Have you ever successfully negotiated fees at a dentist? Are a dentist's fees negotiable?

Not at all a ridiculous request. A lot of them have payment plans, others have sliding scales, some have both, some don’t have either. But it’s definitely not a ridiculous request, and no one will think you strange for asking.

Any transaction in the free marketplace is negotiable. No guarantee you’ll get your price, but it is always negotiable.

Sometimes you can choose cheaper materials, too. For example, beautiful ceramic crowns and fillings which look identical to teeth are more expensive than the metal ones.

Depends on your dentist. With some dentists, it might be like pulling teeth…

There are many dentists out there, and especially before the work is done, one very standard technique is to ask for a second opinion.

With children’s dentistry, too, one wonders how many procedures are necessary, since kids’ teeth fall out and get replaced.

I think it helps if you are already a long term, established client.
I live in a small rural community and have been going to my dentist for 6 years now since I moved to this area. I have not had the need to ask for an extension for any billing, but, I know they do offer payment plans and credit. It won’t hurt to ask, and if you could provide client records from another dentist showing you have been an honorable client in the past that might help.

Another option is to use or takeout a credit card for dental work only and perhaps split up the treatments depending on what needs to be done.

It’s customary to get a discount for payment in full. The more overhead (fancy office, latest gadgets and handpieces, more auxillary staff), the less leeway there is to offer a discount. But ask. They all have payment plans, too.

Yes, you can ask for a payment plan and reduced cost. I’ve also bartered with a dentist before. Do you have any service to offer in return or ties to someone you could introduce in order to get a break on your fees?

You bet I have. You have nothing to lose by attempting it.

I just discovered this link today

How to Get Affordable Dental Care Without Insurance
1. Participate in Medical Studies
2. Use Free or Low-Cost Dental Providers
3. Search for Online Coupons and Savings
4. Enroll in a Discount Dental Plan
5. Use the Services of Dental Students
6. See If a Discount Is Available
7. Be Willing to Pay Upfront
8. Engage in “Dental Tourism”
9. Offer to Barter Services
10. Find a Part-Time Job With Dental Benefits
11. Use Government Resources
12. Get a Second Opinion
13. Visit a Nonprofit Organization