Does a dentist have the right to refuse service?

I wanted to get dental implants, but my dentist is refusing. He says it is because I have diabetes and smoke. Is my life my business. He said he might be willing to help if I quit smoking, but absolutely refuses to treat me if I don’t. What gives him that right?

Joseph S. – Conway, AR

Joseph,

Your dentist understands that dental implants is a difficult procedure under the best of circumstances. Your diabetes puts that procedure at greater risk.  When you add smoking to that, you’re at an even greater risk.

Both of these issues cause a lack of blood flow, which can cause dental implant failure.

Your dentist is just trying to protect you. If your procedure fails, you’ve wasted your time and money. To do the procedure a second time will cost quite a bit more than the first time, because you’d need bone grafting.

I’m sure you can find a dentist willing to do the procedure and take your money, but the best thing is for you to give the procedure it’s best chance.

This blog is borught to you by Dr. David Newkirk.