When Veronica Markowsky, owner of a local bridal boutique in North Las Vegas, needed a routine dental cleaning, she never expected to face a costly crown recommendation. After her longtime dentist retired, Markowsky chose a new provider from her insurance network and arrived for a cleaning and a quick look at a tiny chip on a tooth.

Unexpected screening fee and crown suggestion

During check‑in the office offered an optional oral‑cancer screening for $39.95. “I looked at her and I was like, is that something I need?” Markowsky recalled, noting she had no sores or cuts and was there primarily for a cleaning.

After X‑rays, the dentist paused, placed his instruments down and said, “It’s not bad enough for a root canal, but we’re going to need to go ahead and do a crown on it.” The proposed crown was priced at $620.80, along with a core build‑up procedure. Markowsky was not in pain and felt uneasy about proceeding that day.

Seeking a second opinion

Markowsky requested copies of her treatment plan and X‑rays, then sent the documents to her mother, a dental assistant who handles billing in Georgia. She scheduled a visit with a second dentist, who examined the same tooth and concluded, “There’s nothing wrong with that tooth. It looks great.” The second opinion contradicted the original recommendation.

North Las Vegas Modern Dentistry responded that differing treatment recommendations do not necessarily indicate a lack of clinical basis and that they support patients who seek a second opinion.

Insurance claim dispute

Beyond the clinical disagreement, Markowsky questioned the insurance claim submitted for the July 20 visit. She filed a formal appeal asking the insurer to reverse the claim for services that were not performed. The dental office later sent a corrective claim to the insurer, according to an email from the office manager.

Consumer advice

Markowsky’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for Nevada residents. She recommends patients ask for itemized statements, compare them with the Explanation of Benefits from their insurer, and keep copies of treatment plans, X‑rays, and correspondence. If a proposed procedure feels unnecessary or costly, requesting a second opinion can provide clarity and potentially avoid unwanted treatment.

For concerns about a dentist’s professional conduct, Nevada consumers can contact the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners to learn about the complaint process.

Key takeaways

• Ask for a written treatment plan and X‑rays before agreeing to any procedure.
• Consider a second opinion, especially when a recommendation involves significant cost or irreversible work.
• Review insurance claims carefully and appeal any charges for services not rendered.
• Know your rights to request an itemized bill and to file complaints with the state dental board.

Original reporting: KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.