Let’s say that I absolutely hate my Invisalign dentist and want to switch, is that possible? I’m only halfway through my treatment. I don’t have a problem with Invisalign itself and love, love the results I’m seeing, but I’m finding my dentist intolerable. She is always discussing politics and I just can’t. It’s hard enough going to the dentist without having to worry about controversial issues. Will going to a new dentist mean I have to start over?

Annette

Dear Annette,

When you switch dentists, which is always a patient’s prerogative to do, your dentist is under an ethical obligation to provide all the information to the new dentist that would be needed to continue your care. This would include all the diagnostics and follow-up done on your case.

Even if your dentist didn’t provide those things, you would still just start from where you are, though the new dentist would have to develop the treatment plan. I don’t think you’ll have much trouble with getting the diagnostics though. Dentists are fairly good at following up with one another.

I am glad to hear you are happy with your Invisalign results thus far. It probably would not surprise you to know that it has a very high patient satisfaction rate.

You may have already tried this, but one thing to consider before you completely switch dentists is to simply talk to your dentist about the fact that you are uncomfortable discussing politics. You can even blame it on your anxiety in the dental chair, which is an issue every dentist is familiar with.

I’ve often found when people share their passions with you so openly, it is usually because they have a high regard for you and feel comfortable around you. Simply telling her you’re too nervous as it is may solve the issue.  If you’ve already tried that or are uncomfortable trying, then yes, switch dentists for your own sanity.

I don’t know if you are aware of this, but Invisalign aligners can also double as teeth whitening trays, so if you wanted to you could simultaneously straighten and whiten your teeth at the same time, giving yourself a mini smile makeover.

This blog is brought to you by La Jolla Dentist Dr. Stephen Doan.