UK QUESTION
I need to have the tip of a root taken out due to infection which is a simple procedure as a day patient. My dentist referred me to another dental clinic who say they won't charge me for the consultation but wouldn't give me the price of the procedure (Apicectomy). However, should I decide not to have the procedure done with them I will then get charged for the consultation!

I've written to my dentist asking to be referred to my local dental hospital as I refuse to pay - the procedure is necessary rather than cosmetic.

Has anyone been through a similar situation with their dentist? Any advice?

Anyone saying to have the tooth removed with have an immediate thumbs down for that answer!
I worry because of the cost but you are more than welcome to assist me financially to ease my stress?? I might find another dentist - sounds like backhanders and blackmail with my current dentist - thank you.

Insurance - yes I have healthcare cover but only a small amount I can claim - they refused to give me a general cost for the procedure. The Doctors won't intervene as it's a dental problem.

Yea Gods.
Methinks that you worry too much !
My Dentist just puts stuff right without fuss & consultation.
As it should be.
Nice set of nashers, that work & look OK without all that fuss.
I would sack your dentist, and have a word with a more sensible one.
Best of ...
Bob.

They should be able to give you a general idea of the cost over the phone. I am guessing that would be the only reason why you would not go to them. I would stick with the doctor that your dentist has referred you to, as they usually have good working relationships and your doctor will refer you to someone that can be trusted. Your insurance should cover the procedure if it is necessary. I know that here in the states, this procedure would be covered at 80% so you would have a small co-pay. I would not put this off as you could have some pretty major pain with it. Good luck!

Yes, this is the ridiculous state of the dental health services in the UK. You are lucky if you can get an NHS dentist at all and even then, it is a costly business. That sounds like quite sharp practice on the part of the second dentist who will not give you a rough quote.

If you are going to the dental hospital, be prepared to wait hours to be seen and if you think that the student working on you (it is always a student!) is not up to the job, you can ask to see a teaching consultant. Again, you will have to wait a very long time, so take a good book!

Yes I have been through it and I find it strange about your dentist, if I were you and the infection is bad and you are in pain go to your local A&E and tell them, they may as mine did refer you to their dental clinic.You should not have to pay for this private and as you say it is not cosmetic. Keep pushing for it Good luck