Dental Care; Pleasantly Surprised

[Ava]

I hadn't had a dental checkup for a while.
So last week I decided to make an appointment no matter what.
The dentist I used to go to is near my previous job, but very inconvenient to my present location.
Due to my work hours (8:30 to 5) M to F, it's difficult to find someone who can work with me.
So yesterday I went to a dental clinic near my home. They are open until 7:30 in the afternoon, and open on Saturdays.
I was a little worried about the quality of care, but I figured a checkup and cleaning is no big deal. The place was a little run-down, and I had to wait about 20 minutes in the lobby.
The staff was friendly, the doctor was very professional. There were two dentists, both of them foreigners (they had an accent) and seemed to be Middle Eastern. Maybe they work there because they are new in the U.S. and just starting up? Are dental clinics franchised?
I paid $57 for checkup (including X rays) and cleaning.
The doctor told me I have one small cavity. My teeth are pretty good in general and I take care of them with flossing and mouth wash.
I was very pleasantly surprised by how professional they were, the good service provided, and the more than reasonable prices. They quoted me $170 for the cavity I have.
Like most other posters, I was one of those people who went to a established dentist, not a clinic; I thought they weren't reliable.  But now I have changed my tune. If you have some sort of dental clinic near you maybe it will be a good idea to give them a try with a cleaning or a checkup. It can be a money-saver.

[Deleted]

I have a dental clinic near me.  Love the hygienist. Hate the doc - he's a total schmuck. I go there for cleanings & elsewhere for fillings.