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Your First Visits at our Office: Dr. Hart’s Comprehensive Approach to Your Dental Care

Dr. Olivia Hart’s Comprehensive Approach to New Patient Care: Emphasizing Precision and Holistic Health

Dr. Olivia Hart is dedicated to a meticulous approach to oral health grounded in biological dental care. For new patients, she prioritizes precision and comfort by adhering to the Slow Dentistry model, which focuses on thoroughness rather than speed.

Her effective diagnosis and treatment planning method involves an extensive review and analysis, which is crucial for long-term care and healing. To ensure that each patient receives personalized care, Dr. Hart established a three-phase examination process comprising two office visits. This process addresses symptoms and tackles the root causes of dental issues, emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall wellness.

The Three-Phased Comprehensive Examination with Two Office Visits: Developed Uniquely for New Patients 

Phase One: Advanced Diagnostic Data Collection — Patient’s First Visit in the Office

During the patient’s first office visit, we gather a wealth of health-related and diagnostic data by fusing cutting-edge technologies with active listening and meticulous attention to patient information about their medical and dental history, past and existing health and dental concerns, and their expectations from the visit and priorities regarding their dental care. 

This includes:

  • Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Imaging: This advanced 3D imaging provides a detailed view of the teeth, jawbone, and sinuses, helping to identify hidden problems such as infections, cysts, or bone loss that traditional X-rays may overlook.
  • Digital X-rays and Facial and Intraoral Photographs: Additional imaging helps document current restorations, the condition of gums and bone structure, patient bite, and facial features.
  • Comprehensive Medical and Dental History:  Patients provide vital information about past treatments and current issues, which Dr. Hart reviews to better understand their oral health in relation to systemic health conditions.
  • Slow Dentistry Principle Applied: By applying the Slow Dentistry principle, Dr. Hart recognizes that hastening diagnostic assessments can jeopardize accuracy. Instead, she takes the time to ensure that each patient receives a precise diagnosis, setting the stage for an appropriate treatment plan.

Phase Two: In-Depth Data Investigation —Virtual Treatment Planning and Preparation

Following data collection, Dr. Hart devotes time to reviewing and analyzing collected information. She performs a comprehensive investigation, which includes:

  • Methodological and Rigorous Examination of Diagnostic Data: Dr. Hart analyzes imaging results and medical histories to fully understand the patient’s oral and systemic health. She scrutinizes the CBCT images for potential hidden issues in teeth, their roots, and jawbone and assesses factors such as the airway and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that can contribute to dental problems.
  • Holistic Health Consideration: As a biological dentist, Dr. Hart evaluates immediate dental issues alongside their impact on overall health. She focuses on root causes rather than surface symptoms, ensuring treatments align with the patient’s wellness goals.
    This approach is essential for effectively addressing oral health problems while reducing the risk of future issues and the need for invasive procedures.
  • Slow Dentistry Principle Applied: Dr. Hart follows the Slow Dentistry principle by emphasizing precision and detail. She reviews each case and takes thorough notes before patient consultations, ensuring comprehensive preparation. This approach allows her to identify tailored treatment options while considering the patient’s overall health.

Phase Three: Well-Prepared Long Consultation — Patient’s Second Visit in the Office

In the second office visit, Dr. Hart conducts an in-person, 40 to 45-minute consultation, during which she discusses her findings with the patient. This consultation is crucial for her holistic approach:

  • Oral Examination: Building on her previous analyses, Dr. Hart conducts a detailed examination of the patient’s oral health, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, and bite issues and evaluating restorations.
  • Presentation of Findings: Dr. Hart presents a visual summary of the imaging results and diagnostic data, which helps patients understand their oral health status. 
  • Diagnosis and Treatment Recommendations: Dr. Hart delivers accurate diagnoses through careful examination and analysis. She explains the root causes of the patient’s condition and offers personalized, minimally invasive treatment options. Her plans target symptoms and underlying issues to promote long-term oral health and wellness.
  • Collaborative Discussion: The extended consultation allows new patients to have an in-depth conversation with Dr. Hart, where they can ask questions and explore treatment options for restoring and maintaining their oral health. This open dialogue ensures patients understand their treatment plans and feel their wishes and views are heard and incorporated into treatment planning, fostering trust and rapport between all involved.
    Dr. Hart strongly encourages new patients to bring their significant others to the long consultation with her, as their presence can help them better understand the patient’s oral health issues, treatment options, and the connection between oral and overall health.
  • Slow Dentistry Principle Applied: Slow Dentistry emphasizes meaningful interactions between the dentist and the patient. By spending quality time with each patient to develop highly customized and effective treatments to address symptoms and root causes, Dr. Hart helps them understand their diagnosis and available treatment options, empowering them to make informed health decisions.

A Holistic Approach to Dental Care: 

Dr. Hart’s three-phase examination process for new patients reflects her commitment to high standards of dental care. She avoids rushed procedures, focusing on uncovering underlying causes rather than just treating symptoms. Each step, from data collection to consultation, considers each patient’s unique biology.

Using advanced technologies, active listening, and holistic principles, Dr. Hart provides personalized care that fosters trust and collaboration. Her approach ensures patients receive effective treatment grounded in science and a commitment to their overall well-being.

Schedule your new patient exam with Dr. Olivia Hart at Virginia Biological Dentistry in Glen Allen, VA, for a holistic approach to your dental needs. Call (804) 381-6238 for personalized care focused on long-term health.