The
MatchMyDentist
Standard
Section 1: The Dentists Pledge (To the Patient)
The Pre-Visit Budget Commitment
When a dentist reaches out, they have reviewed your budget and believe they can help. This is a commitment made before the visit.
The Right Way
Acknowledging the budget and offering a solution that fits (e.g., "We can fix the molar for $950 within your $1,200 limit.")
Red Flag
Agreeing to a $1,200 budget in the profile, then presenting only an $8,000 plan at the visit.
Clinical Integrity (Duty to Inform)
Being budget-friendly never means hiding dental facts. Dentists are required to inform patients of all findings (infections, decay, or long-term risks), even if the cost to fix them exceeds the current budget.
The Right Way
"We will fix the tooth you came in for. I do want to show you an infection on your X-ray that we should plan for now or in the future so it doesn't become an emergency."
Red Flag
Ignoring a serious health risk just because it doesn't fit the patient's current budget.
Respect for the "Patient Story"
Patients share their dental anxiety and financial constraints to help dentists provide better care. These concerns must be acknowledged in the treatment approach.
The Right Way
"I read in your profile that you've had bad experiences with needles. We’ll go extra slow today and make sure you're comfortable."
Red Flag
Treating the patient like a "standard" appointment and ignoring the specific anxieties or constraints they shared in their profile.
The "No Ultimatum" Clause
Care should never be "all or nothing." We expect our providers to offer "Tiered Treatment" or "Phase 1" options that allow the patient to get healthy in affordable steps.
The Right Way
Offering a stable, long-term temporary fix or a single-tooth solution while the patient saves for more extensive work.
Red Flag
Using "high-pressure" tactics or fear-based language to force a patient into a high-cost financing plan.
The "No-Shame" Zone
Many patients stay away from the dentist for years because they are embarrassed by their teeth. Our network must be a judgment-free environment.
The Right Way
"I'm glad you're here. Let's look at where we are now and focus on getting you healthy, no matter how long it's been since your last visit."
Red Flag
Making the patient feel guilty or ashamed about the condition of their teeth as a way to "push" them into a more expensive treatment plan.
Section 2: The Patients Pledge (to the dentist)
Honesty in the "Story" & Budget
Accurate information about your needs and budget helps dentists provide the best care and keeps costs realistic for everyone.
The Right Way
Provide a truthful summary of your dental concerns and a realistic budget based on your financial situation.
Red Flag
Claiming a $500 budget for $10,000 worth of work. While we understand budgets are tight, significant mismatches make it difficult for dentists to help and may result in fewer match opportunities.
Respect for the 72-Hour Window
When a dentist selects you, they're holding time in their schedule and waiting for your response.
The Right Way
Review the dentist's message and respond within 72 hours—either "Accept" to move forward or "Decline" so they can help another patient.
Red Flag
Letting matches expire without responding. This discourages dentists from participating and reduces opportunities for future patients.
The "No-Show" Rule
Our dentists reserve time specifically for you. Respecting their schedule helps keep budget-friendly care available for the entire community.
The Right Way
Arrive on time for appointments, or provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to reschedule.
Red Flag
Missing appointments without notice. This is the #1 reason dentists stop offering budget-conscious care—each no-show is an appointment slot that could have helped another patient.