Prostodontists have completed a postgraduate training and are like cardiologists vs. general practitioners MD. Cosmetic dentists are like general practitioners MD who specialized in a new field, that was not available, for most part, to the prosthodontists at the time of their training. So, both General Practitioners Dentists and Prostodontists had to learn new procedures and concepts that are now called "Cosmetic Dentistry". Though, there is no such specialty yet.
This is my take on it, but some (prosthodontists) will vehemently disagree, because they believe their superior training in prosthetics will place them in a better position to perform cosmetic procedures.
Some GP that went through special training to acquire knowledge in cosmetic procedures will disagree as well.
To me, all dentistry should be cosmetic dentistry! Who would want an ugly (non-cosmetic) filling, crown, veneer, or implant restoration?
Michael
Sunday, November 9, 2008
The best way to judge the quality of a dentist is by his/her thoroughness of the examination. A complete exam is not done to find more work to do, but is a duty of the dentist, on one hand, and something owed to the patient, on the other.
A good exam covers cancer screening, soft tissues, gums, muscles, joints, bite, teeth, old restorations, and aesthetic concerns. It includes photographs and radiographs, sometime even study models. A good exam is followed by a consultation, with time taken to go over with the patients over their concerns, questions, and bring up finding uncovered during the exam. An explanation of the problems found, the consequences of no treatment, the risk and benefits of treatment, and costs involved.
The critical point is found at the end of this consultation appointment; if the dentist gives the patient options, phases of the treatment, and allows for patient input in the decision and speed of the treatment process, chances are the dentist is not only good, but also honest! If the dentist is pushing for fast decisions, scares with dire consequences if not treated, wants to start right now... the best interest of the patient is not coming first!
Michael
A good exam covers cancer screening, soft tissues, gums, muscles, joints, bite, teeth, old restorations, and aesthetic concerns. It includes photographs and radiographs, sometime even study models. A good exam is followed by a consultation, with time taken to go over with the patients over their concerns, questions, and bring up finding uncovered during the exam. An explanation of the problems found, the consequences of no treatment, the risk and benefits of treatment, and costs involved.
The critical point is found at the end of this consultation appointment; if the dentist gives the patient options, phases of the treatment, and allows for patient input in the decision and speed of the treatment process, chances are the dentist is not only good, but also honest! If the dentist is pushing for fast decisions, scares with dire consequences if not treated, wants to start right now... the best interest of the patient is not coming first!
Michael
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Why a blog?
After watching the Internet scene for many years, I decided to join the trend of many users and start to connect with patients and peers using a blog.
My intention is to have a candid approach to all the questions that may arise.
My goal is to be a resource of information for the public and for my peers.
The first posting is an "empty" one; it is more a declaration of intentions.
Michael
My intention is to have a candid approach to all the questions that may arise.
My goal is to be a resource of information for the public and for my peers.
The first posting is an "empty" one; it is more a declaration of intentions.
Michael
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