Dental Services

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. Make sure your dental provider is recommended highly by others. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Unfortunately, many dentists emphasize treating your symptoms without much regard for the CAUSE of your problem. 95% of oral problems have a direct cause-and-effect relationship. For instance, since tooth decay (caries) is a bacterial infection, if all the doc wants to do if clean out the decay and place a filling without doing a bacterial culture to test you for caries infection...you can be pretty sure the problem will continue since the root cause was not addressed. It also helps if your provider is a member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since it means you're not likely to be be displeased with the cosmetic appearance of the restorations they provide. While not absolutely necessary, it's also great if your dentist has lasers in their office so they can comfortably do routine fillings with NO shot since the laser numbs your tooth while it cuts. It's great to leave the office with your face feeling "normal" instead of tingly numb. Lastly, don't make price the overriding determinant in making your choice of a health care provider. If the work has to be done over again you haven't saved much, have you?

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. Most dental disease is preventable and CAN be avoided. It IS possible to have a future based on choice instead of chance....IF you approach your oral health from a proactively preventive standpoint. Think "cause-and-effect." If the prospective doctor takes you back to the clinical area without first reviewing your medical/dental history and making an attempt to discover YOUR wants and needs....then beware.

Q. What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?

A. What are your qualifications? What professional organizations are you a member of? What cutting edge technologies do you offer in your office? What is your philosophy of practice? Do you stand behind your work?