Patient Education

Patient education is an important component of our practice. The more you know about oral health, the better equipped you’ll be to make wise dental care decisions. Our consultation services are always free. Below, you will find answers to questions our patient’s frequently ask, as well as links to reliable resources and easy-to-read articles about dental health. These will help you become aware of oral health issues and understand treatment options. Feel free to call our office with any other questions or concerns you may have.

FAQs

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Answers to FAQs

Why do I need a checkup every six months?

Dr. Latham and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend two checkups and cleanings every year. Using modern technology, we can detect areas of decay and hairline fractures before they're visible to the naked eye. DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection allows us to finds cavities in their earliest stages. We can then address the problem and reduce your potential for more extensive dental work. In addition, we always check for gum disease, which has been linked to stroke and heart attacks. With ViziLite, we screen for abnormal tissue, which may indicate oral cancer. Oral cancer is a deadly disease, but early detection increases the chance of survival by 80%. This is just one more way we protect our patients’ oral and overall health.

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What do you and your staff do to maintain a safe and sterilized environment?

Your safety is important to us, so we use disposable products as often as possible and sterilize reusable instruments in an autoclave. Every operatory is thoroughly cleaned between patients, and of course we use disposable gloves and masks during exams and treatment. We follow the strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). If you have any other questions about our safety and sterilization methods contact us. We’ll be happy to answer your questions.

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Do you refer patients to specialists?

While Dr. Latham is trained and equipped to handle most dental issues, when a specialist would better serve you, he will refer. We refer our patients only to trusted professional colleagues with whom we will work closely. For example, we would refer you to an oral surgeon to place a dental implant, but Dr. Latham will set the replacement tooth for that implant. If a referral is necessary, Dr. Latham will continue to monitor your treatment to ensure long-term oral health.

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I haven’t been to the dentists in years. Is your staff judgmental?

First of all, congratulations on your wise decision to prioritize oral healthcare. Your overall health, quality of life, and self-esteem are all dependent on a healthy mouth. We never judge or criticize our patients. Our goal is to help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, creating a plan of action, and helping you maintain oral health for the rest of your life.

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Will you care for my entire family?

Good habits begin in childhood and should continue throughout life. It would be our honor to care for you and your entire family. From young children to aging parents, every patient receives individualized treatment in our office. We strive to provide each patient with the tools to maintain optimal oral health.

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Call our Toledo, OH dental office today to reserve your personal consultation with Dr. Latham. Our conveniently located office serves Toledo, Sylvania, Ottawa Hills, and southern Michigan with comprehensive general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry that will keep your family smiling.

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