Why Dentists Refer You To A Specialist

Posted on Jan 27, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I interact with a great many general dentists in our area who provide exceptional care. These doctors truly have the best interests of their patients and know when to perform a procedure and when it’s best to refer the patient to a specialist.

When a patient is comfortable and confident with their general dentist, they may insist that he or she perform all procedures. This can often be the case with high fear patients. Although some patients resist being referred to a specialist, this can place a generalist in an awkward position. To appease the patient, some will attempt to perform periodontal treatment, root canals or extractions that should be performed by specialists in these areas.

All of us in the dental profession, deep down, know our capabilities; things we are well-trained and qualified to do. We are also aware there are particular procedures where we will be less effective than a specialist. Attempting some of these can be downright risky when not performed by adept hands.

If your dentist encourages you to see a periodontist and you’re resistant, I advise starting with a consultation appointment to discuss the treatment you need and any concerns you have.

I have tremendous faith in our community of general dentists and admire their ethics, skills, and commitment to optimal patient care. However, there are a few in every profession who make decisions based on profits rather than those they serve. Getting effective treatment for periodontal disease can be performed in an effective and efficient manner by a periodontist.

A dental specialist’s goal is to provide you with optimal treatment for particular oral needs and work in conjunction with your general dentist for your best outcome possible. To discuss your needs, call (828) 274-9440.

Dental Fear & Dental Phobias Not Uncommon

Posted on Jan 20, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

If you do not have a phobia when it comes to dental visits, feel lucky. For those with dental phobia, here’s what many experience:

• Not being able to sleep the night before a dental visit
• Being highly nervous while in the waiting room
• Crying when seeing a dentist or seeing instruments
• Feeling panicked when instruments are placed in the mouth
• Finding it difficult to breathe during treatment

According to a survey by the American Association of Endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canals), 80% of American adults fear the dentist with over half admitting they avoid seeing a dentist until the need becomes dire.

Approximately 5 – 10 percent of Americans are considered dental phobics, adults who are so terrified of dental visits that they avoid dental care altogether. And, according to a study involving over 11,000 adults, women are nearly twice as likely to have extreme anxiety than men.

We occasionally see an adults who, after finally gaining the strength to see a dentist, was lectured or made to feel guilty about not properly caring for their teeth. This is something I’ll never understand since it does nothing to help the patient feel more comfortable with their dental visits.

In our office, all patients are treated with respect and a gentle hand at every visit. For people who have a high level of fear or phobia, we can provide an oral sedation that is taken prior to their arrival. This allows them to be in a relaxed state before they reach our office. They are promptly seated in a treatment room and made comfortable while the sedation takes full effect.

If you have dental fears or know someone who does, please suggest they contact us at (828) 274-9440. When a is repair needed in the mouth, it will only worsen when care is delayed. Delay in care typically results in more extensive treatment, more time and greater expense.

Let’s discuss your fears. Then, we can talk about what will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable at every visit. Our job is to have you smiling your best – every day! Call to speak to our friendly receptionist to see how you can take that first step!

Our Patients Deserve The Why & How

Posted on Nov 08, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

During initial conversations with new patients, some share concerns of feeling vulnerable in the dental chair.

It’s natural to have a sense of vulnerability when someone with sharp instruments is doing things in your mouth (a highly sensitive area) that you can’t see, and as you’re on your back in a narrow treatment chair. While my patients praise me for a gentle hand and creating a comfortable experience at all times, we feel they have an added reason to relax.

When treatment is recommended, I make sure patients understand their options. As a dental specialist, part of my role (and commitment) is to diagnose and explain the various procedures needed to restore oral health. An important part of this is in the explanation of the treatment, helping each to understand why they need the treatment and what is entailed BEFORE we begin.

Over the years, I’ve invested in intra-oral cameras, digital imaging (replacing grainy x-ray film) and large screen, color monitors. While these aid in precision diagnosis and optimal treatment planning, the ability to visually show patients their problem helps them to understand the “why.” The “how” is up to me to relay before and even during the procedure.

An informed patient is more involved in their oral health and more relaxed in the treatment chair. Plus, we feel our patients deserve the respect of information that makes them fully confident in their decisions for treatment.

To begin with a Consultation, call (828) 274-9440 to schedule.

Referral To Our Office Not Required

Posted on Oct 29, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a dental specialist, most new patients are referred to our office by others in the medical and dental community. For these, I see myself as a member of the ‘care team’ and interact with general dentists, orthodontists, prosthodontists, endodontists, plastic surgeons and others to create ultimate outcomes of our mutual patients.

However, for those who are interested in our services, patients can, and do, come to us on their own. For example, some patients haven’t been to the dentist in years and come because they suspect gum disease is present. Some come because they are unhappy with having a “gummy smile.” Some are the result of their long-time dentist retiring and they haven’t yet found the ‘right fit’ for their regular dental care.

Western North Carolina is fortunate to have so many outstanding health care professionals for the warm, friendly smiles that reside here. We are happy to support our fellow practitioners as well as offer a ‘front door’ for those who have pertinent needs. Feel free to call and inquire about your periodontal health and appearance! We’re as close as 828-274-9440!