One day, I was treating one of my 90-something-year old patients who was having a problem with some failing bridgework (that was built on implants). I told Mr. S. that I could “patch him up” knowing that the problem would recur in other areas or he could have the crowns replaced. I gave him a special “family discount” for either treatment option.
He looked at me and asked what I would do if I was in his shoes taking into account his age. I reminded Mr. S. that he was almost 80 when he had his first implant placed but that he didn’t have to decide at that moment. I told him “Go home discuss it with your wife and let me know”.
With vigor in his voice he said he needn’t talk to his wife, “Look, I’ve always been an optimist, let’s make the new crowns.” And we did.
