I usually tell parents to ask what’s truly necessary vs. what’s optional, and don’t be shy about asking “what happens if we skip this part?”
That’s really solid advice. I’ve noticed sometimes dentists will rattle off a list of “extras” and it’s hard to know what’s essential. When my kid needed a filling, they offered fluoride and sealants too, but I asked for a breakdown and realized we could wait on the sealants. It’s easy to feel pressured in the moment, especially when you’re worried about your child’s comfort. Just asking for clarity helps you feel more in control.
Yeah, I totally get what you mean about feeling pressured when you’re sitting there with your kid and the dentist starts listing off all these “extras.” It can be overwhelming, especially if your kid’s already nervous. I’ve definitely had those moments where I just wanted to say yes to everything so we could get it over with, but asking for a breakdown really does help. Sometimes they’ll suggest things that sound urgent but aren’t actually needed right away.
When my daughter had a root canal, they mentioned all sorts of add-ons—special rinses, sealants, even a fancy mouthguard. I just asked, “What’s really necessary for her right now?” and it turned out most of it could wait. The dentist didn’t seem bothered at all, and I felt a lot better knowing exactly what we were agreeing to.
It’s funny, I used to think questioning the dentist would come off as rude, but most of them seem fine explaining things if you ask. Makes the whole process way less stressful.
It’s funny, I used to think questioning the dentist would come off as rude, but most of them seem fine explaining things if you ask.
I wish I had your luck—sometimes I feel like when I start asking about costs or if something’s actually necessary, the vibe in the room changes. Maybe it’s just me being paranoid, but I’ve had dentists get a bit defensive, especially when I mention insurance or try to skip the “extras.” Last time, I asked if my son really needed the fluoride treatment right then and the hygienist acted like I was being difficult. I get wanting the best care, but sometimes it feels like saying “no” is frowned upon. Anyone else ever get that?
sometimes I feel like when I start asking about costs or if something’s actually necessary, the vibe in the room changes
Totally get this. Every time I ask about whether I really need a certain x-ray or cleaning upgrade, it gets a little awkward. Maybe it’s just me, but I swear some places act like you’re questioning their whole career. I’m wearing braces right now, so I’m always asking “do we HAVE to do this today?” and sometimes they look at me like I’ve grown a second head. Is it just a dental thing, or does this happen everywhere in healthcare?
I’m always asking “do we HAVE to do this today?” and sometimes they look at me like I’ve grown a second head.
That’s not just you—it’s really common. I’ve been through my fair share of dental work over the years, and I still ask about costs or if something’s urgent. Sometimes I can feel that tension too. Honestly, I think some folks in healthcare don’t love being questioned, but it’s your mouth and your money. I try to remind myself it’s okay to push back a little, even if it gets awkward. Sometimes they’ll explain more once they realize you’re serious about understanding what’s necessary.
