| rev:text
| - Our former dentist crowned my husband's six front teeth. I expressed my concern about the redness and swelling of his gums month after month, and even after a YEAR the gums still weren't healing. The dentist referred him to his periodontal associate who diagnosed some type of bacterial infection requiring major surgery (and major bucks!). I asked for another opinion, and his other periodontal associate said the same thing. All three claimed that this type of infection develops over a long period of time, but my husband had NO "bacterial" condition prior to the crown work (and we never miss a cleaning).
I researched the condition and options online and found that there are seven dentists in Las Vegas that have the credentials, experience and laser equipment to treat this condition. I also reviewed our insurance benefits to confirm coverage. When I called the periodontist and asked if he was certified to perform the laser surgery I was told that:
1. There is no dentist here qualified to do that type of surgery,
2. The equipment is so expensive that no local periodontists have it, and
3. Our insurance wouldn't cover it.
I politely informed her that she was wrong on all three counts and suggested she check online prior to giving misinformation.
My first impression of Dr. Shields' office was the atmosphere - professional, calm, and attentive. Patients weren't stacked in the waiting room, and the front office staff was pleasantly efficient. After a thorough examination, Dr. Shields explained that excess glue from the crowns might also be a possible cause of the inflammation and recommended a periodontal deep cleaning before proceeding with surgery. The right side was done and the gums were given time to heal; the left side was done recently and we're waiting for them to heal. The follow-up visit will dictate the next course of action.
I had my first check-up and the most thorough cleaning (ever!) on Wednesday (yay Jodi!). My x-rays showed a build-up on my back teeth; I had my periodontal scaling yesterday. I cannot compliment Jodi enough! My comfort was her number one priority and I made her promise that it wouldn't hurt -- and it didn't! What we thought was tartar was actually excess glue (imagine that!) from the over-lays done by my previous dentist. Not once did any of the five hygienists at the other office bother to remove the glue and smooth the teeth.
Perhaps the greatest challenge for me as a patient is to voluntarily be a guinea pig. The dentist, as with any medical professional, has the power to promote healing or to cause harm through lack of experience, skill, and/or negligence. I feel we are in capable hands with all of Dr. Shields' team of professionals.
Aside from telling my family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and fellow students, it's my duty to share my positive experiences with the public. As the saying goes, "dentists are a dime a dozen, good ones are hard to find". I've found the very best.
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