When should a dentist refer rather than accept a failed implant rework or previously botched reconstruction case?
When the practice does not have specific big-case training in setting up the fee structure correctly for rework scenarios, the safe answer is to refer the case to a practice that does. Rework cases involving previously-treated reconstructions or ailing and failing implants are among the most technically demanding and economically tricky cases in the profession. The clinical work is harder because the prior treatment has often compromised the available foundation. The fee math is harder because the doctor walking into the rework has to disassemble the prior work, identify what can be salvaged, and rebuild from a degraded starting point. Most fee schedules do not account properly for the additional time and complexity rework requires. A dentist without specific training in big-case fee structuring has roughly zero chance of pricing the case correctly. The result is taking on a difficult clinical project at an undercharged fee, with a high probability of margin loss and patient dissatisfaction. Better to refer the case to a colleague trained for this work than to absorb the operational hit. The referral protects the patient, the referring practice, and the profession’s reputation.
If the answers you are finding here resonate with you, my team and I work with a small group of clients each year. The next step is a complimentary Discovery Consultation and Practice Review with Dr. McAnally.