What to bring to a second opinion
Short answer: Bring the written treatment plan with costs, any x-rays taken in the last year, a list of your medications, and a note of what you were told. The plan and the x-rays matter most — with them, a second opinion can be specific rather than general, and you may not need new radiographs.
The list
- The written treatment plan, itemised, with costs. The single most useful thing. Without it we are commenting on a recollection rather than a plan.
- Recent x-rays. Ask your current practice to email them — you are entitled to them. This can save you both the radiation and the charge of repeating them. Note: if new x-rays are needed, those are the one part of a second opinion that is charged.
- A list of your medications, including anything over the counter, plus any medical conditions and allergies.
- What you were actually told — a couple of lines is plenty. "Told I need four crowns and a root canal on the top left."
- Your questions, written down. People forget them in the chair, every time.
If you have none of this, come anyway. It is still worth the appointment — it is just a longer one.
Questions worth writing down
- What happens if I do nothing?
- Is there a simpler or cheaper option, and what is the trade-off?
- Which parts are urgent, and which can wait?
- Can you show me the problem on the x-ray?
- What is the likely lifespan of this work?
The first is the most revealing question in dentistry. Every treatment should have an answer to it, and "nothing much, we can watch it" is a legitimate one.
What happens at the appointment
We look at your mouth, review your x-rays and read the plan you were given. Then we tell you what we think — which is sometimes that the plan is sound and you should go ahead with it where you are.
There is no obligation to move practice, no charge for the opinion, and no limit on how often you can ask. New x-rays, if we need them, are the only thing that costs anything, and we will tell you the price before taking any.
We are comfortable saying "you don't need this work." That is the entire point of offering it.
Read the full terms on the free second opinion page.
Common questions
What should I bring to a second opinion?
The written treatment plan with itemised costs, any x-rays from the last year, a list of your medications and medical conditions, and a note of what you were told. The plan and x-rays matter most.
Can I get my x-rays from my current dentist?
Yes. You are entitled to copies of your records including x-rays, usually by email. Bringing them can save you repeat radiographs and the charge for them.
Will I need new x-rays for a second opinion?
Not if you bring recent ones. If new x-rays are genuinely needed, they are the one part of a second opinion that is charged, and you will be told the price before any are taken.
Do I have to change dentist after a second opinion?
No. Many people get a second opinion and go back to their original dentist to complete treatment, better informed. There is no obligation either way.