getting the results then you should smile, write the checks, and be happy for the work done (again, just my opinion). However, it never hurts to ask. The worst s/he can say is no.

Kevin

#3 Post by **Stich** » Thu May 31, 2007 10:15 am

I had a similar situation. My estimated treatment time was 27-30 months but my extractation gaps closed quickly and my braces came off in 18 months. On the day I was debanded the ortho's office told me I would be getting $750 taken off my bill since my treatment ended early. I wasn't aware price was determined by length of treatment so that was a pleasant surprise.

Becky