Can I Switch to Another Elgin Dentist During Invisalign Treatment?

I started doing Invisalign with one Elgin dentist, but I’m not happy with the office at all. I have a really hard time getting in when it suits my schedule, and they are always rushed and rude when I go in. I’m supposed to continue on with treatment for another nine months or more, but I really don’t want to do it at this office, and I’ve already prepaid for all of it. First off, can I switch my Elgin dentist in the middle of Invisalign treatment? Secondly, will I be able to get my money back, or at least for the portion of treatment I haven’t had done yet?

Thanks,

Clair

Dear Clair,

Yes, you can switch to a new Elgin dentist, even when you’re in the middle of Invisalign treatment. You’ll need to schedule a consultation with a doctor, and be sure his staff knows that you’ve already begun treatment. Although most people stay with the same doctor throughout the process, it’s common for people to have to change if they move or their insurance changes midway through treatment.

As for getting a refund, that’s a whole different thing altogether, and it really depends on what kind of agreement you entered into with the dentist when you started. If you’ve already paid all the upfront costs, those usually go towards setting up treatment. It will cover the x-rays and scans, impressions, and possibly all of your aligners. These are things that the dentist can’t reimburse you for, since you’ve already received the service. However, if you prepaid everything, including all your ongoing visits, you may be able to get a refund for that portion of the fee. Check with the office, and be very tactful about explaining why you need to switch. If you’re under a contract that says you need to finish treatment with them, you’re legally obligated to. In other words, you’ll need their consent to switch to another Elgin dentist without breaking a legally-binding agreement. It may be worth the time to dig those papers out and read through your contract before you place the phone call.

On a side note, it might be worthwhile to bring your concerns to the doctor’s attention before you resort to switching. He may not be aware that there are any issues with the staff, and he’ll certainly want to know if his employees aren’t delivering the experience he feels his patients should have. If you don’t usually see him for the checkups, the office manager should be able to help as well.

This blog is sponsored by Elgin dentist, Dr. Steve Sirin.