Burbank Dental Lab works with dozens of edentulous cases every week. Occasionally there are cases that start out with a pre-defined specific prosthetic appliance decided in concrete by the patient before the first impression is taken. This can present a challenge if the patient’s expectations are directed towards a result that is different from that which is possible in reality. This can cause stress all the way around.

I once attended a program lecture by Dr. Jimmy Eubanks where he put forward the idea that it is better to promote the diagnostic package than to go right to the “selling” of the treatment. If you promote a diagnostic package that is priced appropriately it will develop ownership and dedication to treatment within the patient. Properly used and measured, the diagnostic components will show you in advance what your realistic options are for the final prosthesis.

It is extremely important to educate and involve your patients in the ownership of their condition or “disease” before you work up a treatment plan for that condition.