On August 20, 2026, my wife arrived for her scheduled dental appointment at 12:30 PM because she had been experiencing pain and discomfort in her tooth. Approximately six months earlier, she had been advised that she might eventually need a root canal and was prescribed ibuprofen to help manage her discomfort. During today's follow-up visit, my wife explained that she had begun experiencing discomfort again and simply asked whether she could be prescribed ibuprofen. She specifically requested ibuprofen--not narcotics or any controlled substance. Unfortunately, according to my wife, Dr. Elaheh Habibi's response and demeanor made her feel as though she was being treated like someone seeking drugs rather than a patient seeking appropriate treatment for dental pain. This was completely unacceptable and deeply concerning. There is a significant difference between appropriately evaluating a patient's request for pain management and making a patient feel judged, stereotyped, or accused because they asked for a commonly prescribed non-narcotic medication. My wife deserved to be treated with dignity, professionalism, and respect. I work in the medical field myself, and I understand the importance of responsible prescribing and the need to protect patients and providers. However, professionalism also means communicating with patients respectfully, listening to their concerns, and avoiding behavior that can make a patient feel stigmatized or humiliated. I believe this incident warrants serious attention. No patient should leave a medical or dental office feeling as though they were treated like a drug seeker simply because they asked about ibuprofen. I am requesting a formal apology from Dr. Habibi and an explanation regarding how my wife was treated during this encounter. I also intend to pursue the appropriate channels for reporting this incident to the applicable licensing and regulatory authorities so that the matter can be properly reviewed. This is not about demanding medication. This is about demanding respect, professionalism, accountability, and appropriate patient care.
I will not tolerate my wife or any patient being treated in a manner that compromises their dignity. I expect this matter to be taken seriously and addressed appropriately. read more