The Importance of a Complete Medical History

We are all familiar with the monogamy of completing a medical history form. They're all the same, or similar enough, and can become tedious after a variety of different office visits. However, we wanted to remind you about the importance of providing a complete and accurate medical history, especially when you visit your dentist.

There is an undeniable link between oral health and whole body health - for example, inflammation in oral tissues can be an early sign of systemic inflammatory issues.

Moreover, the medications prescribed by your general health practitioner, your cardiologist, or even the supplements available over the counter can affect the steps we take when you're in our dental chair. For example, there are many medications that may interact with the local anesthetic that is used to keep you numb during fillings. Without knowing exactly what medications you're taking, we can't adjust our treatment to best serve you.

Additionally, medical conditions like diabetes can cause slow healing and impact oral lesion or wound resolution. Auto immune disorders increase inflammation, which can lead to gingivitis or periodontal concerns. It is important for us, as your providers, to understand what may be the root cause of the symptoms we see, and also keep us on the look out for early warning signs of further distress.

It is crucial that we receive the most accurate account of any past or current medical conditions, allergies, and medications. We strive to provide you the best care we can in order to continue supporting your health, and this is just another manifestation of our practice motto, "Choose Health. Choose Yourself."

Explore your financial opportunities

We know that taking care of yourself can get expensive - and quickly. However, we strive to make sure that quality dentistry doesn't have to bankrupt you; there are resources we offer to help ensure that the care you need is financially viable.

If you don't receive assistance from dental insurance, or your benefits do not cover your needs, our in-house membership plans are a great way to make certain that you're staying on track with your preventive care and saving money at the same time. Our three comprehensive plans work to meet the specific needs of all of our patients, and are priced accessibly. Included in each membership year are all preventive services, two fluoride treatments, and any necessary radiographs. Because we understand that things happen, one emergency visit is included in the membership and discounts are applied to proposed treatment. Membership years are flexible, beginning on the day you sign up and continuing for the following year, and you can even enroll the same day that you receive services.

If the in-house membership is not right for you, we also accept Care Credit as a service to our patients. Care Credit is a health services credit card that can be used with any participating provider that allows patients to set up and manage reasonable payment plans for larger treatment costs. It is easy to apply and our office manager can even sit down and complete the process with you.

For any treatment over a specific amount, patients are able to pay off their balance over 6 months with no interest. Need more than 6 months to pay your balance? Not a problem. Some payments qualify for arrangements over 24 months or greater with very low interest applied.

What we value most is that you are keeping yourself and your smile healthy, and that shouldn't mean you have to sacrifice your wallet.

What it means to "Choose Health. Choose Yourself."

Our patients and their health are our first priority, including when they're in our chair and beyond it. When we encourage our patients to "Choose Health. Choose Yourself.", we are encouraging you to adopt the same priority; take care of yourself and your needs in a manageable, everyday way in order to stay healthy.

Because we only get to see you every few months for your professional hygiene visits, a bulk of the work takes place at home. That is why we value arming our patients with the tools and knowledge they need to take care of themselves. However, we understand that in the context of a global pandemic, among other unrest, it can be difficult to prioritize personal care.

Right now, even the bare minimum can feel difficult; because of this, we wanted to offer some simple, low-cost upgrades and modifications you can make to your home care routine that have the potential to drastically improve your oral health.

1. Get an electric toothbrush and brush RIGHT

> Electric toothbrushes don't have to be luxury items. High quality brands like Oral B and Sonicare carry inexpensive models that remove plaque just as effectively as their costlier counterparts.

> Contrary to popular belief, there is a right way to brush your teeth. It is important to trace your gumline across your entire arch, top and bottom. If you have trouble reaching your back-most molars, close your jaw halfway so that your cheek is more able to stretch around the brush head.

1. Floss every day

> Building the habit of flossing is the hardest part. Start by linking it to an existing habit (like brushing your teeth!) and make sure that the floss is visible on your bathroom counter as a built-in reminder. When flossing, wrap the string around your tooth in a "C" shape and slide it back and forth between your teeth to remove unwelcome plaque.

2. Use prescription fluoride toothpaste

> Prescription fluoride toothpaste, whether purchased in our office or at the pharmacy, can make a huge difference when it comes to home care. Higher levels of fluoride can help mitigate sensitivity and combat erosion.

3. Add in small healthy habits

> Acidic beverages like coffee and red wine are known to produce stain and can contribute to erosion, and we've all heard about the damages different foods can inflict on your teeth. You don't need to cut them out of your life entirely; just make sure you're rinsing with water after snacks and before bed.

Of course, even with perfect home care professional hygiene visits are still essential, and more advanced problems cannot be addressed from home. In the instance of any pain, abnormal sensitivity, or loss of tooth structure, please call us! We will work you in as soon as we can for a problem-focused exam with Dr. Turner.