I feel like I’m getting ripped off

[Wolfsrule18]

Last October I had 22 teeth removed, three crowns placed and fillings on a few other teeth. (10 natural teeth left)
Last month I got 10 dental implants and I thought now that I’m recovered from that the worst is finally over and I don’t need to worry about my teeth anymore.
Until today
I went to a new dentist (in the process of moving) just to get one small cavity filled that was only bothering me when I drank ice cold stuff, all my other teeth feel 100% fine no pain and look good to me. When I went to my old dentist (that I definitely trust) just back in August he said he could see two small cavities but everything else looked great.
I got told today by the new dentist that ALL my remaining teeth have big cavities and that I need 5 crowns and one of my old crowns replaced because it’s cracked.
I was so upset thinking this was all for nothing and I needed extensive work all over again but the more I thought about it the more it just didn’t make sense. In August I’m fine and now all my teeth are rotting? Yet I’m 100% pain free? (I remember when I had bad teeth it was constant pain) does this seem fishy to anyone else?

 

[tazey]

Think you may need a 3rd opinion.

 

[Enarete]

Hi Wolfsrule18,

this sounds worthy of a second (or in your case third) opinion. Also if any dentist recommends work, he should he able to demonstrate you the decayed places on your x-rays or on your teeth and give you some explanations.

 

[grumpybear]

I would definitely seek another opinion especially if you have been taking care of your oral health and your teeth have been fine. Cavities don't develop overnight they actually take quite awhile to get to the point where you need extensive work.

 

[mcredding]

I echo everyone else's sentiments here. If for some reason the dentist can't or won't produce evidence & explanation of his findings/diagnosis, it's a huge red flag.

Like grumpybear pointed out, it can take a long time for cavities to escalate into problems needing more extensive work. You'd be surprised at how long it can take for decay to really set in. (I know I was definitely surprised when I went to the dentist!)

 

[Animalhouse]

I agree with the others. I suppose sometimes dentists have varying opinions...but minor cavities becoming huge ones within a few months seems like a big fat red flag.