I am deeply tired and frustrated by my orthodontic experience, which has left me feeling hopeless and disappointed. Here recounting the events leading up to my current state.
For several years, I had been under the care of my general dentist, Dr. May Anaraki, who consistently recommended orthodontic treatment to address certain issues. After conducting research and obtaining quotes from various sources, I opted to consolidate all my dental needs within one practice, particularly due to recommendations for the newly affiliated Orthodontist, Dr. Vincent Lu.
Dr. Lu proposed a comprehensive treatment plan involving a combination of non-removable appliances for a brief period (approximately six months) alongside an extended course of Invisalign treatment to achieve optimal results. He mentioned we could go for 18 Invisalign trays but he acknowledged that up to 36 trays might ultimately be necessary for optimal outcomes. Accordingly, I was charged for 36 trays and additional costs for the prescribed metal appliances.
Treatment started with lingual arch placement. The process was fraught with discomfort and challenges. Dr. Lu applied excessive pressure during the installation, causing considerable distress due to the absence of sufficient space so he decided to use spacer and wait for 2 weeks and start again. Came back after 2 weeks I experienced further discomfort when the orthodontic adhesive inadvertently rubbed to my facial skin and caused blister. Regrettably, my attempts to express these concerns were met with unsatisfactory responses from Dr. Lu but staffs were trying their best to give me confidence this was one time issue and it would not happen again. Since the placement of appliances, i was unable to move my thong due to the hooks poking my thong with movements while speaking, eating, and simply breathing. Had multiple trips to office to get help but help were not suffice and the issue was ongoing. I was visiting the office every 2 weeks (the only time he was available) and expressing I have no feeling of movements on teeth, no soreness of the jaw indicating the appliances is not working. but the Dr was confident the appliance is working and doing the job.
After enduring 4 months of treatment fraught with hardship, I was informed that Dr. Lu had been dismissed due to patient complaints! They introduced a capable replacement who would address my concerns, Dr Barr.
Dr. Barr determined that the lingual arch had not yielded the desired results beyond causing distress and opted to start again with Invisalign treatment. This shift prompted my request for a reassessment of the original treatment agreement and a refund for torture appliances but doctor informed me that such matters would be addressed upon completion of treatment. Once returning to get the Invisalign trays, I discovered a discrepancy: only 14 trays were provided, despite having paid for 36 trays. Dr. Barr explained that further trays will be ordered after the 14th tray and acquiring a new impression.
After tray number 11th, doctor informed me the treatment failing to meet anticipated outcomes, and he would recommend the stop of Invisalign and "HONORING" me bracket appliances. At this time I lost my trust and expressed this entire journey does not make any sense. He put the matter on hands of the office manager which at the end of lengthy argument came back and asked for 3 weeks time to contact Dr. Lu and consolidate their notes and plans. She responded back in 3 weeks apologizing for using the term HONORING and providing same plans with no cost adjustment.
Encino Children's Dentistry office has gone through many changes since I have started my treatment. Looks like the previous owner Dr. Krishbaum sold his practice to Dr. Josephson, the staff are all laid off, my general dentist is gone and I'm here regretting the attempt to improve my teeth and introducing lots of pain and stress to my life. The matter remains unresolved. read more