When Courtesy Backfires

To the Editor:

Two weeks ago I was astounded by the lack of flexibility displayed by a Newtown dental practice. Our daughters had an 8:30 cleaning appointment that morning, for which we were running a few minutes later. This is where I made the critical error of calling the dental practice to notify them that we would be three to five minutes late. To my astonishment they told me not to come! Sorry, but three to five minutes was three to five minutes too late!

With a nod to Dennis Miller, not to go off on a rant but you must keep in mind that we have been routinely kept waiting for 15-20 minutes (once for 45 minutes!) for past appointments! The young woman who answered the phone seemed doubtful we would be able to get there in the time I said even after I explained where we live (off Glover Avenue), and went so far as to check with the dentist. I was told a 12:30 appointment would be available. At this point I explained that I would be at work and it would be impossible to come in then. I also asked that they remove all four of our family members from the records, as we would not be returning (after using the practice for the five years we have lived in town).

I hope this action will illustrate to this dentist and other businesses in town that being in a service business it would be wise to be considerate of your patients (especially when they are being considerate of you) lest you loose their business!

Heather Rodriguez

6 Meadow Road, Newtown                        August 15, 2001