Baton Rouge Dentist

Why Aren’t Prices on Dental Websites?

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Hello there,

I have been checking a lot of cosmetic dentistry websites in my hometown, and have noticed something. None of them seem to put any price information on their websites! Why is that? I would like to know the cost of any dentist before going to their office. I don’t want to waste time at a place I cannot afford anyway.

Why don’t more dentists put their pricing or costs on their websites? I, like many people, like to comparison shop. It would be helpful if more dentists put their cost information online.

Henry, from San Francisco, CA

 

Hi Henry,

You are correct, most dentists do not opt to put their pricing information online. One reason may be to avoid looking “cheap” or low quality to potential clients. Dentists know how to save their patient’s money, but posting this online may make them look unprofessional, like they cut corners or do shoddy work.

Some dentists that do post their prices online may be willing to work with you on the cost of dental work. However, in terms of dentistry, cheaper is not always better. In fact, cheap dental work may end up costing you more in the long run, as it may be made from lower-quality materials or may break in ten years instead of the usual fifteen to twenty. For example, a dental implant that costs more upfront but lasts fifteen years ends up being less expensive than a cheaper option that lasts only ten.

While cheaper is not always better, the most expensive option does not guarantee the best quality work, either. It is best to opt for a dentist whose fees are in between. To find out an office’s fees, call a few local dentists and ask them for their prices for a few common procedures. For example, get the prices for a dental hygiene appointment, a porcelain crown on a molar, and a multi-surface anterior composite filling. Comparing these prices between a few dental offices will give you a good idea of which office is best in terms of affordability.

Getting long-lasting dental work is not something that easily lends itself to comparison shopping for the cheapest deal. Instead, aim for somewhere in the middle fee-wise, and you will end up better off in the long run.

This blog post is brought to you by Baton Rouge affordable dentist, Dr. Ryan Perry.

 

Do Quality Affordable Dentists Exist?

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I haven’t had dental insurance until just recently, within the last seven to eight months. Because of this, I haven’t kept up on my dental checkups and have many dental issues which need work.

Once I received my dental insurance benefits, I met with a dentist to discuss my treatment options and learned they would cost me over $12,000. Even with insurance, that cost was not an option, so I headed for the door and began my search for a dentist I could afford.

However, what I’m finding is dentists with low costs aren’t accompanied by good reviews. I’ve taken advantage of some of the

The problem I’m running into is that the ones I find who advertise low-cost dentistry also don’t have great reviews. I’m also finding that those dentist whom I do meet with feel hurried, rushed, like they are moving from one patient to the next, and treating multiple patients at the same time. This won’t work for me. I have a great deal of dental work to be done, therefore I want someone who will focus on me, establish a genuine relationship with me, and make me feel comfortable.

Is it possible to find an affordable dentist who does quality work?

Thank you,
Abby

Dear Abby,

Great questions. It is possible to find good dental work, within your budget parameters, but not without changing your thinking some.

From the surface level, it may seem to the patient that services which dentists offer, as well as the techniques they use for these services, may be similar from dentist to dentist. However, dentists are all different and have various approaches to treatment and customer care. If you focus your search on dentists who are inexpensive, there are only so many ways for them to cut cost and you may be sacrificing service.

Ways Dentists Can Cut Costs

  1. A dentist can limit his or her time with their patients. This may cause an assembly line type of service, and less one one one attention.
  2. A dentist can use less expensive materials.
  3. A dentist can reduce operating costs by staffing fewer people on his or her team, recruiting those with less experience, or offering fewer amenities in their office.

Therefore, each of these cost-cutting measures would impact your experience as a patient, so you should avoid offices which use these tactics and instead, focus your search on finding quality care that fits within your budget.

Ways to Make Dentistry More Affordable

  1. Some dental offices will segment your treatment plan into smaller pieces, allowing you to take on the expenses individually, per each treatment, as your budget allows.
  2. Look into offices which offer financing options. A few offices offer in-house programs, while many use programs such as CareCredit, which offers interest-free financing for a limited amount of time.
  3. Utilize insurance benefits. If you don’t currently have insurance, get it. Also, look into a secondary insurance. Be aware of waiting periods though, as some companies will make you wait close to a year before using services.
  4. Be sure you are taking full advantage of insurance. Ask the dental office about ways to get the insurance company to cover more, and be sure you are utilizing all what the insurance company will pay.

If you focus your search on finding a great dental office with whom you mesh and can establish a solid relationship, but the treatment cost is outside your budget, be sure to let them know. A good dentist will find ways to help make the cost manageable for you.

Good luck!

This blog post is brought to you by the office of Baton Rouge affordable dentist, Dr. Ryan Perry.

If you find an office you jive with, but the cost of treatment makes it feel like it’s out of reach for you, let them know. A great office will help you find ways to start getting your treatment done, even if it is just a little at a time.

 

Can a Full Mouth Reconstruction Be Done By An Affordable Dentist?

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As a child, and into adulthood, there were many reasons that prevented me from seeing a dentist. Finally, I grew tired of having broken and missing teeth, and saw a dentist. He recommended that I receive a full mouth reconstruction. While this sounds like a wonderful option, the dollar amount is far beyond anything in my budget. Financing is not an option for me, as I have no credit. Are there any affordable dentists who would do a procedure like this without the hefty price tag?

Thanks,
John

Dear John,

A full mouth reconstruction procedure requires a deeper technical knowledge than what is taught in dental school. In order to help you figure out the option best for you, it would be beneficial for you to understand everything that goes into the procedure, as well as options to consider regarding your budgetary constraints.

What Does a Full Mouth Reconstruction Involve?

A full mouth reconstruction couples varying forms of aesthetics with restoration dentistry for improvement of function and cosmetic appearance. It is a lengthy and very detailed, planned out procedure and, therefore, expensive. And, because of the additional training, not all dentists are even qualified to perform such a procedure. Because of this, it is imperative that you research your options before choosing a dentist for a procedure like this, but your main concern regarding a full mouth reconstruction should never be cost.

What Options Exist If a Full-Mouth Reconstruction Is Financially Impossible?

If you are concerned with the cost, you should get opinions from other dentists to see if there are other options. It’s possible that dentures or partials and crowns may work, if your budget is tight. Regardless, it is important to find a quality dentist, then share your budget with them. This will help them better provide you with solid options which can help your problem, yet fit within your range.

This article is provided by the office of Baton Rouge affordable dentist, Dr. Ryan Perry.

Can an affordable dentist do a full mouth reconstruction?

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As a child and into my adult years, I rarely saw a dentist, for a myriad of reasons. Now, I suffer from several missing teeth, as well as several broken teeth. I finally decided I could no longer live this way and went to the dentist. After x-rays and an examination, he recommended a full-mouth reconstruction. There is no way I can afford all of the work he says is necessary. Is there anyway to get similar results without the hefty price tag?

Thank you,
Tiffany

Tiffany,

A 100% full-mouth reconstruction takes a great amount of technical knowledge, in addition to that which is taught in dental school, not to mention the artistry required for the cosmetic work. The work is a combination of many aesthetics, along with restorative dentistry to improve the functioning and appearance of your entire mouth. That said, you should never let cost be your sole consideration when having a full-mouth reconstruction. The process is a timely, meticulous, and expensive one, in which not all dentists are qualified to perform. Therefore, careful and intentional research should be put into who you chose to perform the work. I would also suggest that you seek opinions of other dentists, in order to determine if any alternative options may work for you. It is possible that dentures or partials and crowns may be a better route for you financially. Looking into an affordable dentist and making them aware of your budget constraints from the beginning will help you find options that fit your needs and your range. Best of luck to you!

This post was provided by the office of Baton Rouge affordable dentist, Dr. Ryan Perry.

Was my affordable dental implant experience normal?

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Most of my teeth are missing. In hopes of receiving affordable dental implants, I signed up for a discount dental plan. During my first appointment, I filled out paperwork, but noticed the forms were asking for more information than is typically on medical office paperwork. After completing the paperwork, I was told that I qualified for financing. I found it odd that they would qualify me for financing before any services or prognoses were completed. I received an x-ray and dental cleaning. Then, the dentist entered the room and told me I needed several fillings and multiple crowns, without physically looking at any of my teeth and that all of the work would come to the tune of $4000. I thought that amount sounded extreme, and was still in shock at the entire process. The receptionist tried to get me to commit to an appointment date and time for the crowns and fillings, but, because I felt uneasy about the whole thing, I told her I would call later for this. However, I have zero intention of returning to that dental office. If I do, in fact, need all of the dental work they indicated I do, it will be several years before I can afford the work to be done. I recently received a phone call from that office to schedule my appointment for the dental work. I have no intention of returning the call. I know I have not been intentional about my dental appointments or hygiene, so realize it is possible that I may have a few cavities, but is it normal, or even permissible, for a dentist to advise that you have all of this work done without physically looking at your teeth?

Thank you,

Corby


Corby,
You are correct. What you experienced during your dental appointment is far from normal. Not only should you have received your cleaning and x-rays, your teeth should have been thoroughly examined by the dentist before any treatment was recommended. Then, in addition to recommending the treatment, the dentist should have explained why such treatment was necessary. High fees, such as the amount you were quoted, can make a person feel that affordable dental implants are out of their reach.

Your decision to not return to that office was a wise one. You might also consider reaching out to your dental insurance provider, in order to explain the situation and avoid any potential problems with coverage, since you will likely be duplicating the appointment with a different dentist. You may also want to visit any future dental offices first, or request a dental consultation, before any exams.

Affordable dental implants are possible because of financing and/or dental payment plans, but they should never be sneaky or secretive, as you have experienced.

This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge affordable dental implant provider, Dr. Ryan Perry.

Are affordable dental implants a good idea?

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I am missing several teeth. I looked into replacing them a few years ago, but my dentist was going to charge several thousand dollars. Because the amount was out of my budget, I had him do partial dentures instead. However, I am still interested in a permanent solution.

I recently saw an ad for an office claiming to specialize in affordable dental implants. I have tried to research on my own, and everything I am finding suggests this is a safe procedure, but to check on the dentist’s experience level. However, nothing tells me what level of experience I should be looking for, or what details I should be trying to found out. Can you help?

Thank you,
Janet

Dear Janet,

Just like dentists are all different, so are affordable dental implants. After talking with various dentists who provide this option, you may find that affordable dental implants are different depending on who you speak to. Some may be placing mini-implants, while others are performing All-on-Fours. Some may be using sub-standard parts, or are inexperienced, while others are genuinely knowledgeable and skilled. Still, others may be using discounts to encourage new patients to join their practice.

Asking questions is really the best way to truly learn the motivation behind the dentist providing affordable dental implants. If he or she is not using posts of standard sizes, they are probably using minis. If the procedure is coupled with dentures, it is likely an all-on-fours. You should inquire if the parts have been approved by the FDA. If the answer is no, they may not meet the durability and sterility guidelines.

Finally, regarding the level of experience, any dentist can call themselves an “affordable dental implant specialist,” but this does not mean they have any more experience than another dentist who has performed the procedure or offers the procedure. It would be a good idea to find out where the doctor attended dental school, and also the number of hours he or she has spent studying the procedure. If the answer is at least 200+ hours, you can assume he or she has had the training, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the skill is there. You should find out the number of procedures which they have completed, as well as their success rate to determine this. Implants generally have a 98% success rate. If the number is around that, you should feel confident in the service.

This post is provided by the office of Baton Rouge dentist, Dr. Ryan Perry.

Will affordable dental implants help with my facial collapse?

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My grandchild recently told me I looked old. While I am in my 50s, I would hardly call myself old! However, I have been noticing my facial appearance looks to be aging. Therefore, I started researching and came across the term facial collapse. Now, I should also mention that I have worn dentures for years, yet no one ever mentioned to me that facial collapse could happen as a result of my dentures. I am now on the hunt for affordable dental implant options that will help restore my jaw bone.

Sincerely,
Barbara

Dear Barbara,

Kids say the craziest things, don’t they!

You are on the right path regarding facial collapse. Once your teeth are gone, the jaw bone, to which your teeth were once anchored, begins to resorb back into your body, leading to facial collapse. If you are experiencing this, the additional bone would need to be added before any type of dental implant can happen.

Because the bone is only retained in places where implants are placed, an option such as the snap-on denture would definitely help retain your youthful appearance, as well as help with eating and reduce the chances of future jaw shrinkage.

Therefore, you may want to consider multiple implant placements. If this interests you, schedule a consultation to find out what your best affordable implant options are and their costs.

Good luck!

This article is brought to you by Baton Rouge affordable dental implant provider, Dr. Ryan Perry.

Are redo dental implants more affordable?

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I have already had dental implants once. I’m now learning that I need to have them redone and am wondering if any of the expenses carry over to the second attempt. To give some background, I am learning that my original implants didn’t take and now my dentist is saying I need to have them redone and is expecting me to pay full-price for the procedure.

Is this advisable?

Thanks,

Mandi

Dear Mandi,

I’m not sure what your timeline looks like, as you didn’t mention how long ago you received your original implants. It usually takes six to 12 months for them to fully integrate with the bone. I’m wondering if you’re still within this time frame. While poor placement, infections, or some medical conditions can cause problems with the healing, it is rare for them to not take at all.

If your implants have in fact failed, the first step is to determine the root cause. Hopefully your dentist has already discussed this with you. However, if this discussion has yet to take place, try to find out the cause prior to any work being done.

In regards to the second procedure being more affordable, some sort of discount or comped work would be advisable. It’s unclear if your implant failure could have been predicted, or prevented. If it indeed could have been prevented, you should not have to pay a dime. If this is the case, request a refund and find a more skilled dentist. It would also be a good idea to get a second opinion before moving forward.

This article was provided by affordable dental implant provider, Dr. Ryan Perry.

How do dentists truly call themselves “affordable?”

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I can’t figure out what a truly “affordable dentist” is. A few weeks ago I finally ventured to the dentist after a long time of not going. Honestly, I was in and out of jobs and situations with my family and boyfriend. I didn’t have the money then and really don’t have it now, but I decided I wanted to go anyway. What happens? I went to a dentist who was supposed to be affordable, but they wanted to do an extra treatment on my gums and extra cleaning on my teeth, and then they put fluoride on. Of course they found cavities, so now I have to go back next week. It all costs so much money. So is it just affordable to walk in the door?

Gina, Asheville, NC

Dear Gina,

That’s really frustrating to finally decide to spend the money on something so important, your oral health, only to find it wasn’t as affordable as you expected. Unfortunately, when you return to the dentist after a long hiatus, there is extra work that is sometimes required to treat your mouth and get it healthy.

Why do affordable dentists do extra work in your mouth?

The treatment on your gums is to help alleviate or ward off any gum disease.  Gum disease can affect not only your gums and teeth, but also the bones that hold your teeth in place. If left unchecked, in extreme cases, you could lose your teeth.

Your dental team was trying to help prevent cavities by treating your teeth with fluoride. Fluoride applied to your teeth at the dentist’s office is a higher concentration than that found in toothpastes and mouthwashes from the store. If you can prevent more cavities from forming, it will save you in the long run.

The unusual thing about your appointment is that the staff didn’t ask you before they started those treatments. Most offices have a protocol to ask before performing any treatment that will cost additional.

You were smart to search for an affordable dentist the first time. There are dentists who will do a free exam or first appointment to assess the health of your mouth, make a treatment plan with you, and discuss your options and prices so you know what to expect before you start. They may even be able to work with you on a payment plan. Call the dentists’ offices you are interested in and ask questions before your appointment. That way you won’t end up paying unexpected amounts, but you can still get the care you deserve.

This post is sponsored by Dr. Ryan Perry at Baton Rouge Family Dentist.

Is a partial crown or a full crown better for a cracked tooth?

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When I was eating popcorn the other night, I cracked one of my back teeth on the bottom. I can see the crack when I look at the tooth in the mirror. Because I don’t have a lot of money,  I have been trying to research how to fix it the cheapest way and have found information about crowns and partial crowns to fix it. Can you tell me which is going to be best for me?

Thanks,
Rhett, West Virginia

Dear Rhett,

This is difficult to answer without seeing your tooth. There are different types of cracked teeth, some of which are hardly noticeable and some that warrant a trip to the emergency dentist. You may have cracked just the enamel on the surface, or the crack may go down into the middle part of the tooth that houses the pulp. The crack may go just across one corner or may go all the way across the tooth. The point of treating a cracked tooth is to prevent it from fracturing or getting further damaged, and also preventing infection.

How to fix a cracked tooth?

Because of the risk of additionally damaging the tooth, a full crown is typically the treatment preferred by dentists. This a more long-term approach to protecting the tooth because it completely covers the tooth.

A partial crown, or onlay, is an option only for certain types of cracks in a tooth. Onlays cover the surface of the tooth used for chewing, not the whole tooth. For minor cracks, an onlay may work if it is made of a good material. A gold onlay is the most durable for any crack in the surface of the tooth. Porcelain or other composite materials may not hold up against the rigorous chewing done with those back teeth. Some dentists don’t recommend onlays simply because they are not comfortable placing them.

Visit your dentist and find out the severity of your cracked tooth and if an onlay is an option for protecting it. Your dentist may be able to work with you on an affordable treatment plan if a crown is what is recommended for you.

This post is sponsored by Dr. Ryan Perry in Baton Rouge, LA.