What makes one dentist different from another? How should we, as consumers, find a good dentist? Who and where do we go to for a referral? How do you know that the dentist you are referred to can address your unique questions and concerns? Online sources all start by saying, “Ask a friend or a family member.” These sources, although well intentioned, neglect to ask an important question. How can a patient tell the difference between a good dentist and a bad one?
Dentistry has evolved rapidly, especially over the last 10 years, and continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Advances in dental techniques and materials make it challenging and expensive for dental schools to remain on the cutting edge of dental technology. Therefore, the only way that a dentist can distinguish the difference between good and exceptional material is to conduct research and learn as he or she uses the product. Ultimately, the best way for dentists to learn about advances in dentistry is to have advanced training.
Dental offices will often choose materials based on the recommendation of their dental supply company sales representative or specials offered on dental supplies. In dentistry, you really do get what you pay for, so cheaper materials can be a cause for concern.
I’d like to share a story with you. About 2 years ago, I was on a panel of highly trained dentists called to evaluate a new product produced by one of the big dental supply companies. They introduced a new material agent for bonding or gluing white fillings to teeth. Now, there are 10 different kinds of materials that are generally used. Each kind of bonding material has its own reactions based on the type of filling, the quality of the tooth, the depth of the cavity and the size of the decay. The complication is that there are sub-categories for these materials.
This particular company developed a bonding material that serves the function of a bonding agent. The problem is that most dentists carry only one type of bonding material in their office, using this same bonding agent for all appropriate procedures. Why? The answer is that dentists are often unaware of the variable strength of bonding materials. Sales reps know enough to sell the material, but are not trained dentists and do not know always know when a dentist should use the material.
During the meeting I attended, the dental supply company introduced a new version of this same bonding agent to us. Instead of having two little bottles that need to be mixed on the tooth before the filling is placed over it, they had developed a beautiful pen-like applicator that auto-mixed the material, preventing excess bonding material usage.
One of the dentists asked, “Does the auto-applicator weaken the strength of the bonding agent?” The manufacturing company presenter’s answer was, “I am not sure.” That dentist found out that the strength of this material is actually 30% less than the old version. Then why is this new material in the market?
Eventually, we decided that this material is not good enough to be used by our office. However, the story doesn’t end there. Months later, my dental supply sales rep came into my office, telling me about this magical new material that will make my life easier. She pulled out a pen. Yes, you’re right; it was the same bonding material pen. I asked her if they had improved the bonding strength. As I had expected, her answer was, “I don’t know.” We came to find out that it was the same sub-standard agent that they had asked the panel to vote on. I asked her how many dentists are currently using the pen. She said “This is the hottest thing on the market right now. I have been selling this to most of my clients and they love it!”
Dentistry is advancing everyday, materials are changing everyday. The face of dentistry has changed. It is no longer about drilling and filling and taking care of cavities. As a result, many dentists have learned to ask why. Why some people are more prone to cavities, why some patients have more wear and tear on their teeth. Those who have dedicated their career to excellence have learned that they must continue to learn. That is the only way a dentist can distinguish which materials best suit the needs of his or her patients, thereby treat the patient as a whole. Dentists now evaluate posture, signs, symptoms, dietary habits, airways (ear, nose, throat), snoring, sleeping, etc, etc, etc. Needless to say, the list goes on.
Today, we know that unlike Vegas, what happens in your mouth does not stay in your mouth! Your mouth is the gateway to your body. In part two of this article, I will go over more specific ways that you can evaluate your dentist.
Meanwhile, visit www.top3dentists.com to learn more about dentistry and who the top dentists are based on measurable standards and credentials.
