Code of Practice = Standards of Practice

Why dental Standards of Practice are important and what do they mean to patients? Part II in this series on the Hungarian Code of Practice for Quality Patient Care.

In the last article introducing the Association of Leading Hungarian Dental Clinics, the Code of Practice was identified as a quality standard developed to focus on an emerging industry impacting global health and medical tourism. Patients traveling for extensive procedures such as implants, dentures, bridges, cosmetic restoration and periodontal treatment must feel confident their chosen dentist practices at the highest level possible.

Clinical standards of practice are introduced during the educational process of dentists and physicians. The standards and protocols are the basis of quality assurance indicating a commitment to excellence, ethics, and education. It is incumbent on dentists as they develop their practices to continue to hold these standards high in their commitment to patients and their peers. Ongoing commitment is represented by membership in organizations holding these standards and undergoing an accreditation process.

The Hungarian 12 Point Code of Practice mandates members abide by these standards. As a consumer, you can be assured this standard of practice includes the oversight necessary to ensure you are receiving the highest level of care maximizing optimal dental health. If you are considering dental tourism, does the dentist you are considering meet these standards? Are the dentists in a comprehensive group practice including specialists practicing at this higher level? Don’t be afraid to ask!

1. To provide the possible highest standard of remedy a team of specialized dentists is essential. The practice must employ a minimum of ten dentists/oral surgeons with a specialist diploma.

A group practice of this size can reduce error, facilitate increased diagnosis by what is referred to as a ‘curbside consult’, meaning peer review is readily available often at no cost unless their services are indicated - reducing patient expense and time – while simultaneously reducing patient morbidity. This scientific term simply means in complex medical procedures anesthetic time and open exposure of the oral cavity is lessened thereby reducing both risk of infection and improving healing Dentists with advanced credentials via education and licensing generally perform the number of procedures necessary to heighten skill.

2. For patient safety, practices must have at least 5 modern dental medical and operating units and prepare at least 1,500 units of aesthetic tooth replacements a year.

An office of this size ensures the financial commitment to capital equipment, technology and training. As noted above, volume and specialization are Center of Excellence mandates in the USA. Does the country you are considering for dental travel have the same standard?

3. Modern dental technology demands an adequate medical experience so practices must do a minimum of 1000 implants a year.

Dental implants are a precise procedure. Implant insertion including abutment and crown placement is considered invasive, that is, the tissue is opened exposing the patient for a period of time. In medicine and dentistry, qualified clinicians must have superb diagnostic skills, proceed efficiently and skillfully (to reduce risk of infection) and perform the requisite number of procedures to maintain their credentials. In the USA, the same standard board certifies the clinician.

4. Computer technology is vital for patient safety and satisfaction so practices must use cutting edge technology and pre-implantation surgery planning methods on a daily basis.

Computers to our world are essential. In dentistry, use of panoramic (OPG) x-rays and CT scans allow the dentist to more acutely diagnose bone health, thus receptivity to implants. All dental operating units and prosthetic labs must have access to patient information immediately and this technology is critical to contemporary and advanced patient care. Each work station must be fully equipped with monitors, software and include remote operation.

5. The quality of treatment depends on the quality of equipment; so all materials and instruments must be of the highest quality.

Science evolves quickly producing equipment that maximizes patient diagnosis. The practice must be committed to the investment necessary to treat patients who travel for their care. Materials should meet international standards with component details.

6. Practices must work within industry recognized protocols, including clinical governance and undergo regular internal clinical audits and assessment. This includes ongoing dental and hygienist clinical education and professional development courses.

Accreditation standards are equal to quality assurance. Skills and knowledge must be updated to learn the latest techniques. Scrutiny of office procedures including clinical and administrative at all operational levels is paramount to the oversight necessary to protect and maximize the patient care experience. This forces a healthy competitive edge necessary in science. Don’t you want the best for your health?

In the next article we will focus on 6 through 12 of the Hungarian Code of Practice. Kreativ Dental developed dental tourism and led the path to the formulation of these standards. They have an unsurpassed level of commitment to quality, their staff, their clinicians, and their patients. They are the Center of Excellence for dental care for the European Union. Affordability is important but quality is critical to your overall health and well being.

Dental Travel – Code of Practice

The growth in dental travel mandates oversight and regulation.

There are many reasons for seeking dental care outside of your region or country. Crowns, implants, bridges, dentures and root canals are those dental procedures most sought after because of their high cost and lack of insurance reimbursement. Dentists advertising themselves to potential patients across the internet should establish their credibility beyond an attractive and flashy website. Your evaluation process must be rigorous.

The competition for dental tourism patients continues to grow as more countries in the European Union and Asia enter the market. It has become a real challenge for the consumer to differentiate between quality, experience and affordability. Seeking a dentist away from home exceeds a simple price quote and a treatment plan. Remember – there are two dentists offices. There is the online clinic and the physical office where dentistry is actually conducted. How do you determine if the two match and where do you start? Quality can be deceiving and though there are a multitude of questions you should ask some basic queries will send you in the right direction. Transparency is key.

A mature and qualified dental practice participating in dental travel and receiving patients from many parts of the world has significant responsibility. In today’s global economy, medical and dental care that interfaces with patients from multiple countries should compete at the highest level. As a consumer, your dental options are many so evaluate and choose wisely.

Hungary is the Gold Standard
Hungary has long been considered an epicenter of dental training and practice for the European Union. As dental tourism rapidly grew, a formal group comprised of dentists and government officials was established who jointly identified a standard code of professional conduct and practice for dentists. The Association of Leading Hungarian Dental Clinics was established in the 1990’mandating a high standard of ethics and quality is paramount in leading to be best outcome for consumers. Think of this assembly as the Better Business Bureau with consumer rights and patient quality as the objective. Kreativ Dental, Budapest, is a founding member. Dental and laboratory procedures, clinicians and clinic operations oversight have been established in setting criteria for patient satisfaction and quality delivery of care. This style of peer review, or group oversight in following a basic Code of Practice assures the consumer the highest quality of medical and tourist visit.

Dental Fee Madness

Is dental care a basic health right? How can treatment plan fees be so astronomical?

I talked to two clients this week who were completely astounded with their pricing estimate on their dental treatment plan. Both were highly educated executives with international exposure and had excellent dental care throughout their life. Each client was healthy, maintained a good diet and exercise. One individiual was a UK ex-pat who had grown up in the National Health System in Great Britain and wondered what do people in the US do without a safety net. Medicaid has supported millions but those cuts loom on the horizon however even that benefit was primarily for the indigent. The middle class which is barely hanging on to that title generally has to pay cash and it is anyone's guess how dental care was prioritized during the recession. Patient #2 had premier dental insurance throughout his life, which proves even great dental care cannot deny genetics if your teeth are predisposed to failure, stress, accident or peridontal disease. Unfortunately, the needs each expressed included treatment of implants,crowns, dentures and / or bridges that regardless of dental insurance is barely covered - if at all. The fee estimates were astronomical and many poor families could finance their retirement on one alone. I know firsthand the overhead in medicine and dentistry in the US but there are complementary services such as in prosthetics where extreme profit margins are made. Economies of scale exist in dentistry just as they were discussed during the recent health care imbroglio. And yes, the insurance industry drastically needs reform.

The feeling and frustration each patient expressed going through this process was the total lack of empathy and understanding that was delivered along with the plan. The arrogance and ease of the dentists who felt more than comfortable their clients could pay and payment plans were not an option. Medicine cannot be an incentive based business.

The United States has made significant strides in oral and dental health over the last 50 years. Dental care, fluoride and the general fiscal improvement in society regardless of class has led to these advances. But, they are going to rapidly deteriorate until dental and medical health are seen as basic rights and made more affordable regardless of socioeconomic status.

Know that you have an alternative and it can be found in dental tourism. See kdana.com and the FAQ to help guide you. I have guided you in the past with your rights as a consumer. Know them. Practice them and negotiate. Your dentist needs you as much as you need them. And speak up - your dental health is paramount to those with chronic disease, longevity, and overall well being.

Dental Care on a Tight Budget

How can you empower yourself and your health when seeking dental care? A few negotiation tips can save you money, but you also have great options to really stretch your dollar as a dental traveler.

Dental care expenses should be scrutinized as part of your medical care profile. Planning for dental care can sometimes be an afterthought when dental health appears stable. Health care costs continue to escalate and we frequently feel vulnerable because our options are limited. Few insurance plans cover dental expenses and preventive, routine, or emergency care is necessarily paid out of pocket with cash or credit card because payment plans are rarely an option.

Cash Talks

As a direct paying consumer you yield a powerful tool when selecting your dental care provider so research and negotiate wisely. Fees may not be transparent and determine whether they are grouped together or unit priced – that is, per procedure. Always receive a written dental treatment plan if procedures are recommended. Don’t be afraid to negotiate a discount if you are paying cash but determine that upfront before any services are rendered.
If a consulting opinion is necessary with another specialist outside of the clinic where you are receiving care, your radiographic films should be made available digitally (to you or the specialist) to avoid duplication and additional X-ray exposure. Better yet, choose a dental group that includes all the specialists you may need. This business model of shared overhead should be reflected in their fees, technology, and quality.

What if the treatment plan price exceeds my budget?

Dental health can be precarious as we age and what do you do when the price tag exceeds your budget, especially in the case of higher ticket items such as implants, bridgework, crowns or root canals. Perhaps you are also finally considering a full cosmetic restoration with veneers or crowns for that smile you have always dreamed of. Today many people are choosing international travel for dental care and the field of dental tourism has grown significantly in the last 10 years. Cost savings of 50-70% including travel exist with the most popular countries being in Central Europe, Asia and south of the border. The majority of dental travelers choose Hungary which serves as the epicenter of dental education for all of Europe.

An important consideration when traveling for dental care requires a stay in another country with a different language, customs and currency; your confidence with the chosen clinic and dental staff is paramount. Selecting the highest quality dentist office requires careful research and due diligence in determining the best dental provider for you. Many countries do not have the same standards of the United States and Canada and you should understand what these differences are.
If you are considering travel as an option, where do you start? Your search should begin with the internet and there are a multitude of websites for many countries. Remember, the dental clinic website is the online office so look for a clean, crisp look with a comprehensive site map that includes answers to all your questions.

Finding a qualified dentist and clinic can be daunting but it is possible to have premium quality dental care and a holiday at the same time. It is important to do your homework and choose a clinic and dental agent who will answer all your questions to your satisfaction and be available throughout each step of the process. These are only a few of the considerations you should make if pursuing this path and quality of care should always be your guiding factor.

Smile Design - Aesthetic Dental Concept Previews New Smile!

Kreativ Dental Clinic, Budapest, Hungary announces the introduction of Smile Design, computer assisted smile visualization that is ideal when considering cosmetic aesthetic restorations, veneers, implants or other major dental work. Smile Design applies concepts of facial harmony to enhance the aesthetic design solution for patients, and allows collaboration with their clinician for a true dental experience. The dental specialist - whether the peridontist, prosthodontist, gnathologist, implantologist or aesthetic dentist - now has the capability to integrate smile options from a database of over 60,000 smiles that will help define the outcome especially during complex dental revisions. A photograph defining your facial contours is contrasted with the database to assist in identifying an outcome to assist with your decision making. If you are considering interventions to establish and restore your smile, choose a certified Smile Design specialist. Your smile can be rejuvenated and symmetry will be restored when the specialist integrates this highly advanced design concept in making recommendations to you. Choosing this enhancement option allows you in the decision making of your own treatment plan. Your smile is customized specifically during cases of deep bite or disadvantageous teeth exposure during smiling or speaking. Comprehensive consultation is required with a certified Smile Design specialist who will include all necessary specialists throughout your treatment. Choose quality, technologically advanced care at the Kreativ Dental Clinic, Budapest, Hungary. Kreativ Dental is the first Center of Excellence in Dental Care in Europe and North America. Check with Kreativ Dental Agency North America (kdana.com) and we will answer all your questions in this important procedure to help you with the smile you have always wanted and finally deserve.

Kreativ Dental Introduces 'The Wand'

I remain fascinated by the capital investment of Kreativ Dental Clinic, Budapest, Hungary. Kreativ continues to ensure their dentists have the latest technology that will provide a quality and comfortable dental experience for patients. Kreativ has just introduced The Wand, or CompuDent / STA system, computerized local anesthetic administration technology. Here is a little background. Have you ever heard of dentophobia? Wikipedia defines it as fear of dental care or dentistry. There is even a website devoted to dental fear, www.dentalfearcentral.org. Many who have this fear avoid dental care for years therefore subjecting their general health to diseases and problems associated with poor or limited dental care. There are many different types of dental fears and a predominant one is fear of needles. Typically, a dentist administers a topical anesthetic via an injection into the area where a procedure will be performed. Often, patients have not only a fear of the needle but also fear that an inadequate supply of anesthetic will result in pain, which then intensifies their anxiety. This common fearsome experience often stops patients from seeking dental care. The truth is, 99% of the time the pain is not from the needle rather rapid introduction of the medication. When The Wand is utilized, the instrument is held by the dentist just like a pen and the computer does the work. The Wand introduces the medication at a slow and steady pace reducing error or judgement in the flow of anesthetic. The Wand's comfortable administration also ensures a well controlled flow rate and pressure in 'difficult' areas like the palate where the tissue is less elastic. Kreativ's dental practitioners rave about this new technology and the investment in their most important asset - The Patient!

Dental Tour to Budapest, Hungary

Kreativ Dental Agency North America is leading a group tour to Budapest, Hungary to the world renowned Kreativ Dental Clinic. As your hosts, we will help facilitate your travel arrangements including air and hotel with our certified travel agency, coordinate your dental appointments with Kreativ, and be there with you in Budapest to help solve any problems you may have. We will also guide you in experiencing the joys and beauty of this famous city known as the Paris of the East. You can travel with the comfort and knowledge of our guidance to allay any fears or concerns you have. As a registered nurse, I am available to triage any problems you may have. This is a great opportunity to receive the quality dental care you deserve, at the cost savings necessary for your budget in these recessionary times. You will still save money even after paying for your trip. And, you will have access to the superior dental team who will design a smile for you that you can only imagine. Sign up now at info@kdana.com, or call us directly at 360/545-6622.