ADVISOR

We value doctors for their scientific knowledge, but the nature of their work is very up-close and personal.

“In today’s world, everyone is couponed to death, or discounted to death,” says dentist Dr. Ashly Cothern. “Discounted cleaning, or this, that or the other. But we believe there is still a group who wants to feel valued as the patient,” she says. “We pride ourselves in being a small-town practice in a big city.”

Orthodontist Dr. Michael Ragan expressed similar sentiments. “I treat each person like they’re a family friend, so I never question what I’ve done on anybody. Because I know I’m doing what I would do on my own family and friends.”

Pediatric dentist Dr. Diane Colter says, “We’re very strong on our office philosophy here. Our mission is to set ourselves apart, so that when the patients come in we tailor each appointment to that individual child, as opposed to the overall population. We are strictly a specialty.”

Orthodontist Dr. Greg Greenberg and his associate, Dr. Benito Benitez, focus on family values. By the time they are treating the fourth or fifth sibling in a family, they have forged a personal bond. “A family that straightens together stays together,” says Dr. Greenberg. ■

Of course genetics determine the size and shape of teeth, durability of tooth enamel and even the chemistry of saliva. Parents begin parenting as soon as they pass on their genes, but according to the latest research, when it comes to healthy teeth, nurture really does outrank nature.

Researchers found that even when a mother’s attitude toward the dentist visit is positive, a father’s negative display of emotion can carry more weight with a child. Both parents need to understand how important it is to model healthy behavior and a positive attitude toward dental checkups.

Pediatric dentist Diane Colter says this parental influence extends to what parents eat. “In our practice we see a strong connection between, parents, their kids, and what they choose as snacks,” she says. “Even though a lot of parents pick healthy snacks for the kids, if kids actually see their parents eat something different, they will want that snack. Children want to be like their parents, and they want to do the things they see their parents do.”

Studies have also found that when a parent has a cavity, there is an increased likelihood their child will also have a cavity. While genetics may partially contribute to the link, it’s more likely caused by a combination of shared microbes, hygiene habits and family food choices.

Dr. Colter says that in her practice, she takes time to educate parents on issues that are unique to each child. “We tailor each appointment to the individual child, and we want a caring, fun, relaxing environment here, where we can address the issues they came to us for, and touch on some other tips that might improve things at home, if the parents are having a hard time,” she says. “It doesn’t matter if they are a new family coming into the office, or if they’ve been with us for five years or eight years, we welcome them as they come in, and they know their child is our most important focus while they are here.”

The good news is, although families can’t control genetics, everyone can take positive action to fight harmful environmental factors. Minimizing sugary treats, brushing, flossing and even maintaining a positive attitude toward visits to the dentist all contribute to the goal of family health.

“We can reinforce that it helps to make better choices,” says Dr. Colter. “And in the long run, you will need less dental work” ■

New technology continues to streamline the once arduous experience of aligning teeth, both for doctors and their patients. Frequently, when parents of teenagers learn how much less onerous braces have become, they find themselves thinking about enhancing their own smiles.

Dr. Greg Greenberg and his associate Dr. Benito Benitez have seen families go through the process time and again.

If you’re an adult who is considering orthodontics, you are not alone. Today, one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. Many adults prefer the lnvisalign® system which eliminates unsightly metal braces. Awarded to the top 1% of lnvisalign providers nationwide, Dr. Greenberg is an “Elite Preferred Provider” because of his significant level of experience and education with the lnvisalign system.

CALL OUR OFFICE OR GO ONLINE TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION.

Logos on this page are created as art no fonts are required horizontal version

It’s never too late to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.

Logos on this page are created as art no fonts are required version

“Parents put their kids through treatment first, then they go into treatment,” Dr. Greenberg says. “With the advent of Invisalign, the clear liner, it’s more popular now than it ever has been for parents to enter into treatment.” In fact, it’s hard to imagine anything more streamlined than the clear plastic aligners (Invisalign) that a patient can remove for eating and brushing.

Clear aligners are not the only example of how old-fashioned hardware has become more like software. “The days of taking a plaster model and sending it to the laboratory are gone,” says Dr. Greenberg. “Now we take a digital image we can attach to an e-mail, and it’s sent immediately. There’s no mail time.” In fact, the “goop” once used for impressions is close to becoming obsolete. The digital scan is taken with a wand that does not even touch the teeth. “It’s almost like taking a toothbrush head and waving it over the tooth,” says Dr. Greenberg. “As you wave it, the image begins to form on the screen, and the patient can see it.”

Dr. Michael Ragan has also treated entire families. “We had a family of six kids, and both parents went into treatment at the same time,” he says. He’s excited to treat his patients with today’s new digital equipment and 3D x-ray capabilities.

“One big deal for the next generation is not having to use head gear,” Dr. Ragan says. Instead, he uses a new product called the Carrière Distalizer. “It’s small, it’s easy, and it’s a big improvement over head gear. For people that need it, it’s absolutely awesome.” The device, which was developed by a Spanish orthodontist, is not an exterior accessory. It accomplishes the work of head gear much more simply and elegantly, with small brackets that fit inside the mouth. Adults who remember the old head gear are especially impressed when they learn it is no longer needed.

Dr. Ragan’s practice truly spans all generations. His youngest patient is five years old. And the oldest?

“My oldest patient is seventy-eight,” Dr. Ragan says. ■

Sources:

Dentalcare.com (sequential aligners)

Orthoorganizers.com (pdf of Carriere Distalizer Workbook)

Bracesorthodontist.com (digital imaging)

Preston Hollow students Leslie Lodwick, left, and Michaela Coulter dressed alike for Providence Christian School’s Mesopotamia Day April 24.

Classes/TuToring/ lessons

ART: Draw or Paint. All Levels. Lake Highlands N. Rec. Ctr. Jane Cross, 214-534-6829. Linda, 214-808-4919.

ARTISTIC GATHERINGS

Art Classes For All Ages. Casa Linda Plaza. 214-821-8383. www.artisticgatherings.com

DRUM & PIANO LESSONS Your location. UNT Grads, Betty & Bill. View BucherMusicSchool.com or call 214-484-5360

GUITAR OR PIANO Fun/Easy. Your Home. 9 to Adult. Prof Musician. UNT Grad. Larry 469-358-8784

JEWELRY Making Parties at Art Gallery. BYOB & creativity. All else included! jewelrymakingparty.com or 1-855-254-6625

LOCAL TEACHER WHO TUTORS Algebra 2, Pre Cal, Calculus. Your Home/Mine. Melissa-MS. 817-988-0202

TECH-THERAPY.COM Patient & understanding help w/Mac, iPad, iPhone, apps, e-mail, photos, etc. On-site. 214-306-9492

VOICE TEACHER with 38 years experience. MM, NATS www.PatriciaIvey.com 214-769-8560

LOVING, CHRIST-CENTERED CARE SINCE 1982 Lake Highlands Christian Child Enrichment Center Ages 2 mo.-12 yrs. 9919 McCree. 214-348-1123.

Preston Hollow students Sahil Vanjani , left, and Cyrus Ghaznavi stop for a smile with the first Old Parkland Debate Tournament sponsor, Harlon Crow of Crow Holdings. The Parish Episcopal seniors won first place against eight Dallas-area high schools in the late April tournament.

AT ODDS WITH YOUR COMPUTER? Easily Learn Essential Skills. Services include Digital Photo Help. Sharon 214-679-9688 CONFUSED? FRUSTRATED? Let A Seasoned Pro Be The Interface Between You & That Pesky Computer. Hardware & Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training. $50/hr. 1 hr min. Dan 214-660-3733 or stykidan@sbcglobal.net

AIRLINE CAREERS Begin Here. Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA Approved. Training. Financial Aid, if qualified. Housing available. Job placement assistance. AIM 866-453-6204

CREATE INCOME From The Internet. One On One Coaching & Group Support. www.MonthlyResidual.net

HANDYMAN MATTERS hiring 10yrs+ experienced craftsmen. Background check & drug testing required. 972-308-6035

PET SITTERS, DOG WALKERS Email Recruiting@pcpsi.com

I’M LOOKING FOR A PART-TIME ASSISTANT Must be a Go Getter. Computer Wiz. Call BJ Ellis 214-226-9875

ACCOUNTING, TAXES Small Businesses & Individuals. Chris King, CPA 214-824-5313 www.chriskingcpa.com

BOOKKEEPING NEEDS? Need Help Organizing Finances? No Job Too Small or Big. Call C.A.S. Bookkeeping Services. Cindy 214-821-6903

ESTATE/PROBATE MATTERS Because every family needs a will. Mary Glenn, J.D. maryglennattorney.com • 214-802-6768

HOLLOWAY BENEFIT CONCEPTS Benefit strategy for area businesses. www.hollowaybenefitconcepts.com 214-329-0097

T.C. Marsh counselors Torry Moore, left, and Raechel Campbell received the Counselors Reinforcing Excellence for Students award from the Texas School Counseling Association April 25. Counselor Annie Vega, not pictured, was awarded as well.