Patient Concerns
Patient Education
We feel patient education is very important. Our goal is that you are completely informed concerning your condition and any treatment that will be performed. We encourage you to voice any questions you may have.
Patient Safety
We adhere to the highest professional standards of cleanliness, sterilization, and radiation control. Our staff regularly attend safety seminars and are quite knowledgeable on the latest techniques.
Sterilization
We know that preventing the spread of infectious diseases such as AIDS, herpes, hepatitis and even the cold virus is critical. We use extensive sterilization procedures, going well beyond the guidelines recommended by the American Dental Association and Centers for Disease Control.
We use barrier techniques such as disposable masks and gloves and replace them with every new patient. Each piece of fixed operatory equipment is wiped-down with antibacterial solution prior to every clinical procedure. Sterile water delivery systems are utilized. We use autoclave sterilization for all instruments prior to dental examination and treatment. You can be assured that our staff have been specifically trained on sterilization procedures and their importance.
Pre-medication
Patients with certain medical conditions (e.g. valvular heart conditions and artificial joints) may be asked to pre-medicate with antibiotics prior to treatment. We do this with your safety in mind. Please inform us if you have a condition that might require pre-medication.
Post Treatment Instructions
After treatment, home care and medication instructions will be thoroughly explained. For your convenience, you will also be given printed instructions. Of course, we are always available for questions after treatment.
Patient Comfort
We go to extraordinary lengths to ensure our patients are as comfortable as possible during dental procedures. Please click here for more information on this topic.
Special Equipment
We strive to stay on the leading edge of periodontal techniques and equipment. In order to do this, we take a great deal of continuing education. We also utilize advanced equipment in our office. This includes:
Advanced Dental Implant Placement
Recent advances in dental implant technology and bone regeneration allow trained periodontists to place dental implants anchoring dentures and partials immediately. Single tooth implants can also be restored immediately in a number of cases. Dr. Carter is trained and qualified to perform these procedures.
Low Radiation Digital X-Rays
Digital X-Rays are taken with very low radiation and have more flexibility in terms of rendition. They are also more convenient when planning treatment with your general dentist.Magnifier Loops with Fiber Optic Lights
You have probably seen a Magnifier Loop in a jewelry store when the jeweler was closely examining a diamond. Dental Magnifier Loops are made for periodontists to view your teeth and gums in minute detail during periodontal procedures. Dr. Carter uses periodontal loops in many procedures to ensure more precise treatment.Panoramic Radiography
Panoramic Radiography (Panorex) is an advanced full-mouth x-ray that allows a full "panoramic" view of your teeth. This type of x-ray is often necessary in the diagnosis of dental implant placement and comprehensive periodontal therapy.Platelet Rich Plasma
PRP techniques allow the periodontist to take advantage of the body's natural processes to accelerate soft tissue healing and increase bone regeneration following various periodontal procedures. Using a centrifuge, the periodontist first isolates platelets from a sample of the patient's own blood. The growth-factor rich platelets are then applied directly to surgical wounds or grafts to accelerate and enhance the healing process.
