With Sapphire Dental Care, it seemed like the focus was not on the quality of dental treatment, but…read moreon the quantity of patients seen in a given period of time.
I went in to have a crown and two fillings replaced. As soon as I sat down, I felt like I was nothing more than an open mouth on an assembly line. I was given Novocaine, but before it had time to fully take effect, the dentist began drilling my tooth. During the procedure, it felt like a bolt of lightning shot through my tooth and straight to my brain. The dentist had to stop and administer another round of injections, but because everything felt so rushed, the anesthetic still didn't fully take effect until after I had already left the office.
The fillings were replaced, and a temporary crown was installed. However, on my drive home, I had to turn around and go back because the filling material had not been properly smoothed. It felt like 100-grit sandpaper against my tongue.
The very next day--less than 24 hours after the temporary crown was placed--it fell out while I was simply talking on the phone. Unfortunately, this happened on a Friday, when Sapphire Dental Care was closed. I called, left a voicemail explaining that my temporary crown had come out and that I needed an emergency appointment, but no one ever returned my call.
Another concern was the lack of communication throughout the process. At no point were my X-rays shown to me, nor was I given an explanation or shown why a crown was necessary. I would have appreciated being included in the discussion about my treatment instead of feeling rushed through the appointment.
Based on my experience, I left feeling that speed and patient volume took priority over patient care and communication.
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Update: After posting my original review about the issues I experienced with my temporary crown, the rushed procedure, and the lack of communication, Sapphire Dental Care reached out to me later that same day. I appreciate that they took my concerns seriously and were able to get me in early Saturday morning, even though the office is normally closed on Fridays.
When I arrived, they promptly brought me back and reattached my temporary crown. I appreciate their willingness to make time for me on such short notice and correct the immediate problem.
The dentist also personally apologized for the issues I experienced. I truly believe he genuinely cared and was sincerely sorry for the pain, discomfort, and frustration I went through. His apology felt heartfelt, and I appreciated that he took the time to acknowledge my concerns.
While I'm grateful for their responsiveness after my review, it doesn't completely change my original experience. I still believe the initial procedure felt rushed, my anesthetic wasn't given enough time to take full effect before treatment began, and I would have appreciated better communication about my treatment plan and the reason a crown was recommended. That said, I do want to give credit where it's due. Sapphire Dental Care responded quickly once they became aware of my concerns, took immediate steps to resolve the issue, and demonstrated that they were committed to making things right.
Although my first visit was disappointing, I respect the way they handled the situation afterward and appreciate their efforts to restore my confidence.
