Is teeth whitening safe?

I have heard stories on how it is not good for your teeth as whitening them can strip the enamel. I did some searching around on line and most articles I have read said it "is" safe to whiten your teeth as long as it is done with the right amount of carbamide peroxide. Most teeth whitening systems use 10% carbamide peroxide trays and with that amount it is safe and effective. So just make sure you know what your using when you get them done.

Is it better to go to a privately owned practice with one doctor versus a "clinic" with multiple doctors?

The answer to this question lies solely on personal preference. Whether a facility has one doctor or one hundred doctors shows no reflection on the doctors' credentials or capabilities. Privately owned practices with only one or two providers are ideal for those who prefer to see the same doctor on every visit. Larger practices with multiple providers, or "clinics," if you will, are beneficial for those who have a multitude of dental problems that may require the skills of more than one doctor. Also, on-site specialists are common in larger practices and could be convenient if you get referred out.

Why won’t my dental insurance pay for my veneers?”

Dental insurance will only pay a portion of the dental bill if the insurance company feels that it is within their policy terms to pay it. One must read their policy limits very carefully to determine what, and how much, their dental insurance will pay.

It has been my experience, after 30+ years in the dental field, that I would rather have a patient that is on a comprehensive dental plan then a patient with dental insurance.

What has been your experience with your dental insurance and cosmetic dentistry?

Heart Disease related to Periodontal Disease

For many years my thoughts on periodontal disease, which is a bacterial invasion of the (hard and soft tissues of the mouth) gums and bone around the teeth, was that there must be some type of systemic connection between this localized disease and the rest of the body's health. Over the past few years the research has, unfortunately proven this theory true. According to the American Academy of Periodontology's article of February 7, 2002 entitled Data Reveals Diseased Gums Pump High Levels of Harmful Bacterial Components Into Bloodstream located at www.perio.org/consumer/bacteria.htm this connection between heart disease and periodontal disease seems to be real. Periodontal disease is one of the most prevelant diseases today and now with this added research coming to the forefront, periodontal disease can not only contribute to the loss of your teeth, but can possibly be life threatening.