North Bethesda Periodontal Group

"This office has gone downhill, and my last experience was a distinctly underwhelming. I first came to this office in 2018 when was new to this area; and was happy with the implant service. I came back in Dec 2023 for the periodontal treatment on the same tooth that were bone-grafted but experienced partial bone lost issue. After the treatment was done, they insisted for scheduling a regular cleaning in 6-month at their office, and said that it would be as part of regular semi-annual routine alternating between their office and my regular family dental office. Despite calling the visit as "routine cleaning", which it actually was just that and nothing more than a routine cleaning compared to service at a family dental office (if nitpicking, this office did worse because cavity check or other oral examination procedures were not done), they claimed the service as periodontal maintenance with different billed code, resulted in a higher copay and overall service fees. Higher fee out of pocket is one thing, but what feels worse is their failures of communication in providing patient with adequate information ahead of, or at time of the appointment for decision. Miscommunication is one thing; but when it feels more like a deliberated held-back information attempt, then the credibility aspect becomes an issue that would be hard to have patient's return, or to receive a positive word of mouth. Staff improvement is highly recommended! Reply to Staff response: First, the part that you said the procedure was explained to me, and that I was made aware of.... are totally a stretch of your imagination. It was never explained; It was on the paper without explanations, and was noticed (by me) instantly after I signed; Hence, invoked the inquires and questions. (yes, it was my careless rushing not fully read before signing, but if I didn't raise the question, it would have slipped through). Second, when you kept referring the procedure as "routine cleaning", then I would think that it's same code as other offices' for routing cleaning. My inquiry about how come this office doesn't use the same code is far from your imagination that I want you to "commit insurance fraud" because unhappy about the copay. Please recognize this: if you lack of understanding, inquire for more clarity rather than thinking out loud your dark confusions. And if I could have another advice for you: Think about consequences before doing something. [for example: you should reflect on the experience and try to do better, instead of senseless reaction defending your part of the issue. And if you still think about inquiry information as similar to want to commit insurance fraud, then may I offer this: don't commit wrongdoing (or even thinking about) for $million left alone when it's only $85. I wish you luck in your endeavors."

"I have had a great experience working with Dr. Howanitz and the whole team. From the folks who work in billing and at the front desk to the medical assist team members (thanks Philly) to the doctor, everyone is kind and extremely skilled. Having dental work is never fun, but this team made it as comfortable as possible. And everyone communicates clearly about what to expect, which makes things so much better. The work that was done was very successful, so I recommend this practice highly."

"I had an implant put in by Dr. Choudhary on December 7, 2019, and the whole implant has come out. Be careful where you go to get your implants done."

"I had to see Dr. Howanitz in an emergency situation as I was suffering from gum infection & inside of my mouth was all red & swollen.Her treating manner was as gentle as her words with compassion & sympathy while one of her assisting staff was rubbing my shoulders to help any discomfort or pain I was feeling. I have been to many health care & dental care clinics over the years but never experienced such concern,care & comfort as this before! For me this has been a unique one!!!"