A friend’s son enjoyed a trip to Mexico over the Christmas holiday with several fraternity brothers. While there, he purchased a Rolex watch for an amazingly low price. Not surprisingly, after several months, the watch began to run slow and finally stopped. It’s the classic tale of “You get what you pay for.”
As a dentist, I know this is also true when it comes to crowns, bridges and other dental restorations. When a new patient is examined, it’s easy to spot crowns or bridges placed prior that are, in every sense of the word, cheap. Not only are they of inferior quality, a great many fail to support proper bite alignment.
Not all crowns are alike. Like vehicles, homes, appliances, clothes and jewelry, inferior materials and poor workmanship will eventually show up. And, when these problems arise, the repairs can never be described as ‘cheap.’ And, in a number of cases, the patient is unaware the problem occurred as a result of dental corner-cutting.
Most patients are not aware that a crown can be created by various dental labs who use different materials. In order for the labs to be able to charge cheaper prices, they are producing a lesser quality. This can show up in the appearance that doesn’t look quite as natural. The crown may not blend as well with other teeth. It may even stand out, looking like a “fake” tooth. The feel may also lack the smooth surface that is like that of natural teeth.
As a neuro-muscular dentist, I am specially trained to evaluate and create proper bite alignment for our patients in whatever procedure they have. Too often, I’ve seen cheap crowns that were placed incorrectly. Hence, the entire alignment of a bite was compromised. What does this mean?
When upper and lower teeth do not meet properly, neighboring teeth are at higher risk for chips, breaks, fractures and cracks. This can be costly. A tooth that breaks must be crowned. If it breaks below the gum line, it must be removed.
Misalignment can also lead to clenching and grinding during sleep. This can cause worn teeth that are vulnerable to breaks and decay.
Another symptom of bite misalignment (and not often associated with teeth) is migraines and headaches. Facial muscles and jaw joints can become strained when a bite is not in proper alignment. In addition to migraines and frequent headaches, this can lead to sore jaw joints, difficulty opening the mouth, ear ringing and dizziness.
The longevity of your investment is another compromise when cheap crowns are placed. A crown that is well-made from exceptional materials will provide you with excellent value and many years of smiling satisfaction. A cheap crown may provide a life of about half that amount of time.
These same principles apply to a bridge. A bridge that looks and feels natural, fits properly, and lasts an exceptionally long time is worth doing right the first time. Choosing a bridge because it was the lowest price will be a disappointing investment sooner or later. Usually sooner.
While we all want to spend wisely, seeking bargain basement rates for a cheap crown can end up being a costly move. Rather than think of a crown in terms of its cost, think of it for what it will provide you. Our crowns are designed to look as natural as your surrounding teeth. The crowns we place will feel like your natural teeth. It will last for a long time because it was made with excellent workmanship and superior materials. And, it be properly positioned so you can avoid problems from occurring in the future.
When we place a crown, bridge or veneer, we want you pleased with your investment long after it is made. Let’s discuss how we can help you achieve an exceptional smile that is within your budget, and anything but ‘cheap.’ Call toll free 1-866-9-Smiles for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
