While talk show hosts and fans are making much ado about Kanye West’s new diamond grill, Dr. Zelda Pittman is busy advocating for her patients to achieve the highest level of dental health possible. Oral health is important to maintain a beautiful smile and essential to one’s quality of life.
“I consider myself an artist. When patients come in to my practice for a dental visit, I look at them with an artistic eye. I see what I can make better. I see what’s failing and what needs to be replaced,” shares the owner of the Grant Park Dental Group located in East Atlanta.
Bright, white teeth and gum health are crucial for a positive self-image and reflect an overall good health regimen. Dr. Pittman eliminates fears and misconceptions by educating patients about going to the dentist because Grant Park Dental Group believes that informed patients are better prepared to make decisions regarding their health and well-being.
1. Insurance is a good thing, but it doesn’t cover everything when you come to the dentist. Your insurance plan comes with a maximum yearly benefit, sometimes it’s $1,500 and sometimes it’s $200. You do not get to choose which services it will cover.
2. X-rays will not harm you. If you don’t get them, it may hinder your progress and diagnosis.
3. I don’t replace silver fillings because they are silver. All restorations at some point have to be replaced to prevent leakage.
4. Cosmetic dentistry is a wish list.
5. Medicaid recipients have until age 21 to receive major dental work. By age 21, Medicaid only covers exams and extractions. Cleanings are not covered.
Pittman offers one final word of advice, “When you are looking for a good dentist, go by referrals of people who have had a good experience with a dentist. Once you receive your treatment plan, it doesn’t hurt to go for a second opinion.” –yvette caslin
