Explain It to Me cover image

Explain It to Me

Is my dentist scamming me?

Sep 18, 2024
In this insightful discussion, Mary Otto, an independent journalist and author of 'Teeth: The Story of Beauty, Inequality, and the Struggle for Oral Health in America,' and Dr. Lisa Simon, a general dentist and internal medicine physician, tackle the question of dental trust. They dive into the historical divide between dentistry and medicine, exploring how this affects patient care. The conversation highlights the challenges of dental insurance and accessibility, especially for underserved populations, while sharing personal anecdotes that illuminate the complexities of oral health.
42:49

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The historical divide between dentistry and medicine creates distinct treatment experiences, contributing to patient confusion and mistrust regarding dental care.
  • Patients are encouraged to advocate for themselves by asking questions, seeking second opinions, and exploring alternative dental care options for better outcomes.

Deep dives

Navigating Dental Trust Issues

Many patients feel uncomfortable with their dental experiences, often questioning the necessity of recommended procedures. One individual recounted a situation where a dentist proposed surgery for four wisdom teeth, despite the patient having only three. This inconsistency fosters a sense of distrust and wariness among patients who are already apprehensive about dental visits. The anxiety surrounding dental care is compounded by the different payment structures, where patients must balance health decisions with personal financial considerations.

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