I went to Stratton Dental based on a recommendation from a friend. I called to book an appointment and asked what insurance I had. When I told them, I was informed it had to be a PPO and not an HMO plan. The woman who questioned me was a bit curt on the telephone and came across in a patronizing tone, and cut me off. Not the best introduction, nor very pleasant. I got my insurance details sorted, and the called back a second time to get the appointment booked. I waited 5 days over all to be seen. Not extremely long, albeit, but they told me they could squeeze me in before Christmas. Whew!
I got my check in paperwork done, and was called back from the waiting room relatively promptly. The hygenist went over my "treatment plan" shared with me. I had a dental insurance discrepancy but opted to get my tooth taken care of ASAP. It also was done very promptly, and same day service. That part I appreciated. My past waits at other clinics have been 2-3 weeks for completion from start to finish. l was very nervous about treatment and suffer from a bit of anxiety from other dental procedures. Some dentists prior have hurt or caused further harm to me. Neither the hygenist nor the Dentist was reassuring in manner to help put my mind at ease. No numbing gel used at all before being injected with a local anesthetic either. Nobody wants to feel the needle, you know? That part always hurts. I don't enjoy mouth pain at all. They were both direct, and matter of fact. All business and no light hearted banter or consolation about that aspect at all, and no smiles to speak of from either. Both were quick and thorough. The Dr. did ask if I had any questions, and advised me to call if any issues arose. I paid and left without ado. It wasn't a stellar environment regarding friendliness considering the nearing holidays. Rather more aloof and indifferent. Some patients suffer from medical fears and needle anxieties and PTSD. I fully know they are not there to hold your hand or coddle you while you're being treated. But, I felt that empathy and reassurance or some warmth would have made for a better visit as far as any future procedures go. As I said, in and out, all business and very little talk with the patient. Quick, but cool in demeanor. A warm smile, or reassurance goes a long way!
Edit: On my second visit, the office manager was on a telephone call with a patient's insurance company as I was checking out. She was at the front desk curtly speaking to someone on the phone, and condescending down to the person on the other end of the telephone. I feel that was unbecoming, unpleasant, and unprofessional myself, and something that should have been taken care of discreetly in a back office out of patient earshot. I KNOW how difficult insurance providers can be, but it was not pleasant to hear, and left me with poor reflection on them. After witnessing that exchange, I really don't want to go back. I will be seeking another clinic. Not nice. read more