Article from Michael D. Arnett DDS, PC
The science of dentistry has evolved significantly over the last several years with the invention of digital radiography,
advancements in local anesthesia, and refinement of tooth whitening and aesthetic techniques. If you have kept regular
appointments with your dentist, you may be aware of these advancements. If you have not, it has never been a better
time to get back into a regular schedule with your dentist and hygienist.
The development of digital radiography has had a great impact on the field of dentistry. In addition to reducing radiation
by 80%, doctors are now able to enlarge and manipulate images in order to better diagnose decay and bone loss. In
addition, this technology allows for faster insurance approvals and payments for your treatment. The office can simply
email your x-rays to you and your insurance company!
If you have read a magazine or turned on your television in the last five years, you are probably aware of the
advancements in esthetics and tooth whitening. With the popularity of television programs such as Extreme Makeover
and Dr 90210, patients are exposed to the many options available to both straighten and whiten their teeth. In just a
few appointments, your smile can go from ordinary to extraordinary!
Perhaps the best innovations in the last few years are the advancements in local anesthetics. The term
“pain free dentistry” is finally a reality. Although injections are still used, the anesthetics are much more powerful than the previous generation. When combined with agents such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), a dental visit can truly be a pain free, rewarding experience.
During these economic times, it is easy to put off dental visits to save money for other important things. Unfortunately, the longer you put off treatment, the more expensive it can become. A simple cavity can quickly turn into a root canal and a crown, requiring more dental visits and costing several times what it would have cost just to have a filling.
If you do not currently have a dentist, or are looking for an office where you will feel like a person and less like a dollar sign, please come see Dr. Michael Arnett and his friendly assistant at the newly opened Briarcliff Dental Care. Their office manager will be happy to set up a consultation at a time that works well for you! Office hours are currently Monday through Friday (8:30 am-6pm). Dr. Arnett is a graduate of UMKC School of Dentistry and offers a wide range of dental services including dentures, root canals, teeth whitening, veneers, and extractions. He is a preferred provider for most major dental insurances and also offers 0% financing programs for qualified applicants. Please call 816-607-3035 to set up an appointment, or just drop by 1805 NW Platte Rd, Suite 140, in the Briarcliff Professional Plaza.
Why is Oral Hygiene so Important?
Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean and is a means of preventing dental caries, gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath, and other dental disorders. It consists of both professional and personal care. Regular cleanings done by dentists and dental hygienists remove tartar (mineralized plaque) that may develop even with careful brushing and flossing. Professional cleaning includes tooth scaling, using various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from teeth.
The purpose of cleaning teeth is to remove plaque, which consists mostly of bacteria. Healthcare professionals recommend regular brushing twice a day (in the morning and in the evening, or after meals) in order to prevent formation of plaque and tartar. A toothbrush is able to remove most plaque, excepting areas between teeth. As a result, flossing is also considered a necessity to maintain oral hygiene. When used correctly, dental floss removes plaque from between teeth and at the gum line, where periodontal disease often begins and could develop caries.
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