Pricing and Treatment Plans at Premier Smiles
Dentists have varying views on approaching a case or a patient, which is why treatment plans can vary from one dentist to another. Some dentists focus more on an immediate fix for a problem, while others focus on a long-term outcome for the patient. Generally, different dentists possess different levels of training and skills, and everyone has their own perspective on how to approach a case.
For example, some doctors adopt a more conservative approach to treating a tooth or teeth, whereas other dentists, while not necessarily aggressive, think more about a long-term solution versus a short-term solution, leading them to choose different options.
How does dental technology and my diagnosis change my treatment plan?
Nowadays, technology is definitely a wonderful tool in helping diagnose patients and providing the best care possible. When I refer to technology, I mean digital imaging, intraoral cameras, 3D scanning, and 3D printing. All of these tools help provide a much better service for the patient with a much better outcome.
When choosing a treatment plan, patients need to be informed of the outcomes of each option they might have. They need to understand that quick fixes often don't provide durable solutions with a very good outcome. While more involved treatment plans may cost more upfront, they will provide a much better long-term outcome. It also depends on the patient's priorities, whether they emphasize cosmetics, a quick fix, or full rehabilitation.
What advice do you have for a patient who has different treatment plan options?
My advice to patients when receiving different treatment options is to ask questions about the type of materials used, the labs involved in their treatment option, the type of restoration that the particular dentist offers, and the follow-ups, which are very important in many cases. They need to understand the differences between treatment plans, not just the financial aspect. They need to understand what each treatment encompasses and offers versus the cost of those treatment plans.
Why are prices between dental practices different?
When trying to compare prices from different dental practices, a patient needs to ask questions to that particular practice regarding the type of materials they are using, the type of procedure that is done, the lab they are using, the technology involved in diagnosing and providing and assisting that procedure from start to finish. Additionally, the patient needs to know the follow-ups included, the warranties for the restorations provided to the patient, and the bottom line is how long these restorations will last.
In the dental market, there are a multitude of materials and also a multitude of dental labs. As in any other industry, there are good materials and not as durable materials. As far as labs, they focus more on quality than quantity. The patient needs to ask these questions from their dental care provider regarding what kind of lab they're using, what type of materials they are using, and based on that, they will understand better the price they are paying for that particular restoration.
Definitely, a dentist's training is very important and can have a significant impact on the price of a specific dental procedure. Different dentists have different levels of training, with some emphasizing simple emergency care, while others have had more training in restoring complex cases, viewing the patient from multiple angles to provide them with the best standard of care.
The fees are also influenced by the location of a dental practice. If that practice is in a more affluent or central area, that would affect the prices of the restorations that practice offers. The number of staff and the amount of technology incorporated in that practice are key factors in the final price of a procedure performed in a specific dental office.
When comparing prices, patients need to look beyond the numbers. They should consider the materials used by each practice, the labs employed to manufacture those particular restorations, the durability of those materials, the warranties, and the follow-ups included with those particular procedures. Some practices focus more on volume, while others take their time, spending more time with the patient, evaluating the patient more carefully and thoroughly, allowing them to diagnose and overall provide a much better outcome and a more durable treatment option.
Learn more about Premier Smiles and what we can do for you!
At Premier Smiles, you come first. Whether you need dental care or simply have questions, call us at (610) 553-3389 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.