None of my dentists every discussed a treatment plan. they just treat what is wrong. i wait til i hurt and go back. this is the typical situation?

Don't wait til hurts: For every new patient who comes in (not an emergency) i review the patient's medical / dental history then do exams & chart: 1) oral cancer exam 2) visual exam of the teeth 3) periodontal gumline eval 4) diagnodent laser decay detection 5)full mouth / panoramic radiograph 6) intraoral photographs of all teeth. Then i set an appointment where i review all with patient & present treatment plan.

Get involved: The dentist should have a comprehensive treatment plan for you. If not, you may want to call them on it.. That is their professional obligation. Your obligation as a patient is regular dental visits and to go through with the treatment plan recommended. If you are uncomfortable with this process, get a second opinion or change dentists. Good dentistry is a two way street!