7 responses

  1. Ed Reifman, DDS
    October 13, 2011

    Hi Mike:
    Whether due to the economy, or due to just plain low self-esteem, this happens I am sure, to every dentist walking the planet. I used to think ‘its only us 2th docs, but upon talking to a chirporactor and a prominent attorney in my family, both held in high regard in their respective professional communities, they also get an appalling number of negative critiques by their fellow ‘counselors’. The human condition- its simply unfortunate.
    But not to worry, Mike, we think you’re great!
    Ed

    Reply

  2. Aussie dentist
    October 15, 2011

    Love reading your blog! But I didn’t quite understand the 5 crowns on a 90 year old? At $1500 a pop – that’s 7.5k…. Firstly can’t believe a 90 year old would spend that much on his teeth and even if they wanted to, I don’t think a lot of dentists here in australia would even do that treatment? Were they symptomatic? Extractions or even leaving them alone contraindicated? Very curious and please don’t rea this as an insulting post… I’m just extremely curious…

    Reply

    • The Dental Warrior
      October 15, 2011

      Cheers, Aussie Dentist! A perfectly good question. Actually this patient could very well use a full mouth rehab – a crown on every single tooth. His teeth are severely worn down, and he has trouble chewing. Lots of open contacts due to the wear, and his biggest complaint is food packing between them. So, yes… they were symptomatic.

      It’s interesting that many modern western cultures diminish the value of quality of life in the later years. Just because they’re “old,” they don’t deserve or shouldn’t spend money to make their lives more comfortable and ENJOYABLE. And, oddly enough, the older you get, the more EATING becomes a source of pleasure. (By the way my ALL CAPs are to emphasize words, not yelling.) 🙂

      So, the way I see it, this patient can spend HIS money on HIMSELF to make his twilight years more COMFORTABLE and ENJOYABLE. Or he can suffer (unnecessarily) in his “golden years,” then die and leave his money to someone else (who didn’t earn it). 🙂 If you’ve got the money, why not put it to GOOD use?

      Ultimately, I always give (all) my patients options. And, the FIRST option I give EVERY patient is: NO TREATMENT. And, then I discuss the potential consequences of no treatment. With the exception of pain and infection, all dentistry is elective. People don’t need teeth to live. We have electricity and blenders now. But, some choose to have teeth.

      One thing I NEVER do is pre-judge my patients. I never make assumptions. I give them options, and they choose. My biggest cases are typically on “ordinary” working people. You never know. And, I’m proud to have been chosen by this 90 y.o. patient to perform his dentistry. He could EASILY have found a much cheaper dentist. I’m glad I was able to help him be more comfortable in the “autumn” of his life. He’s been a great patient for many years. Fun to talk to. Very sharp. Brings in the Wall Street Journal every appointment.

      Thanks for chiming in and asking a good question. Hopefully my reply is at least a bit thought-provoking. 🙂

      Reply

  3. Aussie Dentist
    October 17, 2011

    Cheers Mike! Excellent answer and definitely thought provoking! The part about the money spent on himself in his final years is def food for thought. I own a couple of dental practices in lower socioeconomic areas and although similar patients present, hardly any of them have the funds to afford the ideal treatment at that age. But I completely agree, if they have the money spend it for better quality of life! To be honest because of the areas I work in , I am probably a little guilty of judging as mentioned in your reply. Def something to work on for myself. As an aside, your tips on google has been excellent and bought the DDS GP app and patients love it. My employee’s also enjoy it thoroughly when explaining concepts to patients. In my areas it’s also a useful point of difference!

    Reply

    • The Dental Warrior
      October 17, 2011

      We’ve all been guilty of assumption at one time or another or to some degree. But, over the years I’ve learned that such assumptions are often wrong. Most of my “big case” dentistry is for patients most would have considered unable to afford the treatment. In just a moment I’m seeing a patient we did a full mouth rehab for. He’s a stock clerk at Walmart. He spent over $40,000 on his teeth. Some dentists have asked me, “Where did he get the money?” My answer: WHO CARES??? None of my business!

      Reply

  4. Warren Bobinski
    October 17, 2011

    Days like this happen to all of us. Trust should be a two way street, and its’ earned. If I am in a situation where I have earned the trust (and that can be from a hard earned reputation and referral) then I would fire the patient.
    I have been in this situation in my own job as a dental sales consultant. I understand I am not made to work with everyone, its’ come to the point where I tell them – “It’s not you, it’s me.” and sleep better at night.
    Wish you all the best Mike – I would trust your advice if you were my dentist!
    Smile!
    Warren
    PS – typed out before my morning coffee…

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top
mobile desktop