THE SAME BUT DIFFERENT

If all dental offices do the same thing – treat teeth – why are there so many variables between different offices?

Each office takes on the characteristics of the practitioner who owns it.  The personality of the owner is probably the key to how that office “feels” when you walk in the door.  Some practices may feel “clinical and efficient”, while others feel somewhat more home spun and laid back.  The dentist’s personality is reflected in his or her treatment preferences as well.  The fact that different dentists will suggest different plans to treat your condition does not necessarily mean that one plan is better than another.

Most dentists will suggest what they feel to be the best plan for any given patient.  The differences between the treatment suggested by one dentist over another reflects that dentist’s preferences based on his or her experience. Thus, differing treatment plans do not necessarily reflect any deficiency in either dentist’s judgment.

All dentists who have graduated from an accredited dental school should be technically competent to perform any procedure that they personally feel comfortable performing.  But it is important to remember that each one is an individual, and no two dentists can perform exactly the same technical procedure in exactly the same way.  As a matter of fact, no single dentist can perform exactly the same procedure exactly the same way twice in a row!  How well your filling turns out depends as much on how wide you can open your mouth as it does on the technical qualifications and skills of the dentist himself or herself.

There is also no dentist who can perform all procedures for every patient at their highest level. While many patients like a one-stop-shop for their dental needs, it is sometimes in the best interest of the patient to be treated by a specialist for a particular problem. The dentist and patient should discuss this, especially for more complex issues.

It is also important to remember that there are numerous ways to treat the same situation. The dentist needs to tailor treatment plans for each patient’s specific circumstances.  For example, finances are one of those circumstances, and since different treatment plans can vary a great deal in cost, it is important for the dentist to be able to discuss finances. The best treatment plan for any patient is one that meets the needs of the patient from a clinical perspective, and that they are aware of and comfortable with financially.

Think of treatment plans like various models of cars offered by different dealers.  All of the models are new, have warranties and will work well out of the lot.  The higher end models, however, have some advantages not found in the less expensive models.  Some options add years to the life of the car. Some add to the appearance and enjoyment of driving it.  Dental treatment plans are like that too.  Saving a badly damaged tooth with a root canal and a crown will most likely preserve it for a long time, but it has a price attached to it. The patient may opt for a much less expensive extraction instead. A dentist should be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of the various options, and allow the patient to make the decision.

Over the years I have developed great respect for all members of the dental office team.  There is no greater reward than to be part of a profession that seeks to improve people’s lives.

Dr. St. Clair maintains a private dental practice in Rowley and Newburyport dedicated to health-centered family dentistry. If there are certain topics you would like to see written about or questions you have please email them to him at jpstclair@stclairdmd.com. You can view all previously written columns at www.jpeterstclairdentistry.com/blog.