So I went for my dental cleaning this morning and they tried to push me to buy their special dental plan (I have no dental insurance). I told them that's Ok, I am self pay and didnt want it. Then they informed me I needed x-rays (which would cost just a bit less than their plan, making it a BiG BaRgAiN). I told them they took my x-rays last year and I didnt need them again, I was just there for a cleaning.

Then the receptionist said, "Oh we cant see you if you don't get x-rays, It the LAW. Everyone has to get them once a year."

I said, "Really? That's interesting, may I please have a copy of that law for my own reference?"

She got flustered and went and got the office manager. The office manager cooly asked, "May I please ask what your concern is?"

I said, "My concern is that I do not like unnecessary procedures (I'm a RN).

She stated in an authoritative tone, "Everyone need annual x-rays and we would be negligent if we did not take x-rays of our clients."

I asked in an authoritative tone, "Where is this LAW that determines that all dental patients need annual x-rays?"

She said, "I'll go and get the dentist for you."

The dentist arrived, all friendly and charming, "What's the problem?"

I said all friendly, charming, and chatty back, 'There isn't a problem. I'm being told I must comply to a LAW and I want to see the copy of the law. Easy Peazy,"

He hemmed and hawed, "Well, I dont know that its a law--"

"It isn't," I interrupted, "I checked."

He went on, "But as a dentist I personally feel that I cant treat you properly without annual x-rays and it is our policy."

"THERE it is", I pointed out, "It's a policy, not a law. That's what I thought."

He was red. "But its a policy that is strictly adhered to and we will not treat you without x-rays."

"Oh NO PROBLEM, I've quite lost interest in being treated here anyway. I don't like being manipulated and I was being manipulated so that you could have guaranteed annual revenue. Annual x-rays on every patient is a lot of money, I get it. SO you all have a nice day and I will find another dentist office."

I walked out but noted with some dismay at all of the jaws dropped in the waiting room.

I should have said to them before I left...."I'm waking up. Please, YOU wake up too."