Let’s be real—dentistry should be about patient care, not profit. But unfortunately, some clinics see things differently. Instead of prioritising what’s best for your health, they push treatments you don’t actually need. Over-diagnosing. Overcharging. Rushing procedures. And in the end, it’s the patient who pays the price—literally and figuratively.
At Facial Harmony Skin & Dental, we believe in honest, ethical dentistry. So today, we’re breaking down the truth about unnecessary dental procedures, the red flags to watch for, and how to make sure your treatment plan is about you—not a sales target.
Are You Being Pushed Into Unnecessary Dental Work?
Not every dental treatment is essential. Some procedures are truly beneficial, while others are upsells disguised as “urgent care.” Here are some common ways patients get pushed into treatments they don’t actually need:
- Cosmetic Treatments Marketed as “Necessary” – While cosmetic procedures like veneers and teeth whitening can boost confidence, they should never be framed as something you must get for your health.
- Preventive” Fillings That Aren’t Necessary – Some dentists suggest filling minor, non-progressing stains or superficial enamel defects that may not require treatment at all. A watch-and-wait approach is often more appropriate.
- Aggressive Deep Cleanings – If you have mild plaque buildup but no signs of severe gum disease, you might not need an intensive deep cleaning (also called root planing). Regular cleanings might be enough.
- Unneeded Crown Replacements – Some clinics may recommend replacing old crowns simply because they’re aging, even if they’re still functional and in good condition.
- Routine Tooth Extractions Instead of Saving the Tooth – A dentist who always jumps straight to pulling a tooth instead of discussing root canals or restorations might not have your best interests at heart.
- Unnecessary X-rays & Scans – While imaging is important for diagnosis, some clinics push excessive scans without real justification, increasing costs for no reason.
How to Protect Yourself From Unnecessary Dental Treatments?
- Ask Questions, Lots of Them – A good dentist won’t be annoyed by your questions—they’ll be happy to explain why a treatment is recommended, what the alternatives are, and what happens if you wait.
- Get a Second Opinion – If something feels off or a procedure sounds excessive, see another trusted dentist before committing. Ethical professionals will give you an honest assessment.
- Know Your Options – There’s almost always more than one way to address a dental issue. A dentist should explain all possible treatments—not just the most expensive one.
- Be Wary of High-Pressure Sales Tactics – A reputable clinic will never rush you into a decision or make you feel guilty for asking questions. If you feel pressured, that’s a red flag.
- Choose a Dentist Who Prioritises Ethics Over Profits – Look for a clinic with a reputation for honest advice, high-quality care, and a patient-first approach. (That’s exactly what we do at Facial Harmony!)
Why We Do Things Differently at Facial Harmony
At Facial Harmony Skin & Dental, we believe in transparency, trust, and ethical care. That means:
✅ No unnecessary treatments. We only recommend what you genuinely need.
✅ Honest conversations. We explain every option, so you’re always in control.
✅ A long-term approach. We focus on prevention and sustainable care, not quick fixes.
✅ Quality over quantity. We take our time to get it right—no rushed procedures.
Because dentistry shouldn’t be about sales targets—it should be about your health, your trust, and your smile.