I was on the lookout for a local orthodontist to explore options for braces or express Invisalign after my teeth shifted due to not wearing my retainers for two years. I obtained quotes from several orthodontists in the area for comparison. Dr. Chang's quote was the highest, which I later realized was because it included a full Invisalign set that wasn't necessary for my case.
During our initial consultation, I had a great conversation with Dr. Chang and appreciated his bedside manner. It seems as if he's very involved with the local school community since he has t-shirts from all of the local schools in the area, which led me to consider him despite the higher cost.
When I returned for photos and to sign the contract, I was surprised to find that the price was higher than I had anticipated. I felt uncomfortable proceeding with the scans and photos without confirming the pricing, so I offered to come back once I clarified things with Dr. Chang. However, the staff encouraged me to continue with the scans and photos, assuring me I could sign the agreement during my next visit.
The following Monday, Dr. Chang called to confirm the quote he had provided was correct. I realized I had misread the figures, mistaking $7,200 for $7,000, and I apologized for the oversight. I requested a $200 reduction to fit my initial budget of $6,000, but he explained that his prices for Invisalign had increased, and he was already honoring a lower price.
Understanding that I would not need the full set of trays, I expressed that if he could not accommodate the $200 discount since I will pay in full immediately, I would need to explore other options. Dr. Chang then mentioned I would be charged $400 for the scans and photos. I explained that his staff had told me to proceed with the prep work on the understanding that I would not move forward without the price adjustment, and I hadn't signed any paperwork. Despite my concerns, I gave him my credit card out of respect for our time, and he assured me his staff would process it.
After our conversation, Dr. Chang's office later called to inform me that he decided not to charge me, realizing that I hadn't signed a contract. Following discussions with some dentist friends and my own dentist, I learned that other offices wouldn't have been able to utilize the pics and scans anyway and these photos and scans are really for Dr Chang.
While Dr. Chang was very personable, I felt that his practices were more profit-focused, especially since he couldn't accommodate a small budget adjustment. Ultimately, I found another orthodontist who provided a similar service at a 30% lower cost in the area, and I am very happy with the results. I encourage others to shop around and find someone who is willing to work collaboratively and not impose additional unexpected fees. read more