How much should a dentist cost?

I've been going to the same dentist all my life, the same one as my dad and sisters. Aparantly he's very good, and of course he has all my dental records etc, but he's very expensive. It was fine when my dad was paying for it, but now that I'm grown up and pay my own bills, I'm wondering do I really need such an expensive dentist?

This morning I went in for my yearly checkup. I told him that my gums bleed a little almost every time I brush my teeth - he said I had a plaque build up on the inside of my teeth which would have to be removed over a number of sessions. He scraped all my teeth for about 15 or 20 minutes - said I have to use Listerine 2-3 times a day for 10 days and then come back to him. And for that I was charged €150! And I'll probably be hit for the same again in 10 days, and who knows I might need to go back again after that!

How much should this usually cost? He is based in Waterloo road in Dublin 4 so I guess he's not going to be cheap but I don't have any major dental issues, any dentist can scrape & clean my teeth, and it should not have to cost be this much money. Aren't you supposed to get a certain amount free form the health service?

All advice appreciated.
Thanks

seems very high to me.......do you have gum disease?
If so could explain additional cost?
Do you have PRSI cover?

Seems a bit expensive alright.

You can check if you are entitled to 2 free check-ups/cleaning per annum by calling the DSFA Treatment Benefit section on 1890 400 400 (Ext 4480) and quoting you or your spouse's PPS number.

When you make an appointment with the dentist, tell the receptionist you qualify under PRSI and fill in a Treatment Benefit Form.

I signed up to VHI Dental plan its €220 extra and gives me extras and in this case i would be 70% covered for the treatment. So it might be worth the cost.
To answer your question your dentist seems very expensive.

Hi Colly

I had the same treatment a few days ago. I was in with the hygienist (my dentist doesn't do any cleaning - leaves it to the hygienist) for about half an hour - had my teeth scrapped, flossed and cleaned and because I had PRSI cover I was only charged €45 - €150 seems extreme!

I had my teeth scraped and cleaned about three weeks ago, and because I was under PRSI, I wasn't charged at all. I get the two free check ups/cleaning per annum and the dentist doesn't charge any extra on top of that.

I have seen Smiles Clinic advertise and a scale and polish with them is [broken link removed]. As marko says though, and he should know maybe you have gum disease. Google gingivitis and periodontitis and see if there there is anything useful to you. I'm not a dentist by the way and have no connection with nor have I ever used Smiles clinic.