Every day we are faced with making choices about everything!  Isn't it great...and isn't it confusing?  How in the world can you make good decisions when you really need to?  Like choosing a doctor or dentist...how do you know if he or she is the right one for you? 

Let me ask you two questions.  What do you really want for your teeth - now think about that for a moment because it is not always the obvious!  What is holding you back from getting what you want? 

The simple truth about dentistry is that it is elective - not having dentistry is usually not fatal!  We dentists would like you to believe we are indispensible, but perhaps a better way to put it is that we are beneficial.  Living longer than ever, we humans are realizing that having healthy teeth and gums greatly improves our quality of life!  I for one would like to have good health - including teeth and gums - for my entire time on this planet!  I believe more people than ever are seeking this too!  In addition, people want less invasive and painless dentistry which means better technology and knowledge.  People today want the best dentistry at a cost they can manage!  Is that too much to ask - I don't think so! 

When I graduated from dental school, I was taught to go out and tell patients what they needed - never mind what they wanted.  Judging from comments I have heard from patients over the years, this is exactly what they don't want and in many cases is exactly why they don't go to the dentist.  I have gradually learned that my patients are not just "teeth and gums" that walk through the door!  They are living, breathing, flesh and blood human beings with all the concerns, experiences, feelings, fears, emotions, etc. that we all have.  So, how would I like to be treated by my doctor?  You got it - like a human being first and as a dental patient second. 

I ask my patients to direct their care - tell me what your issues are, what you want, what you don't want and how you want to get there.  My part is evaluating and giving my patients the information they need to be able to make decisions - "dental coaching" if you will!  Once we have come up with a master plan and everyone is on the same page, we can get the work done and you can start enjoying the benefits of healthy teeth and gums.  We all choose our own level of health - consciously or unconsciously by the choices we make every day. 

I believe my practice is a bit unique in that I am constantly searching for better dental solutions and this has led me to think "out of the box" with respect to the technology I use.  I am excited to be providing some very innovative treatment such as Biomimetic Tooth Restoration,  Mercury Free / Mercury Safe techniques, Mini-Implants, Laser Dentistry and Laser Periodontal Therapy, Custom Life-like Cosmetic Dentures, and Ozone Therapy to name a few!  Whew!

OK - enough already, but one last thought!  Dentistry has long had a negative stigma and it's time that changed!  I believe people want to be treated with respect, competence and a "friendly hand"!  So, come visit with us - get to know us a little - and maybe, just maybe...we can help you find what you are looking for.  We hope you will take that chance!           H. Scott Stewart, DDS.