Sandy Springs Dentist: OUR PHILOSOPHY

Always put the patient first.

From its inception, Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell has focused on providing the right solution for every patient, every time. We do not waiver from this commitment. While many practices claim to put their patients first, few are able to resist the temptation to make small sacrifices to increase their revenues. Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell has steadfastly refused to make any change in the treatment that does not offer a tangible benefit to our patients.

Don't be all things to all people.

Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell believes in specialization. It is one of the many things that make us revolutionary. Every decision we make, new person hired or new technology solution launched is aimed at expanding and deepening our specialization differentiation. We know taking our eye off this goal would be a costly injustice to our patients. We are proud to say that our patients represent long and endearing relationships that span several generations over 25 years.

Don't push products.

At Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell, we take a consultative approach to ensuring each patient's program aligns with their operating culture and unique risk exposures. This means we don't believe in pushing products. We don't try and sell you anything. Instead, we work closely with our patients and their needs to develop and deliver the right solution, even if that means not doing any dentistry at all.

Integrity in all that we do.

Events over the past decade have caused significant upheaval in the health insurance business and we are constantly navigating the industry to make sure you receive the coverage and care you deserve. These changing times are reflective of changing patient needs and a requirement for operational disclosure.

From the beginning, Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell built its foundation on basic operating principles – integrity, honesty and quality health care. These are not just words to us, rather truths that can be validated by the patient relationships we have held for over 25 years. To us, it's simple. We base decisions on what we believe to be in the best interests of our patients and our employees. We understand that each puts a great deal of trust in us, and we do not take that trust lightly.

Be passionate.

Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell's culture is unlike any in its industry. We emphasize team achievements and pride in individual accomplishments that contribute to the patient's overall success. Ideas are traded, tested and put into practice with the highest degree of passion and excitement. Meetings that would take hours elsewhere are frequently little more than a conversation in the hall, and few walls separate those who are performing the procedures to our next technology innovation from those that created our foundation of dentistry. Our highly communicative environment fosters productivity, creativity and camaraderie fueled by the realization that some of the most wonderful people rely on Scheinfeld, Tourial and Lubell. We are passionate about what we do and believe in giving the proper tools to a group of people driven to make a difference, and they do.

Hopefully, this is what you want from your Dental team.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

info@rightsmilecenter.com

www.rightsmilecenter.com

Sandy Springs Dentist: Oral Health During Pregnancy

Apparently, oral health care during pregnancy is often misunderstood by treating physicians, dentists, and their patients. Every pregnant woman should be screened for oral risks, educated about proper oral hygiene, and referred to a dentist where treatment may be necessary.[1] Dental procedures such as periodontal treatment, restorations, and extractions are safe and are best performed during the second trimester. We are hesitant to perform diagnostic radiography regardless of the accepted practice that its safe.  Xylitol and chlorhexidine[2] may be used as adjuvant therapy for high-risk mothers in the early postpartum period to reduce transmission of cariogenic bacteria to their infants.[3] Appropriate dental care and prevention during pregnancy may reduce poor prenatal outcomes and decrease infant caries.[4]

Every pregnant woman should be assessed by a dentist for dental hygiene habits, access to fluoridated water, oral problems (e.g., caries, gingivitis), and continued access to dental care.[5]  Patients should be counseled to perform routine brushing and flossing, to avoid excessive amounts of sugary snacks and drinks, and to consult a dentist.[6]  Many dentists are reported to be reluctant to treat pregnant women.[7] Optimally, physicians and dentists can overcome this situation through education, clear communication, and the development of ongoing collaborative relationships. Physicians can share information on the safety of dental treatment in pregnancy with dental colleagues and provide clear referral recommendations.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

info@rightsmilecenter.com

www.rightsmilecenter.com

Related articles

• Dentist Dunwoody: Oral Health, Women and Pregnancy (therightsmile.wordpress.com)
• Dentist Dunwoody: Women and Oral Health Issues (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

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[1] http://www.mchaccess.org/pdfs/alerts/oral%20health%20during%20pregnancy.pdf.

 

[2] Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at Chlorhexidine gluconate doses up to 300 mg/kg/day and 40 mg/kg/day, respectively, and have not revealed evidence of harm to fetus. However, adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not been done. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. http://www.drugs.com/pro/chlorhexidine.html

[3] http://www.mchaccess.org/pdfs/alerts/oral%20health%20during%20pregnancy.pdf.  HUGH SILK, MD, University of Massachusetts Medical School and Family Medicine Residency Program, Worcester, Massachusetts. ALAN B. DOUGLASS, MD, Family Medicine Residency Program, Middlesex Hospital, Middletown, Connecticut.  JOANNA M. DOUGLASS, BDS, DDS, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut.  LAURA SILK, MD, Health Alliance, Leominster, Massachusetts.

[4] Am Fam Physician. 2008;77(8):1139-1144. Copyright © 2008 American Academy of Family Physicians.

[5] Oral examination should include the teeth, gums, tongue, palate, and mucosa.

[6] http://www.mchaccess.org/pdfs/alerts/oral%20health%20during%20pregnancy.pdf.

[7] Livingston HM, Dellinger TM, Holder R. Considerations in the management of the pregnant patient. Spec Care Dentist. 1998;18(5):183-188

Dentist Roswell: Top 4 Reasons Not to play hooky from Your Dental Cleanings

Sure, regular cleanings with our office promotes good oral hygiene, but did you know these visits also screen for a multitude of diseases? Getting your teeth cleaned and having your doctor’s exam may not rank up there with an afternoon on the course or ditching work to enjoy a matinee, but it may be well worth it for your overall health. Here are 4 really great reasons to see your dentist for your regularly scheduled cleanings.

1.    It’s an opportunity to check for Oral Cancer. You may or may not realize that you're screened for oral cancer during your regular dental cleaning but you are. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, an American dies of oral cancer every hour of every day. It's a sad proposition, especially when you consider that it is highly curable with early diagnosis.

2.    Your gums are being checked for Gum Disease. Gum disease, or an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place, is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. It can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. Unfortunately, not receiving treatment will lead to a more serious and advanced state of gum disease. Regular cleanings and check-ups along with daily brushing and flossing are key defenses against gum disease.

3.    Your overall health. Studies have linked heart attacks, diabetes detection and strokes to gum disease associated with poor oral hygiene.  A trip to your dentist at least every 6 months and in some cases more often, could reduce your risk of other serious health issues.

4.    Early detection of Dental Problems. We've already touched upon early detection of gum disease and oral cancer, but don't overlook more basic dental problems. Cavities and broken fillings are easy to treat. Without regular check-ups, undetected problems can lead to more serious issues like root canals, gum surgery and tooth extraction.   An ounce of prevention verses a pound of cure.

So you haven’t been keeping up with what current research has to say about caring for your teeth.  That’s why check-ups allow your dentist to examine your mouth and keep you on the right path.  If it's been more than 6 months since your last check up and cleaning, call your dentist to schedule an appointment today.  If we can be of any help or answer any questions please feel free to drop us a line.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC                                                                     

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Related articles

·    Dentist Dunwoody: How Often Should I See the Dentist? (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dunwoody Dentist: I read this on Webmd.com (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

·    Dentist East Cobb: Success Rates of Dental Implants (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

Dentist Sandy Springs: Sinusitis Got You Down?

Winter is getting cranked up and we need to take measures to maintain our health because during the winter months and at other times when the air is very dry, it is important to keep our nasal passages moist. When I was young I used to think my mother’s practice of medicine was just one more of her old wives tales, but practically applied her easy way to moisten your nasal passages is to sniff salt solution into both sides of the nose 2-4 times a day seems to work. To prepare a solution of proper strength, add 1/4 teaspoon of table salt to a cup of warm water, and stir it until all the salt has dissolved. Sniff some from a spoon or other small container into each nostril. Alternatively, you can buy ready-prepared nasal saline products, such as Ocean, Simply Saline or generic equivalents from drug stores. Such solutions can be used to wash away mucus from the membranous lining of the nasal passages. They also help by shrinking any parts of it that are swollen. This may save you a trip to the doctor.  If this is not done, mucus and the swollen membranes around these openings may block openings of the sinuses into the nasal passages. Sinusitis will then occur if nasal bacteria infect the mucus, which can no longer drain from the blocked sinus. Treatment of sinusitis (rather than its prevention) often requires the use of antibiotics.

Some doctors are not enthusiastic about nasal saline irrigation since researchers found that it does not significantly reduce the incidence of colds. Personally, I am a little skeptical about a doctor’s hesitation to try a home remedy rather than popping a few pills. I don’t mean to confuse colds with sinusitis. Viruses cause colds, while sinusitis is a bacterial-induced complication for some colds. Irrigation of the nasal passages with saline cannot kill viruses or bacteria, but according to my favorite ENT patient, it can help to reduce the incidence of sinusitis in people with a tendency to develop this common complication of colds.

Part of the source for this article came from my mom and part from the American Family Physician (70:1685 & 1697, "04) & Wall Street Journal (Dec.7"04, page D6).

Novy Scheinfeld DDS PC
290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620
info@rightsmilecenter.com
www.rightsmilecenter.com

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·   What Causes Sinus Problems? (webmd.com)

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Atlanta Dentist: Clark Howard or Real Oral Health Care?

In response to Clark Howard’s opinion on dentists and mid-level providers, he’s dead wrong or could be.[1]  And he doesn’t understand the sector of patients who do and don’t seek to have proper oral health care.  If Mr. Howard had a heart-attack today, price of care would be the last thing on his mind.  Would he negotiate before they installed the stint or after?[2]  His perspective is steeped in ignorance. The answer is not as Mr. Howard would suggest, devoting energy and time and money to creating a lesser trained dental provider to deliver a poor approximation of comprehensive dental care (in Georgia). [3] This opinion comes from the lack of understanding of what a dentist is trained to do.  Clark Howard is living back in the 20’s, the 1820’s, where the only thing a dentist did was pull teeth and cut hair.

A recent example in our office was the discovery of suspicious cells on the underside of the patient’s tongue.  Ultimately (and hopefully), our discovery and recommendation will save this patients life.  Our early detection of cancer comes from years of (university) training and experience that transcends the old view of what a dentist does for that 15 minute examination during your regularly scheduled hygiene appointment.  Contrary to your physician’s health care, the cost of delivering dentistry is under constant pressures from the free market system.

The answer to providing adequate and broad based oral health care lies in educating patients about the value of good oral health, who can best deliver the care, and how consumers can obtain and maintain that care.  Marred by an old view of dentists and dentistry, Mr. Howard is stuck in a mindset that all dentists do is just drill-and-fill.  There is much more to the art and science of dentistry than Clark Howard is remotely aware.

Our society needs to understand the need to regularly maintain their oral health and that dental care for them and their families is not optional.  We need to instill in our society the need to maintain an oral health care regimen and visiting the dentist is a part of that regimen.  I find it interesting that Clark Howard wants to put you in a position where you bargain for your health care needs.[4]  Where he fails in his advice is to differentiate between oral health care and retail dentistry.

With regards to the specific point of creating mid-level providers as has happened in Alaska, census data demonstrates that 43% of our “public” health care providers aren’t busy because patients don’t show up for their appointments. This is not a lack of dentists, rather a lack of utilization of the care available.  While there is no empirical evidence as to ‘why’, one would speculate it is because like Mr. Clark Howard, a large portion of the public fail to value the real benefits to oral health care.  Take a credible, but uninformed spokesperson like Clark Howard, and the notion that all dentists do is drill-and-fill and we, as providers are starting 10 yards behind the starting line.

The real solution is better patient education.

If we can answer your questions or you have comments, please feel free to weigh in on this matter.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

info@rightsmilecenter.com

www.rightsmilecenter.com

Related Articles

http://therightsmile.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/cheap-dental-implants-not-so-fast/

http://therightsmile.wordpress.com/2012/07/02/dentist-atlanta-the-difference-between-dental-and-physician-health-care-costs/

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[1] http://www.clarkhoward.com/news/clark-howard/health-health-care/dentistry-too-expensive-for-many-americans/nCpN/

[2] http://www.clarkhoward.com/news/clark-howard/health-health-care/negotiate-better-deal-dentistry/nFyQs/

[3] http://www.clarkhoward.com/news/clark-howard/health-health-care/dentistry-too-expensive-for-many-americans/nCpN/

[4] This isn’t to suggest that we as a discipline of health care aren’t competitive.  The free market system has kept dentistry fairly moderate in terms of cost compared to the annual leaps in insurance coverage and physician/hospital care.

Dentist Dunwoody: Oral Health, Women and Pregnancy

More than 6 million women in the US become pregnant every year and 40% of them for the first time.  During pregnancy, women are at greater risk of experiencing poor oral health care, which has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes.  Pregnant women are susceptible to oral infections, pregnancy gingivitis, periodontitis and oral pyogenic granulomas.  Results of various studies regarding oral health literacy show it is directly related to general health knowledge, and therefore, health outcomes of both the mother and the fetus follow the level of the mother’s health knowledge.  These studies show that the prevalence of low health literacy among pregnant women ranges from about 15 to 38% and is associated with older age women and women of minority status.[1]

Because of the low levels of oral health knowledge among these segments of the population, it is important for physicians and public health workers to be aware that a message should be tailored to direct pregnant women in these at-risk populations to seek out dental professionals[2] who can alleviate potential oral health issues that might be related to complications in their pregnancies and the potential of adverse effects on their babies.

If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health care, please do not hesitate to contact us via email or by phone.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Thank you for all your referrals.  We truly appreciate them.

Information included is not dental or medical advice.  For your specific information

 be sure to consult your dentist.

Related articles

• Dentist East Cobb: Diet & Exercise May Prevent Gum Disease (therightsmile.wordpress.com)
• Dentist: East Cobb: Healthy smile, healthy you! (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

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[1] Jada, September 2012 at 972-979

[2] We have an in-house periodontist should the need arise.

Dentist Dunwoody: The Good News About Root Canals

Root Canals are virtually pain-free.  Patients used to worry about root canals, and rightfully so?  Once synonymous with serious pain, today's root canal procedures are almost pain-free.  Usually the pain associated with root canals is caused by waiting until the infection has become all too tolerable.

                               

Root canals are needed when the dental infection, or tooth decay reaches the pulp chamber of the tooth. The infection destroys the nerves located within the root of the tooth, eventually causing the tooth to die. Years ago, the only option for this type of dental problem was a tooth extraction. Now, thanks to the progress in dental technology, often your infection can be stopped with a topical medicine applied to the tooth. And where this is not successful, the tooth can be saved with a root canal.

If you're in need of root canal therapy, you may be having trouble eating or sleeping.  A toothache or sensitivity to hot or cold is common for those with infected pulp, and you may even have swelling or tenderness in the gums.

The best course of action is not to self-diagnose and don’t procrastinate.  Only a dentist can properly diagnose the pain and provide you with the appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an infection in your teeth, don't ignore them!  Our goal is to save your tooth rather than extract it, and with good reason.  Missing teeth can cause bite problems, shifting teeth and bone loss.  The vast majority of preventative treatment or root canal procedures are effective, and a successful procedure can help you keep that tooth for a long time.

If we can be of assistance or answer any of your questions, please give us a call or email us.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Thank you for all your referrals.  We truly appreciate them.

Information included is not dental or medical advice.  For your specific information

 be sure to consult your dentist.

Related articles

http://therightsmile.wordpress.com/2012/06/21/dentist-atlanta-how-much-does-a-root-canal-cost/

Dentist Dunwoody: Dental Implants 101

Dental Implants have changed the face of dentistry.  What used to be a difficult procedure is now the standard of care. As with most treatment procedures today, dental implants not only involve scientific discovery, research and understanding, but also application in a practical sense.[1]  The practice of implant dentistry requires expertise in planning, surgery and tooth restoration.  The role of a prosthodontist as the ‘quarterback’ in the process is as much about their art and experience as it is about their post graduate training.

The dental implant is actually a replacement for the root or roots of a missing tooth. And like tooth roots, dental implants are secured in the jawbone in a process known as osseo-integration.  Hidden beneath the gum-line, they are used to secure crowns (the parts of teeth seen in the mouth), bridgework or dentures by a various design means. They are made of titanium, which is lightweight and strong, but most importantly, they are bio-compatible, which means that it is not rejected by the body.[2]

Titanium’s special property of fusing to bone is the biological basis of dental implant success.  Placing dental implants stabilizes the existing jawbone.  Along with replacing lost teeth, implants help maintain the jawbone’s shape and density, ensuring your facial skeleton is also maintained. This means they also support indirectly, the soft tissue structures — gum tissues, cheeks and lips. Dental implants help you eat, chew, smile, talk and look completely natural, transitioning the patient to a well maintained physical appearance.[3]

So the final question is ‘are you a candidate for dental implants’?  If we can be of service please do not hesitate to contact us.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC                         

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A                                                   

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Thank you for all your referrals.  We truly appreciate them.

Information included is not dental or medical advice.  For your specific information

 be sure to consult your dentist.

Related articles

• Dentist Roswell: Success Rates of Dental Implants (therightsmile.wordpress.com)
• Dentist Sandy Springs: Steps In Dental Implant Treatment (therightsmile.wordpress.com)
• Dentist Vinings: How Much Do Dental Implants Cost? (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

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[1] International Congress of Oral Implantologists - http://www.dentalimplants.com/

[2] Ibid

[3] Ibid

East Cobb, GA: Dentist: New Directions in Oral Health Care

The hygienist plays an intricate role in your oral health care.  At a minimum the role includes periodontal disease evaluation, taking x-rays and a patient’s periodontal charting.  Traditionally, they engaged in cleaning and flossing the teeth under the theory that at healthy mouth was primarily necessary for the patient to keep their teeth.  While this is still the case,  discoveries in the last decade have uncovered the correlation between periodontal disease and other health related issues such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy related problems that assigns new priorities to the role of the hygienist and your dental visits.  These correlations have caused a new focus on evaluating a dental patient and new signals related to their overall health.   “The American Academy of Periodontology seeks to educate the public about research findings which support what dental professionals have long suspected: Infections in the mouth can play havoc elsewhere in the body. For a long time it was thought that bacteria was the factor that linked periodontal disease to other infections in the body; however, more recent research demonstrates that inflammation may link periodontal disease to other chronic conditions. Research has shown, and experts agree, that there is an association between periodontal diseases and other chronic inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, treating inflammation may not only help manage periodontal diseases but may also help with the management of other chronic inflammatory conditions.” [1]

The U.S. Surgeon General agrees that oral health is a strong indicator of one’s overall health and well-being.[2]  Often, diseases give their first warning signs in the form of a patient’s oral problems.  Without consistent care and monitoring, several oral health problems can result.  Immediate risks include gingivitis, cavities, tooth decay, and other gum diseases which can eventually result in various types oral cancer.  There is a “silent epidemic”[3] that can be avoided by regular treatment at home and dental visits at least twice each year.  While practicing good oral hygiene at home is vital to your health, there is only so much that personal oral maintenance can do.  A normal person can easily overlook conditions that could greatly complicate or even end one's life.  Thus, visiting your dentist for regular checkups is vital to a healthier smile.

"Routine dental exams uncover problems that can be easily treated in the early stages, when damage is minimal".[4]   Now that it is known that gum disease can be a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and certain forms of cancer, regular visits to your dentist can help prevent and treat this disease.  By treating conditions early and learning from your dentist how to prevent oral diseases, you can achieve better health and ultimately better quality years of life.

Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC

290 Carpenter Drive, 200A

Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328                                                                                            

404-256-3620

www.rightsmilecenter.com

info@rightsmilecenter.com

Serving residents in East Cobb, Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Buckhead and surrounding communities.

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• Dentist Sandy Springs - 4 Steps to Promoting Good Oral Health (therightsmile.wordpress.com)

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[1] (www.perio.org).

[2] (CDC, 2006).

[3] (U.S. Surgeon General).

[4] (American Dental Association [ADA], 2008).