Marco Island Spa

Bait and switch tactics: This dentist sent out mailers to solicit business. The cost of cleaning was not on the flyer that listed costs for “Zoom!” (whatever that is) and a $29 exam that included x-rays.

After filling out all questionnaires, having x-rays and lying down in the chair for a cleaning I was told that the regular cleaning charge of $89 would instead be $152 because it had been more than a year since my last cleaning and I had a large buildup on my teeth. In every other dental practice I have been to a cleaning is a cleaning. The price does not vary.

As a new patient I asked for the office to split the difference with me.

They refused.

I reminded them that I had specifically asked when I made the appointment what the charge would be for a cleaning. The answer was $89 and I was not told that the rate would be variable even though I had said that it had been quite a while since my last cleaning…three years.

In the office when I filled out the forms I again said when my last cleaning was but apparently no one read my answers. They should have discussed this and the other medical issues with me and told me up front that the price would be higher. But they obviously wanted to have me lying down and ready for the procedure.

They took x-rays and pictures but did not go over the medical questionnaire. Once in the chair I was told I had a healthy mouth but that because of the buildup the cost would be higher. Later the office manager said that the mailer stated that the cost of cleaning was for a healthy mouth. There was no charge for cleaning on the flyer and the hygenicist said I had a healthy mouth. But they still wanted to raise the cost of my cleaning.

I offered to meet them halfway but for $31.50 this dentist decided to lose a potential long-term patient. I can only assume that the low rate for the x-rays and exam is made up when they raise the rate on you once you are in the chair. This is bait and switch and it is dishonest.

Don't go to Marco Dental Clinic. The smelly and cramped waiting room has worn out uncomfortable chairs, a huge TV, only People magazines. My appointment was for 1:40. I arrived at 1:30 and waited until 2:20. The business advertised with mailers so I guess they are looking for new patients. Too bad they want to jack up their costs once you are in the chair. Spend your dental dollars somewhere else.