Monthly Archives: September 2016

Affordable Dentist

Finding an Affordable Way to Repair My Porcelain Veneers

I’m trying to find an affordable dentist to redo my veneers. I always wanted to make my smile better. Both of my front teeth have been chipped since I was a kid and I probably should have had ortho, but I was one of seven kids, so that never happened. I have one tooth near the front that’s twisted quite a bit. I did quite a bit of research to find an affordable dentist the first time around, but I’m just not happy with the results. I don’t know how to describe it. They don’t look natural at all. It really looks like I have fake teeth glued over the tops of my real teeth and the one that’s twisted still looks twisted. How can I find an affordable dentist who is skilled enough to correct this?

Thanks,

Kyle

Dear Kyle,

I’m sorry. I know it is disheartening to look forward to a beautiful smile only to be disappointed with the results. I know you’ve likely already spent a pretty penny. Unfortunately, cosmetic work is the last thing you want to seek out an affordable dentist for.

Yes, the costs will vary quite a bit based on the office, and you can find lower rates for sure. Just don’t focus specifically on the cost as your deciding factor.

Ask what kind of training he or she has had in cosmetic procedures. Ask to see before and after images of smile makeovers he’s done. Anyone who does cosmetic work should have a smile gallery of sorts.

Also, you could try financing it through a medical source, such as Care Credit. They’ll let you pick the terms of the financing (unlike regular credit cards). This can allow you to have your smile re-done and pay in out in little bits.

This blog is brought to you by Drs. Kevin and Hillary Peck.

 

Affordable Dentist

Why Don’t Affordable Dentists Seem to Care?

I’m self-employed and don’t have dental insurance. I keep looking for affordable dentists. I find them, but end up hating the care. They always seem to rush me through and have little time or patience for any questions or concerns I have. Am I doomed to this type of care?

Annie W. – Alabama

Annie,

I’m very sorry you have had such negative experiences with dentists. It is true that many dentists who advertise has having lower fees will often try to make up for the low fees by volume. That ends up with a conveyor belt type of care for patients.

It doesn’t have to be that way. There is a difference between affordable care and cheap care. You want affordable care. I would start by searching not by fees, but by patient satisfaction. Find dentists people are happy with. Make a list.

Then go down the list and call them. Ask about their fees. Then ask about payment plans and other options they have for patients without insurance. You will be much more likely to find a dentist you will be happy with that way.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Kevin Peck.

Emergency Dentist

Should I Use Super Glue With a Porcelain Veneers Emergency?

I’m in a pickle!  I have a job interview the day after tomorrow and one of my porcelain veneers (on a front tooth!!) has fallen off. I called my dentist and he doesn’t consider it an emergency. He can’t see me for a week. I can’t go to my interview like this.  Is it okay to use Superglue to get it back on?

Amber A. – Nevada

Amber,

STOP!  Put down the Superglue. Now slowly back away.  Whew! That was close.

I know you’re likely freaking out right now, but don’t worry, this can be fixed in time. I’d call around to some cosmetic dentists in your area first thing in the morning. I’m certain at least one of them will be willing to help you if you explain your situation. Most dentists are caring and want to help patients. That’s why they chose dentistry to begin with.

If you use Superglue and get it wrong, not only will your smile look a bit off, but your veneer will likely have to be completely re-done That will put you in an even bigger pickle.

This blog is brought to you by Drs. Kevin and Hillary Peck.