Patient Concerns
Patient Education
We find that patients are more comfortable when they know what to expect on each step of a proposed treatment. Dr. Sheppard takes the time to address your individual dental concerns and questions.
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 going well standard safety requirements. Our staff regularly attend safety seminars and are quite knowledgeable on the latest techniques.
Advanced Sterilization
We know that preventing the spread of infectious disease is critical and have spared no expense in meeting and exceeding all of the guidelines set by OSHA, the ADA, the CDC and the State of Oregon.
All of our instruments are autoclave sterilized between each patient. In many cases, we utilize hands-free devices that reduce contaminated surfaces. Additionally single use items are used whenever possible and discarded once done.
You can relax knowing that our highest priority is the safety and comfort of our patients.
Pre-medication
Patients with certain medical conditions (e.g. valvular heart conditions and artificial joints) may need to pre-medicate with antibiotics prior to certain treatments. We do this with your safety in mind. Please inform us if you have a condition that might require pre-medication.
Special Equipment
We strive to stay on the leading edge of dentistry techniques and equipment. In order to do this, we take a great deal of continuing education. We also utilize advanced equipment and procedures in our office. This includes:
Advanced Dental Implant Restoration
Dental Implants are a new alternative in tooth replacement. Dr. Sheppard has extensive experience in creating functional and aesthetic replacements for lost teeth.
Cosmetic Whitening
We offer whitening procedures to restore the youthful appearance of your smile.
Low Radiation Digital X-Rays
Digital X-Rays are taken with very low radiation. They require less time to process than traditional X-rays, use no harmful chemicals, and can be digitally enhanced or enlarged to aid the dentist in treatment planning.
Intraoral Camera
With an intraoral camera, we can help you better understand what is happening in your mouth. Using up-close imagery of your mouth on a computer screen, Dr. Sheppard can show you exactly what the problem is and better explain his recommendations.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin durable shells that can be used to correct crooked, stained or chipped teeth. Dr. Sheppard is an expert in this and other aesthetic dentistry procedures.