All new patients need to go through what is known as the new patient experience. This entails a complete set of accurate and diagnostic x-rays. Our digital system is only 10% of the radiation of the old chemical x-rays. A digital panoramic one is taken to see all the mouth and developing jaw. Almost 25% of patients have active infection of some sort visible on this picture. We look for structures that are not normal and show them to you on the screen. Digital photographs and bite wing x-rays are taken with the Dexis system and the old existing fillings are charted. We then do a comprehensive “soft tissue exam” which details the chart with the health of the gums and any oral cancers that might be present. Patients that consume adult beverages and tobacco are at a 600% higher risk of cancer in the mouth and we will test any soft tissue that needs attention. We also take molds of the teeth as a permanent record of how the teeth look and fit together. This is important especially if you have a bad bite. This can lead to headaches and other symptoms. All of this information is gathered together for Dr. Young and he will either give you a plan of action then, or get you back for a consultation if there is more to discuss in detail.

Any change in this protocol will not make it possible to enter our office as a patient. It is necessary for a complete and accurate diagnosis. Patients who call just to get a tooth fixed are compromised in their ability to see the whole picture and are therefore not seen. Financial discussions about future treatment are always explained in detail and payment is asked when services are rendered. Linda, our financial secretary, will be happy to give you all the options we have available. In addition we simply ask that you be a responsible patient by actively listening, ask questions, show up on time for all appointments and appreciate the difference it can make to have a healthy mouth.

Thank you for choosing us to be your dental provider. Again it is an honor and privilege to be your dentist.

Dr. Matthew Young and Staff.