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Dentistry is a dynamic field; things are always changing and improving.
We are writing this newsletter to share with you some of these changes
and enhancements that we have implemented in our practice. Some of these
are changes relating to the treatment we provide, and some affect the
way the office functions. We hope our commitment to state-of-the-art
dentistry is obvious. We are equally committed to excellence in "customer
service". We continually fine-tune our business procedures to improve
our efficiency in handling billing and insurance situations, attending
to our patient's questions and concerns, and scheduling. We hope this
newsletter is useful and informative. Feel free to call any of our staff
members or doctors with your comments or suggestions.
Intraoral Video Camera
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. That is the reasoning
behind our adding intraoral video cameras in our hygienists' rooms.
This is a small video camera, about the size of a cigar, which can show
pictures of teeth and other structures inside the mouth. This allows
you to see, on the TV monitor, what we see. Whether we're showing off
our excellent work or demonstrating a problem or condition, when it's
magnified 40 times, it's hard to miss.
What's New
Modern dentistry offers an amazing array of treatment options to solve
problems relating to comfort, function, and appearance. Most of you
who visit us regularly are aware of what we have to offer, but those
of you who we don't see all that often may not be. I would like to mention
a few of those procedures in which our patients have expressed interest:
- White fillings. A durable alternative
if you don't like the way your old silver fillings look.
- Snore guard. An appliance worn in the mouth at night which reduces
or eliminates snoring for most snorers.
- Tooth whitening / bleaching.
Most patients experience noticeably (sometimes dramatically) brighter/whiter
teeth easily, safely, and comfortably.
- Fresh breath treatment to eliminate
bad breath problems.
- SmileVision. We discuss what you
want changed, and we can create before and after photos to show you
how it would look.
Patient Protection
We employ rigorous sterilization and patient protection procedures.
We comply with all the government and professional agencies and organizations
who regulate this area. We not only meet these recommendations and requirements,
but we take that extra step. We always wear gloves, we use disposable
supplies whenever possible, and steam/heat sterilize (autoclave) all
instruments and handpieces. We take advantage of continuing education
courses and professional publications to stay up-to-date in this ever-changing
field. This is consistent with our goal of maintaining a 'state-of-the-art'
dental practice in all regards. Our primary concern is the health and
safety of our patients and staff. If you have any questions or concerns,
please feel free to discuss them with any member of our staff.
New Software
We have a new computer system. Those of you who have gone through a
major hardware and software upgrade yourselves can imagine what the
experience was like. The transition was mostly smooth (it's not over
yet) thanks to the quality of the product and the competence and dedication
of our staff. You will see some positive changes because of the new
system. Billing statements now show more detail regarding what was done
at each visit. Insurance payments are listed and related to the specific
charges so you can see how much was covered for each procedure. We can
now estimate, in advance, what the anticipated insurance benefit will
be for each procedure. We will continue to process all insurance forms
and accept assignment of benefits directly from those insurance companies
who offer that option.
Fluoride - It's Not Just For Children Anymore!
The fact that fluoride exposure to children's teeth causes a significant
reduction in the number of cavities has been known for over thirty years.
The dental profession has recently been turning more of its attention
to the effects of fluoride on the adult dentition. It has become apparent
that, as people age, the incidence of new decay increases. This occurs
mostly in two places; around aging dental restorations (fillings, crowns,
bridges, etc.), and along root surfaces that have been exposed due to
receding gums. It has been shown that more fluoride exposure results
in a fewer of these new cavities.
We can make the following conclusions and recommendations for adults:
- Fluoridated toothpaste benefits everyone.
- Adults who continue to get new cavities should use a home fluoride
rinse or receive professionally applied fluoride treatments or both,
depending on the severity of the decay problem.
- Adults who are experiencing any loss of salivary flow should begin
both home fluoride rinses and office fluoride treatments. A dry mouth
will actually promote new cavities. Dry mouth can be caused by aging,
medical conditions and treatments, and by certain medications
- Adults who have had some gum line recession, which results in exposure
of some of the root surface, should also consider home fluoride rinses
as part of their daily home care regimen. This would be as a preventive
measure. If any softening or decay along the root surfaces becomes
evident, then office fluoride treatments, as a therapeutic measure,
would also be recommended.
Of course the most important factor in preventing new cavities is proper
brushing and flossing. Fluoride use will not compensate for poor home
care habits.
Parents of Minor Children
A parent or guardian must accompany any minor child to their appointment.
This is necessary for the following reasons:
- We must have an updated medical history
- We may need to discuss our findings
- If any x-rays or other diagnostic procedures are unexpectedly needed,
we need a parent's permission.
- Before any treatment is planned or performed, we need a parent's
permission.
This is for the protection of the patient and to avoid the possibility
of miscommunication between our office and the parents. If it is impossible
for a parent or guardian to be present, please inform us in advance.
This will allow the necessary information and consents to be communicated
before the appointment. We will also need to know how to contact the
responsible adult during the appointment should the need arise.
For Your Convenience
We now have available in the office, many of the home care products
we have been recommending. This includes rinses and solutions to aid
in the treatment of gum problems, fluoride rinses, and prescription
toothpaste with high fluoride content. We also have available electric
toothbrushes.
We feel this is an advantage because it saves a trip to the store,
we can often provide these products at a savings since we only cover
our costs, and taking the recommended aids home with you avoids the
possibility of procrastination. That way you can enjoy the benefits
of improved home care right away.
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