I had a good experience with my last partial denture several years ago. I needed a new one and decided I would cut out the middle man and go directly to the lab and save some money. This has not worked out as well as I hoped. Here are the problems I have had. The front tooth being replaced by this does not stay attached to the metal. He also had so much plastic backing on this that it put all the pressure on a single bottom tooth. This gave me concern that I would lose that tooth. Finally, there is a problem with the seating because it rocks when I chew which is an irritant both emotionally and physically. I’ve been back nine times for him to work on it and he just told me to stop bothering him about this. I asked for a refund and he refused. Is there any way to get my money back? I thought this would save me money, but it has been a disaster.
Andrew
Dear Andrew,
The rocking is a big problem and hints at a distorted framework. The only way to fix this would be to start over, which is why the lab’s tinkering hasn’t worked. The reason they did such a good job the first time and not when you went to them directly is almost positively because of the impression they took of your teeth. It takes specific training and skill to make a proper mold impression. They don’t do that on a regular basis so their impressions will not be as accurate. This is key in getting the denture correct.
You asked for a way to get your money back. I believe that will be simple. You may not have been aware of this but it was actually illegal for the lab to work directly with you instead of through a dentist. The lab, however, would have known that. To get your refund, I would simply tell them to either refund your money or you will testify against them. I feel certain he will be happy to give you your money back.
Your best bet in getting a great denture is through a skilled dentist. Your dentist obviously did a great job last time. If finances are difficult right now, I would speak to your dentist about that in private. Most dentists are compassionate and went into their field because they wanted to help people. They may have a way to allow you to make payments and help with affordability.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.
