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Article Abstract:

This third and final interview with Dr. Ronald E. Goldstein, founder and promoter of esthetic dentistry, focuses on some of the problems faced by practitioners of this specialty. This branch of the profession concentrates on improving people's smiles. Treatments are rarely covered by dental insurance, but Dr. Goldstein believes that esthetic dentistry could be a money-making area for insurance companies, particularly after the first year or two. Patients need to keep in mind that insurance is not like a parent: it will not pay for all their dental care. They, too, must pay. Esthetic dentists who inform patients directly that they probably will not be covered, and who request payment ''up front'', are the happiest. The patient can then respond honestly that he or she simply cannot afford the treatment; such ''budget-minded'' people can often obtain satisfactory treatment (though not esthetic dentistry) in another office. Esthetic failures result when a patient is not happy with a restoration, and functional failures, when the restoration does not feel right. In many cases, the dentist tries to convince the patient not to pursue the matter or to like the restoration. It is far better to try to understand what the patient means. If repeated attempts to improve the situation fail, consideration should be given to refunding the patient's money or referring him elsewhere. Esthetic dentists can make maximal use of computer imaging equipment which, although expensive, allows potential dental alterations to be visualized. Dr. Goldstein would not begin treatment on a patient who has not been imaged. The example is given of a dentist's wife who underwent treatment but, with the aid of the computer, discovered that her nose was really the problem. She elected no further treatment. The computer is effective in building up the dental practice. Esthetic dentistry faces several myths, including that teeth should be straight-across and solid white. Esthetic dentistry is extremely rewarding because it helps people look as they want to look and improves their self-images. Dentists interested in this specialty should pay attention to marketing and obtaining referrals, possibly by publishing some articles and performing demonstrations (table clinics). (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Interview, Dentists, Goldstein, Ronald E

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Computer imaging: its practical application

Article Abstract:

Computers have a central role in esthetic dentistry, that branch of dentistry concerned with improving the quality of patients' smiles. Using imaging techniques, patients can see the ''before'' and ''after'' of their smiles before the work is done, and cosmetic concerns can be discussed. The traditional way for dentists to market a treatment approach was to use visual aids and communication skills to explain the different steps to the patient. However, the expected final result could not be shown to the patient, and explanations of possible results while the patient holds a small mirror are, of necessity, limited. The drawbacks with other imaging approaches, such as photographs, shade guides, and prototypes, are discussed. To use an imaging system most effectively, dentists need to understand what is most important to a patient about his or her smile, and what the patient feels is worth correcting. Unrealistic expectations should be modified whenever possible. An ideal esthetic communication system would allow the patient to view the moving mouth, as well as the stationary image. Using such images, hard-copy records could be kept for a variety of purposes, including legal-medical documentation. The method whereby the dentist positions the patient and obtains the necessary images is described. Esthetic alternatives can be presented once the images have been frozen; options can include varying lines, tints, and tooth lengths. Photos can be generated for the patient to take home, and to use in a library of before-and-after shots. An effective computer imaging system can greatly enhance patients' appreciation and understanding of the results esthetic dentistry can offer. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Usage, Telecommunications systems, Imaging systems, Dentist and patient, Dentist-patient relations

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Perceptions of patients' smiles

Article Abstract:

A study comparing the perception of patients on their own smiles and how dentists view their patients' smiles is presented . A 100-point visual analog scale was used by 78 patients in Norway to evaluate their own smiles, and the same scale was used by two dentists. The methods used and the results of the study are presented.

Science & research, Public affairs, Norway, Research, Public opinion, Visual perception, Smile, Smiling, Report

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