Scott Greenhalgh DDS - Cosmetic Dentistry

Why you need a GREAT Dental Examination

I see new patients almost everyday. I see people that are new to Denver, haven't been to the dentist for years, or have had a major disappointment with their old Denver dentist. I would say that 80% of these people hope to have one of those "check-up" examinations that last about 5 minutes like when you have your teeth cleaned. What they seem to want is to run in and run out, and largely get the blessing on their teeth, you know, "I don't have any cavities, right Doc?"

When we see new patients, our examination takes at least an hour. We commonly see people who have had some sort of an issue that still isn't resolved, or some problem that no one else could fix (see my other dental blog about clues, Cosmetic Dentistry and Sherlock Holmes).

Here's part of what is important on that first visit (for more detail see "what to expect on your first visit"). One, the history of what has happened to your teeth (and why it happened) is critical. Why you went or didn't go to the dentist before, along with how you feel about going to the dentist now. These impressions and opinions affect how likely you will be to really take care of your teeth well for the future.

Here's another critical part: your X-rays. One of my pet peeves is when you go for a medical X-ray. No one gives you any information. If you are lucky, maybe they'll let you look at the image, but it's like the whole X-ray department is run by the CIA. No one will tell you anything about what it means or what's on the darn X-ray.

I sit down with our new patients and spend 10 minutes just showing you your X-rays. I know that's sort of controversial stuff. Actually SHOW you what's there, TALK about what it means, and discuss anything important in that whole set (another aside, YES, you really do need those periodic X-rays-they show changes and the things that start as small problems before they start to hurt).

After that we start checking the outside of your face and mouth. Yeah, the OUTSIDE. Things like the TMJ, your facial muscles, and glands. These all are windows to your overall health and how well your jaw joint works (or sticks) and how prone you are to clench or grind your teeth. And how balanced your bite is.

After that THEN we start to look at teeth. It usually takes FORTY minutes before we even start looking at teeth. That's how important all of these other things are. FORTY minutes.

So, this is really just the beginning of a great examination. The point is that we study YOU, we talk about YOU and then tailor the recommendations to YOU. So whether you are looking for a Denver cosmetic dentist or a family dentist in Denver, it all starts with a great exam. Contact us today to see the difference for yourself.

Labels: best Denver dentist, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Denver dentist, Dr. Scott Greenhalgh, Dr. Scott Greenhalgh DDS, TMJ

posted by Dr. Scott at 9:39 AM

When quality is NOT important

In reading the newspaper today, I came across an article that described the demise of multiple Japanese industries. The one that caught my eye the most was about Toyota. Somehow this icon of quality and cost controls, innovation and domination just slipped off of the map.

Here's my take on what went wrong: 1) Resting on your laurels. Just because you did it right and well last time doesn't mean that you will have success in the next opportunity. In cosmetic dentistry, the quality of the final result for YOU, this time, is all that matters. If I have 100 or 1000 other veneers or smile makeovers, and you aren't excited with YOURS, then the laurels really don't matter.

2) You can't afford to stop being fanatical about quality. FANATICAL, obsessive, relentless, unyielding, tireless...I think you get the idea. In our Denver cosmetic dentist office, every tooth, every smile, every examination, every experience matters! My staff knows I an obsessive about the results and the experience that our patients receive.

3) Do it right EVERY time. There is no room for "we'll just let this slide a little bit." Every encounter with a patient needs to go as orchestrated, so that they receive the results they were hoping for. We fight every day to make sure we are not losing sight of what each of our clients are expecting from us. (and more importantly-to go beyond what they are expecting).

SO, when is quality not important? The answer is it it constantly, unendingly important. (If you are looking for this sort of experience, then contact us today.)

Labels: Denver cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers, quality, Toyota

posted by Dr. Scott at 1:56 PM

Should I quit my Dentist job?

The word Doctor derives largely from the concept of "one who teaches." I find myself constantly trying to teach my patients about all-things-dental. In fact, I may have to quit my day job as a Denver Cosmetic dentist, and become a full-time blogger or internet writer.

I am currently working on a series on "How to read and understand online reviews." You'll see some more editions before long. Today I started a series on "Why you need a GREAT dental exam." I see new patients almost daily, so we spend a lot of time helping people understand what's right and what's wrong in their mouths (see what to expect on your first visit). I believe that patients deserve sooooo much better than what they usually receive. Most patients just simply haven't had the opportunity to have personalized attention (see Why Choose Us?").

Ok, I've decided....I AM keeping my day job (as a cosmetic dentist). I'll just have to talk faster, and type faster... so hang on!

Labels: cosmetic dentist Denver, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Denver dentist

posted by Dr. Scott at 4:03 PM

Hey, check us out on Google!

posted by Dr. Scott at 4:46 PM

Missing Teeth, Dental Implants, and options

posted by Dr. Scott at 2:36 PM

State of the Art Cosmetic Dentistry and Sherlock Holmes

I am blogging to you from the 2nd ever annual meeting of the Colorado Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. I feel fortunate to be a Charter member here in Denver. This group is an affiliate of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Like a lot of things in life, hanging and associating with the right people makes all the difference.

Here are some of my biggest observations for today:

A great cosmetic dentist is really a great photographer. You have to imagine, see, then capture the problems in teeth. I personally believe that many clues to issues in teeth are just missed. It's like those old Sherlock Holmes stories. There's a dead body on the floor, Watson makes some theory like he was shot by a random passer-by through the window. After a few moments of unbelief, Holmes goes on to explain in detail how the corpse had recently returned from the far east, inadvertently upset a local warlord, and was followed home and poisoned while he slept with some exotic Asian spider venom.

CLASSIC-- they both are in the same room, but it's all in how the details are seen (IF they are recognized) and how they are linked together to tie the important details together correctly. Any really good dentistry has to be done in this same manner. Cosmetic dentistry has to be done in the same way. For cosmetic dentistry to produce an exciting result, and for it to hold up well over time, the cosmetic dentist has to be a master at collecting clues (photographing) and fitting them together for that indiviual patient.

I really enjoying winding through these mysteries and journeys. Every day it is our mission to solve problems, and create beautiful cosmetic dentistry.

So, watch out for Asian warlords, and exotic spiders... but leave your teeth to us.

Labels: AACD, before and after photos, cosmetic dentist Denver, Cosmetic Dentistry, dental photography, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Sherlock Holmes

posted by Dr. Scott at 10:49 AM

Working on my Cosmetic Dentistry Book

About a year ago I finally decided what type of website I wanted to build and who I wanted to build it. I have to say I have been happy with Dan Goldstein and his crew over at Page1 Solutions. I believe we built a very robust website, with the emphasis on readability and information for you, the reader.

Over the weekend, I was sorting through some of the cosmetic dentistry portraits that my off-the-hook photographer created (Mark Cafiero-photographer, "par excellence"). From there it dawned on me that there are a lot of stories in those images. So, I started to create a book or a portfolio to capture those stories and transformations.

Simply put, cosmetic dentistry changes lives.

After 20 years as a dentist in Denver, I see everyday people who are having problems with their smiles or are handicapped because of some problem in their smiles.

This portfolio will be a smile journey. Showing the before and afters of these peoples' journeys. In my 20 plus years in cosmetic dentistry, I have found those who want to have a smile change as down-to-earth normal people, just like you and I. And the beauty and confidence that exudes from these people afterwards is amazing. We all deserve to live our days with that feeling of inner confidence and outward beauty.

I feel fortunate to be part of the process. To have a front row seat and watch it all happen. These are THEIR stories, not really mine.

Labels: before and after photos, cosmetic dentist Denver, cosmetic dentistry book, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Scott Greenhalgh DDS

posted by Dr. Scott at 10:19 AM

How Walt Disney changed Cosmetic Dentistry

Walt Disney changed the face of Cosmetic Dentistry. No, Goofy didn't finally get veneers for his two front teeth. Walt set priorities for his dream that have a lot to do with cosmetic dentistry.

I recently attended the "Disney Keys to Success for Healthcare" meeting here in Denver. I LOVE these sort of courses. I love to see the inner workings of companies that are completely different than mine, yet, we share in common the goal to create an amazing result and an outstanding experience. Disney and I both exist to create beautiful smiles.

We spent the day examining the way that Disney creates their Magic, day after day. For them, it all starts with their first key: Safety. Huh,... really, the secret to the Disney magic is... Safety? As we looked at what that meant, I realized that they have it right. In the next few blogs I'll be speaking to what Disney and Safety has to do with Cosmetic Dentistry. For now, think about how important Safety is in your day-to-day routine.

I think you'll agree that it matters for cosmetic dentistry as well.

Labels: Cosmetic Dentistry, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Disney, Smiles

posted by Dr. Scott at 7:50 AM

Dr. Phil and Cosmetic Dentistry

posted by Dr. Scott at 3:30 PM

What does the FDA say about silver fillings?

The recent expected update from the FDA regarding the status of dental amalgam (silver filling) was released yesterday. There has been controversy for decades about the mercury in these fillings. Some have been very adamant about the mercury vapor causing all sorts of many illnesses and diseases.  In fact the dentist who really helped form my interest for me to go into dentistry, later became very anti-amalgam (it's some sort of ironic twist that I actually have a couple of silver fillings placed by that dentist before he went on the Anti-amalgam bandwagon).

I have found that good dentistry is generally healthful dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry creates smiles that people love. When you love something, you take care of it better. So, cosmetic dentistry is actually more-healthful for your teeth than regular dentistry. In fact, I'm sure cosmetic dentistry kept my patient Bob from going on to losing some teeth and having some sort of denture.

    

The FDA ruled as expected: they placed dental amalgam and dental mercury in a moderate risk class. (big deal). This may give them grounds to regulate it more in the future, but for now, there is really no big change for dentistry or patients. There's a lot of science and research to consider. In the end, it's best to discuss with your dentist exactly what will be right for you. In our Denver cosmetic dentistry office, we spend time with people to find out what their concerns are and spend the time to craft the right solutions. Solutions that create results and solve problems (and look great!). 

The beauty of healthcare here in Denver, is that you have a choice of what you put in your teeth. And, I think it might as well bypass the controversy and just create something to smile about! 

Labels: Cosmetic Dentistry, dental amalgam, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Denver dentist, Dr. Scott Greenhalgh DDS, FDA

posted by Dr. Scott at 3:56 PM

Is this the end of Silver Fillings?

Tomorrow we are expecting a ruling by the FDA on the classification for "encapsulated amalgam" (that is a cartridge that holds the liquid Mercury and the powder made from other elements). There has been controversy following amalgam for many years. And too often, it becomes the whipping boy for health extremists. In my experience of over 20 years in dentistry, I cannot say I personally have observed or treated someone who has suffered some ill or neurological effect from having silver fillings. 

Amalgam has been around for more than 100 years. That was the main material that I was taught to fill teeth with in 1988. Personally, it can work great, but I stopped using it over 10 years ago. There is simply no way to make it part of cosmetic dentistry. 

My personal belief is that amalgam persists because it is a fairly easy and forgiving material to put into teeth. In general, you can be a very average dentist or dental assistant and fix a cavity with silver filling. In my opinion, it takes greater skill and ability to place white fillings that produce both a beautiful and comfortable result. You just simply can't have a bad day with white (or composite) fillings because it is a demanding material. 

Beyond fillings, lies the realm of porcelain restorations. There are many times that NO filling materials (silver amalgam or white composite) are strong enough. In my cosmetic dentistry practice in Denver, we often use porcelain inlays or onlays to repair teeth beautifully. These restorations can be invisible even to the trained eye and can repair a tooth that has had a larger cavity for many years.

So... we'll see what the FDA says tomorrow. 

Actually, in my practice it won't make any difference, since I don't use it anyway. I'll just stick to the great resources that I already have for cosmetic dentistry (visit our smile gallery). We'll just keep on making back and front teeth look natural and smiles looking great!

Labels: amalgam fillings, before and after photos, composite fillings, Cosmetic Dentistry, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Scott Greenhalgh DDS, FDA, silver fillings, Smile gallery, white fillings

posted by Dr. Scott at 10:24 PM

Oral Cancer and Lance Armstrong

 The Tour De France bicycle race is in full force. Lance Armstrong is making an unprecedented bid to win an 8^th time. After fighting cancer, winning 7 other times and at 37 years of age, he is within one second of the overall lead. I've never had cancer, but when I’m not busy with cosmetic dentistry in Denver, I enjoy cycling myself..

 

One of my theories on reasons why Lance has returned this year is that it gives him unparalleled visibility to speak about cancer survival. While he's still a celebrity in general, the whole world stops and watches when he is riding. That's a pretty good platform to advance your cause. 

With that in mind, we have chosen to make July Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Lance's LiveStrong organization is a great compilation of resources for people who have been diagnosed with cancer, and to support their families. 

My part in all of this is to try to prevent as many cases as possible, and to improve the odds for those who we identify it for. Oral cancer can be beaten when identified early (you'll hear more about how we are using new tests to identify oral changes earlier and more accurately in another blog next week). 

All this month (or while supplies last, we are giving away the popular LiveStrong yellow bracelet. Statistics show that 1in 3 of us have either had cancer or are close to someone who has had it.

 

Cosmetic dentistry is more than just amazing smiles. It’s also about creating and maintaining great oral health as well. One of my favorite patients-Bob, commented on how cosmetic dentistry changed his health-it’s true.

 

Specifically we are getting the word out that more people die from Oral cancer than either cervical cancer or skin cancer.  

Think about that for a second--how much attention and how much prevention is targeted at these diseases. For decades the dental profession has been unable to make an impact in these statistics. Now more than ever, you will hear more and more about the importance of regular oral cancer exams. Many other regular cancer screenings are performed, yearly like colonoscopies, PAP smears, etc. The oral cancer screening is not invasive, (you don’t need to be sedated or take your clothes off) and in a few minutes we have some new and reliable tests to identify early mouth skin changes. You don't have to be in a high risk group to be affected by oral cancer. For every new patient, we take the time to do a thorough oral cancer screening using state-of-the-art testing (click here for more information what else is checked at your first visit).

 

SO contact us today or phone us at 303 988 9060, to reserve your yellow bracelet. Join with us in supporting Lance in his race to win another Tour De France, and in the fight to beat cancer.

 

Go Lance Go!

Labels: Cosmetic Dentistry, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Lance Armstrong Foundation, LiveStrong, oral cancer, Scott Greenhalgh DDS, Tour de France

posted by Dr. Scott at 8:04 PM

Veneers and your Success.

It's been everywhere this week. Amazing smiles. Crummy smiles. People who like their smiles. People who are unhappy with theirs. People who are ready to change their smile. Stories about people who HAVE changed their smile.

I flipped on the radio this morning and the DJ's on Alice 105.9 were in the midst of discussing their female counterpart's smile that she disliked for years. In fact, so much so that she said, "I haven't ordered any pictures from my wedding, because I really hate how my smile looks". Imagine it, that huge celebration, and you don't want any pictures of it? Anyway, she said that she had planned to get veneers and really truly sounded excited to make the change. If you find you don't smile easily and often, you can read more about what's involved with veneers.

I had a patient in today with their kids. She had recently had some veneers finished. She smiles ALL the time now. She looks happier, she radiates contentment, and just gives off that happy aura. Another patient was in later today. She works with another patient of mine who had also finished veneers recently. In fact, you can see her finished portrait in our smile gallery. She also described how her friend just smiles all the time. What a gift for yourself and for the people around you. Don't you find that you just want to hang around with someone like that?

I know there are a lot of concerns about the economy, and here in Denver, I have seen a number of patients inside my practice suffer job transitions. BUT, if you are fighting for that new position don't you think you need every advantage? A great smile makes a powerful first impression. NOW is the right time to update your smile.

So here's where the power of smiles and success seem to intersect. I've found myself enjoying Twitter lately. People use a small avatar and most people customize theirs with a photo of themselves. You then decide to "follow" people who look or sound interesting. You can follow me and my Tweets on my Twitter link. My premise is people who have a really broad, happy smile get more followers than someone with just a plain photo. I mean a HUGE smile from ear to ear. To me that kind of smile shows ease, confidence, happiness, and someone you just want to be around. There are numerous studies that actually show that people with great smiles actually make more money, and have more success. 

Most people don't really appreciate what can be changed in a smile. From smile makeovers to bonding, simple to involved, you can change your smile.  It is my great pleasure to be involved and watch it happen from beginning to the end. 

Labels: bonding, Denver cosmetic dentistry, Smile gallery, Smiles, Twitter, veneers

posted by Dr. Scott at 10:21 PM

Previous Posts

• If you are afraid of the dentist, what helps most?...
• Stem Cells and Cosmetic Dentistry
• Headaches Caused by Dental Issues
• Dentures, bleeding and muscle weakness
• Why you need a GREAT Dental Examination
• How to make your mom have dentures
• What's New? (dental implants)
• Bad Breath (Halitosis)
• What's around the next bend?
• When quality is NOT important

Archives

• March 2009
• April 2009
• May 2009
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