Johns Creek Dental Excellence Alpharetta Family Dentistry Dental Care bait and switch - First it's covered by insurance, but now after the service is rendered, it's not covered. Johns Creek, Georgia

We all know how hard it is to find a good family dentist who doesn't attempt to sell you extra services that you don't really need and who is interested in the health of you and your family.  I am providing this report with the hopes that you won't make the same mistake we made by choosing this dentist for services.  Since we now have a new pretty comprehensive insurance plan, my wife and I are looking for a new dentist to work with ongoing for our family. 

We contacted this dentist near our house who we had used many years ago.  We had been happy with the services then and thought it would be a good fit.  Fran, the office manager, who we know from our visits 8 years ago took our insurance information over the phone and scheduled an appointment for me 6 month cleaning.   All went well for this and there were no charges. 

Several weeks later, my wife made an appointment and went in to have some things checked.  She provided insurance card, same policy as me and asked if this service was covered by her insurance.  The office staff insisted it was covered, not to be concerned.   We were very clear to ask the question because we know this practice is not in network with our insurance.  They proceeded to provide services and give a diagnosis. 

Weeks later I got billed for the service.  The cost of the visit is not the issue.  I think this Dental Office is making a practice of Bait and Switch.  They get you in the door because they desparately need patients and then bill you if your insurance doesn't cover the costs.  In this case, I think they knew it wasn't covered.  When I called back to question the charge, I was told that they were mistaken about the insurance, it was not covered.  They said the insurance company lied to them.  Remember, I had been in previously for a cleaning and there were no charges for that visit.

I'm a pretty savvy business owner and have been around the block a time or two.  Based on my conversation with their "collections dept."  (red flag!), I am very suspicious and my guess is that this experience is a regular occurence for this practice.  I would think twice about using this Dentist.  They have a ton of really high end, expensive equipment and don't seem real busy.  I know times are tough in this economy, but I feel as if I have been deceived and taken advantage of.