I have full upper snap on dental implants. These have four posts to keep the dentures on. I often have to replace the male retention caps. My dentist charges me $100 just for the caps. This has become quite a financial burden for me, especially the way inflation has gone. I can barely afford food at the moment.
I noticed that online you can order four of these for just $20! I tried to order them myself, but they require you to be a dentist. Is there any possible way to order these if you are not a dentist?
Ron
Dear Ron,
Snap on dentures with two implants.
I’m glad you wrote. There is no need for you to have to choose between food and your oral health. I am saddened that so many people are in this situation these days. While it is true that dentists have a lot of overhead and need to mark things up a bit to cover their building expenses, equipment, and staff salaries, this particular material would be such an inconsequential contributor to the big picture that there is some leeway. I would start by just explaining your particular circumstances to your dentist and see if he will sell it to you at cost or much closer to cost. If he or she says no, you still have options.
First, I would call around to other dental offices in your area and explain your situation. It is possible one of them would be willing to order them for you near cost. You would not necessarily have to talk to the dentist. Supplies are often actually ordered by the staff rather than the dentist and they just use the dentist’s information.
If you cannot find someone willing to work with you, I still believe you can get this on your own. I noticed the Ebay sells these. Many are overseas sellers and do not require you to be a dentist to purchase them. The only downside to this is that you really need to know what you are needing. For example, the amount of resistance and strength you want from them. Different types give different values on this.
I hope this helps.
This blog is brought to you by Hoffman Estates Dentist Dr. William Becker.