Good dentists take a personal interest in patients and their health. They are prevention-oriented but not faddists. They use x-ray films and probably suggest a full-mouth study unless suitable films are available from the patient's previous dentist.
A thorough dental examination includes inspection of the teeth, gums, tongue, lips, inside of the cheek, palate, and the skin of the face and neck, plus feeling the neck for abnormal lymph nodes and enlargement of the thyroid gland. In adults a periodontal probe should be inserted between the gums and teeth to detect abnormally large crevices. Good dentists also chart their findings in detail.
Regular check-ups can detect problems early. Routine tooth cleanings, bite evaluations, periodontal examinations, early interventions, and fluoride treatments can often avoid costly repairs. The frequency of maintenance care (including calculus removal and x-ray examinations) should be based on an assessment of the frequency of cavity formation, the rate of calculus formation, the condition of the gums, and any other special problem. Once current treatment has been completed, the patient should be placed on a recall schedule and notified when the next checkup is due.
High-quality dental work usually lasts a very long time, whereas low-quality work may fall out or decay out in a few years. The price of dental work is not the best way to judge quality; rather, pay attention to the time the dentist takes to do the work. High-quality dentistry cannot be done assembly-line style; it takes time and meticulous attention to detail.
Before embarking on treatment, get a clear understanding at your own level of what is to be done and what the outcome might be. Consider treatment options, because there may be more than one way to accomplish a goal. For example, a removable bridge, fixed bridge, or an implant may all be acceptable ways to replace a missing tooth; but they have different advantages, disadvantages, and cost.
Here at Alaska Premier Dental Group, we want to bring you the greatest dental experience you've ever had the opportunity to enjoy. Take time to read a little about our great dentists below!
| Alaska Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Brian Kruchoski | |
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"I graduated from Minnesota School of Dentistry in 1991. After college, I came to Alaska to practice dentistry. I began my career with the US Public Health Service, later contracting with Southcentral Foundation Dental Clinic and the Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center. I also worked as a contract dentist for the Prevention Associates of Alaska, traveling to small villages in rural Alaska to provide care for children under five years of age. It was in 1997, however, that I found my final dental 'home' with Alaska Premier Dental Group at GentleCare. I am honored to work among some of the finest people in the dental field." |
| Alaska Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Baggette | |
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"In 1993, I graduated from Temple School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In my early career as a dentist, I worked for Indian Health Service in Bethel, Alaska and then at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage. In November 2000, a friend connected me with Alaska Premier Dental Group at GentleCare where I have been practicing ever since. I am truly grateful to work alongside such an incredible staff. I would have to say that there are two main things that I love about being a dentist: first, that I am able to help people in so many ways and second, that daily I am given the opportunity to create a smile that can literally change someone's life." |
| Alaska Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Skinner | |
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"I graduated from Temple University School of Dentistry in 2004. In 2003, I did an externship for the Indian Health Service in Bethel, AK. From 1907.337.0404, I lived in Kyushu, Japan where I became proficient in the Japanese language and grew to love both the people and their culture. I love dentistry and the opportunity it provides to serve in the community on a day to day basis. I also enjoy the close relationship I have with people and the privilege of utilizing my artistic talents to influence positive change in their lives. In my time away from teeth, gums and smiles, my favorite pastimes are spending time with my wife and two boys. We love the outdoor activities of Alaska - hunting, fishing, camping and playing in the snow. I also enjoy football, basketball, weight lifting and cheering for the underdogs in the NBA and NFL finals. I am privileged to work with the top professionals in the dental field and to associate myself with Alaska Premier Dental Group at GentleCare Dental Center." |
| Alaska Dr. Holder | |
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Originally from Texas, I started in dentistry when I was 13 as an assistant in my father's dental practice. I graduated from The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Dental Branch with honors in 1994. I Practiced in Texas until my husband finished his medical training. Upon completion of his fellowship, we moved to Wisconsin and I joined the Marshfield Dental Clinic. My family had a wonderful opportunity to move to Alaska in 2002. After working in another practice in Anchorage, I was given the wonderful opportunity to join Alaska Premier Dental Group at Gentle Care Dental Center and decided I should experience this unique and exciting practice. Aside from my work as a dentist, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Jeremy Gitomer, a kidney doctor, and our three children. As a family we love to go hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing. |
Alaska Premier Dental Group
6611 DeBarr Road Suite 200
Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone: 907.337.0404
Fax: 907.337.6086
Dr Brian Kruchoski, Dr Joseph Baggette, Dr Kendall Skinner and Dr. Holder - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry to the areas of Anchorage, Alaska.
© Copyright 2002 - 2008, Alaska Premier Dental Group Dr. Joseph Baggette Anchorage, all rights reserved.