DIAGNOSIS: 'Deception'

We are living in a very special time in history; a time filled with scientific discoveries concerning a multitude of ways to live longer, more productive lives. Regular visits to the dentist should be an essential component toward promoting our good health and our longevity through the delivery of comprehensive ‘Oral Health Care.’

During the past decade, the American population has been exposed to extensive media attention regarding the relationship between the presence of chronic oral infections and serious systemic health problems.  As patients, we should expect (even demand) our dentist to perform essential oral health examinations, provide referrals to medical and dental specialists as necessary and, provide us with answers to questions concerning our oral and systemic health.  Unfortunately, the concept of just what constitutes ‘comprehensive oral health care’ is limited by the extent of the dentist’s formal dental education, clinical training and personal views.

Regrettably, many general dentists do not actually perform comprehensive oral health exams (even though they may appear to be doing so) nor do these dentists make timely referrals of chronic periodontal/oral diseases to a dental specialist for definitive treatment. Instead, many of these dentists focus their professional attention to what they are comfortable with treating.

The Journal of the American Academy of Periodontology (October, 2003) published an alarming article indicating that the majority of patients with chronic periodontal diseases are not being referred to periodontal specialists but, instead are being treatment planned by the general dentist for a ‘Soft Tissue Management’ regimen of care with the dental hygienist in the general dentist’s office.  This treatment plan typically involves two to six appointments with the dental hygienist at a cost to the patient of $1,000 to $4,000.  However, the most important issue here is that the dentist is not providing their patient with the appropriate oral health care necessary; the patient is not being informed of the potential consequences of their condition if it is not treated correctly.

Author’s Opinion:  If you are told that you have periodontal disease; then, you should be referred to a periodontal specialist for effective treatment.  Periodontal diseases are chronic oral infections which have been linked to serious medical conditions including heart disease and stroke; a diagnosis of periodontal disease is of significant concern.

Today, many general dentists have chosen to ignore the concept of providing comprehensive oral health care and are instead choosing to uniquely identify (‘Brand’) their practices as being: Cosmetic, Laser, Sedation, Implant or some other confusing name which is intended to attract patients with certain pre-conceived dental needs.  What is wrong with the title: “General Dentistry?” 

As an educated consumer, don’t allow these dentists to confuse you, the patient, with various marketing strategies. Use ‘common sense.’ General dentists occupy a relatively ‘trusted’ position in our society as oral health care providers who have the responsibility to conduct comprehensive oral and peri-oral examinations and provide you, the patient, with a complete and comprehensive clinical consultation including a proposed treatment plan or plans followed by appropriate treatment and/or referrals in the pursuit of your good health.  Always remember that a dental exam should include more than just a look at your teeth to ensure your optimal health.