- The modern dentist uses a logical and systematic method when approaching cosmetic and restorative dental care.
- Comprehensive dentistry integrates both function and esthetics to diagnose and develop a treatment plan for a successful approach to restoring and improving the appearance of teeth.
- Many patients have been treated for their symptoms, but not the cause of their dental problems. Such an approach can lead to inconsistent results, short-term solutions and unpredictable outcomes.
- The dentist of today who wants to practice truly excellent dentistry is concerned with seeing and understanding the big picture, a far better way than the “see the hole, fill the hole” approach.
- The modern practitioner of comprehensive dentistry understands that all the components (teeth, soft tissue, skeletal structures, muscles and joints) are intimately related and dependent on one another for ideal function, comfort and appearance.
- Good patient care at Paul Arfanis Dentistry involves a comprehensive examination that takes 60 to 90 minutes to perform. The assessment includes radiography, dental impressions, diagnostic digital photography and other measurements.
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- Included in the examination is a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) analysis to make certain the patient has stable and comfortable joints. The TMJ is located directly in front of the ear on either side of the head. It is a complex joint at the point where the upper and lower jaws meet and is involved in moving the jaw, biting and chewing, talking and yawning.
- Problems with the muscles, tendons and bone of the joint can lead to stiffness, headaches, ear pain, bite problems, clicking sounds in the joint or locked jaws.
- If problems with the TMJ are suspected, the examination may also include diagnostic imaging (CAT scan, MRI, and tomogram) in addition to conventional dental x-rays. Click here for more information.
- Once the comprehensive exam is completed, a patient receives a concisely written narrative describing what it is the patient is looking to do, clinical findings, treatment options including the advantages and disadvantages of each option and the length of time involved in treatment.
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