Why Treatment In Stages Isn’t Always A Wise Investment

It’s not unusual, when presenting fairly large treatment, to have the patient inquire about doing the treatment in stages. I can certainly respect this. Most of us prefer to pay our expenses as we go rather than be faced with longterm payments.

Although the desire to have dental work done in affordable ‘bits and pieces’ may be a patient’s preference, it is not always the wisest use of time or money in the long run. For example, for a patient having two lower crowns on one side and a new crown & bridge on their upper, this work can all be accomplished in two visits with just two numbings.

Although the first visit to prepare the teeth and place temps (while a lab creates the final porcelain crowns and bridge) will require several hours, time off from work would likely be no more than one morning or one afternoon. The final visit to place the porcelain teeth and adjust the bite would take just over an hour. Plus, when the lab creates the porcelain restorations together, shade matching is precise.

Now, let’s say the patient decides to do the lower crowns this month and the crown & bridge combination six months later. Not only are there two sets of appointment times required, there are additional numbing requirements, more time off work needed, and if the shade match isn’t exact, the porcelain must be remade and yet another appointment needed for placement of the final teeth.

Although we want our patients to feel in control when it comes to their dental decisions, we also want them to experience the most efficient use of their time and dental health dollars. When it comes to your smile, ask us how we can help you maximize your investment. We’ll work with you to determine a plan that is practical in all areas. Call 1-866-9-Smiles.