Dr. Noah's Dentistry Blog

Questions About Dentistry Answered

Dentist Insists on Expensive Treatments

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I am not sure what to do. My dentist is insisting I get a white filling. He says he’s what’s called a mercury-free dentist and that the silver fillings aren’t good for my teeth. The problem is, my insurance doesn’t cover the white fillings. It just covers the silver ones. I can’t afford the others. What do you recommend?

Pam

Dear Pam,

Left: silver filling Right: White filling

An affordable dentist doesn’t insist on expensive procedures

So there are a few things at play here. Many dentists have switched to a mercury-free practice. Some of it is because of patient demand and some of it is because of the strong belief that the silver fillings are bad for both you or your teeth.

While the American Dental Association (ADA) has declared the silver fillings safe, that doesn’t mean they’re the best fillings for your teeth. What your dentist means by them being bad for your teeth is that the amalgam fillings actually weaken your tooth structure. The white fillings will strengthen them.

I realize your insurance doesn’t cover those. While it’s unfair of a dentist to insist on a procedure a patient can’t afford, even if it’s a superior treatment. If he’s a mercury-free dentist, he doesn’t even offer the other filling. He wouldn’t be able to provide it for you.

You have a couple of options here. First, you can stay with this dentist and ask him to bill your insurance for the silver filling and just let you pay him the difference if that’s possible for you. Your dentist may even be willing to allow you to pay out the difference.

Finding an Affordable Dentist

If your dentist is unwilling to work with you in any way, then you’ll need to find a different dentist. There are affordable dentists out there.

I’d simply do an internet search using the term affordable dentist and make a list of several of the practitioners whose names pop up. Be sure to check their reviews to make sure they have a pleasant chairside manner. It’s no fun to have a dentist who’s a complete jerk.

Also, be careful not to confuse cheap care with affordable care. A cheap dentist is significantly lower in price than his peers. But, that ‘s usually because he’s either bad at his job or he cuts corners in order to make up profits.

Both of those things end up hurting the patient. Usually, it results in either an infection or a failed procedure which has to be redone, costing double or even triple.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Dentist Dr. Ryan Noah.

Affordable Options for Dental Implants

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I need to get almost all my teeth replaced. Are dentures a decent affordable option for dental implants?

Casey

Dear Casey,

Wearing Dentures for Too Long Causes Facial Collapse

Are dentures affordable? Yes. Are dentures an option for dental implants? Yes. Are dentures a decent option to dental implants? Absolutely not. Look at the image above. This woman has lost most of her jawbone, a condition commonly known as facial collapse. It’s caused by wearing dentures for too long, meaning about ten years or so, depending on your bodies reaction. Here’s why.

The moment your teeth are removed, your body begins reabsorbing the minerals in your jawbone to use elsewhere throughout your body. This causes your jawbone to get smaller and smaller. The longer this goes on, the less jawbone you have. Eventually, you won’t even be able to wear your dentures because there will be no ridge for them to adequately rest on.

Dental implants protect you from facial collapse. It does that by having prosthetic implants in your jawbone. That tells your body the minerals are needed and leaves them in place.

Working with Dentists to Get Affordable Care

You don’t have to compromise on your procedure to afford the care you need. First, you should know that in most cases the dental implant procedure is paid for in stages because the procedure itself is done in stages. That may help you with the cost.

If you’re having trouble finding a dentist who’ll allow you to do that, I suggest you do a search for “affordable dentist” online. They will be much more willing to work with patients financially. Those who don’t have in-house payment options will work with Care Credit.

Care Credit is a medical credit card. But, it has better features. You get to pick your terms. Depending on your credit, you can even get zero percent interest on repayment. Plus, if you end up having additional funds, there is no penalty for early repayment.

I hope this helps you.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

Third Crown in Six Years from “Affordable Dentist”

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I’m at my wit’s end. I needed a dental crown because I broke a tooth. I didn’t have a lot of money at the time so I called around to call the most affordable dentist. I think it was a horrible decision. In the last six years, he’s replaced my “affordable crown” twice and it just broke a third time. At this rate, I could have gone to the most expensive dentist in the city and gotten a crown practically made of gold. Do I have a case for a refund?

Lana

porcelain crown being placed on prepared tooth

Yikes! I hate to hear you’ve been going through this. As you’ve unfortunately experienced, cheap is not always affordable. You’re talking about three crowns in just six years. Generally, a crown should last five years at a minimum. So, three crowns should be 15+ years. A well-done crown will last longer than five years, but I’m talking the minimum expectation.

Because of that, I think you’re well within your right to ask for a refund and then have this third crown re-done by a different dentist.

Ways to Have Affordable Dentistry with Quality

First, don’t just look for the dentist with the cheapest price. Some dentists have the cheapest price simply because they’re not that great and need low prices to draw patients in. Other times, they use low-quality materials in order to make up the profits they lose through their lower prices. Both of these “conveniences” end up hurting the patient.

Instead, look for dentists who do quality work but are willing to work with their patients financially. For instance, Dr. Noah does this three different ways.

  • Dental Payment Plans
  • Phased Treatment Plans
  • Alternate Treatment Plans

You can read Dr. Noah’s affordable dentist page to learn more.

Who Should Fix this Crown?

I know you’ll want another dentist to make your next crown, just don’t put it off too long. Even just a few days can cause your teeth to shift. I’d call around to some reputable dentists in your area and explain what’s going on. I’m sure more than one of them would be willing to work you in as an emergency dental appointment. Just be sure to check their reviews to see if they do quality work.

I’m assuming because you called around about crown prices you don’t have a regular dentist. I don’t know if that’s because of financial reasons or because of dental anxiety. Many people who’ve had a traumatic experience from a rough or insensitive dentist find it difficult to go back. You should be able to tell from their reviews whether or not people have had good experiences with them.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

What if I Can’t Afford My Dental Procedure?

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I’m in need of replacing several teeth and my dentist is insisting I get dental implants. What do I do if I can’t afford the procedure? Are there options? Do I just leave the spaces blank?

Kevin

Dear Kevin,

Image of a traditional implant and the more affodable mini implant

A traditional dental implant compared to a mini implant

It actually makes me angry when I hear about situations like yours. Yes, dental implants are the ideal procedure when you’re talking about replacing several teeth, especially because of the possibility of facial collapse. But, they’re not the only procedure. His job, as your dentist, is to provide you an explanation of all the options available to you, give his recommendations and why, then let you decide. Not everyone is working under the same budget.

Finding Affordable Dental Options

In your situation you have several choices.

  1. Affordable dental implants. Things like implant overdentures are a great option when you can’t afford the ideal. You’re certainly not the only one facing this, so don’t feel badly about it.
  2. A Dental Bridge. Depending on how many teeth you’re talking about, this could be a great secondary option, especially if any of the adjacent teeth are in need of a crown anyway.
  3. A removable partial denture. This would be my least favorite option because your quality of living won’t be as high, but it is still an option. It can often be used as a temporary solution while you work out financing for the ideal.
  4. Payment Plans. Many dentists work to be affordable, do that by offering payment plans so you can get the care you need, then slowly pay it off. Some do in-house payment plans. Other dentists use Care Credit—a medical credit card that offers low and no interest payment plans.

This is the minimum amount of information your dentist should have provided you. If you’re not getting the whole picture, you might be better served getting your oral healthcare elsewhere.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

I Need Affordable Help For My Mom, Fast!

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I went to visit my mother who lives in a different state. We’re trying to talk her into moving in with us. She’s 85 and her health is declining. While we were having dinner one of her teeth fell out, right there on the plate. She said she lost two others as well. I don’t know how much money she has. What is an affordable way to take care of this? I’m worried sick about her. I’ve heard both dental implants and bridges are good. What’s your opinion?

Elizabeth E.

Dear Elizabeth,

Tulsa Affordable Dentist

It’s lovely that you’re there to care for your mother. When we’re children we rely on them. As they age, it is sometimes hard for them to allow us to look after them. I hope she allows you to help.

If your mother has teeth just falling out, that means she has incredibly advanced gum disease. That needs to be treated right away. She’s going to continue losing teeth until it is under control. Because of the gum disease, neither dental implants or a bridge will work. She doesn’t have anything strong enough to maintain them.

Affordable Tooth Replacement Options

However, once her gum disease if dealt with, dental implants are the top of the line treatment. But, you asked for affordable and I would not call them that.

The most affordable dental treatment for her will be complete dentures. Generally, it wouldn’t be something I’d recommend because of the facial collapse which results from bone resorption, but your mother’s 85. I don’t think it will be an issue for her.

Cu-Sil denture Affordable dental treatmentIf there are teeth which can be saved, don’t switch her treatment to removable partial dentures. Her teeth have been through a lot and that particular treatment (along with a dental bridge) puts too much stress on the remaining teeth for her situation. Instead, you could get her a denture which makes room for her remaining teeth without putting stress on them. It’s called a Cu-Sil Denture. I’ve put a picture of it to the left.

Best of luck with your mother.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

Can I Go to an ER If I Can’t Afford a Dentist?

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My insurance covers ER visits but not dental visits. I think I have an infected tooth and wondered if I could just go to the ER to cover it?

Andrew M.

Dear Andrew,

Unfortunately, a hospital ER will not treat dental conditions. They’re not trained for it. The most they’ll do is give you some pain relief and possibly an antibiotic. Though, with dental situations, an antibiotic isn’t enough. A dentist has to get in there and remove the infected tissue from the pulp of the tooth.

This isn’t something you’ll want to put off. The longer you wait, the more the infection will spread. Your jaw is very close to both your heart and brain. If the infection gets to there it will be life threatening.

In your place, I’d look for an emergency dentist. They’ll see patients in your situation fairly quickly, even if you’ve never been a patient there. If you tried to schedule a regular appointment, as a new patient, with a dentist it would likely take several weeks. That’s entirely too long for the infection to spread.

Because of your financial situation, it would help if the dentist also advertises as an affordable dentist. Not only are their fees generally a bit lower, but almost all of them have payment plans.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

I’m Being Bullied By My Dentist

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I’ve lost several teeth. I don’t have much money, so I thought I’d get a removable partial denture. My dentist insists I get dental implants. He keeps telling me I’ll ruin my life with dentures, but I don’t want to go into debt for a procedure I can’t afford. He won’t shut up about it. Is it really that horrible a decision?

Brooke – Texas

Brooke,

This type of behavior from a dentist really galls me. While dental implants may be the top of the line treatment, it also comes with a top of the line price tag. Not everyone can afford that. And dentists need to understand that.

There is something called phased treatment that affordable dentists are very willing to suggest and provide. You can start off with a removable partial denture. Possibly you could even afford to have it anchored with a mini implant. Then as you have the money you can switch to a full implant. Depending on how many teeth you’ve lost, you may only need one or two.

While his methods are a bit bullish, he likely only has your well-being in mind. Dentures can be uncomfortable and reduce your chewing capacity no matter how well made they are. Then, there is the loss of jaw bone minerals that come from not having a tooth root anymore. With dental implants, the body is tricked into thinking that root is still there and you retain all your minerals.

In your place, I would just tell him this is what you can afford and that’s that. If you’re interested in working toward another treatment, you can tell him that. It may shut him up. But, either way, it’s your mouth, your budget, and your choice.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

Affordable Porcelain Veneers? Is that Possible?

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I’m looking for a dentist who will give me affordable porcelain veneers. Is that even possible?

Marie Ellen C. – State Island, NY

Marie Ellen,

Generally, I’m all for finding a skilled affordable dentist. Cosmetic dentistry, and especially porcelain veneers, are not something you want to just find the most affordable dentist. It’s generally one of those procedures that costs a lot of money. That’s because of the amount of post-graduate education and training that go into being able to do it well.

That doesn’t mean you won’t find someone with reasonable prices. I just don’t want you to be lured by price and end up with a smile you’re not proud of.

When evaluating whether or not to use a dentist for a cosmetic procedure, be certain to ask to see before and after images of their work. Make sure it’s their work and not stock photos they’re trying to pass off as their work.  A simple direct question should clear up any doubt.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

Affordable Dentist in an Emergency for Unemployed

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I need to find an affordable dentist for my dad. He is 63 and has a terrible toothache, but he’s also unemployed and on state insurance, which doesn’t provide dental coverage. Obviously, with the unemployment, he can’t really afford to have the tooth fixed, which is terrible. He keeps trying to live with it, thinking he’ll just fix it when he gets back on his feet again, but I’m really worried that it’s infected and that it’s getting worse. How do I find an affordable dentist who will help him?

Jim

Dear Jim,

There are a lot of ways you can find an affordable dentist and it sounds like your dad needs to get in as soon as possible. Anytime there’s extreme pain, it is a dental emergency. If it’s an infection, it will get worse and spread, so it’s good that you’re looking into options. I’m not trying to scare you, but people still die from tooth infections. I’m only saying that so you’ll have an understanding that it cannot be ignored.

The fastest way to get him treatment is to call around and see who offers payment plans. Some offices will provide in-house financing, but a lot of them are offering things like Care Credit, which is financing through a company that only helps people with medical bills. They usually have a deal where, if you pay off the balance in six months or less, you don’t even have to pay interest on it. If you find an office that does either one of these things, any office can instantly become an affordable dentist and he can get treatment right away.

Depending on the severity of the pain and how long it has been going on, you could look into dental insurance plans as well. When you do self-pay on the policy, it may kick in right away, but be sure that the plan doesn’t have any kinds of waiting periods. These are clauses that some insurance companies stick in there that say the insured party cannot have a specific kind of treatment for a certain number of months after signing up with a policy. You might see waiting periods of 6-12 months or more on “major” services, which generally include extractions and root canals.  Always read the fine print, but you can find him a policy that only runs $30 a month or so and may cut the fees he pays in half or even more, depending on what he needs to have done.

If he’s in a real bind, have him visit his primary care physician. Although a doctor won’t treat dental needs, he can assess it and determine if he thinks it’s infected. If it is, he’ll be able to prescribe antibiotics, which should be covered under his state medical care. This won’t fix the problem, but it will buy him a little bit of time to work out which affordable dentist he’s going to see and how he’ll cover the expenses.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.

Who’s Getting Ripped Off, Me or Other Patients?

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I went to a dentist because he was touted as being affordable. I don’t really have anything to complain about. The care was good and I’ll be back. I just noticed that on top of having much more reasonable prices than many of his peers, he also had very expensive furnishings, a flat screen television, and other goodies in rooms for patients. It got me to thinking either my dentist is cutting corners on treatments or other dentists are seriously overcharging. Is it common for dentists to overcharge?

Brooks S. – New York

Brooks,

Well, that’s a difficult question to answer. Every dentist works on a different budget. Then even if two dentists had the same budget they all allocate it differently.

It could be that your affordable dentist allocates more of his funds to patient care and less to marketing, feeling his quality care will help him with patient retention.  Obviously, you were happy with the care you received there.

While it is possible that other dentists overcharge, it’s a big assumption to make. To be honest, if you’re happy with the care from your dentist who charges less, why worry about what the other dentists do?

Enjoy your affordable care and spend your time thinking about how you can use all that money you’re saving.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.