The dental industry plays a vital role in maintaining oral health, but growing reports of overdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures are raising concerns. Patients frequently describe experiences where one dentist recommends fillings for cavities, only to have another declare their teeth perfectly healthy. This discrepancy has led some to question the ethics behind certain dental practices.
Why Are Fillings Necessary?
Fillings are meant to help with tooth decay, which happens when bacteria wear down the enamel, leading to cavities. If you don’t treat it, things can get worse—pain, infection, and even losing the tooth!
Dentists usually check for decay by looking at your teeth, probing, and using X-rays to see how bad it is. The goal is to catch decay early so it doesn’t turn into a bigger issue down the road. But here’s the thing—some dentists might try to push unnecessary treatments.
The Problem of Overdiagnosis
Most dentists want to provide ethical care, but there are many who take advantage of the system. Overdiagnosis occurs when a dentist exaggerates or completely falsifies the severity of tooth decay or diagnoses issues that aren’t urgent as needing immediate treatment. In some cases, dentists may use magnified images of “spots” on teeth to convince patients that fillings are necessary, even when the spots are harmless or don’t need intervention. This isn’t always about bad intentions—sometimes, it’s about profit or a belief that more treatment is better.
And it’s not just a theory—this kind of behavior has led to legal action. For example, in 2019, a dentist in Texas was fined $1 million after being accused of performing unnecessary procedures on hundreds of patients. In 2020, a Michigan dentist was sued for overdiagnosing cavities and performing unnecessary fillings, causing harm to his patients. The National Consumer League has reported that over 50% of dental patients have experienced some form of unnecessary dental work. These cases aren’t isolated; they highlight a concerning trend where overdiagnosis for profit is a real issue, and it’s something we all need to be aware of when we sit in that dentist chair.
Financial Incentives in Dentistry
Fillings are a common and lucrative procedure. According to industry averages, a single composite filling can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 per tooth, depending on location and complexity.
Struggling practices may push unnecessary fillings as an easy revenue stream, preying on patients who trust their professional recommendations. Dentists sometimes exploit minor imperfections in teeth—like small spots of discoloration or early enamel wear—claiming they’re cavities that urgently need to be filled. Patients who aren’t in pain or showing other symptoms might find themselves pressured into agreeing, fearing the issue could worsen.
For some, the scam doesn’t stop there. Practices may offer deep discounts on cleanings or free exams to get patients in the door, only to overwhelm them with costly treatment plans riddled with unnecessary procedures. The push to replace old but functional fillings, often justified with exaggerated safety concerns like mercury leaks, is another common tactic. This predatory behavior turns patient care into a sales pitch, leaving many to question the integrity of the recommendations they receive.
Patients’ Stories of Mistrust
It’s infuriating to think that people could walk into a dentist’s office, trusting a professional to care for their health, only to be told they need fillings that might not even be necessary. Undercover investigations have revealed how some dentists recommend expensive, invasive treatments for perfectly healthy teeth.
This isn’t just a small mistake—it’s a betrayal of trust, preying on patients who are simply trying to take care of their health. It’s time to demand accountability and call out these unethical practices that put profit over patient well-being.
Steps to Protect Yourself as a Patient
If you suspect overdiagnosis or feel pressured into treatments, consider these steps:
- Seek a Second Opinion: Visit another dentist to verify the diagnosis. Differences in recommendations can highlight unnecessary procedures.
- Request Evidence: Ask to see X-rays or images that substantiate the diagnosis. A reputable dentist should explain the issue clearly.
- Research the Dentist: Online reviews and patient feedback can reveal patterns of unethical practices.
- Consider a Trusted Practice: Recommendations from friends or family can help you find a dentist with a track record of integrity.
You should always feel comfortable asking questions and getting a second opinion if something feels off.
Dental care plays a critical role in health, but the system’s flaws often put patients in a vulnerable position. It’s unacceptable that some dental offices prioritize profit over patient well-being, pushing unnecessary treatments that strain both trust and finances.