Community Magazine October 2010

70 Community magazine JACQUES DOUECK, DDS This type of work could have been completed in a few appointments, but, unfortunately, most patients cannot pay the cost in such a short time. However, by spreading the work over a few years, a patient can have all his work done and be able to comfortably fit the cost into his budget. The key is to make sure that three important steps are followed: 1 . The right diagnosis is critical for extensive dental care. This is the blueprint. Would you ever build a house without a blueprint? In extensive dentistry, the right diagnosis is based on complete records. This includes: a. Panoramic x-ray – to be able to look at the entire jaw bone. This is important for implants, extractions and root evaluation. b. Eighteen individual x-rays – for a very accurate view of the roots, nerves and teeth. c. Complete periodontal exam measuring the gums and supporting bone. d. Tooth-by-tooth exam with high magnification camera, explorer, and study models. 2 . Staged treatment plan divided into four groups – is the key to making extensive dental care affordable. Knowing in what order to do treatment helps prevent more damage and gives the patient the encouragement to continue. a. Urgent dental needs : This is the first priority – such as cavities, root canals, and extractions with a preventive plan to avoid further breakdown. b. Aesthetic needs: After addressing urgent needs, we select the worst cosmetic area – usually, but not always, the upper front teeth. We often start with bleaching and then restore the teeth with bonding, veneers or crowns. This is usually done early in the plan because it gives patients a boost and inspires them to take care of their teeth. c. Quadrant care : Start with the worst quarter, and rebuild it with implants, crowns, inlays, etc., restoring the entire mouth one quadrant at a time. d. Maintenance care: Usually, this entails routine cleanings and checkups. 3 . Insurance planning can be complicated. We help patients with dental insurance to maximize their insurance benefits by following a phased treatment schedule. For example, if implants are needed, timing the implants one year and the crowns the next year will help spread the insurance benefits and the patient will not lose out on his coverage. Although dental coverage does not really cover major dental treatment – every dollar helps. Most patients cannot afford to write a check for the cost of an extensive dental rehabilitation all at once. By dividing a dental rehabilitation into segments, spreading the treatment over years, if necessary, and maximizing insurance when available, you canmake it happen. But remember –don’t put off your dental care. Taking care of your dentistry can save you further breakdown, expense and aggravation. Affording Exten $ ive Dental Care You’ve been putting off going to the dentist because you know you have some broken and missing teeth, and you’re afraid of how much it will cost. Even though you have some dental insurance, you know that insurance coverage is nowhere near enough for caps and implants... Q: How do you eat an elephant? A: One bite at a time.