Recent questions from readers answered.

Mary D:  I was recently told by a dentist that I need a root canal, a post, periodontal crown lengthening surgery and a crown. The total cost of treatment is $4500! Do I have any alternatives?

That is a difficult question to answer without seeing the specific case, but here are some thoughts. There are quite a few things to consider. The first is the general condition of the teeth. If you have numerous other dental problems that need to be addressed, you must prioritize these and decide if the cost of doing them all is something you can afford. The last thing you want to do is spend $4500… (Read More)

I recently read a book called “A Few Words from the Chair: A Patient Speaks to Dentists” by David Clow. This is a book written by a patient (journalist) for dentists. Here is how the book starts.

“Dentistry offers people so much that they want and need. Why don’t people get it? What would permit someone to have this resource available, and fail to use it? What would cause them to misunderstand it so thoroughly that they fear it more than they fear the consequences of not collaborating with a dentist?”

I have written numerous times on the five barriers that patients face in getting ideal dental treatment: fear, money, lack of concern due to… (Read More)

Halloween is a great time for building family memories and enjoying delicious treats. But all that sugar consumption can add up to one big toothache unless you follow some tips from your local dentist. Here’s how to keep this witching season both fun and tooth-friendly.

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Choosing a health care provider is not always the easiest thing to do. There are many factors and sources to consider. When most people finally choose a health care provider, they will stay with that person unless there is some kind of personality conflict or philosophical discrepancy in the perceived need for treatment. Or, there is an insurance issue; we will discuss that in a different column.

It is not uncommon to get a second opinion or a second or third quote for things like car repairs and home improvements. When it comes to our health, it usually depends on the nature of the issue. More complex issues in medicine, such as a diagnosis of… (Read More)

October is here!!  This means only 3 months left in 2018. It’s crunch time to get everything done that we haven’t gotten done during the rest of the year. For those with remaining dental benefits, it’s also the time of year to consider utilizing those so you don’t lose them.

Unused dental benefits go directly back to the insurance company, which generates hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars for the insurance companies each year. Dental insurance companies count on the fact that many people will not claim their $1000 or so in benefits by the end of the calendar year. Those with dental benefits should look for legitimate means to use these benefits before… (Read More)

Students have been back to school for a few weeks now, so it’s time for a quiz. Good luck!

Question #1: The risk factors for gum disease are the same as for heart disease (genetics, smoking, weight, lack of exercise, and high cholesterol).

Answer: False. Genetics and smoking tobacco are major risk factors, but stress, medications, lack of proper hygiene, and systemic problems, such as diabetes, are additional risk factors. Just like heart disease, management of gum disease requires strict maintenance visits to monitor and control the disease.

Question #2: Less than one in ten people will experience a fractured tooth.

Answer: False. About one in four sustain a fracture to a front tooth by… (Read More)