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Archives for May 2016

How can you know if a pediatric dentist is safe?

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I read about this horrific news story out of Florida where a dentist had been abusing the children for years. The stories these parents tell sent chills up my spine. My son is about old enough to start going to the dentist. How can I be sure he’ll be safe?

Brooke N. – Georgia

Brooke,

I know the story you are referring to and it absolutely broke my heart and floored me. It was one of the most horrifying abuse cases I’d ever heard before.

In this particular case, some of the parents indicated they had a gut feeling something wasn’t right, but it was their only option as he was the only medicaid dentist available in their area.

My suggestion is to go with your gut.  Truthfully most dentists who work with children, do so because they truly care about children and want to help them.

If you’re uncomfortable, tell them you want to go into the operatory with your child. As long as your child isn’t more difficult when you’re there (which does happen with some children).

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Raymond Bolt.

What If I can’t Afford to Get My Wisdom Tooth Out

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I have a wisdom tooth I’m sure is infected. There is a great deal of decay. Now the area in my cheek near my eye is swelling. I called a dentist and asked how much it would cost to have it removed and I just can’t afford it.  I do have leftover antibiotic from a strep infection. Can I just take that to get me by until I have the money?

James N. – Bigelow, AR

James,

Please don’t try to get by with old antibiotics on this. You have an infection that is spreading. It’s already up by your eye. What if it spreads to your brain. Believe it or not, people still die from tooth infections.

Even if you had a full course of your antibiotic, it wouldn’t reach the source of your infection. The tooth has to be removed.

I know you’re worried about cost, but this is a serious issue. Something I’d recommend is speaking to dentists who consider themselves affordable dentists. They are usually much more willing to work with people in difficult financial situations, especially in emergency cases like yours.

They’re likely to work out payments for you and give you the treatment you desperately need.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Raymond Bolt.

Our office follows all of the infection-control guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the dental setting, including updates for combatting the spread of the coronavirus. We are confident that you are safe with us.