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Dentistry/Total Teeth Repair

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Question
 Let me make this as quick as possible.  I basically have let my teeth go to the point of no return!!  I believe that the multitude of root canals / re-root canals (for teeth previously repaired but never received crowns) / broken, cavity riddled front teeth needing repair / even need to have a bridge or implant placed where one molar was previously extracted (by an OMFS) will take way more time or money than I either have or am willing to give.  My question is this: Is it unheard of to go to an OMFS and request that all repairs be made at once, within possibly a surgical setting?, allowing my medical insurance to cover the majority of work plus keeping my down time (visit time) to a limited amount of time (since I have 2 children under the age of 2yrs old), am I crazy to even consider requesting something like this from anyone?  I have to minimize the time and money spent or I know in my heart of hearts I will never follow through.  I am soooo embarassed everytime I look at myself.  I am currently employed as a House Supervisor for a Level II trauma center and find that every day causes me more pain and/or self-esteem issue...Help?  Any suggestions are highly appreciated!! Sincerely, Shelly Braxton, RN

Answer
Dear Shelly:  Your words tell me that you are committed to LOSING all your teeth.  If this is true, then you will first want to go to your dentist, and tell him or her what you want.  We now are able to make impressions of your mouth BEFORE you remove your teeth.  The dentist or his lab tech will make your dentures based on your own tooth shape, size, positions and color (if you want to look like you did) or make them whiter, straighter, more attractive (if you want to show improvement).  Once the dentures are made, an appointment is made to remove your teeth and immediately place your dentures into your mouth.  Doing this, you will never have to be without teeth.  One visit for impressions.  Maybe a second for a fitting.  Only after your dentures are complete, should all your teeth be removed.  If I've gotten the wrong idea, please let me know by clarifying your wishes with a follow-up.  And good luck.  dd

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Howard Finnk, D.D.S., P.A., CEO

Expertise

I am a Family, Implant and Cosmetic dentist. I will answer questions on any aspect of dentistry and matters relating to the smile, gums, jaws and lower face. Member American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, Broward County Dental Association, and Atlantic Coast District Dental Association. I have served as District Council Member of Alpha Omega, as well as serving for one term as its President. I am also a member of The Vedder Honors Society, Broward Dental Research Clinic, and Mount Sinai Hospital Guild. I have served as a Volunteer for Project Dental Health and The Tri-County Dental Health Council.

Experience

Having attained over 30 years of clinical experience in private practice in Michigan, in 2001 I was re-certified by taking and passing the Florida State Dental Board Examination. After moving to Florida, I spent nearly 10 years re-honing my skills while working as an Associate Dentist for several large dental groups. In September, 2004, I was appointed Adjunct Clinical Professor at Nova University's College of Dental Medicine. I am certified in placement of Mini Dental Implants, and I am Director of The Florida Implant Center (floridaimplantcenter.com). On March 1, 2010, at the age of 62, I began all over again by buying a dental practice near my home in the Fort Lauderdale area. As sole owner and Chief Dental Officer of the new Nob Hill Dental Center (nobhilldentalcenter.com), I can now carefully provide dental care to patients who care, all within a caring, joyful environment. Over my career lifetime, I have provided thousands of diagnoses, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, periodontal treatments, TMJ therapies, partials, dentures and extractions, and dozens of implants for my patients. The only aspect of dentistry with which I have very little experience is orthodontics.

Organizations
American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, Broward County Dental Association, Atlantic Coast District Dental Society, Vedder Honors Society, Broward Dental Research Clinic, Alpha Omega Alumni Association, and American Association of Dental Implantologists. Formerly, American Academy of General Dentistry, Michigan Dental Association, Macomb Dental Society, Detroit District Dental Society, Tri-County Dental Health Council (a charitable dental care organization)

Publications
"How To Save Money At The Dentist" Going to press soon.

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Psychology from Wayne State University Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of Detroit College of Dentistry Adjunct Clinical Professor, Special Needs Department, Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Awards and Honors
Membership in The Vedder Honors Society

Past/Present Clients
HIPAA rules do not allow me to post this information.

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