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Want Whiter Teeth?

Greetings from the office of Dr. Jack Bodie!

Getting whiter teeth these days has never been easier. There are so many different products and techniques used to whiten teeth it has actually become confusing. Here is a brief description of the most common products available and some of the systems dentists are using to help you decide which is best for you.

OTC PRODUCTS

If you go to the pharmacy and head to the tooth care isle, you will find dozens of teeth whitening rinses, pastes, gels, strips and just about any type of applicator you can imagine to put these products on your teeth. They all contain hydrogen peroxide. These products work to varying degrees of success, but take much more time than professional products, and may not work well on dark teeth. Whitening toothpastes do very little whitening, but they do remove stains. Interestingly, we currently have a patient that has really white teeth that when asked how he got them so white said he has rinsed with hydrogen peroxide twice a day for the last ten years. This is probably the cheapest way to go if you don’t mind waiting a few years for the results!

PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS

New products only a dentist may use have made this process easier and more comfortable than ever before.   Tooth sensitivity, once a very big issue, can be virtually eliminated with the new tray products (although this is still an issue with one appointment whitening).

Basically, there are tray delivered products and one appointment products. The trays are custom made for the patient’s teeth and require several days of wear (usually10-14 days) before best results occur. One appointment whitening uses very strong hydrogen peroxide (35%) and is done in about 90 minutes in the dentist’s office. 

Which is best you say? Well, we think the tray system is the best because of the cost of one appointment whitening and the high incidence of tooth sensitivity with these stronger peroxides.  

If you have questions about teeth whitening or would like to schedule a free consultation appointment, please call 972-235-4767 or e-mail us at bodiestaff@drjackbodie.com. Ask about whitening discounts for new patients when scheduling a cleaning!

Offer Valid through April 30,2017

 

Best Regards,

Dr. Jack Bodie DDS

Dr Jack Bodie
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Greetings from the office of Dr. Jack Bodie!

You must admit that it is difficult to engage any media these days without seeing some reference or advertisement to financial planning for retirement. The reason for this is the vast number of people nearing retirement. In fact, Pew Research estimates that 6,200 baby boomers will retire each day for the next nineteen years! Wow! Looks like the golf courses and cruise ships will be packed for years to come!

And really, it’s a good thing to take a close look at your financial picture long before you retire. It’s just one of those things that are important to sacrifice a little now for what’s important later on. All it takes is a little planning! So what has that got to do with teeth you ask? Well, more on that in a minute, but first a little background.

Any dentist will tell you, that there is a storm waiting for all of us as we age with regard to our teeth and gums. It is a combination of age related circumstances that can devastate our teeth and gums as we enter our 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, and beyond. Some of things that affect our dental health as we age are:

  1. Normal wear and tear (think cracks, old fillings, chipping)
  2. Wear from grinding and clenching
  3. Medications that cause dry mouth in an age group with already compromised salivary flow (due to normal ageing)
  4. Decreased bone density due to ageing and a less effective immune system to defend against gum disease
  5. Decreased ability to keep teeth clean due to arthritis and other physical limitations

So, what can we do to weather the storm? Well, the key really is to prepare for it. This means getting everything in order before the storm hits. And if you think about it, what makes more sense than to shore up your dental health in your 40’s and 50’s, when you are more likely to be employed, more likely to have insurance, and more able to easily tolerate necessary procedures. You’ll also give yourself a much better chance of avoiding dental emergencies and losing teeth!

One thing you’ll have to decide for sure is how important it is to have a comfortable “teeth retirement”. A question we often ask our patients is how much dentistry do you want done in your retirement years? The correct answer is none! And with technology available today, this is entirely possible.

If you’d like to see what it would take to get you ready for the storm, of if you‘re already there, we can definitely help. With over thirty years of experience, a new high tech facility, and an incredible staff, we are prepared to help you with simplest, or even the most complicated solutions. Just tell us what you want and we’ll do everything we can to help you get it! Call us at 972 235 4767 or e-mail us at BodieStaff@DrJackBodie.com for an appointment today. Ask about our new patient discounted package. It’s a great deal and a great way to see what we have to offer!

Dr Jack Bodie
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Greetings from the Office of Dr. Jack Bodie!

You may have been to a dental office that looked great in advertisements, was convenient, or had a deal you couldn't refuse, but that turned out to be not such a good deal after all. Maybe you had to wait for long periods of time in the chair, had trouble getting numb, extended periods on sensitivity after treatment, or just did not get the results you expected. If this is true for you, you are not alone!

You might ask yourself "How can this happen?" Unfortunately, these results are all too common, and there is an explanation, albeit a complicated one. So please read on with patience!

The Offices

These offices, which are large group or corporately owned, have business plans that are revenue driven vs patient centered. These offices use experienced non-dentist managers to dictate treatment plans based on revenue generation, . Even the offices that do have dentists dictating treatment plans are heavily revenue/insurance driven, causing them to manipulate insurance codes, charge for procedures not done or for procedures more extensive than actually performed. Although these business practices are clearly unethical and illegal, there is little threat from authorities to prosecute.

These offices have expert marketing plans, beautifully decorated offices, sometimes lower fees, and well trained managers that can sell!

The Dentists

Over the last thirty years the cost of dental education has exploded. Most dental graduates have student loan balances in excess of $300,000, many as much as $500,000! These graduates cannot afford to buy a practice or start independently. This, in combination with too many dental school graduates, provides a steady supply of young, inexperienced dentists needing employment. Guess where they end up working? And typically, working for 25% of the revenue they generate usually in combination with a quota to reach their percentage. These dentists typically work at these clinics for short periods of time. This results in little to no continuity of care for the patients, and a revolving door of dentists with little concern over building long term relationships patients, or providing long lasting dentistry.

The Staffs

Because insurance driven practices must accept all fees (even the lowest), productivity must be high. This means crowded schedules and limited time for staff to spend time with patients. Dental cleanings are time limited, requiring staff to move patients more quickly through the office with obvious detriment to quality of services. Only senior level management are allowed to make policy, resulting in a disconnect between staff and patients. Staff at these offices have low pay, low moral, and little incentive please patients.

The Bottom Line

If you want great dentistry that lasts, you should find an experienced dentist you can trust. That always isn't easy. But there are ways to tell if you've found the right dentist. Look for some of the following: 1. An office that is friendly and courteous on the phone and when first meeting. 2. An office that gives you as much time as you want to explain what is important to you 3. An office where you see staff that looks and feels like they really enjoy working at the office (happy faces) 4. A doctor that listens to you 5. A doctor that gives you as much time as you want to discuss treatment alternatives or just sit and get to know us. 6. A doctor that will personally guarantee the quality and durability of his work

If you are interested in finding an office where honesty, happy faces, and great dentistry are the hallmarks, you should meet Dr. Bodie and the Staff. Try our new patient offer and get a regular cleaning, x-rays, flouride treatment, photos, examination and unlimited consultation time all for only $149. There is no commitment and second opinions are free. Check us out at DrJackBodie.com or call us at 972 235 4767. We can't wait to meet you!

Sincerely,

Dr. Jack Bodie and Staff

 

Dr Jack Bodie
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If you have any kind of swelling in your gum, it almost certainly indicates a serious infection that should be treated urgently.
 
Dental abscesses result from a bacterial infection in the teeth or gums. For example, it may come from an untreated cavity. Cavities result when some of the bacteria in our mouths mix with sugars and starches in our diet to produce acid.
This acid attacks the hard enamel coating of our teeth and, as the cavity gets deeper, it eventually infects the nerve and blood supply of the tooth.
 
In some cases, a dental abscess is caused by an infection of the gum. Bone loss from gum disease can create a pocket between the tooth, gum and bone.
When bacteria and other debris get into this pocket, an abscess can form.
 
The treatment for an abscess depends on how severe the infection is. If the abscess has been caused by decay, root canal treatment may be needed or the tooth may even have to be removed.
If the abscess has been caused by the gum, the gum will need deep cleaning or surgical treatment. Again the tooth may need to be removed.
Sometimes, a small incision may be made into the gum to drain the abscess. If this happens, antibiotics and pain medication may be used to relieve discomfort.
 
If you wait until the gum is severely swollen before seeking treatment, the situation can become very serious.
The abscess at this stage can prevent you breathing properly and can be life-threatenting.
 
So if you have any signs of swelling in your gum, contact your dentist immediately.
 
Posted by Dr. Jack Bodie at 5:24 PM 
Labels: Biomimetic Dentistry, Complex Restorative Care, Dentures,Endodontics, Invisalign Clear Braces, Oral Surgery, Periodontics, Sedation Dentistry, Senior Dental Care, TMJ Treatment
 

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Dr Jack Bodie
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Dear Community,

Our office has been a staple in the Richardson community for over 30 years. We would like to start off the new year and give back to the wonderful citizens, so if you have been looking for a new dental office we would love the opportunity to serve you. As a courtesy, we are offering 10% off restorative treatment pre-paid in the month of January. If there is something you have been thinking of doing, but have been putting it off, now is the time! Give us a call today to reserve your time and enjoy saving hundreds off your treatment!

Many thanks,
Dr.Bodie, Jaylyn, Amy, and Meredith

Dr Jack Bodie
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                     INVESTING IN HEALTH

 

Greetings from the office of Dr. Jack Bodie!

Investing your money in the stock markets has been a little scary recently. But there is one investment you can make now that may be the best place to put your money! Also, the year end is drawing near and it’s time to think about money left in medical savings accounts (MSA) and health savings accounts (HSA) and dental benefits for those with insurance. There may be no better investment than investing in keeping your teeth for a lifetime!

There are so many good reasons for using these resources to improve or maintain dental health. Here’s the short list:

General Heath – Dental Health Connection

Recent research confirms that a number of dental conditions (especially gum disease and tooth loss), are directly related to poor overall (systemic) health. This has been validated repeatedly by carefully controlled studies too numerous to list. Unfortunately, the medical community seems oblivious to this, since we seldom hear of medical doctors referring patients to a dentist for treatment of gum disease (it is simple to diagnose). The really scary part is that 90% of adults over 35 show some signs of gum disease!

Treatment Costs Increase with Time

Like most businesses, the cost of doing business increases as supplies, rent, etc., go up over time. Dentistry is no exception, and fees usually go up each year to cover costs. Additionally, delaying treatment usually results in more treatment or more complicated treatment being necessary.

Dental Insurance

Dental insurers offer a fixed amount of benefits each year (usually $1000.00). As an employee, you are paying for this benefit, and if you don’t use it, you don’t get what you are paying for. And although you get new benefits each year, the benefits you did not use are lost forever!

HSA’s and MSA’s

Health and Medical Savings Accounts are tax free accounts that can be used for dental treatment. MSA money goes back to your employer if it is not used. Don’t let this money go up in smoke!

Missing Teeth Affects Health of Seniors

This is another no brainer the medical community has ignored. Research findings are very clear that tooth loss is detrimental to aging people’s health. Do you want a full set of natural teeth as you age? Or would you rather worry about being able to eat well at this time of your life?

If you would like to make a sound investment in your health, investing in dental health could be the best investment you can make these days. If you have questions about how you can invest in your dental future or you would like to make an appointment, please call 972 235 4767 or e-mail BodieStaff@DrJack Bodie.com. We’ll make sure your investment is in excellence.

Best Regards,

Dr. Jack Bodie 

Dr Jack Bodie
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THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS HERE!

Season’s greetings from the office of Dr. Jack Bodie!

It’s no surprise that our culture celebrates the Holiday Season so fervently. We hear Christmas songs on the radio and see lights going up everywhere, even before Thanksgiving. Everywhere you look there are signs of the season, and it seems that people just can’t wait for it all to happen.

Most of us look forward to some time off, spending time with our families, and the festivities that go along with the gatherings and celebrations. It really is a wonderful time of year……… for most of us.

What I’m saying is this. There are many, many people that won’t be able to enjoy the Holiday Season this year due to the economy and the staggering number of jobless. Additionally, illness, disability, those without family or overseas causes much difficulty this time of year. And because charities and food banks are having donation/funding reductions, help can be difficult to find for those in need.

So what can be done about this you say? Well, just look around! Although there are countless charities that will be happy to take money, clothes, cars, food and other donations, some would just as well benefit from a little of your time. Even a small act of kindness to a friend or neighbor would help make this a better Holiday Season.

As a resident of Richardson for most of my life, I think donating locally makes a lot of sense because there are so many in need that are so close to home. One of the many local charities we support and volunteer for is Network of Community Ministries.

NETWORK of Community Ministries, Inc., (www.thenetwork.org), founded in 1985, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization supported by businesses, individuals, and a coalition of religious, civic and social organizations. NETWORK officially opened its doors on February 3, 1986.  It provides health and emergency services to children, low-income families, and senior citizens in need within RISD. The mission is “caring, coaching, and empowering our neighbors in need as they seek an improved quality of life.”

So, we encourage all of you to help those in need by the way of your choosing to make this Holiday Season a little better for all of us. If you would like to help NCM, contact them at http://www.thenetwork.org/ or 972 234 8880. If you’d like to make an appointment in our office, call 972 235 4767 or e-mail us at BodieStaff@DrJackBodie.com. We can make your smile and your Holiday Season brighter!

Dr Jack Bodie
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ENJOY GOOD DENTAL HEALTH IN SENIOR YEARS!

Greetings from the office of Dr. Jack Bodie!

As we boomers continue to “grow up”, we in the dental profession increasingly see many patients nearing retirement age. People are living longer and enjoying later years in life more so than any previous generation. Many things change as we age, and things in the mouth are no exception.

The good habits of effective daily brushing, proper diet, use of fluorides, and regular dental cleanings are extremely important in managing the changing conditions of aging. Reduced salivary flow is commonplace for those over 50, and may be reduced by as much as 50% without being noticed by the patient. Most medications taken by this same age group cause an additional reduction in salivary flow leading to damaging dry mouth conditions.

Some of the changes in the teeth and gums may include teeth that darken due to long-term exposure to staining foods and drinks. The gums may recede and uncover the roots of teeth. Exposed roots can be worn down or grooved at the gum line, and can be sensitive or prone to decay.

"Dry Mouth" may develop. And this is a very serious threat to teeth and gums. Saliva is the “lifeblood” of teeth and gums. Healthy salivary flow provides nutrients and protective substances to the teeth and gums. Although these changes may take place very slowly and may not be recognized, dry mouth can be devastating. Flow may also be reduced by medical disorders and medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers, high blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and others.

Plaque build-up associated with dry mouth can accelerate tooth decay and gum disease. Gum infection causes loss of bone support for the teeth and loss of teeth. Poorly-fitting or poorly-cleaned dentures, medical conditions (diabetes) and many medications increase the severity of the problem.

Fortunately, there are many simple, inexpensive, and extremely effective things that can be done to prevent dental problems associated with aging. The key to prevention of these conditions is regular dental care in our middle age years. Our office has had extensive training and experience in dealing with these issues. Many times, all that is necessary is a no fee consultation with your medical doctor.  

For more information regarding dental problems of the elderly or more importantly, ways to prevent them, please call our office at (972)235-4767 or email us at bodiestaff@drjackbodie.com today.

Best Regards,

Jack Bodie, D.D.S.

 

800 East Campbell Road Suite 180 

Richardson, Texas 75081

972-235-4767 (Phone)

www.drjackbodie.com

Dr Jack Bodie
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At Dr. Jack Bodie's office, one of our favorite things to do is give our patients the smile of their dreams. Whether you want a minimally invasive cosmetic upgrade like our patient pictured below, or full mouth reconstruction, Dr. Bodie loves to do it all. Give us a call today for all of your dental needs at (972) 235-4767.

 

Dr Jack Bodie
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Use ‘Em or Lose ‘Em: Top 5 Reasons to Take Advantage of Your Dental Insurance Benefits and Health Savings Accounts

Greetings from Jack Bodie, D.D.S.!

Ever feel like you funnel money into a dental insurance plan or a health savings account (HAS) that you’ll never see again? Don’t let these money savers become a black hole! Take advantage of all the benefits they offer – benefits you’re already paying for. Need a little motivation? Here are 5 very good reasons to use your benefits to the fullest!

  1. Yearly Maximums. Dental insurance plans put a maximum on the amount of money they’re willing to pay for your dental care. Maximums vary from one company or policy to the next, but typically fall around $1000-$1500. Sounds like a lot of money, doesn’t it? Allowing you to get regular dental care, these benefits can prevent the need for more serious (and more expensive) dental procedures down the road. Why not do yourself a favor and use ‘em, ensuring your mouth is in tip-top shape when next year rolls around?
  2. Premiums. You’re probably paying a monthly premium to keep your insurance. Even if you don’t need extensive treatment, you should use that money for regular check-ups and cleanings to prevent costly procedures in the future. Don’t throw your money away!
  3. Deductibles. Insurance companies typically expect you to pay a certain amount of money for your dental care each year – usually about half the annual benefit. If your smile isn’t in good shape, our office can create a treatment plan to put you back on track. Deductibles begin anew each year, so spreading out this care over more than 1 year will mean you have to pay more out-of-pocket.
  4. Inflation. It seems everything becomes more expensive from one year to the next, and dental expenses are no exception. Putting off necessary dental care could mean that you’ll have to pay more down the road.
  5. Dental Problems Escalate. If your pearly whites are anything but, they’re only going to get worse. That is, of course, unless you take advantage of your insurance/HSA benefits and tend to your teeth and gums. A little cavity that isn’t bothering you one year may become a major headache (and toothache!) the next.

If you haven't yet taken advantage of your dental insurance benefits or health savings account and would like to schedule an exam to verify everything is in order, call our office at (972)235-4767 or email us at bodiestaff@drjackbodie.com today. We’ll help you save $$$!

Best Regards,

Jack Bodie, D.D.S.