Patient Education

We find that patients are more comfortable when they know what to expect on each step of a proposed treatment. Our office provides a number of brochures to help you understand conditions and treatment methods. Our goal is that you are completely informed concerning your condition and any treatment that will be performed.

Patient Safety

We adhere to the highest professional standards of cleanliness, sterilization, and radiation control. Our staff regularly attend safety seminars and are quite knowledgeable on the latest techniques.

Sterilization

We know that preventing the spread of infectious diseases such as AIDS, herpes, hepatitis and even the cold virus is critical. We use extensive sterilization procedures, going well beyond the guidelines recommended by the American Dental Association and Centers for Disease Control.

We use barrier techniques such as disposable masks and gloves and replace them with every new patient. Each piece of fixed operatory equipment is wiped-down with antibacterial solution prior to every clinical procedure. Sterile water delivery systems are utilized. We use autoclave sterilization for all instruments prior to dental examination and treatment. You can be assured that our staff have been specifically trained on sterilization procedures and their importance.

Pre-medication

Patients with certain medical conditions (e.g. valvular heart conditions and artificial joints) may be asked to pre-medicate with antibiotics prior to treatment. We do this with your safety in mind. Please inform us if you have a condition that might require pre-medication.

Post Treatment Instructions

After treatment, home care and medication instructions will be thoroughly explained. For your convenience, you will also be given printed instructions. Of course, we are always available for questions after treatment.

Patient Comfort

We go to extraordinary lengths to ensure our patients are as comfortable as possible during dental procedures. Please click here for more information on this topic.

In addition, for your convenience, we offer a selection of music provided through headphones for maximum comfort. 

Special Equipment

We strive to stay on the leading edge of periodontal techniques and equipment. In order to do this, we take a great deal of continuing education. We also utilize advanced equipment in our office. This includes:

Computerized Charting

Digital charting is a efficient means of tracking a patient's dental history. It also provides high-quality visual aids for patients to view changes in their dental health. Rather than relying on general charts and models, the periodontist can explain the diagnosis and treatment options using specific information.

Magnifier Loops

You have probably seen a Magnifier Loop in a jewelry store when the jeweler was closely examining a diamond. Dental Magnifier Loops are made for periodontists to view your teeth and gums in minute detail during periodontal procedures. Dr. Kohlhorst uses periodontal loops in many procedures to ensure more precise treatment.

Panoramic Radiography

Panoramic Radiography (Panorex) is an advanced full-mouth x-ray that allows a full "panoramic" view of your teeth. This type of x-ray is often necessary in the diagnosis of dental implant placement and comprehensive periodontal therapy.

Piezosurgical Osteotome

Pieziosurgery utilizes controlled three-dimensional ultrasonic vibration to precisely shape bone, but not soft tissues. This technique is ideal for delicate procedures, such as periodontal surgery, bone augmentation, sinus grafts and alveolar ridge augmentation. It allows for more precision, faster healing, and less invasion.