Friday, May 21, 2010

How much is dental care in the US generally?

I'm needing to get some dental work done and live in Aus, but I'm travelling back to my hometown in Michigan in a couple of months. I'm just trying to work out if it would be cheaper to do it there.





Has anyone had a root canal therapy and crown done recently, or could anyone direct me to a place where I could find a general idea of prices? I know I'd have to speak to the dentist once I get there to know for sure, but it would help to have a general idea. (If it's generally about the same cost, then I'll just enjoy my holiday and get it done once I get home!)





Depending on what is found in the tooth, I could be looking at a root canal and crown or an extraction and implant.





Thanks!

How much is dental care in the US generally?
I'm a dentist in Texas. Root canals generally run from $700 to 1000, crowns $800-1200. Implants are about $2500-3500(not including the crown that will need to be placed on the implant)
Reply:listen it sounds like you could really save money by doing this. i work for a place that has saved people up tp 80% on dental it would probably be worth it to sign up save ALL that money and then cancel with no problems. I say cancel because it would be worthless to keep it when you go out of the US but its VERY VERY cheap and you would save ALOT of money NO LIE! i can give you more info but i cant solicit here so email me and ill give you all the info and you can see if it would be good for you. But i think its a no brainer in your situation!





email me and ill get you the info


carson5021@yahoo.com

Tooth Ache

Can I be refunded for a crown that doesn't fit properly?

I live in NJ. In March 2006 I had a dentist crown one of my teeth. I thought everything was fine, until I went to a new dentist last week. He took the usual several x-rays of my mouth and found a problem with that crown. Apparently,it isn't covering my molar properly and he said that it is imperative that it be replaced before it causes big problems (a future root canal in that tooth). Can I be refunded the money for that crown from the dentist that did it? Do I have ANY recourse?? I don't have dental insurance so I put the previous charges on my Visa card. What can I do - if anything?!?!

Can I be refunded for a crown that doesn't fit properly?
i would make an appt to go see the dentist who placed the crown, take the x-ray with you, simply show him to him/her and ask if there is anything wrong with it? If he has an actual x-ray that he took after placing the crown and it appears the crown was fitting fine and now it's not (he should show you this), then that is different. However, if he never took an x-ray after he placed it and the crown has an open margin, then he should replace it at no charge. If he says nothing is wrong with it, point to where you were told there was a problem and see what he says. Let him know that you are willing to let him re-do the crown, but he most prob won't give you your money back unless you make a really big fuss. Or if you don't trust him to work on you tell him that you are going to have the crown re-done elsewhere and you think it would be ethically responsible of him to cover the bill of the new crown. Just be diplomatic and understand the details of your treatment; the new dentist may be just trying to make a buck as well, be well informed.
Reply:I understand that things pop up while at the dentist, but routine xrays should've been in the first price they quoted me. I don't have dental insurance so when a routine exam goes from $80 to $236 - I was floored! At least if I knew the cost was $236 I would've been prepared! Report It

Reply:Need more details. First of all, why did you go to a new dentist? Did you move?





Do you feel anything is wrong with the crown? Does your bite feel "off"? Can you go back to the dentist who did the crown and ask him/her to look at it? Is it an open margin issue?





Before you go any further, it would be wise to find out exactly what is wrong with the crown. If it turns out there IS something wrong, the original dentist should make it right with you.
Reply:You need to ask for your ex-rays that were taken at the time.It's been a year and you may have had gum recession.Usually when the crown is cemented permanently,they take an x-ray and keep it in the file.Go get the copy of it and show it to your dentist.If he says that it didn't look good at that time,then take some action.But if the crown looked good back then,but it doesn't now i don't think it's the dentist's fault.Good luck.


My permanent Crown broke in less than a month what do I do?

I just paid $1,300 USD for this platinum crown because I heard it was the best and most durable and it just broke in half. I haven't really been eating anything hard like ice I was just eating oatmeal and there it went. I still have the piece that broke any ideas on what I should do? I have had it for less than a month and I don't have a dental plan (altough I am looking if you have any suggestions please tell me) so I would hope I don't have to buy another. Any ideas?

My permanent Crown broke in less than a month what do I do?
HELLO,


IF THIS WAS A CROWN W/O A METAL BASE A FRACTURE IS POSSILE, BUT HIGHLY UNLIKELY.


GO BACK TO THE DENTIST AND HAVE A DIFFERENT CROWN PUT IN GRATIS SINCE IT WASN'T IN LONG.
Reply:It should be replaced for free. Call your dentist.
Reply:ask for a replacement or a refund
Reply:The dentist who put it in should back up his/her work %26amp; replace/repair for free. That's too much money to pay %26amp; have it fall out so soon.


Dental implants, anyone?

What I need is advice from someone, who has had experience with a dental implant. My research on the subject has yielded nothing but the highest praise for this state-of-the-art dental technique. Nevertheless, I'm still a bit sceptical. The problem is that I should decide by tomorrow, whether to choose an implant (molar), or root canal therapy and a double crown. Any and all input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.

Dental implants, anyone?
The root canal has its advantages, in that treatment can be completed in less time on your part. However, if you have lots of time and are willing to go throught the extra expense now and implant is a great option. why can't you get the RCT and Crown now? and the implant in 15 years or so when the crown and tooth fail? Nothing last for ever, But impants are getting very predicable.





One bit of advice Molars implants take time. don't rush the dentist to place your implant too soon. Give it at least 4 months. Unless your dentist has placed thousands of implants. He should give it about 4 months (preferably 6) between extraction and implant placement.
Reply:I had a root canal that was done 20 years ago and it went bad as all root canals do over time. I then got a implant which I have had for 3 years. Implants are permanent as they use a stell rod drilled into your bone. Plus, they are super strong and look just like your other teeth. They do cost a little more but trust me, they are worth it. Get the implant.
Reply:I have contracts with doctors offices and one of them is a dentist.....my own opinion is that you would be better off with the implants, less work, less pain! However, since I am not an expert in this area I could always get you the number for the doctor.
Reply:There is enough implants out here as it is. I would suggest doing it the natural way which is the root canal. What people today fail to realize is the reverse affects of implants can be detrimental You have to think about the long term affects as well.
Reply:Defenetly get the implant done!!!! I had to make the same decision 6 years ago. My dentist explained to me both ways. I know the implants are far more expensive, but it is worth it.If you think long term, it isn' t more expensive, because you have the implants for life! I heard people with the root canal have had many problems after a few years, didn't hear anything bad about the implants yet. Go to your dentist, he/she will explain to you how the implants are fixed in your mouth. You might find it a bit disgusting, but you will have no pain. I didn't even had pain after the operation. It is really like your own teeth. You can eat and bite anything. My personal opinion, I think the implants are the business!!! Go for it!
Reply:Well it's all up to how strong your jaw is to take the implant. The root canal would suggest may be not. Decaying teeth rot it. Ask your dentist if they think your jaw is up to it. If you can save the tooth with a crown do it (that's my view on the matter) Save the implant until you really need it
Reply:I don't think you should do the implant if you can save the tooth but what exactly is a "double crown"?





In the right hands a root canal will last decades, if not forever.





I do implants and I would only do if there were no other option.If the end result with a root canal is doubtful then it may be better to extract it but just to do the implant to save time is a stupid choice.Implants are not without problems and they tend to be bigger problems .





The problem is too many dentists want to do implants for the wrong reasons which gives us all a bad reputation just 'cos they need to send their kids to college.





I hope you make the right choice but a full assessment is needed to give you really useful advice which I can't give you at this moment in time.
Reply:Dental Implants are a very predictable alternative for the replacement of teeth. Sometimes, however, a traditional three unit fixed bridge is just as good. It depends on the health of the adjacent teeth (if there are any!)


Dental implants range in price - depending on the implant system and the type of prosthetic attachments (custom vs prefab) shop around... make sure your getting a good bang for your buck and that your treating dentist's are properly trained and have experience in placing and restoring the implants... write back for specifics if you like...


Some dental advice, please?

I'm having severe tooth pain, and I'm really worried. I Don't have dental insurance, and when I saw a dentist this past summer, he said I needed a root canal/crown. I went to talk to the receptionist and she told me I was looking at 2500. There were also 2 others that were in that kind of shape that i had seen and the dentist said there was even another that i haven't felt yet. I really can't afford that, and the care credit? My estimate was 300 for the next 5 years.


I know this is a lot to ask, but please no "well, you have to forget about the money and go for your health......" There is just no way, okay?


I'm about to head off to Mexico to get my teeth fixed, if someone can't give me some other kind of advice. I DO know I need to have this done, but its something i cannot foresee when the amount of the work I need done equals the cost of a new (Ford) car.


I don't need advice on taking care of them, either. I brush 2-3 times a day, I'm addicted to floss-picks.

Some dental advice, please?
Okay first...I went to two dentists and both told me I needed a root canal. I am from a small town living in the city. I went to my dentist from my home town and turns out I didnt need a root canal. He informed me that dentists at times say you need stuff when you really dont. How would you really know if you needed it anyway, youre not a dentist. How convenient. Make sure you actually need one. If you really do, please dont go to Mexico. Most dental or any medical office have payment plans. They can set you up. In most cases they will take what you can pay them each month. As long as its a worthy amount. Most places will work with you if it comes to money.
Reply:I'm not sure what you mean by "care credit," but have you tried looking into dental schools? Many times, they will do procedures for cheaper than a regular dentist office.
Reply:ok dont go to mexico. First get dental insurance, meanwhile to deal with the pain take motrin or any over the counter pain reliever.
Reply:Mexico IS a good choice should be able to get good care at an affordable price and hopefully you can write off all associated costs on taxes for medical expense as you're really forced to do that.





The dental school idea is legit but I don't know about making appointments--I think they do but I fear they're months out because the need is so great. Only other thing to do is to shop around for the cheapest dentist. I have dental problems with no insurance and I found a dentist who does the whole shebang on a crown for $500--the visits, the crown, adjustment if necessary. That's very reasonable as that would be the co-pay or less if I had insurance which I couldn't afford anyway. No idea about what a root canal would cost, but would be comparably cheap I should think.


Another thought is to look for a brand new dentist--starting up they tend to offer lower prices as they need clients. He might be able to offer you a payment plan--may even need a bit of help with the business--maybe you can do something as a bit of a barter? Trying hard to think of anything that could work as I DO feel your pain quite literally and wish you good luck.





BTW, get hooked on chewing gum with XYLITOL--helps reduce dental carries which COULD be a factor with your problems. I think there may be other things you could do, perhaps calcium supplements? to help reduce future problems.

Electric Scooter

I have been in the dental profession for 26 years, i need a change what career would best suit me?

I love people, I am a happy person, I get results. I am agressive,I am a thinker. I know about insurances,I prefer to be left alone to do my job, I am a self starter.I am a team player. I 've done banking, Quick books input invoices, and paying invoices. collections from insurance companies for outstanding payments. I have posted payments to patients accounts, sent out monthly bills to patients. I can type 45 wpm or so.I've ran monthly reports, I worked closely with accountants. Managed a large successful dental practice. Kept up with monthly budgets. Made collection calls,sent letters, delt with patients problems. Assisted dentist with patients, as a dental assistant, took xrays,charted problems, assisted with general dentistry, root canal, surgery. I am what you would call expanded function dental assistant, which mean, after the dentist numbed the patient he drilled the tooth for filling,crown,etc. I would finish the job, which was valuable to the dentist and his time. order supply

I have been in the dental profession for 26 years, i need a change what career would best suit me?
Human Resource Officer...IT INVOLVES all of your listed assist with out looking in peoples mouths.
Reply:I think you should go back to college and become a full fledged dentist.
Reply:Become a mortician. It's fun!
Reply:work sucks- join me in the dumpster behind your building.


Dental Question? I got my two front crowns put in today and...?

They are not the same shade as my other teeth. They are a tad bit darker and a tad bit yellower. I could not see this in the dentists office with the lighting in there. Now what??? They are permanently cemented in. Is there anything that can be done?

Dental Question? I got my two front crowns put in today and...?
Crowns will look different in various lighting. Dental offices usually have natural lighting [looks like fluorescent, but its not], so the crowns probably looked perfect there. If ur not happy, call them and ask what can be done. Are u sure they are cemented permanently, or just with a temporary cement? They will probably come up with a whitening solution, that will whiten your natural teeth. That should have been an option b4 hand. Good luck
Reply:You can ask your dentist, or use a whiting paste or wash. I've never had them but my friend did and they did look yellow or not normal, so i think they will just have to stay like that =)
Reply:Tell em they screwed up your teeth and you want your money back! And if they don't help or give your money back ummm try some bleaching(they should give cuz they screwed ur teeth up) or some Crest whiting strips!
Reply:When it comes to crowns there is no such thing as permanent. If the color is off go back to the dentist and point it out to him or her...In most cases there are one or two reasons crowns don't match the natural teeth...(1) The dentist failed to provide the dental ceramist the proper shade number or (2) the ceramist failed to match the shade number he or she was given...In any event you are entitled to crowns that properly match the surrounding natural teeth...It's not magic and it's not impossible, some one simply goofed. There is the possibility that the colors of the walls in the dentist exam room wasn't conducive to being able to select proper tooth shades for crowns...If necessary have him look at the difference in-outside light, pick the proper shade in that setting and "remake" the crowns....I was a ceramist for 22 years and I know what I'm talking about.
Reply:When restoring front teeth with crowns or veneers, it's very challenging to get the color right, when facing such scenario, a lot of dentists try to restore 6 front teeth together with Veneers/crowns to make sure color matches.


The fact that your crowns looked ok in the dentist office, and different color later (at home?) is due to the fact that crown's porcelain reaction to the amount of UV in the lighting is different than your natural teeth under different lighting conditions, and even the best matching crown will show this kind of shade discrepancy under different lighting, it's simply the porcelain fluorescence under UV light. most dental offices have corrected light that simulate the sun polychromatic light, including UV, just to get to as accurate shade match as possible.


Without getting into these details, to solve this problem you have 3 solutions:


1) Understand the limitation of restorative dentistry and try to ignore the fact your teeth color doesn't match properly, and simply live with it.


2) Try to restore the adjacent teeth with veneers/crowns that matches the shade picked for these 2 crowns, this is the most expensive option, and probably the most aggressive as well, but usually guarantee the best cosmetic outcome, your dentist might elect to remake these 2 crowns to achieve better color match.


3) Remake these 2 crowns only, and ask your dentist for a custom shade match, the lab tech will come over to pick the shade of your teeth by himself for little extra charge. From my experience, it's really hard to achieve this kind of accuracy, unless you are working with a high end lab tech who has good experience with cosmetic dentistry, and sadly not too many of those exist.


I would pick option 1 if the color difference is not that bad, if it's really bothering you or the color is way far off, try changing the 2 crowns only. Otherwise you are left off with the extreme smile make over option.


Hope that helped.


Good Luck

acne scar

Dental x-rays???

My husband and I are planning to TTC this month for the first time. I wanted to make sure everything was perfect including my dental work. When I went to the dentist last month they needed to replace a crown. In doing so, my dentist needed to take one digital x-ray to make sure it was o.k. I did have an apron. This was on Dec. 20th. I am now concerned about radiation effects if any. Do I need to wait a month or can I continue with my plans to TTC this month?

Dental x-rays???
Last time I had a (non-dental) X-ray, I was surprised by how small an area of my body they covered.





I talked with the radiologist, and they explained that there's a lot less "excess" radiation than there used to be in X-rays. Basically, the beam is more focused than in the past, so there is less danger of exposure.





Additionally, I had a dental emergency when I thought I might be pregnant (though I wasn't). They still X-rayed me, though they were a little extra careful with the lead apron.





If you have not yet conceived, then any radiation you were exposed to on 20 Dec. should not have any effect (beyond the cumulative effect of all such radiation), and I don't think waiting another month would make any difference.





If you have, then bring up your radiation concerns with your OB at your first visit.





Best of luck to you both!
Reply:You had an apron on during the xray so you should be ok. The apron is designed to prevent any radiation from getting through. If you are concerned, talk to your doctor.





Good luck!
Reply:You're fine - even if you didn't have the apron, your eggs are not going to change from one month to the next. If any damage was done, which is highly unlikely, it's not going to get better by waiting a month.





Women produce all the eggs they will have for their entire lifetimes before they are even born, while men produce new sperm on an ongoing basis from puberty forward (although as they get older the quality usually decreases signficantly). Waiting a month makes sense for the prospective father because of this, but not the mother.
Reply:I was having major mouth pain and had to get Xrays during my 5th month. I was double layered in the apron and the baby and I were fine. I asked my obstetrician, and she gave me the green light. Dental Xrays are very localized, so you will be fine.


Tooth crown too big?

I got a crown put on yesterday after wearing a temporary for awhile. The top of it is fine, as is the side closest to my tongue, but the side next to the lip seems a little weird - I can feel the bottom of it and actually there is some space underneath that my thumbnail can fit under. I remember with the temp being able to feel the bottom ridge but then the gum grew over it - do I just need to wait for this to happen, or is this unusual. She told me to call her in a few days if anything was wrong or weird, but I don't know if this is weird or typical.





Also, I went in all scared about it and it was probably the easiest dental-type thing I've ever had done.

Tooth crown too big?
I assume it's normal, but it's interesting because with my crown it's the opposite: the dark ridge/space or whatever you call it is by my tongue. Have the dentist check it out.
Reply:The crown should fit the shoulder of the preperation better than that and it should be like 1 mm beneath the gum. You may try brushing the gums toward the incisal edge of the tooth for a couple of days; if no improvement call your Dentist.
Reply:Stop worrying ,you will adjust to the feel!! Doc W


Burned on the face during crown procedure?

i was at the dentist getting a crown procecure and after the dentist had drilled the tooth down,


the dental assistant was packing some kind of string in the gums on that tooth and i received a chemical burn on my face near my lips. It is a week later and it looks like it might scar, maybe. I asked the dentist what chemical it was that burned me and she avoided giving my a proper name for the chemical, all she said is that it was a combination of chemicals and something about it being hemostatic. she told me that i had a rare reaction to it but i suspect the chemical was something that shouldn't be on anyones skin. anyone know what burned me?

Burned on the face during crown procedure?
As Dr Sam says above, the usual haemostatic agents are ferric sulfate and aluminium chloride (generic names). Neither of these will burn your skin.


Another very faint possibility is tri-chloracetic acid. This has been used by some people, but it burns skin very easily, and its use is discouraged. Nasty stuff. I can't think why anyone would use it when the other usual agents are effective. It's the only substance that I can think of that would burn.


If you're worried about scarring, then you should persist in finding out the name of the chemical, and seek the opinion of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Reply:no just get mederma scar ointment from the pharmacy
Reply:I think the string has clove oil on it. Clove helps "calm" the tooth. Clove oil is strong and can give a burning feeling. Consult your dentist or doctor.
Reply:There is a special ultraviolet light that is used to cure the bonding agents in the special the moulding paste that they use.. It is a porcaand acrylic combination polymer and a molimer is used. the light is hot. Did you sign a release from damages. Make them treat the injury. I've had this procedure and had a burn in my mouth and the dentist said it was actually the light that bakes it.
Reply:We use astringent agents, like ferric sulfate, aluminum chloride. Some have epinephrine in them. There are many brands out there and I am sure there are different chemicals used, but these are the main ones.
Reply:There is phosphoric acid in some dental products. I think used for etching a tooth before something should stick to it. that is not supposed to touch the tooth. There is also the clove oil as someone previously stated that is used to calm the rooth it is in a cement called ZOE or IRM. You could ask if your dentist used either of those or an etching agent containing Phosphoric acid.
Reply:It sounds like they were using hemodent and retraction cord to stop the bleeding so that they could take the impression for the crown.





Hemodent™ effectively stops minor gingival bleeding. It contains no epinephrine to help avoid cardiac reactions. Hemodent is stable and offers a long shelf life.





Recommended to arrest bleeding during crown preparations, before impression taking, placing fillings, cement bases, or cementing inlays or crowns; also after minor surgery, curettage, gingivectomies, gingivoplastys and deep scaling.





Hemodent Cords are already impregnated with Hemodent Liquid.The cord has a pliable consistency to be easily packed subgingivally without fraying or disintegrating.The braided cord remains placid when placed due to its hollow braiding.





Both cords are dry on placement and are activated by mouth moisture. They are easily placed to shrink away interfering gingiva before making gingival impressions and are easily removed. Packaged in 7-ft. lengths in self-cutting dispensing containers.
Reply:This gel is used with a cord pushed into the gum tissue to retract your gums before the final impression is taken so that when your crown is made it is placed under the gum line just enough so food will not get caught under the crown and cause decay. We use "tissue goo" a 25% aluminum sulfate hemostatic gel. The hemostatic properties keep the tissue from bleeding because the area needs to stay dry for the final impression. It sounds like this is what they were using. I've never heard of it causing burns, but I've never dropped it on a patients face either.


Dental help dayton ohio?

I need a crown put on my tooth. It is located first molar on my upper left side. I only work part time and have no insurance, therefore I do not have alot of money to spend on dental work. I had a root canal on this tooth which cost 850 dollars and now have to spend another 500 to get a crown. How do i get some help? or where is the cheapest place to go? Thanks, Megan

Dental help dayton ohio?
Sometimes the dentist office that you go to can also effect the cost of your appointments. My mom switched dental offices several months ago and now she does not have to pay as much as she did when she was at the other place. I would make it known that I work part-time and have no dental insurance! I would ask for a discount........if possible! Hey, it worked for my dad!


Good luck!
Reply:sorry i cant help you i live in spain but i will tell you a good dentist here his name is docter mui diegoen la detiones fo tu he is a grat great doctor
Reply:I have a dental plan that's really good and saves you up to 80%


http://mybenefitsplus.com/40436527
Reply:Go to www.AffordableDental4All.com they will help you save money and ask them, they should work with you on a payment plan.

flip flop style

Dental fees?

I paid my yearly exam fee and than had some dental work done than I went back in for a tooth that was bothering me .No work was done but I had to pay an exam fee all over again.I am going in to crown this tooth I thought I would just have to pay for the crown.my year from my exam isnt up yet.My question is .Is it normal to charge to exam per tooth after you paid a yearly exam fee?

Dental fees?
Yes it is normal for a dentist to charge an additional exam fee. A yearly exam (or bi-yearly) is considered a periodic exam. Treatment needed is diagnosed and the patient is given an estimate of the dental work. At any time after this, prior to the next periodic exam (depending on the dentist this may be done every 6 months), a patient comes in complaining of a specific problem, such as a broken tooth or toothache, the dentist will usually have to take a single x-ray of this tooth, if this tooth was not previously diagnosed as needing major treatment such as a rootcanal or crown. If it was previously diagnosed, meaning that you came in within the last couple of months, and he feels that the treatment has not changed, he may just "remind" you of what needs to be done on that tooth. However, if he feels the tooth has changed in condition, as compaired to the previous x-ray that he has on this tooth, then yes he will do another x-ray and you will be charged for a limited(problem focused) exam.


This is certainly normal. Think of it like this: You go to your gynocologist for your yearly pap and breast exam, and then 3 months later you develope a strange itch or pain in your privates. The gyno would charge you an additional exam fee to look at this, even if he had just done an exam 3 months prior.





A dentist has to have the most current, accurate x-ray that he can, before a tooth can be worked on. This is for his own liability. If he feels that the tooth has changed since the last x-ray, he will take another one and you will be charged for this and a limited exam.
Reply:Well you know this country they charge you for eveything, it shouldn't because is like a insurance. But maybe is because you only pay for the visits and normal chek outs, and probably they are charging cause of the tooth and maybe they'll have to take it out.
Reply:Everytime you go into the office, you get charged an exam fee. It should just be a standard cost. Most offices are around 25.00-55.00 for an office visit. It all depends on you doctor. They can set there own fees. If you have questions call them and ask them about their fee schedule, so then you dont have to guess. you will know before you go in.
Reply:Better read the fine print in your dental contract.
Reply:Yes, it is normal. Chances are, the dentist didn't see anything wrong with your tooth. The exam you had done for this tooth is called a limited or problem focused exam.





When the tooth gets crowned, chances are the dentist won't need to do another exam. He's already seen what's wrong and came up with a treatment plan.
Reply:Yes, this is normal to charge a limited exam or emergency fee.


Lost crown - do I need to see a dentist immediately?

I had a root canal with a temporary crown placed in early November on a lower canine.


I apparently lost the crown and the build-up material eating last night (I thought it was


just a bone in the food, so I don't have the remains of the crown). All of the buccal facing of the tooth is gone, and I can see the pin and core at the bottom of the hollowed-out portion.





I'm not experiencing any pain, and I've filled in the hollow with dental wax for the time being. Since it's a holiday, I'm having a difficult time getting hold of my dentist. Is this something that can wait until Monday to be seen, or should I call another dentist?

Lost crown - do I need to see a dentist immediately?
no dear it is not emergency and you can wait till Monday


emergencies in this case are


1-sever pain


2-sharp edges that could hurts tong or cheek


3-if the crown was permanent to preserve teeth alignment


since you do not have any of the above so you can wait till Monday
Reply:YES! Call your dentist right away. You don't want any damage to be done to the open area or it to get infected.
Reply:sweety if you don't go and get that fixed like now...it's gonna end badly!
Reply:A temporary crown is just that, temporary. They are not designed to last well. Just get you through until you get the permanent one installed, after the tooth has been ground out.





If you lost yours you need to call your dentist immediately and tell him it failed and you need him to put another on. If you don't you could damage the seat he created for the new crown being made and the permanent won't fit properly.
Reply:it will be just fine for the weekend. temporary crowns are not designed to last 4-5 months, sometimes not even two weeks. I would be much more worried about not having had a permanent crown put on in the last 4 months then not having the temp on for the next three days. Usually after a root canal, a crown is done within a month.


How to negotiate dental fees?

I have a 25-year old amalgam that the dentist says is leaking and needs to be replaced with a porcelain crown. My dentist's charge is $1900. Insurance will cover $390. I decided to book an appointment with a local dental college where the cost is $780. The front desk employee at the dentist office was upset when I asked for a copy of my X-rays. She wanted to know if I was no longer going to be a patient at that office. I said I wasn't sure, but I was worried about the $1900 fee.





I would be willing to stay at the dentist if I could negotiate the fee, but I don't know how to go about it. I have been going to this office for 9 years and had major work done before. I've never negotiated before, but the price of a crown has gone up by 60% since I've last had one done. Any advice would be appreciated, and I understand that it costs a lot to maintain a dental business. I feel like this might be a lose/lose situation.

How to negotiate dental fees?
The fee being charged for CEREC crown looks to be 40-50% high. Take copies of your X-rays elsewhere or the dental college where you have been quoted quite reasonable.
Reply:Most dentist won't negotiate the fee, because a dental office is expensive to run so they give you a set price. I would like to know where you live because my husband is a dentist and he only charges $750 for a full porcelain crown.
Reply:you have a few options:


1. talk to a free lawyer at your local library or at a local lawfirm: get a free consultation


2. if you are a student or parent:::: emphasize you cannot afford and negotiate a payment option with/without a lowered fee charge


3. get another opininon and bargain if you get a lower charge


4. appeal your insurance. ASK the doctor for advice if they are NICE..OTHERWISE ask your insurance for the lead or supervisor and ask what forms you have to fill out to appeal the coverage%26gt; THERE IS ALWAYS an appeal with insurance companies etc. YOU CAN arguue this.





*****ask for the supervisor. ask for the proper forms to appeal the coverage limit. and you'll mostlikely have to write a letter. EMPHASIZE in your letter that in the long wrong...they will have to cover even MORE fees for pain meds or possible surgery if needed and will have to pay for follow up appointments if it is not covered and taken care of in the mean time.





I hope this helps. IT WILL TAKE SOME CALLS and some time being transferred....JUST APPEAL your insurance. and you'll have to do some leg work. NOTHING comes from free...and if it does...you'll have to work at it to get it.
Reply:Insurance coverage is non-negotiable. If insurance flat out denies a procedure, you may have cause for an appeal...but asking for them to cover more than their set fee is probably a waste of time.





$1900 sounds a bit high for a CEREC crown. Even though CEREC equipment is very expensive, the crowns themselves cost less to produce than the ones they get from a dental lab.





You could ask the dentist if there is an alternative, less expensive treatment for the tooth. But the dental office is not a flea market and haggling prices is not a good option. Discounts are sometimes given for advance payment or in charity cases, but the idea of negotiated pricing would be viewed as unprofessional - at least with US dentists.





Something is bothering me about your experience and that is the front desk getting "upset" because you asked for records. No dental practice likes to lose a patient, but they should not be upset with you, especially if you told them you were seeking a second opinion. It's fairly common in dentistry and at my practice we encourage it. People who go to other offices come back with a new appreciation for us and our services.
Reply:I would tell the dentist EXACTLY what you told us and see what


their reaction is. Presenting the facts is a great negotiation skill.


If they're not willing to negotiate you will know by watching


their reaction to the facts. ;) Good luck, and no you don't have


to pay $1900 for a crown.
Reply:that is going to be tough
Reply:definitely go somewhere else. price is way too high, should be half. they should never get mad at you--I had to do the same thing a while back and found another dentist who was empathetic to my finances and pay much less now for dentistry.
Reply:Do not deal with this dentist,you do not have to go to a dental student either. I have been robbed by both .A ask friends,check around find a reputable dentist who Is hopefully not on the take. The filling will not do any more damage in a short time,You can have peace of mind by doing your homework.I know if you ask your regular doctor and or any one else you trust you can come out fine,with good work and less money spent.Use the Internet to locate dental referral service in your city confide in the sec.there


Dental Impant - How long between extraction and implant?

I am having a tooth #13 pulled on Thursday in preperation for a dental implant. It cracked and I have decay near the root so the periodontist actually suggested an implant over RCT and a crown. I cannot figure out exactly how long this will take (other than "months"). How long between the extraction and the implant surgery? How long after the surgery do I get the crown? I am trying to get pregnant right now and I am a little worried about how that will affect the timeline on this.

Dental Impant - How long between extraction and implant?
I would definitely get an implant in place of this tooth. It's pretty close to the front of your smile (visible). Depending on you and how your body heals. The dentist will wait until you your extraction site is healed, and then proceed with the implant process. There are sterile implant parts that have to be placed in the bone, and this is usually a mini-surgical procedure in the dental office. At a certain point you have to have healing caps placed. Sometimes implants take anywhere from 4-6 months, maybe a year. During this process you'll have to come back and get impressions once the implant can be exposed and then these materials are sent to a lab where your crown is fabricated. It's not a one shot deal. It will take a little bit of time. You may want to consult your dentist about your expectant situation and novocaine administration during pregnancy, unless you can wait until the end of your pregnancy to get started where you are out of the first stages/trimesters. Goodluck!
Reply:I vote for restored's asnwer, 100%.

phone

Dental implant procedure?

I am just curious about the procedure of dental implant and how long it takes.


When I extract my tooth, do I get the implant right away or I need to wait(and for how long). Once I get the implant it, do I get the crown put in or do I wait. My tooth is the very last tooth at the bottom right. Does the dental surgeon extract the tooth or my dentist.

Dental implant procedure?
First off, you probably won't notice it's missing even if you _dont_ get the implant. I lost the upper right back one (not counting wisdom teeth) and it's not really a big deal.





As far as implants go, it depends on the type.





For a single implant like that, they will probably have to wait for the bone to reform in the socket where the tooth was. THen the stud for the implant will be put in, and once the bone grows to it, then the tooth can be bolted onto it.





(These are the only implants I have any knowledge of.. I know there are several types out there!)





The link below should answer most of your questions.


Dental mishap... please give advice?

So my husband has seen this dentist a few times and we immediately did not really like them but they were the only people that took his insurance in our city. So, he has a broken tooth in his mouth and he paid $900 for a crown, his left front tooth. The dentist sized it up and it looked fine but when the dental assistant set it it was set crooked and he is not happy. The dentist told him he would replace it for $300 lab fees for new tooth or if he "broke it" he could get the tooth for free. Well, this made him mad all together that he suggested breaking the tooth. He got a 2nd opinion and the dentist told him that it was illegal for a denal asst to set a crown and they should pay for it bc he wouldnt need a new tooth if it wasnt set crooked. I feel like we should go somewhere else and still send them the bill. I dont trust them in his mouth. What should we do?

Dental mishap... please give advice?
Yes, it is illegal for a dental assistant to cement a crown permanently. This guy needs to be reported to your state dental board. They will investigate, fine and possibly suspend his license. Dont' change the crown until you hear from the board.
Reply:Get a lawyer and sue.
Reply:Contact your version of the general dental council. They will be able to advise you about how to make complaints.
Reply:Being in the dental profession and being a registered dental assistant, I have always been told that an assistant could not set a permanent appliance, crown etc. This is how it is in our state anyway from my understanding. You say you have dental insurance and the crown still cost $900.00 that is by far more than charged in my area also. I have several crowns and my DDS has always placed them, not the assistant. I would certainly check my options.


Why ask on Yahoo answers what a dental procedure costs?

Do you realize that this site is viewed all over the US and outside the US as well? Someone in Podunk, Arkansas can tell you that it cost $50 to pull a tooth, but if you live in Dallas, Texas, do you really think that is inacurate? Dentists all over the world charge different fees. Some base their fees on what other dentists in the area charge, others have worked up their fees based on what it costs to run their office (staff salaries, supplies, advertising, etc.). The fees from one office I worked at compaired to where I work now, are night and day. A "normal" crown, which was the cheapo crown in that office, was only $398. We refuse to do these crowns in our office just because they are the cheapo crowns, and don't last more than about 3 yrs. We charge $825 for our "normal" crown. This is really not the best place to determine what is a normal fee for a dental procedure. You are better off calling dentists in your area and price compairing.

Why ask on Yahoo answers what a dental procedure costs?
People ask all sorts of questions here. One of the reasons I enjoy the forum is because of the variety of questions and answers. Questions aren't generally asked seeking an all specific and accurate answer, just a "guesstimate". Lets' just have fun!
Reply:because are people who are addicted to "Answers"and will ask everythink included your problem, it is about hunger of comunication,everythink is "info"and we are info-users!!!!
Reply:It's actually scarier to ask questions in person, especially about prices. I don’t want to make people think I am poor or stupid. And dentistry is not a popular subject. Most people know nothing about this field. It’s a common knowledge that the dental service is expensive and painful. When I first got my root canal, I was SHOCKED to find out that it cost $500 and that’s why I never went back to get my $800 crown made (yep, still walking around with a chipped tooth). That’s why I like Yahoo answers. You can ask anything you want here and don’t give damn about what people think about you because then you realize that there are stupider questions asked here. Plus, we get experts like you to answer questions and to inform us what a dental procedure costs. Where else in the world I can do that just sitting in front of my computer butt naked?
Reply:Actually, we hate it when patients call us and "price shop".





If you had a tumor in your brain, would you go around calling neurosurgeons' offices to find the cheapest price for removing it?





So why is it an acceptable thing to do to us?





It's not. Which is why I tell my staff to not answer these questions over the phone.
Reply:I have to agree with everyone else-this is one of the better questions I have seen, compared to "where can I find a woman with low self-esteem", and "Is it wrong to use cats for shark bait?". Not to mention the questions that I am completely unable to read due to numerous typos. I do see your point, but if people from all over answer the question, it gives this person an median range, not to mention, saving hours of wasted time. Why bother calling to ask when you probably won't get an answer from the dentist's office which does not give quotes over the phone?


Hi, dental implant query?

Hi, I am in the process of a dental implant on one of my main front two upper teeth, i lost the tooth and root last July 1st after i was assaulted, i had a temporary denture for a short period then the screw was fitted in my gum, 6 months later (two weeks ago) i went back to the dentist where he fit a temporary crown for a few months (something to do with moulding my gum?) however tonight while i sat to eat my tea, i was chewing away unaware that somehow the damn crown had got loose and without realising i swallowed it! So now im left with a like peg in my mouth which is sharp and no crown.





Problem is, I live in Newcastle but my dentist is 2 and a half hours away plus its a saturday night.





What should i do, im setting home tomorrow morning and hopefully seeing dentist morning but i doubt he will be able to fit anything there and then will he?





Im sick of this damn thing! nearly a year and still not sorted plus its costing a damning fortune!

Hi, dental implant query?
It sounds like you're getting really frustrated, but it will be worth it in the end. Don't worry about losing the temporary crown, your dentist should be able to replace it easily. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do right now, so just hang in there until you see your dentist. I would recommend that you try not to eat on the side of the mouth where the tooth is and rinse your mouth out with water after eating. You don't want to get an infection. Also, if you're having some sensitivity, you should avoid hot or cold liquids/foods, and you certainly don't want to eat hot foods while drinking cold liquid. Eat and drink everything at room temperature. Good luck to you!
Reply:I know the process of getting an implant seems like it takes forever, but trust me, you'll be happy you went through it all. It will look, act, and feel like your natural tooth. It's a LOT better than getting a bridge or a partial denture. Just becareful with your tooth, and wait until Monday. Sorry, wish there was a quick fix for you, but in this case, patience is your best bet.
Reply:i had the same situation, if your peg isn't sensitive and aching like crazy from being exposed to air, then you are o.k. Mine hurts when exposed. If you are comfortable, go to the dentist at your convenience, and a year is a long time to wait, I think I would push a little on this one
Reply:You can place a temporary on it. You can buy this temporary filling, clay stuff around the post so you'll at least not be jamming the post into your mouth you can buy it at most any store with a dental aisle (probably next to the floss and such) and it will say temporary on it i can't remember the entire name but it does say temporary on it and it should be only a few bucks. Good luck.

Gold Teeth

My crown tooths feels not right!!i have 9 top crown tooth!!?

about 2 month ago i put 9 portelain crown,every thing all right,but since a few days i feel like when i touch with my toung ,go saliva ,and is almost like the temporary tooths, i have it before i get the final work.I feel like is move a litlle from the right place,even when i touch it nothing move!!


i feel i go crazy,specialy because i do it in europe,and i am in Canada,!! maybe from the dental floose? please ,help me with any advice!!

My crown tooths feels not right!!i have 9 top crown tooth!!?
DIANA, DID YOU SAY YOU ALREADY HAVE 9 PORCELAIN CROWNS OR WILL GET THEM?


YOUR QUESTION IS A LITTLE UNCLEAR.


THE TEMPORARY CROWNS WILL FEEL DIFFERENT THAN THE TEMP. THE MOVEMENT YOU DESCRIBE MAY BE SOMETHING KNOWN AS TRISMUS, WHICH IS SLIGHT NATURAL MOVEMENT OF THE TEETH. DEFINITELY FLOSS TO MAINTAIN THE HEALTH OF YOUR GUMS.
Reply:It sounds like the crown is loose. When you have a loose crown fluid can get under it and bubble out when you touch it.


If it is loose, you need to get it removed and recemented or remade as soon as possible because decay can proceed very quickly under a loose crown.





Not to Dr. Albert - you mentioned trismis - which is inability to open the mouth due to pain. Did you mean crepitis? That is a crackling sound from under a crown or joint.


Dental plan?

my one front teeth was missing from long time. and the gap has become tiny. i can't put a bridge on dat space becoz its way too small for it. so my dentist said it better to put crown n he said i need three crown to match all the teeth. but its expensive and also i don like dis dentist dat much. i want to change dentist and also want to hav dental plan. which dental plan will cover more and which dentist is good. i m in new york, queens. actually i thinkin abt lumineer. but it might b way more expensive rite?? help me i m so embarrassed wid my teeth gap even its not that very bad but its lil weird

Dental plan?
You're probably going to have to work out a payment plan with the dentist. That is normally the best way to go. If you don't like that dentist than you can always get a new one and a second opinion. Don't worry or be embarrassed about your teeth. Noones teeth are perfect without braces and a lot of dental care.
Reply:i dont think you will find a dental plan that will cover cosmetic.work out a payment plan with the dentis.that is what i did.
Reply:You can have a very affordable Dental Plan. You don't need to be a member or pay anything to get details on the web site.





You can save up to 80% on all services using this Dental Plan.





Go to this web site and put in your area code to 1) check the Dentists in your area, 2) to get the rates for check up, etc. and then you can sign up on line if you see that you can save a bunch of money.





The company offers a 30 day money back guarantee on the Membership fee.





Click here:





http://mybenefitsplus.com/wpaul


Free dental treatment?

Does anybody know a place in or near Ballymena, Northern Ireland where I can obtain dental treatment for free? I need two crowns replacing and one refixing and a few fillings but I cant afford to go to the dentist!

Free dental treatment?
You might want to consider getting world class dental treatment in India and get a vacation out of it at the same time.





We provide world class dental services in India to international patients. You can learn more at





http://chandigarhdentist.com/implants.ht...


http://chandigarhdentist.com
Reply:your answer is here http://www.yurtdisitatil.com
Reply:If you are an ayslum seeker it will be free.
Reply:You have to go to a Dentist,may be he might consider doing on humanitarian grounds.
Reply:hmm do u have any relatives studying dentistry?! what i know that i am doing dentistry in Cork and my family gets free dental treatment! so check any teaching hospital near ya! they would be "cheaper" then private prac
Reply:Those were the days! When we had a National Health Service and people cared about each other. You will not find a free dentist in this country. You will find Dentists with flash cars living in nice houses. It's called democracy!
Reply:you will only get emergency work done for free.any thing cosmetic will have to be paid for


good old national health PS i want my national insurance payments back.
Reply:if u r on high working tax credits u get free dental treatment, ring up nhs direct they can sent u to nearest nhs emergeny dentist.
Reply:you can only get free treatment if you are under16, 16-18 and a full time student or if you are on income supprt.
Reply:If you are in the right circle of friends you may get dental work free. A trade off you do work for them, they do work for you.
Reply:Sure, everyone loves doing work for free, just ask.


Are Dental Labs protected by HIPAA and not allowed to provide the dental patient with records?

I had dental procedure that included the installation of 28 crowns and veneers. I sent the dentist a written request for the contents of my dental record, including the dental lab record. The dental lab record the dentist provided is incomplete. I have asked the dental lab for a copy of my order and all documents relating to my case. They in turn sent to me the same set of incomplete documents. I want to know what type of ceramic they used in the manufacture of my crowns and veneers and all pertinent information regarding the color and design the dentist ordered. I asked the Better Business Bureau for assistance and the Dental Lab is now claiming that they are covered under HIPAA and do not have to supply me (the patient) with any information regarding my order,unless required by a "court." Do you know if the HIPAA protection claim by the dental lab is accurate? Thank you for your help. This is very important to me.

Are Dental Labs protected by HIPAA and not allowed to provide the dental patient with records?
I am a medical resident and have had to review the HIPAA laws ad nauseum. You have a right to view your medical records, although the records are the property of the practitioner / facility. Facilities can charge a fee for retrieval, and require a reasonable time to retrieve the said records, but you certainly have a right to view your own recods. I would call back or preferrably go there in person and find out the proper channels to get your records. It sounds like they are making it more difficult than it needs to be.





Try this website: http://www.hipaa.org/
Reply:Under the HIPPA provision, you are specifically given the right not only to see but receive a paper copy of your records (allowing reasonable notice to copy them, don't walk in a demand a copy you'll get no where fast). Here's a link to a notice regarding HIPPA rights:


http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/consumer_su...
Reply:They are full of it. Even with HIPAA you can sign a paper to release your records to another health care provider or your insurance company or to yourself. They are trying to keep you from taking the records to a new dentist. Insurance companies only allow for certain diagnostic procedures to be done once a year or every two years or what have you. If your new dentists hands are tied because they can't do x-rays and other necessary tests , they wont e able to treat you. You will have no choice but to stay with your old dentist and they know it. Threaten to get an attorney and to talk to someone at HIPAA and your insurance company. See what they have to say then
Reply:HIPAA protects the patient primarily. The regulations govern who can receive your medical records, but they are YOUR records.


Dental labs are tricky because HIPAA "covered entities" are only those providers who transmit information electronically. Most labs don't use electronic transmission of protected information.


The best way to get information about the dental lab is through the providing dentist. Dealing directly with the lab will probably get you nowhere. Please expand your answer and let us know if you are having a dispute with the dentist. If not, the dental office is in a much better position to get the information you are requesting.





Oh, and the lab is full of it. HIPAA does not protect "them" at all...it protects "you".
Reply:HIPAA DOES NOT prohibit the patient from getting ANY of there OWN medical records.


THE DENTAL LAB IS FULL OF s**t





It sounds like you got ripped off and payed for something you did not get.





by the way if you go to your court house and talk to the court clerk getting a court order is not that hard. and costs about the same as filing a small claims court suit. $35 TO $45.


it does not not take a lawyer.


the dental lab is betting you don't know this.





I believe the judge will rip them a new one when he hears this.

men dress shoes

Crown lengthening, hard and soft tissue???

I have just had 2 root canals, teeth 14 and 15. They have been 'bonded', not prepared and do not have temporary crowns yet. My General Dentist wants my Periodontist to complete the crown lengthening BEFORE he preps the teeth and fits the temp. crown, however my Periodontist wants the General Dentist to prep the teeth and fit the temp. crowns BEFORE he does the crown lengthening work.


This is costing me alot of money and I want to be certain that the work is carried out with my best interests in mind, I want the best possible outcome for my dental health.


Who do I listen to?...I have requested that they both liase, discuss my case and come to a discision.....I have been trying to reserch this topic myself and would LOVE to hear from anyone who has had this work carried out or indeed any Dentist, General or Specialist who performs this type of procedure..oh, how long can I be left with just the built up bond while this is being resolve..I do not want my root canals to be jeapodized

Crown lengthening, hard and soft tissue???
There is no reason a periodontist cannot do a crown lenghtening without a preparation, more so if you already have tooth canals (tell him not to be a baby!).





You should have the lengthening BEFORE the preparation so that your general dentist prepares in one appointment, otherwise he would have to prepare, wait for your lengthening, and re-prepare (this makes no sense).





By the way, if 1 month goes by and you haven´t restored your root canals, the outcome might be compromised.





Good luck
Reply:The best solution would be for them to sit down and discuss your case. If that can't be arranged, look outside your current dental team, and consult a thrid party. Other DDS's might be able to lead you in the right direction.
Reply:If at all possible, I prefer to do the crown prep before the periodontist does the crown lengthening. This is because I want to show where, exactly the margin is now. And it allows me to direct things better, because I can say: I need 4mm more space, etc. However, there are no hard and fast rules. I am sorry for you, however, that your GP and periodontist can't get it together. Usually there is a better working relationship and these kinds of conflicts don't happen.
Reply:I had crown lengthening procedures several years ago on teeth 7-10 by a periodontist. Then my general dentist did the crowns. It was a breeze, after 3 years in ortho and the cl i am very happy with my teeth. it cost a fortune but worth every dime. Try not to eat anything hard or sticky while you are waiting for the procedures to be done.


Post-dental work allergy?

Hello. Last year I got a root canal and porcelain crown. I spent months with a tight, almost numb throat, with alot of thick mucus production. Yesterday I received the temporary crown for another tooth (no root canal), but then this morning woke up with the same gunky numb feeling. Is this some sort of allergy? And if so, to what? Is it the glue for the temp crown, or the temp crown itself? While some of the anesthesias can make me feel sick - that usually passes in a few hours. I'd rather not go through several months more of that feeling. It was terrifying last year, but now I'm just really uncomfortable. Prefer dental or allergist response. Thanks!

Post-dental work allergy?
This is not a normal reaction. Have you spoken to your doctor about it? Have you tried taking any over the counter alergy meds like Benedryl to see if that makes a difference? You should really be seen by the doc in any case.


Dental procedures...?

I am looking to make my life better, but I have doubts and fears about an upcoming dental procedure. My front two teeth are fake. One original tooth was cut down to support the crown that is my front two teeth. They are slightly whiter than my other teeth and one near-by tooth is slightly crooked. I am looking to (1.) whiten all of the surrounding teeth and then (2.) use the two teeth surrounding my crown to support a crown that would be my new, front-four-teeth. My question: Would any of you do any other procedure or does this sound like a reasonable idea? I am extremely insecure about my teeth and gum-line. I have a decent smile and teeth, but the slight yellow color, one slightly crooked tooth, and my front two teeth being fake really hurt my self-esteem... on a constant basis. Ideas and input much appreciated.

Dental procedures...?
If you have doubts and fears about the procedure maybe you should get a second opinion about what are your best options. I recently had a "bridge" put in for my front teeth. One is a "five-unit" (5 teeth). It looks completely natural and really good. The crooked tooth you have could be cut down and covered by a bridge that also covers the nearby teeth. I wish you luck!
Reply:The bridge on your front four teeth sounds like a good idea. Make sure that your dentist uses an excellent lab - you made need to pay an upgrade fee for the highest quality porcelain. The only other good option is to have an implant placed at the site of your missing tooth, quite a bit more expensive but worth it if you can afford the fee.


Help, I need some dental advice from a dental professional or periodontist in the Philadelphia suburbs area.?

I have had dental issues since last May. Teeth 7/8/9/10. 7/8 were just implanted since a replaced bridge didn't work on tooth 10 and that was pulled. The post wouldn't hold on it. I had the darn thing done twice and it wouldn't hold, bite was off too. Well, implants went in back in August on teeth 9/10 and my other two, teeth 7/8 were crowned together. After 7 under went another root canal back in May. Well when the crowns/bridge first went on, in August, everything felt fine. I ate with them the day after, but after a month of using my new front teeth, 7/8 are having problems again. It feels as if the crown is moving or is loose again. Something is not stable on it. I can tell when I bite down. I feel it. I've gone back to the office 3 x's, each time my dentist says that they are fine, they are not loose. The darn thing doen't move when he checks it. I was told everything is sealed ok. What's causing this not right movement of my new crowned teeth? I've had enough.

Help, I need some dental advice from a dental professional or periodontist in the Philadelphia suburbs area.?
Sounds complicated. What you need is a second opinion by


another dentist or periodontist. To find dentist and peridontists


that will also save you additional money go to eHealthPlus


click on Find a Dentist and call them.
Reply:well this is not only from your tooth i tink is from your alimemnation to. u must take or eat more aliments with mitamins, fruits 4 exaple ot take vitamins. and calcium, this problem is maybe becose u didant wash your teeth to or u dont take care of them . u must use dental wire not someting alce and u beter ask a specialist abauth your problem not only a normal dentist and yor doctor to abauth your probem with viatmins, oh and this problem can be from your medicamntation to, if u take any madication that can afected your teeth to be careful and say all , good luck.

Renting

Question about dental malpractice lawsuit?

My previous dentist (in an HMO network) overprepared (removed too much tooth structure) two of my molars for a crown. The crown will not stay glued on because of it. I talked to a lawyer who said dental malpractice lawsuits are harder to prove than medical malpractice. He said the cost of the lawsuit would exceed the cost of getting it fixed. Are there any non profit attorneys that would help me sue if I can't pay the legal fees? I want to have my previous dentist pay to get my tooth fixed by the specialist. I have to go through painful oral surgery (crown lengthening) to get the crowns to stay glued on. I am suffering severely from another dentist's mistake. Does anyone have experience suing a dentist and winning?

Question about dental malpractice lawsuit?
Every state has a board of dentistry that licenses dentists and that is who you contact for peer review. It is a department in state government, if you do a search a result usually pops up for each state. If the dentist is licensed to practice in your state, they must comply with peer review. There is no cost to make a formal complaint and it is mandatory to investigate all complaints. You will be assigned a case investigator and they will handle the complaint. The investigator will contact you to get more information and then they will subpoena the records from your dentist. Whatever the boards decision is, the dentist (if they want to maintain their license) must comply. It won't take longer than several months at the most to get a board decision. In my state, the board sides with the patient about 50% of the time. If you have a valid complaint, it is certainly worth writing the letter to see what the board finds.
Reply:Is there some sort of Consumer's Association that can help you?


Or perhaps a Dental Board where you can get advice or lodge a complaint?


Have you approached the dentist or the company he works for with your problem?


Perhaps even the Amer. Dental Assocn would be somewhere to start.


Keep notes of dates, conversations, and names of people to whom you speak.
Reply:Another option you may consider is review of your claim by the Local Dental Society, which has a peer review committee which will impanel a group of dentists to examine you and determine whether or not dental negligence has been committed. If dental negligence has occured, peer review may award either a refund of the dentist's fees who treated you or fees of subsequent treating dentists who correct, repair, or treat the original defendant dentist's negligent care or treatment. There is no charge for peer review but often it takes many months for a decision, without any recovery for wage loss, inconvenience, pain, suffering, or the consequences of permanent injury. Membership in the Local Dental Society is voluntary. Not all dentists belong, although most do. Your Local Dental Society is listed in the telephone book.
Reply:how exactly do you know that the tooth was over prepared?


fyi, the dentist must remove a minimum of 2 mm from the chewing surface of the tooth. if you have squatty teeth that are only a 4 mm tall anyways then there isn't much left. the dentist could have just gone ahead and done the crown lenthening in the first place (which is what i would have done) but i'm sure you'd be on here trying to figure out how to sue him for that too!





you need to get through your head that healthcare not going exactly as planned is not a winning lottery ticket. it's people like you that are ruining healthcare in this country. rather than performing the best treatment, we end up having to perform the least likely to get me sued treatment. examples of dental malpractice are extracting the wrong tooth, poking you in the eye with an instrument, or various other serious issues. the need for crown lengthening is possibly the most insignificant outcome possible.





finally, you have to keep in mind that it's your own fault that this tooth needed work in the first place. if you had done a better job of taking care of your teeth you wouldn't even be in this position today.
Reply:I would like to tell you that you are not alone. The exact same thing happened to me. I went in to redo a cracked filling on my lower right side. Never had any problems with the tooth since having it filled back in 79 or 80, when I was a teen. When I went home and the anesthesia wore off, I was in a lot of pain. I looked in the mirror and saw that he had completely drilled out the whole back of the tooth, down to the root. Picture the tooth as an O, when he was done, it was a U. Did not know why. I have been in hell ever since. It's been two years now. At first, he said he did not over drill the tooth since the tooth was perfect, no cavities, he said. He also filled the tooth with silver filling and then topped it off with white composite hoping I would not notice. When I asked him, Why is there a grey shadow below?, he said there was a cavity that he did not clean out properly. WHAT? How stupid do they think we are? Needless to say, I lost the tooth. Even a root canal did not save it. There is more to this story, but I can not write a book. Dentist's have a way of justifying their incompetence. After all, we (the patient) are not able to see what they do, and don't have any dental training, so what's the harm. For example, the so-called dentist who has chosen to answer your question, (311) feels the need to blame you. Just imagine the destruction that he causes his patients. No honest dentist will talk down to someone who has obviously been affected in such a way. Pain is no joke. This is what he does not understand. My life was turned upside down. I spend thousands to try and save the tooth. And to try and find someone else to fix the problem, that's a different story. They protect themselves and protect each other. Every dentist I saw told me the tooth had been over drilled and there was nothing they could do.





You need to file a complaint with your Dental Board. Any and all information that is important must be in detail in your letter. They will proceed once they receive your letter. They will ask him for your file including ex-rays. The proof is in the pictures. He has no choice but to co-operate. The Dentist who has honestly answered your question (lohse_per...) deserves a medal. He is one of the few, honest, and sincere dentists that you will find on here. I filed a complaint with my Dental Board and should be getting their decision very soon. It does take time, depending on the individuals case, so be prepared to wait awhile. I will communicate with you, if you wish, and let you know of their decision. I know exactly what you are going through. Good Luck!





It's health providers like tomh311 that deserve to be sued. For, their arrogance and negligence destroys people's lives. They need to have their license revoked. Blaming the patient is NOT THE ANSWER.


Need estimate costs for crown, root canal & crown lengthening?

I live in Los Angeles. I went to my dentist this week %26amp; had 2 root canals (teeth #20 %26amp;21) done. I was charged $460 for each root canal and $ 670 for each crown. Since I needed crown lengthening for my tooth # 20, I have to pay for another $650. Besides this, I need to have deep cleaning before having the crown lengthening which will cost me for another $850 (antibact included). I don't have dental insurance although they offer 1 year interest free financing. If I could run from that dental clinic %26amp; not go back but I had no choice because of my dreaded toothache. I wanted to have my tooth extracted so I won't have to pay this much. But they wanted to save my tooth. Did the dentist charge me too much? help... serious answers please. Thank you!

Need estimate costs for crown, root canal %26amp; crown lengthening?
Those fees sound pretty average for a private-practice dentist.





If money is an issue, how about going to one of the three dental schools in the LA area? UCLA, USC and Loma Linda all have dental schools, and their fees are about half what a private dentist charges. You do have to give up more time though, since a dental student has to ask an instructor dentist to check each step of the work he is doing.





As far as whether or not saving those teeth is worth it, keep in mind #20 and #21 are near the front of your bottom jaw (the pre-molars). You can have them extracted, but that may leave an unsightly gap. Also, extracted teeth may cause situations such as spaces opening up between your remaining teeth or the opposing teeth on the other arch rising out of their sockets once they have nothing to bite against, and would end up costing you even more money to fix in the future.





Replacing missing teeth (especially those that leave unsightly gaps near the front) costs money too-- partial dentures, bridges, implants. You can have your #20 and #21 extracted, but you should make an informed decision rather than believing some drivel about how dentists "don't make money on extractions."





Hope this helps, and good luck.
Reply:I had a tooth pulled years ago and it cost me $25 but last time I went to the dentist he sent me to an oral surgeon who wanted $350 to pull it. I shopped around and finally found a dentist that would do it for $75 and fortunately I still have the rest of my teeth.


Dentists are getting lots of big bucks these days.


What a rip off. The only thing they wanted to extract is the money from your pocket. Dentist don't make money on extractions, they make it on all the other BS that they talk you into. You could have gotten the extraction and then bought a Plasma TV.


What is "usual & customary" charge for crown? Onlay?

Im just wondering if anyone can tell me what "usual %26amp; customary" charges are for an onlay (which is what I had done today). If not for an onlay, does anyone know what "U%26amp;C" charges are for a crown?


Apparently, onlays are not very common b/c the dental assistant got all excited - "ohhh an onlay - been a while since I've seen one of those done!" (just like the interns on greys anatomy!)....and then, the girl at front desk had no idea how much would be covered by my insurance b/c she didn't know what usual %26amp; customary charges were for it.





Addtional info, in case it makes a difference. It was on a back tooth. I am in Tallahassee, Florida.





Thanks for any HELPFUL answers you can provide!

What is "usual %26amp; customary" charge for crown? Onlay?
about $800.00 usd
Reply:Also thank you for not wasting my time explaining the difference b/t inlays, onlays, %26amp; crowns! ;) Report It

Reply:She also didn't give you an accurate answer either. You didn't give your insurance carrier, the company you work for, or your group ID #, therefore she has no idea if the U%26amp; C for your specific insurance is $800.00. That was obviously a guess. Report It

Reply:At least some of us took the time to try to help you. Shows us dental professionals not to waste our time helping others I guess. Report It

Reply:Your very welcome dear! =) Report It

Reply:The term "usual and customary" was invented by insurance companies to determine their level of benefit. It really doesn't mean much in real-world dentistry.





Onlays can be done in all porcelain or precious metal, such as gold. Depending on the lab, the fee could run as high as $1000 for a top quality all porcelain onlay. Crowns and onlays might be about the same price because of prep time involved and lab fees. A crown would be a full-coverage option, an onlay would only be a partial coverage. Either procedure can be pre-authorized through your insurance so you will have a better idea what would be covered.





There is no excuse for the front desk person not to know their fees. When in doubt, the staff can always say, "let me check with your insurance company and give you an estimate later today."





Honestly, unless you are really comfortable with this dentist, you might ask for a second opinion.





Edited to add: thanks for additional info.


The best person to check the U %26amp; C might be you. Call your insurance company and ask them. The pre-authorization is still the best way to go, but it sounds like the procedure is already started.


When you call your insurance company, ask for their U %26amp; C on code D2643 (porcelain/ceramic) or D2543 (metal/gold).
Reply:$935 sounds like it is right in the ballpark. But the U%26amp;C your insurance comes up with can be anywhere they want it to be. It is just a number they make up to define what they will pay.
Reply:I don't know who gave Emmalue a thumbs down, because she is absolutely accurate.


Usual and customary is a fee set by an insurance company. Since every insurance company is different, and usually have many different individual policies, the best place to get this information is your insurance company. Be aware though, that many insurance companies will not give out this information. I have called numerous insurance companies to find out what their usual and customary charge is on a procedure, only to be told they don't give those out over the phone. It makes no sense to me, but you cant force them most of the time.





Usual and customary charges are set by the insurance companies, bases on what they feel a procedure should cost. They do not take into consideration what materials the dentist uses, what lab they use, the dentists qualifications, or any of that. Many of the insurance companies out there, do not consider a inlay/onlay a covered benefit. WHY?? Who knows! Why they would think it benefits the patient to have all the enamel shaved off their tooth and a full crown placed, is beyond me. But thats an insurance company for you. They may downgrade your onlay to a crown, meaning they will pay 50% of the usual and customary fee of a full coverage crown. Some insurance companies don't cover porcelain on a molar, so they may downgrade it to the "Cheapest acceptable restoration" as they put it, which would usually mean a porcelain fused to non-precious metal crown. Lets hope yours doesn't do that.





Many dentists are into the old school methods and don't tipically diagnos onlays. I think it is a real disservice to the patient to do a full coverage crown if they have tons of great, healthy enamel. Why more dentists don't just remove the bad part and fit a porcelain onlay on the tooth is beyond me. Onlays are common, but it depends on the office you go to. In my office they are quite common actually.





Sorry I couldn't actually give you the usual and customary fee, but if you get the ADA code, you can probably call your insurance company and ask if they will tell you. Also be sure to ask if they allow these to be done on molars, and if they downgrade them to a full crown.


Dr. T K Duncan at Melrose Dental performed dental procedures that "doesn't meet the standard of care for the

Dr. T K Duncan at Melrose Dental performed dental procedures that "doesn't meet the standard of care for the community" stated the California Dental Board. This contributed to bone and tooth loss. If you have had crown or bridge work performed by this Dentist you may be entitled for the cost to repair this work if another dentist determines the work performed by Duncan does not meet the standard of care for the community. Make sure you file a law suit with in one year of knowing that the dental work performed by Duncan is sub standard or within 3 years of having this work performed by Duncan.

Dr. T K Duncan at Melrose Dental performed dental procedures that "doesn't meet the standard of care for the
You have posted on the Yahoo UK and Ireland board, I really don't think this listing is going to be appropriate here, and may even be considered libellous.
Reply:If the California Dental Board really has made the statement offered in the quotes above, I don't understand the objections to this posting Report It

Reply:WHAT'S YOUR QUESTION

ladies dress shoes

Affordable Dental Plans in California?

Well i went to the dentist yesterday and he needs to remove a previous crown and re clean a root canal and insert a new crown. The cost is around $2,200 which i cannot afford. Is there any dental plan i can buy that will take effect right away which is affordable somewhat and with good benefits? I plan on using the plan maybe a week after I purchase it so i dont know if that will be a problem with these dental plan providers.

Affordable Dental Plans in California?
I have a great dental plan! It is not Insurance but a great discount plan! Save anywhere from 50% to 80 on most utilized dental procedures such as exams, x-rays, teeth cleanings, fillings, root canal, and even crowns! Even save 25% when you have to go to a specialist. This plan does have their own providers but a very broad selection. Once you enroll for the plan within 24 hours you are issued a member id # so right away you can begin using the plan. Just to give you an example of the savings I went to the dentist and had an exam, x-rays, teeth cleaning and some polishing, my total bill came out to $197 but I only paid $59, so I save $138 bucks on that one visit! The plan is only $11.95 a month for an individual or $19.95 a month for household. You also get 3 additional benefits free with the plan vision, RX, %26amp; chiropractic!





Get more information at:





http://www.wehavebenefits.com





At this same website you will be able to find out what dental providers are in your area that accepts this plan, just click on the tab at the top of the page that says Find a Provider.





Let me know if you can't locate the website or have some questions!
Reply:You need to talk to your dentist about credit terms or put the bill on your Master Card or Visa. If the dentist won't take credit cards, just write yourself a cash advance.





Most of the time, the only way to get really good dental coverage is through your employer. When you buy dental insurance as an individual, there are deductibles and co-pays and annual maximums that you need to analyze in order to figure out when and if you will actually save money by having insurance coverage. Some of the premiums I have seen make it almost impossible to realize any positive cash flow from the related policy. I mean, at $60 a month with $100 deductible and $1,000 annual maximum, you will have to take $820 out of your own pocket before you realize one penny of "profit" or net gain from your dental insurance.





Then you have to calculate the effect of co-payements. Check the figures and do the math yourself.





Be cautious about buying or choosing a plan where you do not have any choice about the dentist you can see, because you just might not like the dentist(s) listed on the plan and then you are stuck for a year until you can get out of it.





Be cautious about buying a so-called "dental discount plan," often mentioned on Yahoo!, since they also have restrictive lists and they really are not dental insurance at all. Just be careful and understand what you are buying.





For many people who just can't get good dental insurance, a regular savings plan sort of like a Christmas Club with $20-25 a month deposited into a dedicated account will pay off when you examine the return over a lifetime. You may run way over your savings at first, but once you get your mouth straightened out, your annual expenses should not be more than a couple hundred dollars most of the time.





For major treatment, dental insurance is no great deal anyhow. They limit you to $1,000-1,500 per year, subject you to deductibles, co-pays, etc. Imagine if you were in a car accident and your carrier said, "Yep, it's a total loss. Here's a check for $1,500. Good luck coming up with enough money to buy a new car." Dental "insurance" should usually be considered a payment arrangement where you give your dollars to a large company who holds onto them until you say the secret word and manage to get a few of them back.


When do I need to get a crown, and how much should I pay?

I recently had a root canal and crown lenghtening done on a molar. My endodontist told me that after the dentist places a permanent filling in the tooth, I can potentially wait up to six months before getting a crown put on. Well, I saw my dentist the other day, and he told me that he wanted to do the filling and the crown together. Since he could still see my stiches from the crown lenghtening, he decided not to go ahead with the procedure. Instead, he replaced another crown that I had received from my previous dentist because he said it was too big. Even with insurance, I was charged $500 for this crown! I wasn't expecting that, and now I don't think I can afford the crown on the tooth I had came in to fix in the first place.





I have two questions: Can I really wait six months to get the crown on that tooth? I think I'll have to now.





And..are crowns really this expensive? I thought they were around $600 BEFORE insurance, but the dental assistant told me that they are 1000.

When do I need to get a crown, and how much should I pay?
Dental surgery is very safe nowadays. My cousin got her dental implants and lasik surgery in India by a company called Forerunners Healthcare. The Price for dental and lasik surgery is very less in India. She paid 25% of the price she was quoted in America.





Forerunners Healthcare is very famous in India They arrange Dental surgery, jaw surgery, lasik eye surgery, Dental Implants etc for foreign patients in India. I read a lot about them in the Newspapers and magazines- about their patient stories.


They arrange financing for USA, Canadian, UK and other international patients who plan to have surgery abroad for low cost, as dental and eye surgery is not covered by insurance. They also have photos pasted of their International patients. You can checkout their website. There are huge cost savings. As a doctor I personally believe that surgery can be easily handled in India, as the quality of healthcare available In India is simply best in the world. The surgeons are USA/UK trained and facilities are 5 star.





http://www.forerunnershealthcare.com


Hope this helps.
Reply:A thousand dollars is about right. I know it's killer. If i have to get a crown on my tooth it will cost about $500 after insurance. But I don't know about waiting six months.....
Reply:You will find out that Dental work will max out your insurance as quick as possible. Crowns are expensive a $1000.00 crown is worth about $10.00 gold and the rest goes to the Dentist's favorite hobby. Do not let them get off track on what you want get out of the chair.
Reply:if you wants to looks good and desired, then what's you grumbling about ...after all in the end we guys ends up paying so we like what we see and feel,if not we get up and look for another..And yes it is that $$$
Reply:You also have the option of calling around to other dentists and getting quotes on prices for crowns. Also, larger cities have more competition, so you're more likely to find lower prices there. If you don't mind a bit of a drive, it's worth it. I got a $600 crown instead of 1000, and insurance picked up half. So, twenty bucks in gas was more than worth it.
Reply:A dentist using a good lab is certainly not paying only $10 in materials - that's just silly. Porcelain fused to precious metal made by an artistic lab can cost the dentist $200 or more. Then his time, the assistant's time, cost to set up the room and sterilize everything before and after your visit, plus the paperwork and administrative cost of billing your insurance, etc.





Dentists don't make as much of a profit as some uninformed people seem to think. Factor in people who don't pay their bills, charity work given away, continuing education, malpractice insurance (because people are so eager to sue these days) and other items and you'll get an idea of why dentistry costs so much.
Reply:You also have the alternative of going to Mexico where it's about 80% cheaper as compared to the US. You end up saving lots even after adding up your travel and other related costs.





A friend of mine went there for her dental procedure. She used the services of a medical tourism facilitator called Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com). They have a lot of resources online you might find helpful. They hook you up with a surgeon who can help you answer your questions and solve your problem even before you actually go there.





Good luck!!


Crown sensitivity....?

Last month, I had a crown put on a bottom molar that already had an old filling. The tooth had cracked. The dentist shaved down the tooth a bit, kept the filling intact, but now I'm having huge sensitivity issues when I eat/drink. Eating yogurt, or cereal, or cold water, or wine....hurts. It's exactly like when I had my temporary crown on and could feel *everything*. (FYI - I require blocks for any dental work). I currently use a whitening toothpaste, but wonder if I need to stop that and switch to Sensodyne. I really don't want to go back to the dentist (have been there five times in two months. But if I need to, I'll go in to make this irritation stop! Ack.

Crown sensitivity....?
when the dentist prepare the tooth to place the crown he remove part of your enamel to give room tho the porcelain, the enamel protects the tooth from acids, cold and hot meals, you should immediately switch to Colgate sensitive or have the dentist place a desensitizer to your tooth, it will help a lot.


good luck
Reply:It is highly probable that the root is cracked. If I am correct, the only treatment is to remove the tooth! Demand full restitution (refund or extraction and implant paid by the dentist). He had an obligation to know the extent of the crack BEFORE he made, and charged you for, a crown.





If you run into attitude from him, tell him you will be in touch with his licensing body to have them find a meaningful resolution to your problem.





Again, I cannot be certain, without seeing you, if my diagnosis is correct. You will have to look into it.





Good luck and be firm!


 
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