I saw an ad for a dentist who is offering dental crowns at a discount because he has some new technology which allows him to create the crowns in one visit to his office. Is it safe to do this? I have a tooth in need of a crown, but I haven’t had the money to get it done.
Belinda
Dear Belinda,
When is an affordable crown not worth it?
Your dentist is likely referring to a CEREC machine. This mills crowns in office. It’s probably safe if the dentist is willing to stand behind his work. I’d ask that ahead of time. If the crown doesn’t go well, will he replace it free of charge? Everyone has to learn a new procedure at some point and there will always be those first few cases.
Some things to consider is it will take him longer. He’s just learning how to place these so he’s not going to be efficient. That’s okay too. Just make sure you allow for more time than the procedure would normally take.
If you’ve put off this dental crown for a while, it’s important you get another x-ray done. You want to be sure the decay hasn’t spread and you’re not in need of a root canal. The last thing you need is for this to blow up into a dental infection, leaving you looking for an emergency dentist.
Ways to Get Affordable Dental Care
I’m not discouraging you from seeing this particular dentist on the condition that he’ll stand behind his work. However, there are always options when it comes finding an affordable dentist. Most, if not all affordable dentists, are willing to allow you to receive the treatment you need and then pay it out in reasonable installments. Others will offer alternative treatments which may be more within your budget or phased treatments.
Never feel trapped into doing something. The key is communication with a dentist. Most have entered this field because they want to help people. They’re compassionate and will work with you.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.