....What about some other adjuncts to help
brighten and dazzle? We adorn ourselves with gold, silver,
and diamonds, so why not do the same for our teeth? Two
ingenious dental companies - Twindent SA and DecoDent
- have brought into the market some jewelry items for teeth.
These tooth gems are relatively easily affixed to the enamel
with bonding and create quite a sparkle! I have added this
to my practice, and it truly is a rewarding experience -
both for the patient and me. For the “Sweet 16” party, homecoming
dance, prom, or graduation gift, these little sparklers
are a fun option to offer. Not only are teenagers getting
into these gems, but patients of all ages. You never know
who would be interested in adorning their teeth unless you
ask them.
Bonding these tooth gems is easy. The dental
assistant can place them on any buccal or facial surface,
using a similar clear bonding material used with dental
sealants. The time and materials involved are minimal. Once
the crystal is attached, it usually is maintenance-free.
These adornments are very popular in Europe and are just
coming into the market in this country. Utilizing these
newer options may open a sparking marketing opportunity
for your practice.
We are always looking for a little niche or
manner to make our practice and our place in our practice
unique. Utilizing any of the above entry-level whitening
procedures or tooth gems are great ideas for internal and
external marketing. Not only for the young woman before
a special event, but for a special birthday celebration,
weddings, anniversaries, or just plain for fun.
Finding alternatives for our patients to enhance
their esthetic and self-esteem sense assists in improving
the marketability of our dental practices. With these other
options we may offer to our patients, we are able to outreach
to a wider variety of patients who may be on the verge of
a more elaborate treatment plan. Helping patients place
more interest in their dentition and more dazzle in their
smile are our primary concerns. The dental assistant is
integral in attaining these goals.
Dr. Sheri B. Doniger has been in private practice
of family and preventive dentistry for 20 years. She is
currently focusing on women’s health and well-being issues.
She can be contacted at (847) 677-1101 or
donigerdental@aol.com.
