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 What are some
of the things the dentist is looking for during check-ups?
There are three disease processes that are treated in
dentistry:
1) decay (cavities) - a bacterial infection of the hard tooth
structure. This is the major cause of tooth loss in children and
the major cause of root canal infections in adults.
2) periodontal (gum) disease - a bacterial infection of the soft
tissues surrounding the tooth and the supporting bone (the tooth
socket). This is the major cause of bad breath, bleeding gums and
tooth loss in adults.
3) traumatic occlusion (a bad bite) - a human bite exerts 200
pounds per square inch of pressure. A tooth that is not properly
positioned within the dental arch absorbs more of that biting
pressure than it should. This may accelerate the rate of
progression of periodontal disease.
Proper diagnosis is the only way to identify these disease
processes early and treat them preventively. The diagnostic skills
of a dentist are very important to your short and long term health
and appearance. We take the time to be thorough and have the
ability to see problems early. Your concerns about sensitivity,
pain, bleeding gums, bad breath, or your appearance are helpful to
us.
It is critical that patients understand, however, that the absence
of pain does not indicate the absence of disease.
The condition and appearance of your teeth subconsciously control
your smile. Everyone coming to our office is an individual with a
specific set of dental, emotional, intellectual and financial
needs. The dentist is always thinking about what is the right
treatment for the given individual. Be assured the treatment team
wants you to have white and beautiful teeth worth smiling
about.
How do I get in touch with the office?
Our telephone number is 242-5777. We get to know our patient's
specific needs and can recommend an appropriate level of care.
Communication is very important to us and we take the time to
listen. Our staff is highly educated and knowledgeable about
dentistry. We will respond to your telephone questions quickly. If
you happen to phone and are asked to leave a message, this is
because our receptionist unavailable to give you her full attention
and will return the call to focus on your needs shortly. If you
need to come in to discuss your treatment or particular situation,
there is no charge. Our office is open Monday to Friday except on
holidays.
What if I need to reschedule my appointment?
We respect your time and make a sincere effort to minimize your
office waiting time. Conversely, we ask that you give us more than
24 hours notice if you must reschedule your appointment. When you
come, please be on time so that we may optimize the planned
appointment activities. Patients who consistently are late, who
fail to show up, or who fail to provide adequate notice to
reschedule, are asked to find a different dental home.
Be assured that the quality of your dental treatment is paramount
to us and your total comfort is our highest priority.
How will I be made comfortable in my visit?
It starts with a friendly welcome by our reception team on your
arrival. Our facility is user-friendly with free parking and an
elevator. Distraction psychology is used to a great extent in our
office and a combination of good clinical and interpersonal skills,
music and and sometimes sedation helps achieve the treatment goals.
Our dentistry is gentle for good reason. Our patients give us great
feedback.
The oral cavity is one of the most sensitive areas of the human
body as measured by the number of sensory nerves per square
millimeter. We understand the patient’s apprehension. Patients who
are particularly nervous may be prescribed Ativan before their
first few visits to get them over their initial feelings. Other
forms of Conscious Sedation for nervous and/or especially sensitive
patients may be necessary and would be discussed in advance.
Special fees may apply.
Tell me about how you care for equipment and
materials
Sterilization is state of the art in this office. Everything is
sterilized, including our drills, before each patient. Significant
time and expense is necessary to properly sterilize and plastic
drape a treatment room. Sterilization is not something a patient
can see so if you're curious, ask us to show you around.
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