I love older dental patients. Now that I have a few clicks on my own odometer, I have a far greater appreciation for seniors than I did when I was a kid. In general, they are nice and polite. They have vast life experience, which they are only too happy to share with someone who is smart enough to listen. And they have a genuine appreciation for their teeth.
Today, I saw one of my senior dental patients, who I have been seeing for nearly 25 years. She has had quite a few health problems lately, including cancer and heart disease, not to mention a broken hip. I remember the jokes in dental school--and later--about similar patients who seemed to be in "God's waiting room." We were only supposed to "patch them up." (!) My patient today has some serious dental problems now as a result of her cancer treatment. She is a tough little thing and seems to be surviving against the odds.
Contrary to what some dentists might think, this patients does not want extractions and dentures. Nor does she want "patchwork" dentistry. The chemotherapy took it's toll and she has lost a few teeth. She may lose a few more. But she wants to save what she can and replace the missing ones with dental implants. In short, she wants the best. As we get older, and our recreation and entertainment options become more limited, eating what we like remains one of life's great pleasures. Being able to eat with your own teeth adds immeasurably to the enjoyment of our senior patients.
Lucky, the patient I saw today has the moral support of her family in taking care of her teeth.
Josh Bernstein, DDS
Josh Bernstein, DDS
Founder and President, Dental Comfort Academy
http://www.allnewsmiles.com
http://www.sanfranciscosedationdentist.com
http://www.comfortacademy.org
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1eTrwCfu5Y
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