"Sometimes people ask me, what makes you and your office different? - This is some of what I might tell them..."
We are different because we treat every patient's oral and overall health as if it were our own. Starting with the initial appointment, we thoroughly review each patients concerns, point of view, history, and listen to the direction they wish to go. Together, we come up with a plan of action that satisfies the established goals. I am available to my patients by phone and email 24hours a day for anything.
Dentistry today is not what it was 30, 10 or even 5 years ago. Technology, techniques, materials, and even the research that backs them are continually changing. We practice evidence-based dentistry. Dentistry that is based on the most current research. I do not subject my patients to "Dental Fads" or marketing gimmicks (Zoom bleaching for example). Our cutting edge approach ensures each patient receives the absolute best possible care dentistry has to offer, with the confidence that every procedure, diagnosis, and treatment modality is evidence based. I am a conservative, proactive diagnostician. I look at every mouth as if it were my own and ask, "What would I do; what would I want to have done, given..."
I strongly believe that the most important responsibility of being a doctor is the ability to diagnose a condition, and then have the time and knowledge to explain all treatment options present. Lasting esthetic results are not accidents! They represent proper planning, excellent skill, and quality craftsmanship. Consider the following points.
1. Here at the Virginia Center for Cosmetic & General Dentistry we do not believe in treating "teeth" or "gums" or "mouths." We believe in treating people. With comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning, we think of ourselves as the quarterback to your oral health. Treatment plans are custom tailored for each patient. We exceed expectations becuase we listen to every individual’s needs, wants and concerns and then together come up with a plan that will accomplish the established goals.
2. Do you know the why and how a procedure is being done? I feel it is very important that each patient understands and "sees" what is actually being done and why. This is the reason a "before" and "after" picture is taken of all procedures. We are proud of our work and we want you to see it!
3. Your time is valuable. We pride ourselves on convenience and running on time! For your convenience, we are located 2 Blocks from the Clarendon Metro, and have free garage parking downstairs!
4. Worried about Radiation? Digital radiography allows our patients to receive 1/5th - 1/8th the amount of radiation needed to expose a conventional film and the image is instantly available! Instead of making duplicates, we can email your radiographs anywhere or simply print them out.
5. Dental Implants are standard of care today. However, the success of them can largely depend on how they are restored. Do you know the difference between a "custom abutment" vs. a "pre-fabricated" abutment? For larger, multidisciplinary treatment plans, excellent communication means that we work seamlessly with specialists to coordinate treatment plans and execute treatment efficiently.
6. "White" restorations or "silver," amalgam, composite, ceramic, or gold? Root canal or extract? Removable or fixed? Implants or "Bridges?" How long will it last? With the many questions that can arise in dentristry we feel it is important that as a patient you understand your options with regard to restorative materials, and what is involved and what to expect relative to each. We will take the time to answer all your questions.
7. We strongly believe in "the personal relationship." For anterior cases that require the highest level of planning and craftsmanship, we will have the laboratory technician that will actually be making your restoration/s, come into our office to meet with you. This options insures not only that your case is designed and made by one of the most talented technitions in the country, but we feel just as important - by someone whom you have personally met!
8. Knowing when someone else can do a procedure more accurately and more precisely, ultimately resulting in better patient care, better health, and a better result, is a "pride" factor many doctors have difficulty facing. My broad training in the USAF allowed me to study and practice every specialty. However, being a "jack of all trades and master of none" is not in my patient’s best interest. My simple rule of thumb and philosophy is this - "No matter what the situation and without hesitation, I will refer a patient to the best possible specialist or doctor for a given procedure. I refer because I feel that another provider will be able to provide better care for a patient than I for a given procedure." I do not blindly refer, but will take into account each patient’s needs and wants to match skill and personality. I often advise patients to get second opinions, especially for larger procedures.
9. I use 4.9x Loops, those funny things mounted on glasses that allow doctors to see better. So much of what we do is measured in millimeters and requires very precicse hand eye coordination and exactness. I make this point because not all dentist use loops, and not all dentist who wear them, use a high enough magnification. You can't see what you can't see right? Better vision allows me to literally "see" better - and I know my patients benifit everyday!
"Our aim must be not merely the meticulous restoration of that which is missing, but also the perpetual preservation of that which remains." (M.M. DeVan, Dentist)