I am writing to express significant dissatisfaction with the services received at Heather Brown Orthodontics, stemming from a series of miscommunications, alleged unethical practices, and unprofessional interactions.
My initial visit was to obtain a new retainer. During this consultation, I conveyed concerns about potential tooth shifting and my general frustrations with the recurring cost and frequent replacement of traditional retainers post-braces. A staff member, acting in a sales capacity, strongly influenced me towards Invisalign, providing calculations and assurances that it would be a more cost-effective solution in the long run, specifically stating that a comprehensive bonded retainer would be provided upon completion, eliminating the need for further plastic retainers.
After investing thousands of dollars in Invisalign treatments and visits, I was informed that the bonded retainer would only be placed on my top two teeth, with other teeth requiring a removable plastic retainer. This directly contradicted the initial assurances. Following my expression of discontent and feeling misled, a bonded retainer was subsequently installed on my lower teeth as a "courtesy."
The issues continued with the bonded retainers. Despite my diligent adherence to all post-treatment instructions, including avoiding hard or sticky foods, the top bonded retainer has become loose twice within a mere four-month period. Both instances of re-installation were performed by a dental assistant, without the direct supervision or presence of Dr. Heather Brown. This practice raises serious concerns regarding ethical and legal compliance with Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) regulations, which generally do not permit dental assistants to independently install permanent bonded retainers. The office previously advised me to immediately report any loosening to establish a record and avoid charges for re-bonding.
My most recent visit to address the loose retainer culminated in an extremely unprofessional encounter. A front desk staff member, whom I had not previously encountered, was overtly confrontational, asserting that the retainer's loosening was my fault and that I would be charged for the repair. This interaction was the final catalyst, leading me to walk out and decide to seek orthodontic care elsewhere. It is particularly frustrating given that I am aware of individuals who have had bonded retainers for decades without issue, while mine has failed twice in a very short timeframe.
Beyond the retainer issues, I feel manipulated regarding the value proposition of Invisalign and perceive the office's practices as financially driven, aiming to extract additional costs. Furthermore, in my last four visits, my treatments have consistently been managed by a dental assistant, with Dr. Heather Brown herself not being present or directly involved. The administrative staff's willingness to defend the assistant's work and assign blame to the patient, rather than addressing the underlying issues, is highly unprofessional.
Given these experiences, particularly the alleged unauthorized installation of a permanent appliance by an unsupervised dental assistant, I intend to take further steps to report these practices to the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners for investigation. read more