out with the old, IN WITH THE NEW SMILE
Once Karen Wilkinson’s husband found the dental office of Dr. Ban Barbat, his words of encouragement were all she needed to become a new patient. Karen had old crowns and was concerned that they were embedded in her gums, causing discomfort and periodontal problems.
Almost immediately, Karen was confident with Dr. Barbat. “I felt she was up on everything and offered the latest in dentistry,” she shares. “With her background and the way she did things, everything was first rate.”
old crowns could begin, the condition of Karen’s periodontal health had to be restored. Soft tissue therapy was performed to rid her gums of existing periodontal disease and eliminate bacteria that research now links to serious health problems in the body.
Dr. Barbat explains, “The bacteria of periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream through tears in the gums and travel throughout the body. Studies show a correlation between this bacteria and heart disease, diabetes, stroke and memory loss. As research continues, new revelations are being found on a fairly regular basis.”
With her mouth healthy again, Karen was ready for replacement of the old crowns. While under oral sedation, all top teeth were prepared in one visit. The embedded crowns were removed, the natural teeth prepared, and temporary teeth were placed. Once the dental lab created the final crowns to Dr. Barbat’s specifications, they would complete her new smile.
After Karen’s top teeth were completed, she became excited about having her lower teeth done, which took place the following year. “Everything was to my expectations,” she states. “I wanted my teeth to be white and they’re not only white, but they look just like real teeth.”
Karen definitely has more confidence when she smiles now and enjoys comments she receives on her smile. She also appreciates having her oral health restored. “I’m glad that the periodontal therapy is behind me. All those toxins in your system can’t be doing you any good,” she says.
At Karen’s last physical, her doctor enthusiastically commented, ‘I want teeth just like yours!’ Karen says Dr. Barbat will soon see her physician for a smile makeover! “I’m glad I had this done,” Karen adds. “I have my husband to thank for helping me to be able to do this.”
Dr. Barbat adds, “The best smiles are both healthy and flattering. That’s what we want for everyone who comes to us for a confident smile … a smile that looks good and feels good, too.”
NEW Oral Cancer Screening Device
Dr. Ban Barbat recently added a revolutionary oral cancer detection device to the many other advanced features. The VELscope System, a hand-held, FDA approved device, gives dentists and hygienists a tool to aid in early detection of oral cancer.
Every year, over 30,000 in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer. Sadly, one person in American dies of oral cancer every hour. However, if detected early, oral cancer is 90% survivable. Dr. Barbat states, “Because oral cancer is easiest to treat in early stages, VELscope can detect far beyond that of a visual examination.”
At highest risk are adults over age 40 and tobacco users (including “smokeless” brands). Other risk factors are heavy alcohol use, viral infections, prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer) and a history of white or red patches. However, the American Dental Association reports that over 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors.
The VELscope examination is non-invasive, painless, and takes only minutes. A blue light is shined into the patient’s mouth, creating a fluorescence that allows the dentist to better visual of abnormal tissue which may be, or lead to, oral cancer.
While VELscope is a tremendous safeguard, it is also wise to know the symptoms of oral cancer, which Dr. Barbat lists as a mouth sore that does not heal, white or red patch of tissue, difficulty swallowing, a lump or mass in the mouth or neck, long period of hoarseness, pain or numbness in the oral region, change in the voice, or long period of ear pain.
Dr. Barbat adds, “Something as simple as a bite on the inside of your cheek may mimic the look of a dangerous tissue change. Any sore or discolored area of your mouth that doesn’t heal within 14 days should be looked at immediately.”
If an area is susspicious, the only way to know for sure is to perform a tissue biopsy. This is neither painful nor expensive and takes little time. It is important to have a firm diagnosis as early as possible.
During regular check-ups, a visual oral cancer screening is performed by hygienists. However, the Velscope System goes further and is advised for all adults with any risk factors or symptoms. Even adults who don’t feel at risk are advised to have a Velscope occassionally to ensure undetected symptoms don’t slip by. Dr. Barbat reminds patients that this is another reason to be committed to these visits and to discuss suspicious conditions without delay. “When treated early, oral cancer is one of the most curable diseases,” she says. “VeLscope gives us a unique view so we know how to proceed. Hopefully, the process can conclude there. If not, at least we know the odds are in the patient’s favor”
Payment Option For Treatment
The confidence and health benefits of a flattering, fit smile are unsurpassed. Dr. Barbat wants everyone to be able to enjoy a healthy, appealing smile. However, some treatments can be a challenge when it comes to the fee.
We have good news! We now offer Capital One Financing to provide even greater financial support to our patients, with most options requiring:
- NO down payment
- No prepayment penalty
- LOW monthly payments
- LOW fixed interest rates
- Monthly payments that fit your budget
- Possible tax advantages
The application process is fast, confidential, and easy. Enjoy a terrific smile NOW with an easy plan that keeps you smiling!