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Archives for June 2014

Why not go with the cheapest dentist?

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I’m wondering if it is OK to go with the cheapest dental implant dentist?   Isn’t the procedure the same no matter who does it?  There is a dentist that is several thousands of dollars cheaper than everyone else in my area.  I scheduled an appointment, but now I’m worried there might be differences.

Drew B. – Nebraska

Drew,

I’m glad you’re listening to your gut feeling. There are two specific kind of differences to look out for. One, is the skill of the dentist/surgeon. Maybe this dentist is cheaper because he hasn’t had much experience with this procedure and is still developing his skill and technique.

Secondly, is he using sub-standard fixtures and materials? Maybe he’s cutting cost by using implants that aren’t the best.

In either case, you will be at a higher risk for dental implant failure.  Looking for an affordable dentist isn’t unreasonable, but sometimes looking for the cheapest dentist is unwise.

This blog is brought to you by Auburn, AL Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.

Problems losing tooth

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My daughter is losing her first tooth. For some reason, it has been traumatic for her. I don’t remember it being a big deal when I was a kid. It stresses her that the tooth looks like it is getting bigger. Then, when she bit into something, she screamed and cried because it hurt.  She a wreck now. Should I bring her in, or just let her deal with it?

Shari H. – Pennsylvania

Shari,

Each child responds differently to loosing their teeth. Some think the blood is “awesome”, others are ready to pass out from the sight of even the smallest amount of blood.

Your daughter’s tooth may look like it is getting bigger, but that is just the adult tooth pushing on it and stretching the ligaments.  A snapped ligament is probably what caused your daughter to cry.

But, I wouldn’t rush her to the pediatric dentist, unless you’ve looked in her mouth and see something that doesn’t seem right to you.

Most of this takes care of itself.

This blog is brought to you by Auburn, AL Pediatric Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.