Ask The Expert: Dentistry
What Can Your
DENTIST
DO FOR YOU by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)
I
grew up in West Texas, and most anyone from there is aware of the unique mineral content of water. My town was specifically known as “The Town without a Toothache” because the excess of fluoride in the water resulted in a decreased incidence of tooth decay.
cases. On the other hand, dental
Coincidentally for me, my dentist would 2016 a Texas Court ruled that dentists clean my teeth on Saturdays when his who don’t practice one of the nine hygienist was on a break. As a result, a specialties recognized by the ADA may cleaning was about the still advertise as “specialists” extent of my dental visit, so in Texas if they meet ...SO YOUR FAMILY my childhood perception of DENTIST MAY PROVIDE certain conditions. dentists is that they simply SOME SPECIALTY An example of this is “cleaned teeth.” SERVICES AT THE SAME the term “cosmetic dentist.” The truth is my dentist was Even though most dental STANDARD OF CARE... more than qualified in this care in this age focuses aspect of my oral health. So, you may ask on improving overall esthetics, no yourself what dental treatment should dental specialty is recognized by that you expect from your family dentist, and specific title. to what extent is your dentist qualified to To be clear, a dental specialty recognized provide certain types of treatment? I raise by the ADA is one that typically requires these concerns because on January 21, graduation from a post-graduate residency. Therefore, specialists are capable of treating advanced dental
implants, root canals, or treating children.
specialties were born from general
dental procedures, so your family dentist may provide some specialty services at
the same standard of care, for example It may be advantageous to have your
family dentist treat these situations to
avoid higher fees or over-treatment almost in the same way you would not visit a
cardiologist to take your blood pressure. The best way to determine if you or your child requires specialized treatment is
to visit your family dentist to determine if a specialist is recommended. Always
have the conversation with your dentist to understand their level of education and comfort with specific procedures.
Maintaining a lasting relationship with
your family dentist is invaluable in caring for you oral health and ensuring many happy smiles.
940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226
28 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2021
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