I totally get where you’re coming from. My kiddo needed work after an accident, and the dentist went straight to “crown” too. I pushed back a bit since it seemed like a huge step for a small chip. Ended up with a less invasive fix and it’s held up fine so far. It’s tough not second-guessing, but asking questions is never a bad thing.
It’s tough not second-guessing, but asking questions is never a bad thing.
Totally agree with this. I always feel anxious about just going along with the first suggestion, especially when it’s something as permanent as a crown. Honestly, I’ve pushed back a couple times and sometimes the dentist acts like you’re being difficult, but it’s your tooth, you know? I had an onlay done instead of a crown after a root canal last year—way less invasive and I haven’t had any trouble so far. It pays to trust your gut and ask for options, even if you feel awkward.
Yeah, I totally get the awkward feeling when you question the dentist’s plan. I’ve had a couple look at me sideways when I asked about cheaper or less invasive options—like I’m trying to cut corners or something. But honestly, it’s not just about saving money (though, let’s be real, that’s a big part for me), it’s about not jumping into something permanent if there’s another way.
I had a root canal on a molar last year and was bracing myself for the crown bill. Ended up asking if an onlay would work because the tooth wasn’t totally wrecked. The dentist kind of hesitated but said it could be fine as long as I was careful with chewing hard stuff. It’s been almost a year and no issues so far... and my wallet didn’t cry as much.
I do wonder sometimes if dentists just default to crowns because it’s “safer” for them liability-wise, or maybe it’s just what they’re used to recommending? Either way, I’m glad I spoke up.
- I’ve always just assumed crowns were the only choice after a root canal, so hearing about onlays is kind of new for me. Makes me wonder how often dentists actually mention them as an option, or if you have to ask first.
- The cost thing is real. Crowns are crazy expensive, and insurance barely touches mine. I’d definitely want to know if there’s a less pricey fix that still works.
- I get the dentist’s side too, though. Maybe they’re just used to recommending the “safest” thing so they don’t get blamed if something goes wrong later. But at the same time, it’d be nice if they explained all the options up front.
- Love that you brought up asking about an onlay and it actually working out for you. Gives me hope I could do the same if my tooth isn’t totally trashed next time.
- I’m not super experienced with dental stuff (knock on wood), but I did have a filling that turned into a bigger deal because I waited too long. Kind of makes me want to ask more questions at my next appointment, even if it feels awkward.
- Do onlays last as long as crowns? That’s the only thing I’m worried about—like, what if I try to save money now but end up needing a crown anyway in a year or two?
- Anyway, thanks for sharing this. Makes me feel less weird about wanting to talk through options instead of just nodding along with whatever the dentist says... even if they give me that “here we go again” look.
We ran into this with my kid after he needed a root canal on a molar. I’d never even heard of onlays until the dentist brought it up as an option, and honestly, I was relieved—crowns are no joke price-wise, especially for baby teeth that’ll fall out anyway. The dentist explained that onlays can last a good while if there’s enough tooth left, but yeah, sometimes you end up needing a crown down the line. Still, I’d rather try the less invasive (and less expensive) route first. I totally get the nerves about asking questions, though... I always feel like I’m being “that parent,” but hey, it’s our mouths (or our kids’), right?
