Chapter 2: Myths and Misconceptions | New York, NY

If you make a list of all your favorite things to do, chances are ‘visiting the dentist’ isn’t on that list. But in order to keep our smile healthy, we need to keep our dental appointments. For some, this task is more of an issue than most due to a condition called dental anxiety. Unfortunately, many of these fears lie within deeply held and unhealthy beliefs about oral health. In the book, Open Wider, Dr. Larry Rosenthal addresses and uproots these issues head on:

Dental visits are unpleasant. Have you been to a dental office lately? Big-screen TVs and aromatherapy are just a couple of the amenities there for you to relax and enjoy your dental experience.

Dental treatment is painful. Materials and bonding techniques are so advanced, patients are less aware that procedures are happening at all.

Teeth aren’t important features. Your teeth are not only responsible for your bite, but support the lower third of your face, affecting your overall appearance. You need to take care of all of your teeth.

Dental restorations last forever. Nothing lasts forever, and the better you care for them, the longer they’ll last.

Dentists aren’t doctors. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. They aren’t scary like the movies say – they’re just normal people like you and me.

Dental procedures take a long time. With today’s dental advancements, basic dental procedures can be done as quickly as a pedicure or haircut.

Bad breath is diet-based. There are a few reasons you may have bad breath. If it becomes a common occurrence, it could be a health issue, like acid reflux or medication you are taking.

To learn more about dental myths, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

Aesthetic Advantage has state of the art educational facilities that can help you take your career to the next level, call us at (212) 794.3552 for more information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter 1: The Renaissance of Dentistry | New York, NY

Actor Josh Duhamel was once asked if he had always wanted to be an actor. Surprisingly, the answer was no – he actually wanted to become a dentist. When asked why that was the original goal, he said it was because he was very creatively inclined, and his brother was a dentist. He thought he could use his artistic talents to create beautiful smiles, while keeping his mom proud her son was a doctor. He understood that dentistry isn’t solely based on medicine. Unfortunately, his grades weren’t all that great and eventually dropped out of Minot State University before entering dental school. The rest is history.

Dr. Rosenthal had the same ideas upon entering dental school, only to be hit with the technical curriculum of anatomy, labs and preclinical work. It wasn’t anything he expected dental college to be and got frustrated with the way the dentistry industry was. They failed to recognize that dentistry is a visual art. “It is an art informed by science and technology. It is an art that drives science and technology.”

Fast forward 13 years, and Dr. Rosenthal has revolutionized the way dentistry is taught and received. Think of it as a renaissance of sorts – a revival for dentistry and the beauty that can be created by these dental advancements.

Open Wider is a book that celebrates the world of dentistry and the beauty that is created within a patient’s mouth. You’ll find yourself becoming optimistic for your next dental visit and overall health going forward. Give your lifestyle the boost it’s been looking for and get yourself a copy of Open Wider today!

Aesthetic Advantage has state of the art educational facilities that can help you take your career to the next level, call us at (212) 794.3552 for more information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Twenty: Competence, Confidence, and Control | New York, NY

When a patient looks for a new dental professional, oftentimes they don’t exactly know what they are looking for. Each has a specific need and requirement but choosing the correct fit can be daunting and overwhelming. They all want to be taken care of properly, but because it is difficult to know if this is possible, they tend to choose the most confident dentist.

As a dental professional, it’s important to realize that we walk a fine line between confidence and cocky, so it is important to be up front and honest about your capabilities. Don’t mislead your patients into thinking you can do a certain procedure if you are unfamiliar. Claiming you are confident in things you haven’t experienced much of will only affect their experiences with you.

It is also important to be able to pivot, as no two patients are alike. There are always basics to follow, but not all smiles can be treated the same. Be able to change treatment options to suit the patient and be confident enough to tell a patient a certain treatment option isn’t the right one for them. If you aren’t the dental professional for them, tell them.

Patients need to feel a sense of control in a scary situation, so have the confidence to be able to present what you can confidently provide to your patients.

Let them be a part of the process. Tell them what to expect and answer any questions they have with certain facts and calming poise.

In addition, having a confident, capable staff is just as important as how you present yourself. Pick your dream team, make each other the best and give your patients an experience that will keep them coming back.

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s personal dream team, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

Aesthetic Advantage has state of the art educational facilities that can help you take your career to the next level, call us at (212) 794.3552 for more information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Nineteen: The Art of Endearment | New York, NY

When you think about success, you rarely think beyond the monetary edge to it. Success turns into materialistic things, and less about the internal successes one gains from working hard and becoming successful in their craft. Unfortunately, this ideology makes our successes not as fulfilling. So, what is success? Positivity. Not only within us but sharing this positivity to everyone in their world.

This chapter has been dedicated to the various ways you can gain a solid foundation to a rewarding life. Because if you aren’t happy, it is important that you figure out why. Many times, our focus is on the wrong things. According to Dr. Rosenthal, there are ten simple steps to gaining this internal knowledge that can not only keep yourself positive throughout life but will keep your relationships positive as well.

  • Control your own destiny
  • Pursue excellence
  • Be positive, no matter what
  • Be open to constructive criticism
  • Promote the other people in the room
  • Be as helpful as you can
  • Steer clear of negativity
  • Encourage people’s hopes and dreams
  • It’s about giving, not about getting
  • Point out the greatness in others

As you can see, gaining a rewarding life doesn’t have anything to do with objects or money – it has more to do with your own internal positivity and how you spread those good tidings to those around you. It’s basically the golden rule: Do unto other as you’d have them do unto you. It’s just that simple. “Attitude is a choice. I choose to be positive, respectful, excited about what I do, and constructive when giving feedback.”

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s keys to success, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

If you are interested in dental college courses, contact Aesthetic Advantage at 212-794-3552 to register today! Or visit www.aestheticadvantage.com for additional information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, North Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Eighteen: The Virtual Dentist

It almost feels like a scene in a movie – you now have the ability for technology to let health professionals know something is wrong with your remotely. It seems unbelievable, but sensors and “smart pills” have now come into play as an actual healthcare option. Imagine that? But how can we get it into our dental health needs? In this chapter, Dr. Rosenthal talks about the various ways dental technology is constantly monitoring in order to improve patient care, even remotely.

Telemedicine platforms. Let’s face it – the internet isn’t going anywhere. But one of the more brilliant uses of it are the communication systems developed in order to improve treatment plans. There is no I in team, so why not pull all of the resources available to give your patients the best treatment possible?

Digital interface. The ability to communicate with the laboratories creating their patient’s restorations not only improves the natural look of the patient’s teeth but can also make tracking these packages easier. Combine that with 3-D prosthetic development and we have the ideal product for our patient.

Mobile devices with video. Being able to video chat with your dentist when something is amiss is not only a benefit to the patient, but also for the doctor. It is an instant way to ease a patient’s fears and instruct aide until they can be seen live.

Crowdsourcing via citizen sensing and social media. Each one, teach one is a motto we should all believe in, especially with the development of the internet. We can now reach out to anyone who can help and that is a comforting thought. Sharing knowledge is key to progress. Together we are stronger.

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s personal dream team, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

Aesthetic Advantage has state of the art educational facilities that can help you take your career to the next level, call us at (212) 794.3552 for more information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Seventeen: The Aesthetic Consultation

When it’s time to get the smile you’ve always wanted, there are a few things you need to do. Because before anything can happen, you need a dental consultation. Not only will you both be able to sit with your dental professional to discuss what you’d like your smile to look like, but they will offer you various options that you qualify for based on your particular case. It also gives you time to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the procedures and what type of aftercare will follow. So, before you make your dental appointment, ask yourself these questions:

  • How would you describe what you want to achieve?
  • What are your goals? What would make you happy?
  • What’s really bothering you the most? Everything, really? Or just this tooth or that tooth?
  • If you had a magic wand, what would you change and how?

When it’s time to see the dentist, there are things you should keep in mind. The goal is to give you your best smile. It may not mean that you get your entire wish list, but you may not need your entire wish list. Make sure you have realistic expectations but can be flexible to what your dental professional is suggesting.

Once your treatment plan has been set and all of your concerns have been addressed, it’s time to put the plan into play. The important point of this chapter is to realize that a plan is necessary in order for things to run smoothly. Speak up about your needs and concerns – the more you know, the less anxious you’ll be once things get going.

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s personal dream team, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

If you are interested in dental college courses, contact Aesthetic Advantage at 212-794-3552 to register today! Or visit www.aestheticadvantage.com for additional information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, North Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Fifteen: The High-Tech Practice

For many people, thinking about going to the dentist leads to a bit of anxiety. The reasons behind it can vary, but for many it is the stigmas that really send chills down the spine. After all, dentists haven’t been presented to us in a kind fashion when it comes to the entertainment industry. In fact, a butcher or a barber are shown as similar occupations to the dentist, and this is what sticks in our memories. So, of course there is apprehension when it comes to keeping dental appointments.

The good news is that there really is nothing to fear about being in the dentist chair. Tons of advancements have been made to not only relax the patient, but to make a dental procedure practically painless. It’s true – what was once perceived as loud, painful drills and bleeding gums is now more assimilated to a day at the spa.

But that’s not all – the dental field has revolutionized the way we understand dental issues. We know how to improve bone growth and how periodontal bacteria attacks your gums the way they do. We have a new way to examine your mouth with 3D technology. Traditional x-rays are now a thing of the past. So, not only can our smiles be completely remade, but the process isn’t as extensive as you may be think it would be based on past experiences.

Oral surgeon Gary Ruth, DDS, sums it up nicely: “Dentistry is the only area of the medical professional that can replace missing body parts – tooth and jawbone – with something that’s stronger and better looking than the original.”

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s personal dream team, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

If you are interested in dental college courses, contact Aesthetic Advantage at 212-794-3552 to register today! Or visit www.aestheticadvantage.com for additional information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, North Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Fourteen: Wearable Art, Wearable Technology

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, dental professionals need to be creative when it comes to their patients’ treatment options. Thankfully, today’s technology has given license to do be innovative with the tools they use. In this chapter, Dr. Rosenthal discusses today’s “wearable technology”.

Braces. What was traditionally metal brackets and wire, braces have taken a huge leap. Now there are lingual braces and invisible aligners to move teeth to a desired position.

Crowns. The materials used to create restorations like crowns has advanced tremendously over the years to not only provide a stronger replacement, but to make them look as natural as possible by replacing the metal previously used.

Veneers. A perfect combination of ceramic and adhesive has allowed veneers to become a leading solution for many dental issues, making them much stronger and less invasive than a crown.

Implants. Implants have improved from the traditional version because they are now more durable and biologically compatible.

Bridges. When creating bridges, it is important to secure the ends, in order to reinforce it enough to handle the pressure needed. These anchors now come in a variety of fixed and removable options.

Mouth guards. It is important to protect your mouth when doing active sports. Today’s mouthguards now have accelerometer sensors and gyro sensors to track g-force and angular velocity.

Night guards. Patients that suffer from obstructive sleep apnea need help keeping their airway open while sleeping. Night guards now have devices that keep this area clear.

Cosmeceuticals. Cosmetic dermatology rounds out the wearable technology chapter, as the topical and injectable treatments have had major innovations made to tighten, smooth and fill in aging skin issues.

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s personal dream team, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

If you are interested in dental college courses, contact Aesthetic Advantage at 212-794-3552 to register today! Or visit www.aestheticadvantage.com for additional information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, North Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Thirteen: The Dream Team | New York, NY

In any situation, there will always be a leader and followers, but who are these followers they are leading? Leaders need their team and dentistry is no different. To become the best, you must surround yourself with the best, and with that comes gorgeous smiles on happy, thankful patients. Chapter thirteen takes a look at eight of Dr. Rosenthal’s “dream team” and how they are an integral part of his success…

Endodontist. An endodontist specializes in the roots of teeth, so all root canal work and diseases affecting the roots of the tooth fall into their lap.

Oral surgeon. When a patient needs a tooth extracted or some type of surgery to the face, it’s time to call in the oral surgeon.

Master ceramist. It is very commonplace for dental offices to send restoration work to a master ceramist in a lab to have cosmetic appliances created according to certain specifications.

Cosmetic or plastic surgeon. A cosmetic surgeon focuses their talents solely on face and neck issues a patient may have; a plastic surgeon who doesn’t have a particular focus.

Dermatologist. At times, a patient feels so downtrodden by their skin’s appearance, they begin to neglect their dental health as well. A dermatologist will improve the skin flaws a patient may have.

TMJ surgeon. Patients with sleeping issues have a whole separate specialist that works wonders with TMJ disorder and breathing issues.

Periodontist. Before any cosmetic work is done, a patient needs healthy gums. This is where a periodontist comes in.

Orthodontist. The orthodontist is called when a patient needs help with their “mouth posture”.

To learn more about Dr. Rosenthal’s personal dream team, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

If you are interested in dental college courses, contact Aesthetic Advantage at 212-794-3552 to register today! Or visit www.aestheticadvantage.com for additional information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, North Carolina and all surrounding areas.

Chapter Twelve: The Five-Star Experience | New York, NY

We all know that patients don’t want to visit the dentist. In fact, unless they have a toothache, a dental visit would be dodged at all costs. We know it’s necessary in order to maintain a healthy smile, so how do we entice them to keep those appointments regular? For Dr. Rosenthal, he and his staff provide their patients with the five-star treatment. What does that entail? Well, for Dr. Rosenthal, it’s a top-to-bottom experience with the patient centerstage.

Firstly, it is in the attitude. Dr. Rosenthal compiles a staff of people that not only provide fantastic patient care, but also go above and beyond what you would come to expect from a typical dental office. You will be interviewed about your needs and wants. You will have a thorough explanation of what to expect from your visit. You will be welcomed with a smile and an answer to any question or concern you may have.

Next, comes the amenities. A typical dental office is not what you’ll find here. In fact, it will remind you more of a five-star hotel room than a dental office. Would you like a cozy blanket or a lavender eye mask? How about lip balm or a cool beverage? Yes, these are the things you can come to expect from this top-notch dental office.

Dr. Rosenthal grew up with parents that instilled a strong sense of pride, passion kindness and respect. He has used their life lessons to give his patients the ultimate in dental care. We should all have this attitude about the work that we do.

To learn more about a trial smile, get your copy of Open Wider from Amazon.com today!

If you are interested in dental college courses, contact Aesthetic Advantage at 212-794-3552 to register today! Or visit www.aestheticadvantage.com for additional information.

Aesthetic Advantage proudly serves New York, Atlanta, Florida, Chicago, Pennsylvania, Boston, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, North Carolina and all surrounding areas.