Part 22: Dental Fees- Why the Variation?

Just as all dentists aren't the same, so are their fees.  A lot goes into what is a "fair fee".  The standard definition of a fair fee is "That fee which the patient will pay with gratitude and appreciation, which will enable the dentist to render the best possible service for that fee". So, that means the fee has to be fair to both the patient and the dentist.  It should be a win-win.

But what actually goes into the dentist's decision of what to charge for each service they perform?  Here are some, but not all the answers:

  1. Overhead
      A. Cost of Materials - Can vary a lot.  Is it a Brand name or generic?  Is it an ADA approved product? Is it the latest generation?  Was it purchased at a discount house or a full service supply house?  What dental lab was used?
      B.  Facility - Is the office owned or rented?  Is it in a good neighborhood?  Does it have convenient parking?  Is it clean, neat, and nicely decorated?
      C.  Equipment - Does the dentist have new or old equipment?  Does the office have the latest technological advancements?  Has the office gone digital?
      D.  Staff - Does the dentist have competent, well trained staff?  Are they experienced or seem to be "new" each time I come in?  Are they happy?
      E.  Constants - Utilities, phone, mailing, office supplies and equipment, etc.

   2. Profit
       A.  What does it take for the dentist to provide an acceptable return on his investment (ROIC) of education, time and money? 
       B.  What does the dentist feel  his/her care, skill, and judgement is worth?  Actually, this is usually very accurate as each dentist evaluates how they compare themselves to their colleagues in the area. 

So, "you usually get what you pay for" is true.  The harsh truth is not all dental care is the same.  There are different "levels" of care for the different values patients place on dentistry.  And there are likewise different dental practices to meet those needs.  It is for you, the patient, to determine what best suits your needs and perceived values, and seek out a dental office that meets those needs and values.  Then you can pay the fee with "gratitude and appreciation".  The dentist has already determined what the fee needs to be for him/her to provide their best  possible service.