Halloween will be here in a few weeks. Young children are especially susceptible to dental problems and the Halloween season finds them eating more sugary sweets. Young mouths become ideal breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, causing infections, fevers, stomach problems, in addition to the usual dental problems. During this period, brushing becomes for important than ever.

Brushing helps to dislodge food particles stuck between the teeth. It removes the bacteria and other germs growing in the mouth. It also massages the gums, keeping them healthy and clean. The brush you use is also important. Use a small headed, soft rounded bristle brush that can be easily handled. Change toothbrushes regularly (every 2-3 months or sooner based on your usage). Take your time when you brush, giving individual attention to each tooth, moving the position of the brush accordingly. Make certain not to brush too hard and use circular motions to clean the teeth. View a video on proper brushing techniques

Remember to be safe this Halloween. Have the kids wear reflective clothing, keep an eye on them and practice good oral hygiene.

This issue of The Dental Clinic Manager Newsletter covers:

• Dental School Events
  
• Patient Experiences
  
• Using Credit Cards to Pay for Dental Care

With each issue, you will also find links to pages which offer savings on hundreds of items, including dental products. The next issue will cover Finding the Best Dental Plans, Resolving Dental Complaints and How to Select a Dental Provider. So, let your family and friends know about the Dental Clinic Manager Newsletter by forwarding them a copy!

Wishing you well with your dental needs,
The Dental Clinic Manager

Dental School Events

If you are looking to participate as a volunteer in a dental research project, look no further. The Dental Clinic Manager has a newly created page which lists all of the current clinical trial studies from dental schools around the nation. In most cases, monetary compensation may also be offered. Be certain to bookmark the page, as events are listed as they are received and participation is limited. So check often and apply early to get such procedures as implants, perio treatment, teeth cleanings and free coupons as they become available. View events as advertised by Dental Schools around the nation.

Patient Experiences

If you are a current patient at a dental school and would like to share your experience (good or not so good), now you can do so. The Dental Clinic Manager has added a page just for people like you to share ideas and stories that will help others to get affordable care. Know of a particular study or community event? Share it. Know a great dental student who is very good with their hands? Share it. Have a great dental plan that is both affordable and offers extensive coverage? Share it. Let's help one another to get the best quality dental care at the most affordable prices. To share your stories, go here: Share Your Story

Using Credit Cards to Pay for Dental Care

Intense competition in the credit card industry has led to many credit providers offering such incentives as frequent flier points, gift certificates, cash back, low interest cards, or even 0% interest cards to attract customers. While low interest credit cards are usually limited to a fixed term, it is these types of cards that are a great resource for paying for dental treatment. Learn more here: Credit Cards

Featured Article

Are you considering becoming a dental school patient? Well, some dental schools my require an application that will be used as a "pre-screening" exam. Completion of the application does not guarantee acceptance as a patient. Dental x-rays and an examination may also follow. Keep in mind that there may often be fees charged to you for these procedures. Priority may be also given to those applicants with dental problems which fit the teaching programs of the dental school.

Upon your acceptance as a dental patient, you will be assigned to a dental student who contacts you and schedules your appointments. Some schools may have a policy where appointments are only made through a clinic receptionist.

Time requirements for being treated at a dental school are also known to be extensive. Your cooperation and understanding is necessary. You may need to make yourself available for morning or evening appointments and may sometimes need to wait a few weeks between treatment sessions. If you cannot devote the required amount of time, you should consider being treated at a private dental office.

Because of the rigid demands of dental student's time, many dental school clinics require advance notice if you need to reschedule an appointment. While notification policies may vary, in almost all cases, repeated lateness or missed appointments can possibly result in your termination of being treated at that facility.

Helpful Links

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