Ft Lauderdale Family, Cosmetic, and Sedation Dentistry Blog | Dr. Thomas O'Neil

A New Addition to Our Office!

2009-06-17T10:14:00.002-05:00

We want to introduce our newest addition to our office, Dr. Duarte. She is a graduate of Nova Dental School and our newest associate. She is very passionate about her profession and, in addition to her expertise in the dental field, fluent in Spanish. We will now have additional before and after work hours to accommodate our patients. We are very proud to welcome her to our dental team.

At Dr. O'Neil's office our team of Specialists and General Dentists want to make you feel at home and your mouth spectacular.

Written by: Tracie and Brandi

Dental Insurance

2009-05-19T12:05:00.002-05:00

For some people finding a new dentist can be a stressful process. One question often asked by new patients is “Do you accept my dental insurance?” Here at Dr. O’Neil’s office we understand the value of insurance benefits. We assist our patients in obtaining their maximum benefit allowance and we work with most dental insurance plans. We can take insurance information over the phone or in the office, it is the patients choice. We are always happy to assist our patients in any way to make their dental visits as simple and as painless as possible.

Stacy and Debbie

Same Day Treatment

2009-05-18T16:03:00.004-05:00

In todays economy everyone is experiencing tough times. All of us at Dr. O’Neil’s dental office are here to make your lives as easy as possible! That is why we are now offering same day treatment and financing options. We know that in these tough times your job is very important to you! You can now come to our office and possibly get all treatment done in the same visit, without having to take another day off from work! Please call our office to schedule an appointment at (954)-720-9570.

By: Kari and Gina

Pardon Our Dust!

2009-05-18T08:49:00.002-05:00

I would like to thank our patients who have been in recently. As you know, we are expanding our office. You have been most understanding and tolerant of our construction inconveniences and especially the noise. Sometimes we had to make you wait because one of our treatment rooms lost power, or a computer went down, or a wall had to be knocked down. We are trying our best to schedule around these inconveniences and keep things running smoothly. However, things don’t always go the way you want.

Nevertheless, we are excited about our expansion. We will be adding 4 more treatment rooms! Our Oral Surgeon and our Periodontist will be more accessible to you by not having to work around treatment room availability. We will also be able to schedule more in-office teeth whitening appointments and more exam and cleaning appointments.

In addition, we will be able to better accommodate our sedation patients, which has been growing rapidly. Those of you that have already experienced dental treatment with IV or Oral Sedation appreciate its value: little or no memory of the visit and less after treatment discomfort. Plus you get more treatment done each visit. We are also adding a new state-of-the-art sterilization room to keep up with instrument sterilization and organization. You may have seen some new faces at the front desk and in the treatment rooms as we are training new dental administrators and dental assistants in preparation of our continued growth. We strive to better serve you, our patients, and offer you the best possible dental treatment to fit your needs and your budget.
Written by
DR O’Neil

Is Chewing Gum Good For Your Teeth?

2009-04-30T17:04:00.002-05:00

It has been one of those old time myths that chewing gum is bad for your teeth. That is not true. Yep that’s right chewing gum is good for your teeth. If your about and about and don’t have time or access to a toothbrush or toothpaste, the next best alternative is gum. With the one reservation, and that is the sugar issue. If you only chew while the sugar lasts and then throw it away, you will get a sugar attack on the teeth and won’t see the benefits. But if you chew it for longer, it helps clean your teeth. For example, the gum mechanically cleans the surfaces of your teeth as you chew and secondly, possibly the most beneficial, is that it promotes saliva flow.

Saliva is great for several reasons. For one it has enzymes that digest carbohydrates, it has antibodies that fight tooth decay-causing bacteria. It also contains a buffer that neutralizes the acids that eat away at your teeth. In addition it also contains minerals that help rebuild parts of your teeth that have been attacked by decay acid. This repair process by your saliva is a very important part of fighting tooth decay. So, when your chewing your gum and stimulating flow of saliva, you will have all these good things happening in your mouth.

By: Brandee and Chelsi

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD)

2009-04-27T10:37:00.003-05:00

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) occur as a result of problems with the jaw, jaw joint, and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and moving the jaw. These disorders are often incorrectly called TMJ, for temporomandibular joint.

People with TMD can experienced severe pain and discomfort that can be temporary or last for many years. More women than men experience TMD and TMD is seen most commonly in people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Common symptoms of TMD include:

Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open you mouth wide
Limited ability to open the mouth very wide
Jaws that get "stuck" or "lock" in the open- or closed-mouth position
Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth (which may or may not be accompanied by pain)
A tired feeling in the face
Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite - as if the upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly
Swelling on the side of the face

Other common symptoms of TMD include toothaches, headaches, neck aches, dizziness, earaches, and hearing problems.

If you are experiencing any of the these symptoms, please contact Dr. O'Neil and he will conduct a careful patient history and clinical examination to determine the cause of your TMD symptom.

Written by: Tracie and Brandi

Tired of Going to the Dentist and Not Getting What You Want?

2009-04-15T09:17:00.004-05:00

Well good news! Here at Dr. O’neils office located in Tamarac, fl. we cater to you. Our focus is you.

We do not only give our patients what they want, but we also allow them to choose their treatment as they wish to proceed. We never push unwanted treatment and our insurance specialist will try her best to get your insurance to pay for services rendered. Dr. O’neil will provide you with the best treatment possible and the most economical way to get your oral health back into good and functional condition. Our dream team looks forward to treating you, your friends and family. Come visit our office and let us give you a tour of our comfortable and friendly practice.

Written by Bernadette Charles and Linette Wilson.

COMMUNICATORS

2009-04-02T10:50:00.005-05:00

If you have been in recently you may have noticed our new headsets. These are our new communicators. We can talk to and hear each other throughout the office. We are always doing our best as a team to improve the service we provide you. Ask any of us and we will be glad to show you at our centrally located office in Tamarac (Broward County).

BY Debbie and Stacy

High Technology at Dr. O'Neil's office

2009-03-17T11:27:00.002-05:00

The intraoralcamera is an innovation in dentistry that enables you to get a close up view of your mouth because it has a built in light source. The intraoral camera gives us easy to see video ans still pictures. We can give you a tour of your entire mouth, or we can zoom in on one tooth showing you cavities and gum disease, cracked teeth and broken fillings. After we have treated your condition, the intraoral camera can let you see up close your beautiful healthy teeth and gums. Come schedule your next dental appointment at Dr. Oneil's office and get a tour of your mouth.

Written by: Tracie and Brandi

2009-03-04T07:31:00.003-05:00

What’s your dental I.Q?

10 questions and answers you should know.

1.What’s a crown and why crowns are needed.
A crown covers and protects a tooth.

2. Are root canals painful?
A. No. Root canals are not painful; they are just like any other procedures; once you are numb, the whole procedure is painless.

3. Five reasons why you should not have your teeth extracted.
1. cosmetic reasons
2. shifting of the adjacent teeth
3. having to replace missing teeth in the future with implants,bridges,dentures or partial dentures
4. speech problems
5. It affects your chewing ability

4. Do I really need to get my teeth cleaned every 6mos
A. Yes! Having your teeth cleaned every 4 to 6 months help you maintain a healthy mouth and put your oral health in a proactive state.

5. Should I allow my insurance to dictate my treatment options?
No. Insurance company(s) can be confusing and usually cover lower quality work. It is great to use your insurance to its optimal potential but bare in mind that you should have total control of what you think is best for you.

6. Is it really necessary to have exam and check up x-rays done every 6mos.
Yes! Catching problems when they first start can be a jump start to preventing a serious of problems later down the road.

7. Is it really possible to have all treatment done in one visit
Yes! That is why we have sedation dentistry. It creates an amnesia effect where you really do not remember anything that happen the day of the appointment and you just then wake up with nothing but a beautiful smile.

8. How often should my denture be relined or is it really needed
A. Dentures should be relined as needed, and yes it is necessary because you should not have to deal with an “ill-fitting denture”.

9. Are digital x-rays better than standard x-rays
Yes! Digital X-rays are faster and safer. The radiation that is released is 80% less than standard X-rays; they can be e-mailed to the Dentist of your choice, therefore same you time from picking up your X-rays from dentist to dentist.

10. Is it really necessary to have intraoral pictures taken?
A. Intraoral photo is a great tool for both the dentist and the patient. It helps you as the patient to see what is wrong with your tooth and how together we are going to fix the problem. Also with this great technology, you can sit back, relax and trust your dentist.

written by linette and bernadette

Oral Cancer

2009-02-16T15:46:00.003-05:00

Early detection of oral cancer is huge. As with most serious, early detection is key to sucessful outcomes. Oral cancer is one of the most curable diseases if detected at an early stage. Every hour of every day, one American dies of oral cancer. The death rate for oral cancer in the United States is higher than cervical cancer. Hodgekin's disease, and cancer of the brain, liver, testes, kidnet, or ovary. More than 30,000 Americans will recieve an oral cancer diagnosis this year. In five years only 57% will still be alive. Twenty-seven percent of oral cancer victims do not use tobacco or alcohol and have no other lifestyle risk factors.

The Vizilite Plus exam, in combination with a regular visual examination, provides a comprehensive oral screening procedure for patients at increased risks for oral cancer. The vizilite Plus exam is quick, easy and painless and can also save your life. The Vizilite Plus will help diagnosis abnormal tissue that is not visible during a regular exam. Here at Dr. Thomas O'Neils office located in Tamarac, Florida we offer the Vizilite Plus examination.

By
Brandee and Chelsi

Patient Letter (This letter was published in PeopleTek by one of our patients)

2009-01-29T14:25:00.004-05:00

Dear Leaders,

Each month PeopleTek will recognize a leader that has demonstrated behavior that shines and should be emulated by others. By writing about these leaders, their style and approach I hope to provide ideas, tools, tips and techniques that you can use with your organizations and teams to assist in your success. I am sure there are many worthy candidates for this award and it would be impossible to write about them all. Enjoy the articles and please let us know what you think. The January 2009 award goes to Dr. Thomas O'Neil. (Dr.O'Neil has been my dentist for 3 years. The reasons for his selection for the first Successful Leader of the Month are:1) What his staff says 2.) What I witness when I visit his office.3. What other customers tell me.4. His results demonstrate all aspects of what a quality leader can be. In addition, it is not easy for a dentist to demonstrate effective leadership as they would be prone to "work in the business and not on the business" by getting pulled into the technical aspects of the job and not the leadership aspect. This is not the case with Dr. O'Neil and he and his team make it look easy. I was recently at his office for a new crown. Getting a crown is not the most pleasant experience between the expense and the discomfort. If you do require this procedure you'll want it to be done at Dr. O'Neil's office. It's actually pleasant and that is a tough act for a dental office! Dr. O'Neil's entire staff - and I mean all - greet you with a smile. They talk to you and make you feel at ease. I've never seen an attitude other than friendly by anyone - ever!!! The office is impeccably clean and modernly decorated. The waiting room while small, has a friendly, clean and appealing atmosphere with plenty of magazines to read. The receptionist offers a printed card providing several complimentary, comforting beverages. While you are in the chair they offer a diverse variety of music or movies to experience while you wait or are being worked on. The assistant nurses are empowered to do whatever it takes to ensure you are comfortable and they are always checking with you. The nurses are also empowered to do additional work that in some dental offices is only performed by the dentist. At first I was a little concerned by this, however, Dr. O'Neil has trained them so well that they perform these tasks flawlessly. This includes making the temporary crowns. This type of empowerment not only builds the skills and abilities of others it also engenders trust, loyalty, and confidence in his team. They all work as a team, communicating what is needed to ensure the customer is handled on time and gets premium treatment. For example, they call out each other's name and ask for help. The response is immediate with no complaining about having to assist a colleague. They update Dr. O'Neil as needed by direct communication in a very professional manner and tone. You can tell it is one office with one goal - to service the patient. How many of our offices run like this? When your customer comes in are they treated as special? Do they see the different roles and responsibilities or is it transparent to the customer as it should be? Notice I've not said one thing about Dr. O'Neil. Why is this? It is because he runs a successful business. He has processes and allows his team to operate in the process. He doesn't have to take the lead role at all times. He creates and empowers leaders. This allows Dr. O'Neil and his team to service more patients and handle volume that builds revenue. In fact most of the time it is his team that leads and runs the office. This makes for great leadership as Dr. O'Neil sets the goals, delegates, trusts, communicates and rewards. I asked Dr. O'Neil if he trains his staff and he does all the time. This includes leadership, team and communication training seminars by a person that specializes in the dental industry. It was after 6:00 p.m. when we finished the temporary crown and I asked the nurse what time she started. She said 7:00a.m. I was truly impressed as you would have thought I was her first patient of the day. She said they are always busy, she loves what she does and times flies by. She walked me to the reception area, pulled up my file, and set up my next appointment. I didn't see Dr. O'Neil and won't until the next appointment which is exactly as planned and how it should be. At 8:30p.m. a call came to my home and it was Dr. O'Neil asking how I was feeling and following up on my well being. Customer follow-up is a tremendous trait for a leader! Congratulations to Dr. O'Neil for being our first Leader of the Month!

Sincerely,
Mike

Thank You Mike! From Tracie, Brandi and everyone here at Dr. O'neil’s Office.

Dental Phobia

2008-12-15T13:22:00.001-05:00

Are you one of the many people suffering from dental phobia? I’m sure you’re thinking you’re the only person dealing with dental phobia, and the only one who feels this way. There are many people in the world who are utterly petrified at the very thought of seeing a dentist. Or have a specific fear, such as gagging, and needles. Or terrified of anything and everything that’s surrounding dentists, and teeth.
Whatever fears you may be facing always bear in mind you’re not alone. Someone else has been there before. By taking the initial step to schedule your appointment you have shown a huge amount of courage. Our team looks forward to treating your dental phobia as well as your dental problems. At our office located in Tamarac Florida, Dr. O’Neil offer 4 different levels of sedation to meet every patient needs. The greatest experience after a sedation patient is treated, is hearing the patient express how they feel about the sedation process and treatment that was done. We look forward to helping you get over your dental phobia.

Written by Linette Wilson, Bernadette Charles

2008-10-14T18:29:00.003-05:00

REDUCING THE COST FACTOR

“Everyone is looking for ways to reduce health care costs,” said Susan Karabin, DDS, and President of the American Academy of Periodontology. A new found study In the November2007 issue of the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) discovered that prevention of periodontal diseases may lead to savings on dental and medical care costs. Periodontal disease has been linked to systemic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
Japan examined the effect of periodontal diseases on dental and medical costs in 4,285 patients over a 3.5-year time span. The patient’s age groups range from ages of 40-59. Researchers found that cumulative health care costs over 3.5yrs were 21% higher for patients with severe periodontal disease than patients with no periodontal disease. Severe periodontal disease (periodontitis) involves bone loss and diminished attachment around the teeth. Because of the relationship between the mouth and the rest of the body, treating periodontal disease may be one simple way to decrease total health care costs. If caught early, periodontal diseases can be treated using simple non-surgical techniques which can restore your mouth to a healthy state. At Dr. O’Neil’s office we are always looking for ways to keep the cost down. Come vist our office located in Tamarac fl. The team looks forward to seeing you!
Written by Bernadette and Linette

THINK AHEAD...

2008-10-07T11:22:00.002-05:00

Educating patients on the link between oral and overall health can help save lives. The American Dental Association reports that some degree of gum disease affects 75% of adults over the age of thirty five and older. The cause for concern is more than three hundred species of bacteria that live in the mouth. These bacteria's left unaddressed can form colonies between the tooth and gum, leading to gingivitis, an inflamation of the gum and tissues. Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a chronic, low grade infection where the infected gums pull away from the teeth and form a growing pocket that allows the infection to spread. If remained unchecked, bacteria can eventually eat away the bone beneath the gums, loosening teeth and threatening tooth loss. Here at Dr. Thomas O'Neils office in Tamarac,every new patient recieves an extensive comprehensive examination which includes bone level measurements. Each patient recieves the best available treatment based on their individual needs.

By:
Brandee and Chelsi

2008-09-29T07:22:00.001-05:00

9/22/2008
NEW GUIDELINES FOR INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS

Infective Endocarditis is an inflammation of the heart caused by bacteria entered into the bloodstream. Many common dental procedures, like teeth cleanings can cause minor bleeding that allow oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream. For most patients these bacteria are harmless. In the past if you have had a medical history that includes a heart defect, prolapsed valve, rheumatic fever, Endocarditis, Heart surgery, or other problems, we needed to take special precautions to protect you by prescribing appropriate antibiotics for you to take before your dental procedure. In April 2007 the American Heart Association came out with new guidelines for pre-medicating before dental procedures. Please consult with Dr. O’Neil and your physician if you have had to pre-medicate in the past. If you have any concerns about your dental procedures, please let Dr. O’Neil in Tamarac, Florida know so we can protect you and keep your mouth healthy.

Written by: Tracie and Pam

DENTAL FLUOROSIS

2008-09-08T11:14:00.004-05:00

Many dentist consider dental fluorosis, strictly a cosmetic concern because its usually chalky streaks or splotches on one or more teeth. The NRC panel determined that 10% of kids living in communities where the drinking water is close to the EPA upper limit of safe exposure develop severe dental fluorosis; not only yellow and brown stains on their teeth but also pits in the enamel, increasing the risk of cavities. Rates of dental fluorosis appear to be on the rise. The CDC says the percentage of Americans between ages 6-19 with fluorosis jumped from 23% in the late 1980s to 32% today. To prevent severe dental fluorosis, the NRC panel advised the EPA to lower the amount of fluoride in drinking water.

Written by Linette Wilson and Bernadette Charles

Our Fear Eradication Plan

2008-08-21T06:11:00.002-05:00

Yesterday as I was walking down the hall in the dental office where I work as a bookkeeper, I noticed a patient in room 6. She had her feet comfortably propped up on a chair and was reading a magazine. Dr. O'neil had just finished some of her treatment and there she sat comfortable, out of pain and relaxed. She had been one of our most fearful sedation patients, now she comes in relaxed and ready. At Dr. O'Neil's office our goal is to eliminate not just reduce your anxiety about going to the dentist.
Come and visit us in Tamarac for the greatest comfort you will ever find at the dentist.

Written by: Tracie and Pam

New Blog By Gina and Kari

2008-08-11T12:06:00.003-05:00

"Don't let the short-term economy problem affect your long-term dental health!"

It doesn’t take a whole lot to keep people from going to the dentist these days.
Even if you have dental insurance it generally maxes out after a few thousand dollars.
With the economy uncertain and high prices, it is easy to put off taking care of your
teeth.
Instead of avoiding your dentist entirely, do yourself a favor and keep up with regular
preventive care. In the end you will save yourself pain and expense if you prevent
dental problems from even occurring in the first place.
So, at minimum get your teeth cleaned regularly and keep up on your xrays; a full set
typically every 3-5 years and bitewing xrays every 6 months or at least once a year!
And always be aware that Dr. O’Neil’s dental office in Tamarac, FL has many no interest
payments plans as well. So, call us at 954-720-9570 to schedule your complimentary
consultation now!

Written by Gina and Kari

Oral Health and your diet

2008-07-29T11:43:00.004-05:00

Just as you look to the food pyramid for your body's nourishment, the pyramid provides benefits for your overall oral health as well. As most people desire a healthy glow of white teeth, they need to be just as concerned about the internal structure of their teeth, too. An easy way to monitor such oral health is to regulate and alter your diet.
Eating foods from each of the five food groups is an important tip as it does not restrict you diet to a specific type of food that may contain too much sugars and acids. The best foods from the pyramids are fruits, vegetables, bread, dairy, fish, chicken, beans, and meat( American Dental Association). Snacking between meals should be kept at a minimum because of the amounts of the digestive acids that are released in your mouth after eating. According to the American Dental Association when eating a full meal, your saliva production increases allowing your mouth to be rinsed more thoroughly of these digestive acids. Good snack ideas that promote dental health consist mainly of vegetables and fruits or foods low in cholesterol, fat, and sodium. Drinking water after snaking is also a great plus!

Vegetarians should also be aware that by consuming meats and poultries their oral health may become endangered. If not substituted with other food sources, a vegetarian diet may lack calcium, vitamin D (important in bone formation and immune system health), proteins and other necessary nutrients. Such nutrients are even more important for young vegetarians ( children and teenagers) as they are still growing. One on a vegetarian diet can eat fruits, vegetables, and grains to made up for missing nutrients. Along with altering your diet, be sure to of course brush and floss at least two times a day!

Dr. O'Neil practices these guide lines as well for a good oral health.

By Tammy and Isabel

The Exciting Project of our Practice

2008-06-17T14:55:00.000-05:00

Since Dr. O’Neil is continuously striving on providing the best care for his patients, we are excited to announce the addition of our 3 treatment rooms. In the next 6 months we will have our new operatories with the latest technology for your comfort.
Therefore, we urge you not to put off treatment any longer for the sake of your dental health and your overall general health. We are located in Tamarac, FL. Please call us today for your complimentary exam and x-rays and don’t forget to ask us to take a tour of our new and improved dental office.

Bernie and Chelsi

WHITENING FOR LIFE !

2008-04-28T14:00:00.002-05:00

Yes! We do offer Whitening for Life! Mention this Blog and when you have Zoom Whitening or Home Whitening, we will include Whitening for Life! We look forward to seeing you at our office centrally located in Tamarac (Broward County). Our committed and exceptionally trained staff are here to serve you!

Stacy & Joclyn

Mending the spirit of the fearful patient

2008-04-25T09:30:00.005-05:00

A first time patient by the name of Ms. J---- comes to Dr. O’Neil’s office for a comprehensive exam and x-rays. Giving Ms. J---- her diagnosis She looked over at me and said “I can’t believe I have allowed my teeth to get so bad, I can’t afford to get the needed treatment, I am afraid of going to the dentist, I can’t handle sitting in a dental chair” I started to explain to Ms. J---- “I totally understand. I am more concerned about how to fix the problem now that I have you here. We can always give you something to relax you and it’s as simple as taking a pill,” We offer our patients treatment plan options, such as step-by-step dentistry and same day treatment to minimize your visits I said. You control the direction of your treatment” Dr. O’Neil’s Dream team is willing to go the extra step to get your dental health where it needs to be. Today can be your start to a new beginning. Come visit our office located in Tamarac, Fl.

Written by linette wilson

WHITEHALL TEAM TRAINING CAMP April 4-5, 2008

2008-04-15T19:57:00.006-05:00

Bernadette, our hygienist(3rd from the right) in the "hot seat".

Our practice recently attended the “Whitehall Management Team Training Camp” in Orlando, where we were enlightened and motivated by key speaker, Greg Stanley. During the training camp, Stanley placed several willing dental offices in what he called, “the hot seat” (where he and audience members would ask the teams questions about their practices). Through refreshing analogies and tried and true patient-care advice, we learned of their successes, expertise and experiences. As a team, we are excited to share what we learned with all patients and to continue with the practices already implemented by Dr. O’Neil in our Tamarac office. Thank you, Dr. O for this opportunity, we had a great time.
If you are a current patient, please remember to schedule your six month check up with Dr. O’Neil and your cleaning appointment with Bernadette, our hygienist. If you are a new patient, please call 954 720 9570 to schedule your complimentary, second opinion today.
P.S. We missed you, Christie

By Tammy

Dentistry at its best in 2008

2008-03-31T09:05:00.000-05:00

At Dr. O’Neil’s office located in Tamarac Florida, we continue to keep our patients looking and feeling their best. We offer the best patient care; giving our patients the wow factor as soon as you walk through the door.

Our team continues to receive the best education courses possible to give you the latest procedures in combination with the most effective equipment, materials, and labs. Our team is heading out to Orlando in April to attend a dental seminar, we always have a “wonderful” time and learn so much. We offer our patients four levels of sedation dentistry to meet every patients needs and wallet size. Also we will soon be adding a new treatment room to optimize your visit at our office. Come and experience dentistry at its best in the year 2008

Written by linette Wilson