Modern dentistry can be an amazing resource for maintaining, repairing or improving our dental health. As we are living longer our teeth and gums require more care and attention. Just 200 years ago, dental infection was the #2 cause of morbidity and death in the world. (#1 was man killing fellow man!)

Despite the availability of new high-tech services, with new materials and procedures, many people are challenged to navigate the path to good dental health with comfortable chewing and smiling. Many people still become dental cripples or live with less than ideal dental conditions accepting the 24/7 situation as another disability of getting older.

Years ago, this could be blamed on the inadequacy of dental science. (Remember, belt driven drills, no anesthesia, ugly fillings that never lasted etc.) Today, the problem is not the dentistry or dental science… its the way we communicate and deliver dentistry.

An intelligent and rational human being would never choose discomfort, missing teeth and compromised health if the appropriate options were explained and made economically manageable. Properly informed and educated patients make better decisions and invest in their dental health on an ongoing basis so that things don’t build up and become overwhelming.

My point is that Dental Health isn’t so scary or complex if you are given simple and complete explanations and instructions. Unfortunately, we don’t come with an “owner’s manual” and the “time slot” of the typical dental office does not allow for this. Additionally, more than 3/4ths of the population only seeks help when the pain is severe.

Dr. Alan Ross, Keene Family Dental, 67 Mechanic Street, Keene, NH 03431 Phone: 603-357-6767