You're In Good Hands With Dessa!

In our dental office Dr. Clark and Dessa, our Hygienist, work together to meet the oral needs of our patients. We've talked about the importance of team work for successful outcomes in our previous posts.  You are also a very important team member in this whole process. As we all work together we are confident you will be pleased with your results.

Dessa was born in Oregon, but raised in Alaska! She came back to Oregon as soon as she could. In 2002 she graduated from OIT in Klamath Falls with a Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene. She has been part of our team for six years and we love working with her!  She loves the Oregon outdoors. Hiking, camping and berry picking with her husband and daughter top the list of her favorite things to do.

Dessa's duties as a Dental Hygienist include but are not limited to:  

1. Listens to any concerns you have about your current oral health needs.
2. Evaluates your gums by assessing oral health conditions, reviews your medical history, head and neck inspection, dental charting.
3. Takes x-rays for Dr. Clark's exact diagnosis.  Click here for more information about our digital x-ray procedures.
4. Removes calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surface areas of your teeth.
5. Applies preventative materials to your teeth such as fluoride.
6. Teaches appropriate oral hygiene strategies that will bring you the best outcome for your personal needs.
7. Counsels patients about good nutrition and other techniques that can be done at home to achieve the desired results you are looking for.

There are many things that can go wrong with your gums and Dessa will be able to determine which cleaning methods will be the most effective for you. She can also help you learn how to keep your teeth clean at home.  There are more than brushing and flossing tools and techniques that you can use to keep your teeth clean. Dessa will be able to show you the tools that will work the best for you.  

There are a few things Dessa can do to make your visit more comfortable.  If you would prefer her to use a numbing jelly on your gums prior to your cleaning, simply ask her and she will be happy to provide that for you.  You can also ask for a blanket or a neck pillow to help you feel more comfortable.  She will make every effort to make your visit with us good one!

Scheduling regular cleanings and dental exams can save you a lot of time, pain and money.  With the technology available today it is much easier to diagnose problems in their early stages, which in turn saves you a lot.  Our goal is to help you stay healthy and happy!

Call us today to schedule your dental cleaning!  

We look forward to helping you!

(541) 451-1440 OR TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2

Alice & Nancy - A Dynamic Duo!

Last week we introduced you more in-depth to our office support staff.  This week we are turning the spotlight onto Alice and Nancy, our Dental Assistants.

Here is a little bit about Alice, our Head Assistant:

I started working for Dr. Clark when I was 19, as a Dental Assistant right out of College.  I have worked for Dr. Clark for 24 years now and I am now the Head Assistant and Clinic Coordinator.  I grew up in the Lebanon area went to Lebanon High, before going to LBCC for my Dental Assisting Certificate.   I have been happily married for 18 years, I have two wonderful children and as many animals as my husband will allow.

And now a little about Nancy:

I have lived in the Lebanon area for a long time and graduated from Lebanon High School in 1985.  I have worked for Dr. Clark off and on since 1989 after I graduated from LBCC with my Dental Assisting Certificate. I am married (19 1/2 yrs.) and have three children.  I enjoy spending time with my children, reading and sewing.

As we asked Alice about some advice they could share on the blog they offered some great tips to help prepare your child for their dental visits.  If you saw our Tuesday's Tip yesterday they shared with us your child's preparation happens even before they come in for their appointment. 

Here are 6 simple tips to make things go smoothly for you and your child:

1)    Please always say inspiring and comforting things to your child about an up and coming dental visit. A dental visit should be a good experience.

2)    Please do not tell them we are going to hurt them if they are being difficult at home.

3)    Please say things like when they do the filling there is going to be alot of water in your mouth but the assistant will suction it out for you.

4)    Never tease them about a shot or even mention it.

5)    Please let the child know they can make a list of questions to ask us about when they get here if they would like to, we will explain things to them.

6)    What you say to your child can make a good visit or a bad one.  Stay positive and things will go well.

We hope that you find these tips helpful in making your child's visit a positive one.  We know that going to the Dentist can be scary but with the proper help, attitude and reinforcement for you they will do just fine.  And don't forget to remind them of the treasure chest at the end of their visit!  That's the BEST part of all!

We look forward to helping you.  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give us a call!

Give us a call today to schedule your child's New Year Exam. 

We have limited time offers right now for all services done by Dr. Clark

so take advantage of those savings today!

Call today to schedule a FREE New Year Exam!

(541) 451-1440 or TEXT is at 541.6DC.DDS2

How Can We Help You?

Like every good team out there, each player or team member contributes to the overall benefit and success of the team.  When one team member is missing the results are not as positive as they could be.  That is how we feel about each team member on our dental office staff.

This month as we discuss each team member and explain their integral part in making our Dental Office the success it is, we hope you get to know us better.  We are so lucky to have great team members.  Each person in our office has been with us for a long time. This speaks volumes to the type of people they are; dedicated, loyal and a joy to be around.

Today we'd like to introduce you to Linda our Office Manager and Brenda our Office Support team member.  If you've been to our office then you've had a chance to meet Linda and Brenda but if you haven't here is a little bit about each of them.

I am married and have three grown children, eleven grandchildren and one great grandson.  I try to spend as much time as possible with my grandchildren/great grandchild as time has a way of slipping by so quickly.

I have worked for Dr. Clark 21 years and with his great time.  I started just filing charts and doing whatever was needed at the front desk and have worked my way up to Office Manager.  I have been Office Manager since June of 2003.  

I have enjoyed working for Dr. Clark and with his great team.  I enjoy learning new technology as it has changed so much in the last 10 years or so. Dr. Clark keeps abreast of the newest available technology and as he learns new things so does the rest of the staff. 

It is a great place to work. The entire office staff is great to work with and we have become family.  I enjoy coming to work each day.

Linda oversees our insurance billing and processing as well many day to day operations that keeps everything flowing smoothly.  Our Dental Practice benefits greatly due to her many talents. 

Brenda has worked for Dr. Clark for four years.  She makes a big difference for each team member by pinch hitting in so many different areas in the office.  The office couldn't run as efficiently as it does without all of the many things Brenda does for each one of us.

Brenda shares: My job is housekeeping and helping in the clinic or front office when needed.  I enjoy helping whoever needs my help.  I have lived in the Lebanon area for many years.

I am married and have four children and two grandchildren.

When you are surrounded by great people it's easy to enjoy your job.  A familiar expression when it comes to your work environment is that it's your "home away from home" and that is very true.  We spend a lot of time together, care about each other and do all that we can to make sure your time spent with us is a positive experience. 

We look forward to sharing more with you this month about each of our great team members.  We hope that as we share these things with you it will increase your confidence in our abilities to help provide you the dental care you need, and at the same time help you to feel comfortable when you come and visit us!

We look forward to getting to know you and help you. Never hesitate to ask us any questions.  We are here to answer your questions and provide you whatever assistance might be required.

Come on in and get to know us better!  

Call today to schedule a FREE New Year Exam!

(541) 451-1440 or TEXT is at 541.6DC.DDS2

How To Talk To Your Dentist

As we have mentioned in previous posts communication can make all the difference in any relationship, especially between you and your healthcare providers.  Dr. Clark makes every effort possible to help you understand your dental needs.  Each team member in our office also tries to effectively help you understand the instructions given during your visit and upon your exit.  But that doesn't mean we may have answered all of your questions.

Did you know that Dentists are often the first to detect more serious medical problems such as oral cancer?  Thorough examinations can expose other underlying health conditions that you may not be aware of and possibly even save your life.  Good dental care is so important; not only for your teeth but also for your overall well-being.

To make the most out of your dental visit here are five suggestions we would like to share:

1. Ask a friend or family member to come with you if you are nervous. Sometimes bringing someone familiar with you can help ease those nerves.
2. Bring a list of any questions or concerns you may have.  It’s easy to forget about important questions you have especially when you are nervous.  Your friend or family member can help you review your list to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything.
3. Bring a list of medications you have been prescribed along with the dosage amounts.  We also want to know about any supplements you may be taking.  There are certain medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure that can affect your oral health.  The more we know about you, the better you results will be.
4. Let Dr. Clark know about any pain or discomfort you are currently experiencing.  Do not skip this information for fear of possible problems or treatments needed.  We have found that early detection reduces pain, expense and time of treatment needed.  Dental techniques today are now advanced enough to significantly reduce the discomfort of treatments.  We can even reverse numbness sooner after your treatments.  It’s exciting to be a dentist with the technology available!
5. If there is something that has been explained that you are unclear about just ask.  So many times we fear asking for clarification or another explanation using simpler or more familiar words and that does no one any good.  Both parties need to understand in order for communication to be successful.  We want to make sure that you understand the instructions and explanations given.  That will ensure that your treatment plan will bring you the results you desire.

 We look forward to hearing from you soon!

(541) 451-1440 or TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2

What You Can Expect During Your First Visit

Over the past few posts we've been sharing important information to help you choose your dental care provider.  We've shared about Dr. Clark's extensive experience and background as well as introduced you to our team.  

Today we'd like to walk you through "What You Can Expect During Your First Visit" at our office.  Our office is easy to find.  Two blocks east of our office is the Super Wal-Mart.

We have parking in the front of the building and our office is located in the center right corner of the building.  Did you know we offer a mileage allowance for those of you who need to travel in from farther distances?  Ask our Office Manager Linda for details.

When you arrive at your scheduled appointment you will be greeted by Gayle, our receptionist extraordinaire!   (We shared a little bit about Gayle in our last blog post.)  You can read about her by clicking here.  She is wonderful to work with!  

You will be given some New Patient forms to fill out.  Click Here to print these forms out and bring to your appointment.  It will save a little extra time for you.  

Just as you want to get to know us better, we want to get to know you!  And that includes reviewing your complete medical history with you.  It is important we understand your health history so that we can make the best decisions while planning your treatment.

Once all of the forms are filled out and a quick picture is taken for your dental health record we will take you back for x-rays.  The wonderful part about the x-rays is that Dr. Clark uses 100% Digital x-rays in our dental practice.  Learn more about digital x-ray technology and benefits by clicking here. These provide Dr. Clark a more accurate diagnosis as well as the ability to share your x-rays with you via email or even hold a virtual consultation with a spouse or loved one to discuss your treatment plans.

After your x-rays you will be on your way to meet more of the staff during your initial exam. There is no need to be nervous because we are here to make your experience comfortable!  We have soft blankets and pillows available for you upon request as well.  We are all about comfort so don't be afraid to ask.

After Dr. Clark has had the opportunity to meet you, review your x-rays, medical records and finish the exam he will be able to provide you information to help you understand your condition and choose services that will fulfill your cosmetic and dental needs and wishes.   We have great financing options for any budget and Dr. Clark is willing to work with you at a pace that you are comfortable with.

So what are you waiting for? 

We can't wait to meet you!  

Give us a call now and schedule your New Patient Exam today.  If you are currently our patient and would like to share this information with your friends, family or co-workers we would be thrilled to meet with anyone you send our way.  And just as we have taken great care of you, we will take great care of them!

Call to schedule your appointment today!

(541) 451-1440

Meet Our Friendly Dental Team

In our last post we shared a little information about Dr. Clark and his valuable 32 years of knowledge and experience.  We hope you learned something new about him.  As talented as Dr. Clark is, he is the first to admit that he would be lost without us and appreciates the contributions we each make to your overall dental office experience and care.

Have you met us yet?  If not, let us introduce ourselves.  We pride ourselves in caring for our patients on an individual basis.  We promise to be kind and gentle at all times.  We will customize your total care to suit your specific needs, making your visit with us truly unique.  

Our office uses the latest technology, investing in state-of-the-art equipment, education, and training.  You can be assured of a comprehensive and pleasant experience.

Come visit us and let us put your worries to rest!

Top Left to Right:

Linda: Office Manager.  Linda is married and has 3 children and 11 grandchildren!  She has worked with Dr. Clark for 21 years.  She loves that Dr. Clark helps the staff stay abreast of the newest technology in dental care.  Staying educated allows the office team to provide you the very best dental care available.

Alice: Head Dental Assistant.  Alice started working for Dr. Clark when she was 19 as a Dental Assistant right out of college.  She has now been with him for 24 years!  Alice grew up in Lebanon, went to Lebanon High before going to LBCC for her Dental Assisting Certificate. She is married and has two children and as many animals as her husband will allow.

Nancy: Dental Assistant.   Nancy has lived in the area for a long time and graduated from Lebanon High School in 1985.  She has worked for Dr. Clark off and on since 1989 after graduating from LBCC with her Dental Assisting Certificate.  She is married and has three children.  She loves spending time with her children, reading and sewing.

Gayle:  Receptionist.  Gayle has worked for eight years with Dr. Clark and has been in the dental field for 37.  She likes working for a dentist that keeps up with the newer trends in dentistry.  Dr. Clark is always exploring new dental technology and that makes all the difference.  Gayle feels they are a caring and friendly staff.  Everyone cares about doing their best for every patient.  She is married with two children and two grand dogs.  

Bottom Left to Right:

Brenda:  Office Support.  Brenda has been with the team for five years.  She takes care of housekeeping and helps in the clinic or front office when needed.  She sincerely enjoys helping whomever needs her, a great team player!  She has lived in Lebanon for many years, is married with four children and two grandchildren.

Dessa:  Hygienist.  Dessa was born in Oregon but raised in Alaska.  She came back to Oregon as soon as he could.  She graduated in 2002 from OIT in Klamath Falls with a Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene.  She has enjoyed working for Dr. Clark for seven years.  She loves the Oregon outdoors: hiking, camping and berry picking with her husband and daughter.

As you can see, our staff fits together like a glove.  We work in harmony and have a great time together.  This cohesiveness is important in being able to offer you top of the line oral health care. We hope that if it has been awhile since you've seen us, you'll make an appointment for a FREE EXAM this month.  

If you are searching for a Dental Team for your dental care we invite you to come on in for a free consultation, tour and introduction to our team.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

(541) 451-1440 or TEXT us at 541.6DC.DDS2

Experience Makes All the Difference

Choosing a dentist is a very important decision. One that takes research, time and a confident feeling that your chosen provider will meet your needs.  We are thankful to those of you who have chosen our office to meet your oral health needs.  We strive to make each patient feel like "one of the family" and hope that you do feel comfortable with us.

If you are reading this blog for the first time and are perhaps searching for a Dentist, let us share a little about our office and our beliefs about dental health.

Dr. Dennis Clark sincerely appreciates his patients and puts his heart and soul into giving them the results they've always wanted. He and his team use the latest technology and techniques to provide the highest quality solutions for your dental health and to fulfill your cosmetic dreams. 

By utilizing digital x-rays, intraoral camera, Diagnodent cavity finder, high intensity light and magnification, Dr. Clark is able to apply his training and 32 years of experience to discover your needs and help you see and understand them. 

To protect your teeth and financial investment, you can take advantage of the latest in scientific evidence based preventive dental care available.

Our motto simply is Dentistry with a smile!

Dr. Clark has a contemporary, full service dental practice in Lebanon, Oregon that offers a wide range of dental procedures to fit your needs.  We emphasize comprehensive care including Laser Gum Therapy, Oral Surgery, Root Canal Treatment and Cosmetic Solutions such as Invisalign Wireless Braces, Snap On Smiles, Bleaching, Crowns, Bridges and Veneers as well as more common dentistry such as cleanings, fillings and crowns. We are committed to five star service and complete satisfaction of our clients.

Credentials

Dr. Clark graduated from Brigham Young University and UCSF Dental School.  He served our country as a Dentist in the US Air Force.  

Of course, he actively pursues better, more comfortable solutions to your needs through life-long continuing education.  

He speaks Spanish fluently and has been caring for the dental needs of Mid-valley residents since 1981.

If you or a friend are searching for the best dental care in town, please give us a call.  If you are a current patient of ours feel free to share this information with your loved ones.  The best referral is from someone that can speak first hand about their experience with our office.  Take moment to read what some of our patients have shared with us:

Read  our: Patient Testimonials 

We look forward to meeting new friends and want our current patients to know how much we appreciate your confidence in our team!  We are here to keep you healthy and happy and if share a joke or two along the way you might leave with an even bigger smile on your face!

Call us to schedule your

 FREE consultation today!

(541) 451-1440