<prompt> Human: I went to the dentist last week. They took x-rays and I got a basic cleaning. They said that I need a crown and a root canal. For insurance purposes, they suggested that I get one procedure done this year and one procedure done next year. I opted to get the crown first. I went in today to get the crown and they did a deep cleaning on the side where I got my crown. I got a temporary crown and they said they would deep clean the other side of my teeth when I go back in two weeks for my permanent crown. After my procedures, I received a call from the dentist saying that they were closing out my file for the year and my deep cleaning wasnt covered. They said that it will cost 500 out of pocket but the dentist will knock off 20. They offered to let me make payments though and they asked how much I would like to pay. We were discussing a quote when I received an important call and I hung up with them. 1: Am I obligated to pay for dental work that I didnt agree to pay for out of pocket?2: If I dont pay, would they send me to collections since we didnt set up a contract or agreement?3: If I must pay, can I ride it out with 20 payments over 2 years?Im just irritated that this even happened. Im a newly single mom making 2kmo and Im moving out of my house in December because I cant afford to live here. Im trying to legally cut corners where I can. I wouldnt have had my teeth deep cleaned if I knew I would be paying 500 out of pocket for only half my mouth.  <response>: You did agree to pay, though. The dentist doesnt care if you pay via insurance or out of pocket, but I promise you that you signed something saying that you were responsible for the portion your insurer didnt cover. Your issue is with your insurance. Im sure the dentist would be willing to make low payments over a long time period, but they may not perform more work until its settled. 