State-of-the-Art Smiles with a Personalized Approach

What are some of your patients’ biggest fears or concerns? 

The biggest barrier is fear of the unknown. We reduce their fear through communication and education. We use advanced diagnostic tools that allow us to show patients what our concerns are. Most people are visual — I know I am — and actually seeing a visual aid helps alleviate a patient’s anxiety. 

What are the most advanced dental practices, and how can someone improve their smile? 

By far, digital dentistry. We have the technology to scan a patient’s mouth and capture high-resolution images. This is the first step toward changing someone’s smile. Cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers, crowns, and bridges are constructed from a digital scan that is sent to a lab. Porcelain veneers typically last 10-20 years and require little to no tooth structure removal, offering optimal aesthetic results. Composite or bonded veneers are done chairside, are more cost effective, require little to no enamel or tooth structure removal, but may change color or stain over time.

If a patient has crowded or crooked teeth, using clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign, followed by teeth whitening, may provide a noninvasive treatment option. There are many ways to improve a patient’s smile. A treatment plan needs to be created and reviewed before deciding on any type of cosmetic procedures. The goal is to have a beautiful, but functional, natural smile. Digital dentistry uses several technological advancements, and the patient is always active in the decision-making process of how to best accomplish optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. 

How important is dental health?

Some of our patients see us more than their general physicians. We are often the first doctors to diagnose a condition or to make a patient aware of an issue that they may want to check with their primary care doctor. Early signs of diabetes or vitamin deficiencies can manifest in the mouth. We monitor blood pressure, conduct oral cancer screenings, and routinely perform head and neck exams. Our assessments have led to patients’ primary doctor prescribing them medication or recommending lifestyle changes. 

How often do patients need a dental checkup? 

Bi-annual dental checkup ups are recommended for most people. However, if periodontal disease is present, patients require frequent dental checkups due to this condition causing the bone to erode and eventually leading to tooth loss and other health-related conditions over time.

You have several spa-like amenities for your patients — what inspired you to do this? 

Some people don’t like coming to the dentist, and we understand that. We provide headphones, weighted blankets, streaming services, and other amenities to help ease their anxiety. We want our patients to feel as comfortable as possible during every visit.