Dear Doctor Magazine - Issue 13 - (Page 36)
consulTaTIons In cosMeTIc & ResToRaTIVe DenTIsTRY Value Of Quality Care Are all crowns created equal? A Consultation with Dr. Nils W. Olson Dear Doctor, After getting three opinions for a new crown for an upper front tooth, I was surprised to find such a variation in price for what seems to be the same treatment. Why are they so different? Dear Nancy, Crown fabrication costs depend upon the materials used and the time needed to create them. T hank you for your question and concern, as it addresses an important topic in healthcare. A crown for a front tooth is a relatively standard dental procedure in that the tooth has to be prepared in a similar way to restore normal form and function. However, there are other variables to consider. One of the most important facts adding to cost is the quality of the crown itself. One of the most important factors adding to cost is the quality of the crown itself. Another fact is that dentists generally sub-contract out crown manufacturing to a dental laboratory technician, as they rarely make crowns themselves. Besides, a dental technician is also an artisan, an expert trained in the art of making crowns among other laboratory procedures. Many factors go into the fabrication of a superlative crown, the final result of a close working relationship between your dentist and the dental technician. How well they communicate with each other is key to making the most natural looking crown that will match your other front teeth. Crown fabrication costs depend upon the materials used and the time needed to create them. For example, a crown made with higher quality porcelain (and sometimes with gold for added strength) results in a strong crown with the most life-like appearance. However, a large part of how a crown looks depends upon expertise and artistry. A plain white, uniform “Chiclet”, versus a beautiful translucent replica of nature, requires different degrees of artistry, and better art tends to cost more. Some dentists will use different technicians for differing levels of quality work, which will be reflected in the final cost of the crown. So you can begin to understand why costs may vary. 36 Dear Doc tor w w w. D e a r D o c to r . c o m
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