Dentist Didn’t Finish Dental Implants

I had dental implants placed for implant supported dentures several months ago. I knew that it would take time before we could go to the next stage because he said something about bone growth. It’s been quite a few months. I’ve been wearing temporary dentures all this time. I called to see if they could schedule an appointment to check if I am ready for the permanent implants. That is when they told me that my dentist lost his license and they’d have to get back with me as they were still sorting things out. If that weren’t bad enough, I already pre-paid for all of the treatment, even the part they didn’t do. Should I get the money back for that part and go somewhere else or wait for them to sort it out? What would I do if they don’t give me my money back? Also, they didn’t tell me why he lost his license. Should I be worried about my implants?

Gina

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Dear Gina,

I am sorry this happened to you. Let’s start with your dental implants. There are many reasons that a dentist can lose their license. The nurses could have told you because it will be a matter of public record. However, the easiest way is to get in touch with your state’s dental board. They can help you get information. It varies by state how much information they’ll give you, but you should get the basic idea.

It would probably be wise for you to get the dental implants checked. That way if something is wrong with them, you would ask for all of your money back and not just the unfinished portion.

Let’s go on the assumption that everything is fine with the implants you have right now. You’re okay in the temporary dentures while you either wait for them to sort things out or you go somewhere else. If you decide to wait, what is likely to happen is the dentist will sell his business. He will need some money to live on while he sorts out his future. The contract with the new dentist should include a clause that requires the dentist to complete all unfinished procedures. That could take a while, so it should be completely understandable if you want to get your money back for the unfinished portion and have the work completed elsewhere. If they give you trouble with that, the dental board may be able to help there, but it depends on the board.

If you do decide to go elsewhere, your dentist’s office is under an ethical obligation to provide your new dentist will all your former dentist’s treatment notes, including diagnostic images, etc.

This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Dentist Dr. Carl Embury.