Here’s what our patient Richard had to say about his recent office visit:
“The staff and Dr. Ravin were most professional, informative about my procedures, and concerned about my feelings and pain levels.The follow up telephone call was most appreciated.”
Do you have any comments you’d like to share? Please let us know!
Here’s what our patient Diane had to say about a recent office visit:
It’s always a pleasure dealing with the people at Hospital Dental, even when the procedure is not so pleasurable! Nonetheless, everyone makes you feel comfortable and that they care about you.
Here’s what our patient Eric had to say about his recent visit to the office:
I have been to Hospital Dental Group for 2 visits so far and am extremely happy with all aspects of my visits. From the office staff to the techs, to the Dentist, everyone is friendly, engaged, and professional. Additionally the office has grasped technology in a good way. I love that I didn’t have to show up 20 minutes early to fill out paperwork my first visit. I was able to do it from the comfort of my home through the internet. Great Job, keep it up!
While you may view it as just an embarrassing quality that you try to hide, bad breath, clinically known as halitosis, is actually an oral health condition, and is quite common in people of all ages.
Bad breath occurs as a result of bacteria building up in the mouth. Many different factors can contribute to bad breath, including:
Certain foods (such as garlic or onions) or an overall poor diet
Poor oral hygiene, including inconsistent brushing and flossing that allows food to collect on the teeth, gums and tongue
Improper cleaning of dentures, allowing food particles to collect
Periodontal disease
Dry mouth, one of the the most common causes, in which a lack of saliva prevents the mouth from cleaning itself
Tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco and snuff
Underlying medical condition, such as a respiratory infection, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorder, liver or kidney disease
These different causes can lead to different types of odors associated with halitosis. Although the cause and severity can vary, research shows that more than half of all people in the US experience halitosis at some point in their lives.
Fortunately, many patients with halitosis can find relief from their condition. Treatment for halitosis depends on the cause and severity of the condition, as well as the patient’s oral health. Your dentist will determine the best treatment for your halitosis, which may include proper oral hygiene, therapeutic mouthwash, periodontal treatment, proper nutrition, drinking through a straw or by treating the underlying condition.
Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to speak to your dentist about bad breath and you will no longer have to worry about this condition!
In the month of April, dentists across the nation are offering patients oral health screenings in celebration of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, an event sponsored by the American Dental Association and the Oral Cancer Foundation to help educate patients on the dangers of oral cancer and learn how to recognize early symptoms of these diseases.
Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects over 30,000 Americans each year, with many people unaware that this disease is even present.It often appears as a tiny white or red sore on the lips, gums, inner cheeks, tongue or hard or soft palate that may go unnoticed.Common signs of oral cancer may include:
A sore that does not heal
Red or white patches
Sore throat
Pain or tenderness in the mouth area
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Those at greatest risk for oral cancer include patients over the age of 40, although it can occur at earlier ages.Additional risk factors for oral cancer include long-term use of chewing or spit tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption and prolonged exposure to sunlight.Patients with certain types of HPV may also be prone to developing this condition.Your doctor will evaluate your risks and provide you with valuable tips on how to prevent oral cancer.
Like many other cancerous conditions, oral cancer is most effectively treated when detected during the early stages.Regular dental exams are invaluable in the prevention of oral cancer and should be performed on all patients, especially those at a higher risk.
We are proud to provide comprehensive oral cancer screening and education services to our patients yearlong to help them recognize the signs of this potentially deadly disease and learn how to effectively protect themselves.
This loyal patient recently came in for a filling and had some kind words to share about Dr. Ravin and his staff:
“Great attention to your needs and comfort and always willing to work with you with payments. Courteous, professional and hygienic staff. I send everyone I know that needs a dentist here! Dr. Ravin and staff are active in the community and has been in the papers and television for his excellence in dentistry!”
- C.M.
Have you had a positive experience with our practice? We invite you to share your story!
Dental x-rays are a valuable imaging exam that can provide your dentist with detailed evaluations of your teeth and gums for diagnostic and prevention purposes. X-rays are performed on a routine schedule depending on each patient’s individual needs as determined by the dentist.
By taking x-rays regularly, your dentist can monitor the size, location and condition of your teeth in order to detect any changes and track their progression over a period of time. These images serve as a visual timeline of your teeth, roots, jaw and facial bones that your dentist can refer to should any future problems arise.
X-rays may also be performed to further investigate any suspected abnormalities, including gum disease, abscesses, abnormal growths and cavities outside of the scheduled radiographic schedule. These detailed images allow your dentist to pinpoint the precise location of these and other conditions to ensure the most effective treatment.
While some patients may worry about the safety of x-rays and associated radiation exposure, dental x-rays involve radiation levels similar to those encountered from frequent airline travel and certain home appliances. They are safe for most patients, including pregnant women who may be at risk for gum disease and require x-ray examination.
Dr. Ravin utilizes advanced x-ray techniques to provide his patients with the highest quality of imaging services. He is available to address any questions or concerns you may have about dental x-rays.
Natalie Gancarczyk was unhappy with the appearance of her teeth and overall smile after repeated fillings and other work performed over the last 20 years. When she came to Dr. Ravin, Natalie soon found that she didn’t have to live with this smile any longer.
Dr. Ravin performed several different cosmetic procedures on Natalie’s teeth, gums and tissue, including placing crowns on severely damaged teeth, for strong, healthy teeth and a beautiful appearance. Now, Natalie is proud to show off her smile as often as she can, and no longer needs the frequent dental repairs her damaged teeth once required.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, all children should have their first dental appointment by the time they reach a year old, although initial visits are usually recommended when your child is one to six months old, before the first teeth begin to come in.
Early and regular visits to the dentist help establish healthy dental habits early in life, so that your child can develop strong teeth that they will continue to care for throughout their lives. A regular schedule of visits throughout early childhood also prepares your child for a lifetime of professional cleaning.
The first visit is often very short, and involves evaluation of any existing teeth, as well as the jaw, gums and bite. During the first few visits, parents are encouraged to stay with their child during examination, often keeping the child on their lap while he or she is examined by the dentist. This helps calm any fears or anxieties your child may have about visiting a new person and office for the first time.
In addition to promoting healthy tooth care for your child, bringing your child to the dentist also helps parents develop techniques to reinstate these habits at home. It provides you with the opportunity to ask questions about your child’s oral health and how to properly care for their teeth. It also allows your dentist to develop dental records for your child at the earliest stages of tooth development, so that any future problems can be traced back.
Although early visits are recommended, x-rays are not usually needed until children reach the age of five or six, unless they have certain tooth or jaw abnormalities, such as cleft lip or palate, or baby bottle tooth decay. Your dentist will inform you of these and other recommended milestones for dental care during your child’s first visit.
Dr. Ravin provides specialized care for young patients while also taking into account the concerns of parents. He evaluates and treats issues often affecting young children in a gentle and caring manner. When planning your child’s first dental visit, consider Dr. Ravin and his friendly and experienced staff to educate your child on the importance of healthy oral habits.
