What technology should I look for when choosing a dentist?
Your dentist should utilize the latest advances in dentistry. For example there is a hi- tech device available that allows specially trained dentists to produce and cement superb quality porcelain crowns in a single visit. The patient saves precious time with fewer dental visits. They don’t have to wear uncomfortable temporary crowns and the number of injections is greatly reduced.
How accurate is the detection of tooth decay?
Enamel hardness caused by Fluoride in our water supply has made it extremely difficult to detect decay in tooth crevasses, especially in children. Dental decay can be underneath seemingly intact surfaces. It has been estimated that 10 to 20% of tooth decay is incorrectly diagnosed. Good news! There is a product available that some dentist have invested in, the DIAGNOdent. When this device is used it accurately determines if decay is present.
Have there been improvements in dental x-ray machines?
Over the past fifteen years dental x-ray technology has under gone a radical transformation. High tech digital x-ray machines provide exceptionally accurate diagnostic information and the radiation level has been reduced to an extremely safe level. This technology is expensive and as a result relatively few dentists have participated in this revelation. Patient demand should eventually force digital dental radiography to be the norm rather than the exception.
Should I do my own tooth whitening or seek professional assistance?
There are many over the counter tooth whiteners that work relatively well. Dentists sell more potent whiteners that work faster. Dentists can also construct comfortable custom trays so the whitener covers the entire tooth and does not extend onto the sensitive gum tissue. Over the counter methods tend to miss places on the teeth, irritate the gums and often do not extend far enough back in the mouth. Custom trays hold the whitener accurately in place so the gel doesn’t dissolve nearly as fast.
I recently had a porcelain crown done. It took three appointments, three times being shot with Novocain, and I had to wear an uncomfortable temporary crown for three weeks. Isn’t there a better way to do this?
YES. There is a computer that allows specially trained dentists to produce quality porcelain crowns in one visit. Only one shot and no temporary to wear. Your crown is made here in the office in about twenty minutes. Advanced Dental Care is trained in and has invested in this extraordinary technology.
Is it important for my dentist to check for oral cancer?
YES! Few people realize that one American dies every hour from oral cancer. Alarmingly 25% of oral cancer occurs in people who don’t smoke and have no other lifestyle risks! In addition to traditional exams there is now the VELscope. VELscope allows cancer to be detected before the naked eye alone is able to. Cancer can be caught at its earliest, most curable stage. This system is so accurate the Oral Surgeons use it to mark margins, when removing the cancer. This test is only locally available at Advanced Dental Care.
I am not happy with the way my dentist treats me. How can I go about changing dentist?
As a group the dental profession is very caring, but as in every profession there are exceptions. None the less you deserve to be treated in a manner that you’re happy with. It is very easy to change dental offices. All you do is notify the new office that you want to make an appointment and request any current x-rays be transferred from your previous office. Digital x-rays can be emailed to our office advanceddentalcr@hotmail.com or sent by mail.
I have periodontal disease. What is it and is this serious?
The most common type is gingivitis which causes bleeding and reddening of the gums. If left untreated it progresses to periodontitis which damages the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. Early detection and treatment are your best defense. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to extensive tooth loss. Research also indicates that periodontal disease may contribute to diabetes, respiratory disease, heart attack, stroke, and can be associated with premature childbirth. We treat periodontal disease at our office.