Can a dentist charge almost double their estimate for services provided without advising me and without performing procedures that were not in the estimate?
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Can a dentist charge almost double their estimate for services provided without advising me and without performing procedures that were not in the estimate?
Asked on September 11, 2014 under Malpractice Law, Virginia
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
It depends on the circumstances. If the estimate was a firm estimate, where they committed to do the work for that price, then no--they have to honor the quote. But if the estimate was for information or by way of example or illustration only, or was simply a "good faith" estimate that was not stated to be binding--and particularly if they stated in the estimate or other documentation that the actual price will depend upon time spent on or complexity of the procedure--then they are not necessarily bound to the estimate. In that case, if they can justify the cost based on factors such as unexpected time or complications--they charge a higher amount.
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