1st & 2nd Generation Patients
Doug Leong & Jordan Leong (August 2012)
After an auto accident, over 25 years ago, I suffered from severe TMJ symptoms and required reconstructive jaw surgery, a mandibular ramus osteotomy. (My lower jawbone was surgically broken on both sides, the length shorten by 3mm, and then, screwed back together.) Naturally, my teeth, i.e., my bite, would be out of alignment. I needed an orthodontic specialist to co-manage my case with my maxilla-facial surgeon to achieve proper occlusion. Dr. Jeffrey Berger came highly recommended. I was comforted to also know that, in a timely survey conducted/published by Los Angeles Magazine, they asked other top medical professionals (people-in-the-trade, who know who's respected) who they would personally use, if they needed orthodontic treatment. Dr. Berger was their over-whelming choice. After meeting him and his dedicated staff, he became my first and only choice too. The surgery was eventually performed and my orthodontic care ended over 20 years ago. I am a very satisfied patient with a Beautiful Smile that's going to last me a lifetime.
Now, my youngest daughter, Jordan, needs braces for her teeth to correct a “cross-bite”. So, out of convenience (a big mistake), we consulted with a local orthodontist, just minutes from our home. He performed a superficial exam (say, “ahhh”), then rendered a questionable diagnosis. He recommended pulling 4 teeth (molars) for no apparent reason – other than to alter her profile. He gave us a “verbal quote” of almost $3,000. We didn't choose him for some obvious reasons. Beware of orthodontists who masquerade as “wannabe plastic surgeons”. Jordan is pretty and doesn't need her face fixed. No x-rays of her teeth were taken, not even diagnostic “before/after photos”. Also, his fee did not include other hidden costs (out-sourced x-rays, impressions/molds, follow-up retainers, splints, etc.).
My daughter deserves the best care available, at an affordable price. So, I sought out my former orthodontist, Dr. Jeffrey Berger. He apparently moved his practice from downtown Los Angeles over a decade ago. Thank God for the Internet! I found Dr. Berger in Torrance. It's a much longer drive for us, but he's well worth it. His new (to me) staff was just as friendly and efficient, as his team before. Dr. Berger gave a complimentary, comprehensive examination (that included, at his expense, diagnostic digital “before” photos and x-rays). This good faith gesture is indicative of his personal investment in your future and commitment to provide quality care. A written orthodontic evaluation was given, along with a written, detailed estimate of fees/cost for Jordan's custom treatment plan and follow-up care. There were no hidden charges. There was no pressure to commit. His quote is good for 3 months. Many payment plans and discounts were offered to fit our budget. Dr. Berger was a little more expensive* than the aforementioned, but as the wise-man once said, “You get what you pay for.” Dr. Berger's experience, credentials, and care to his patients, are unmatched by his competitors.
Jordan started her orthodontic treatment a few months ago and both she and her parents are pleased with the progress. We would recommend Dr. Jeffrey Berger to anyone who is serious about receiving the best care available and having their expectations exceeded. Don't settle for “just good enough or the cheapest initial cost”, because, you may ultimately find yourself unsatisfied with the end result and incurring additional costs to have Dr. Berger correct someone else's mediocre work.
* Comparison shopping. Not all patients have the same orthodontic problems. Therefore, the cost to treat individuals will vary. Accordingly, what someone else was allegedly quoted (by the same orthodontist), isn't necessarily what you'll be charged. Patients/parents should get 2nd opinions/quotes to compare and analyze their options. Beware of suspect reviews from “anonymous critics” that don't provide facts or useful information. They often just rant & rave and offer worthless opinions.
by Doug Leong
xxx.xxx.90.83
August 02, 2012