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We use the latest state-of-the-art equipment for steriliztion
of instruments and operatories. Instruments are cleaned by hand, then by ultrasonic cleaning prior to sterilizaion. Instruments
are prebagged before they are sterilized, and these sterile packets are not opened again until the patient is seated and the
instruments are needed for a procedure. This "closed packet" system provides the utmost in quality sterilization. We
use a wide range of disposable items in the dental office these days. All operating surfaces are cleaned and then disinfected
between each patient.
For years, dentists and patients have wanted a simple
and effective way to whiten teeth. Home bleaching of teeth with carbamide peroxide has now been available for over ten years.
Carbamide peroxide has been used as an antiseptic in the mouth for approximately forty years and has been proven to be safe.
The home bleaching system consists of a set of "retainer-like" trays that the patient fills with bleaching solution. The trays
are worn for a certain period of time each day for two to three weeks. The results are amazing!
Home bleaching sometimes causes transient gum irritation
or tooth sensitivity. No permanent damage is done to the teeth. If these conditions do occur, I advise the patient to discontinue
the bleaching for a day or two and then go back to it.
Unsupervised bleaching of teeth can be dangerous because
there are different formulations of bleaching solutions available. Long-term unsupervised use can lead to changes in the biological
make-up of the mouth fluids. This can cause chronic irritations or infections.
I didn't start prescribing home bleaching until just
a few years ago. Sometimes dental products are released to dentists and the public before their success is proven.
Home bleaching techniques have changed significantly
over the years. Now it is a predictable process for most patients. There has now been a lot of research proving the long-term
safety of bleaching. Home bleaching does not work for everyone but, in most cases, it is a very effective, predictable and
safe process.
Silver amalgam fillings have been used by dentists
for decades. They are made of an amalgamation, or mixture, of several metal materials. Some of these materials are lead, silver,
copper and mercury. The material is soft and malleable for about three minutes after it is mixed and then hardens. It has
never been shown that any appreciable amount of these materials leaches out of the teeth after it is set. Silver fillings
have never been shown to cause any systemic or localized health problems. Scare tactics have been used on the public at times
to promote other types of restorative filling materials, but much good dental research has been done that shows silver amalgam
fillings to be safe.
There are alternatives to silver fillings. Porcelain
or white fillings have improved significantly over the years. There are actually a variety of tooth-colored fillings available
today, each with different benefits and risks. The patient and dentist are lucky to have so many options available. Each situation
needs to be evaluated individually. Contact: www.ada.org/consumer/faq
We are willing to work with any insurance company
that allows you to select your own provider (indemnity plans). We are also Delta Premier and Anthem Dental
Blue- PPO 300 providers. We will gladly do your insurance billing for you. As a patient, please be prepared to
pay your annual deductible (if one applies) and the designated percentage that insurance does not cover.
It's wise to know the fluoride content of the water
at your home. Colorado Springs is notorious for its high natural fluoride content. Some of the earliest research for fluoridation
of the metropolitan water systems nationwide was done here in Colorado Springs.
Some fluoride in the water is good for hardening enamel
in developing teeth. Too much fluoride causes brown or white stains and can weaken teeth. Unfortunately, the fluoride content
in homes can vary greatly from place to place. The best way to know is by contacting the Water Lab Department at www.csu.org or 719-444-4560. E-mail address: jrae@csu.org
The American Dental Association recommends a fluoride
content of 1.0 parts per million as optimal. If your house fluoride level is less then 1.0 ppm, you can give your children
fluoride supplements. If your fluoride level is high, you can keep bottled water available for your children to drink. Ask
your dentist for his opinion.
The current generation of implants are called root
form osseointegrated implants. They are shaped like a root and they actually "knit" to the bone. The root portion of the implant
is first placed in the bone and later a crown is placed on the implant root by the general dentist.
Dr Reid has been studying and restoring implants
since 1982. Dr. Perrett has had extensive post-graduate training in implant placement and restoration during his
residency program after dental school.
The technology continues to improve, giving us more
options all the time. See: www.enexus.com/dental-implant/index.htm
Years ago electric toothbrushes were considered virtually
worthless by the dental profession. Technology has changed so much that research now shows that some electric toothbrushes
are more effective than manual brushing. This is a tremendous advance, since the success of all dental treatment is influenced
by the patient's homecare.
Currently, the Interplak, the Braun and the Sonicare
brushes are considered good. I have used them all and I now like the Sonicare best. The bristles of the Sonicare vibrate at
a high or sonic rate. This not only dislodges plaque, but also can actually destroy bacteria cells. The vibrating action actually
extends beyond the tip of the bristle so it can clean below the gum line. Use of a good electric brush can be a significant
inexpensive way to avoid periodontal problems. I recommend them for everyone.
"Thank you, Family Practice Dentistry and its staff. My dental
work was done with great care and concern for my well being. I will be sure to tell all my family and friends about your
great customer services and family environment."
Marsha
Dr. Reid,
"I would like to thank you so much for remaking my night bit guard. I grab it every morning
and put it in its holder so my dog won't eat it again! That was very kind of you and I am very grateful."
Fondly,
Sue
