[jblum315]

I do not want dental implants and don't want to be pushed into buying them. I need simply to have my dentures relined because they don' fit any more. Can someone suggest a dentist who can do this for a reasonable price and without hassling me about implants?

[Living a Fantasy]

Dr. Jerkins in Fruitland Park. No hassle. No pressure.

[gerryh1943]

:spoken: Dentures I have mine done at Carolina dentures the number is 352-674-9077I had them done six months ago no problem never went back because they did a great job I have my top realigned for $250dr. Gonzalez is great he pushes nothing my husband also went to him and was very satisfied .

[Trish Crocker]

My husband taught prosthodontics at University of Detroit. When I was assisting him he fitted many patients with dentures but there were some patients that couldn't wear dentures without at least a few implants. It is absolutely amazing how much bone reduction occurs once we lose our natural teeth. I would help with the models and see the xrays. Each individual is different, with different needs. Two people may go to the same dentist and get different recommendations. If there is very little bone left it is impossible to get dentures to fit comfortably. This is usually the case with lowers. Without supporting bone the denture just floats there, food gets under it and the movement of the denture itself causes sores. If I had a lower denture that didn't fit and I suffered with the discomfort because my dentist didn't try to PUSH implants on me he/she wouldn't be doing a professional job. If you get a hole in your tire, are you happy with a mechanic that would recommend a patch?? A GOOD dentist is the one that tells you all of your options. If money is an issue and you can't afford the best procedure for your mouth then ask if something less can be done with satisfactory results. I find it very distressing to have the dental industry constantly criticized. If you had open heart surgery, would you ask your cardiologist to do the procedure as cheaply as he can? Use the least expensive products available and get it good enough to last 'for a while'?

[Mudder]

Good points, but your heart is more important to life than your teeth in my opinion. The other thing is that Dentists don't take Medicare. One has to pay every penny for dental work but Medicare pays for much of the Cardiologists work.

[Trish Crocker]

I understand your point Mudder. My issue is blaming the dentist when he/she may only be looking out for your health. If I go to a mechanic and tell him my transmission is slipping he may give me a few options...add more trans fluid...tighten the bands (think that's correct ) or replace the transmission. What I do is up to me....if I don't have the funds I will go for the cheap fix. The ideal fix is to replace it. I don't blame the mechanic if he tells me the options. The cardiologist may have been a bad example....how about a dermatologist? You have a growth on your nose....choice 1.free..leave it. choice 2. dig it out, put a bandaid on it and learn to live with the scar. Choice 3. Surgically remove and repair the wound with small sutures that will not leave a scar. I guarantee that anyone that could afford it, with or without insurance, would choose option 3.
We grew up in the same generation. I don't know how your folks were but mine both had dentures from a young age. Dental care had no importance unless you had a toothache and you went to a dentist that yanked it out, seeming to not care if it hurt. The whole 'they're only teeth' attitude prevailed. We are now realizing that they are not 'only' teeth...they are an important part of our health. Bad teeth and gum disease contribute to heart problems. I don't like to paint everything with a broad brush but I feel that the majority of Villagers can afford to take care of their teeth. More that anyone else, I hate anyone that takes advantage of people, especially those in the medical profession. What you need to do is ASK your dentist to explain why the procedures are deemed necessary..ask to see the xrays...show the xrays to another dentist (additional cost...but it IS your health). Make an informed decision based on facts....not automatically assuming that the dentist is 'out to get your money.)'

[Mudder]

Good points, Trish. Thanks.

[ronsroni]

Marion dental group 441..... Dr Edwards. Way cool and great work.