It started off with my three year old going in for check up with the dentist. They indicated that he would need over 9 filling/crowns. Of course, my first thought was, " I totally suck as a parent. How did I let him get that many cavities?". (More on that later). He would have to be sedated and they would do all 9 in the same visit. I thought, " I wouldn't want 9 of my teeth worked on at the same time, why would I subject my three year old to it?" When they told me that my share of cost for this would be close to $1400, my next thought was "No, way does this kid have 3 grand in dental work for BABY TEETH".
As I got home, I immediately started to google and search for other pediatric dentists in the area to get that second opinion. After finding one with great Yelp scores and board certification, I convinced them to squeeze us in for today. I wanted to hear what someone had to say on the matter.
This place was great! They had amazing staff who were able to capture the elusive x-rays that the previous dentist could not because he was so small. I'm already feeling good about the place. After consultation and review of x-rays, it was determined that he did not have 9 fillings/crowns that needed to be done. He needed 4 BABY ROOT CANALS and 7 fillings! You see, x-rays provided a more accurate picture of the inside of the tooth and more importantly the depth of his cavities.
Now that I am feeling like the most negligent mother ever, this dentist shared, he was just genetically given a bad set of cards. He did not form enough enamel in utero, had his teeth really close to one another, and grazes all day. He was the perfect storm.
While I wanted to discuss more in detail, I had to leave the appointment early becuase it was time for Daniel's first parent teacher conference. Given the day I was having, I expected the worst!
Thank goodness for small blessings! Daniel is doing awesome! He comprehends math very quickly! He loves to read and be read to. His writing has improved significantly. He also plays with everyone and everyone wants to play with him. He has no best friend, because everyone is his friend! He is also developing a self awareness of when he needs to go to another table to work because he is getting distracted. It was the best parent-teacher conference I could ever hope for! All my fears dissapated and replaced with endless pride.
When I got home, Patrick shared with me their estimation of Ethan's treatment plan. Due to the number and severity of the treatment, we were escalated to general anethesia. He was going to be knocked out! Oh and yes, that $1400....it was now $4400. Yes, that is OUR share of cost. I had no thoughts after that because I was just stunned into silence. How wrong is it that I keep wondering, how much does he need those two front teeth anyway?
So you see, the good was sandwhiched in between some really not so good. But through it all, my kids were troopers. Ethan did great at both visits. He was even complimented for his behavior, he was so compliant. They really are great kids. Too bad they have million dollar smiles...literally.
