North Texas

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Creating Happy PatientsWith Expert CareModern Texas Dental Specialties: Firewheel Center & Texas Endodontics

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Creating Happy PatientsWith Expert CareModern Texas Dental Specialties: Firewheel Center & Texas Endodonticsby Tina Cauller

When your patient needs specialty care, a lot rides onyour choice of a specialist partner. Your patients’ oralhealth depends on the care your referral partner pro-

vides and their confidence in you will be impacted by their experi-ence. Your patients rely on you to base your referral choice on theproven assurance that they will receive the best possible care.Consequently, a trusted source of specialty care is one of the mostvaluable professional relationships you can cultivate.

A patient referred for specialty care may be concerned about theoutcome, fearful of the planned treatment, or worried about financ-ing, and may need relief from pain. The specialists at Modern TexasDental Specialties (MTDS) know that a whole host of different ele-ments must come together flawlessly in order to create a positivepatient experience, particularly under these circumstances. Withmore than 50 years of combined experience, this team appreciatesthe crucial importance of earning the trust of both you and yourpatient with every visit.

The multidisciplinary specialists who comprise Modern TexasDental Specialties are Dr. Maheeb Jaouni, Dr. Tariq Alsmadi, Dr. Rajiv Patel and Dr. Daniel Stewart. The practice servesendodontic and periodontic patients from more than 100 referringoffices around the Metroplex through its two locations in Carrolltonand North Garland.

As Dr. Alsmadi explains, “We intentionally designed our offices so

our patients could relax in a comfortable, family-oriented atmos-phere. We take time to explain each procedure, and answer anyquestions they may have. We show patients images on a large mon-itor to help them clearly understand their treatment and knowexactly what to expect. It’s human nature to be fearful of theunknown, so taking this time is very important.”

Texas Endodontics in Carrollton features three operatories and iscurrently being remodeled to include a spacious conference room.Firewheel Center in North Garland is a beautiful new facility withfive operatories, including a fully equipped surgical suite.

Knowing that the latest advanced equipment is available also helpsto put patients at ease. Dr. Jaouni notes, “Both of our locations areequipped with the latest surgical microscopes, which provide animportant complement to other imaging modalities and help usachieve the best surgical outcomes. These special microscopesemploy high magnification and fiber optic illumination to clearlyvisualize critical details and enable us to record digital video imagesof the affected tooth so any relevant findings can be documentedand shared with the referring dentist.”

Surgical endodontic treatment has shown significant increase in itssuccess rates when performed using a dental microscope, allowingprecision in performing the procedure with minimal root resection.The currently reported success rate in endodontic studies isreported to be around 90%. Preparing the retrograde canal and fill-

The multidisciplinary specialists who comprise Modern Texas Dental Specialists are pictured (from left): Dr. Rajiv Patel, Dr. Daniel Stewart, Dr. Maheeb Jaouni and Dr. Tariq Alsmadi.

ing with the aid of an ultrasonic tip to the depth of 3 to 4 mm withvisual aid of a micro-mirror allows the endodontist to visualize thecause of failure of the previous endodontic treatment (missedcanal, crack, extending fin, etc.). This microsurgical approach min-imizes trauma and enhances surgical results.

At Firewheel Center, diagnosis and treatment are enhanced by thelatest CBCT imaging technology, which helps ensure accurate sur-gical planning and optimal results. CBCT is a diagnostic imagingmodality that yields a highly precise three-dimensional image ofthe anatomy without distortion.

While variations in root canal anatomy are common, successfulendodontic treatment depends on the clinician’s ability to detectand visualize all root canals so that each canal can be thoroughlycleaned, shaped, and obturated. In research studies to evaluate theuse of CBCT in endodontics, board-certified endodontists per-formed better at detecting canals with high-resolution CBCTimages than with 2D radiographs. CBCT is also helpful for identi-fying lesions that have expanded into the maxillary sinus or findingmissed canals, as well as monitoring healing after treatment. Whiletwo-dimensional radiography is adequate in some cases, the inher-ent distortion and superimposition of anatomical structures in atwo-dimensional image often presents real challenges. There arespecific situations in which additional information about spatialrelationships facilitates a more accurate diagnosis and eliminatesguesswork in endodontic treatment.

The use of cone beam CT technology is indispensable in treatmentin complex dental implant cases. As Dr. Stewart explains, “WithCBCT, the restorative dentist and I can perform virtual implantplanning in three dimensions, assessing the available supporting

bone in the optimal implant positions. From this virtual implantplan, the need for osseous augmentation can be determined. Also,a surgical guide can be fabricated which allows me to placeimplants with precision. This simplifies treatment and eliminatesmany difficulties for the restorative dentist and ultimately resultsin an excellent dental implant supported restoration.”

In specific cases, the availability of both endodontic and periodon-tic expertise is invaluable. “I look forward to collaborating with myendodontist colleagues in providing comprehensive treatment fordental infection,” notes Dr. Stewart. “The source of dental infectionis often difficult to diagnose. Is it of primary endodontic or peri-odontal origin or a combination of the two? In these challengingdiagnostic cases, a referring dentist can send a patient to our office

Patients experience a friendly and helpful team whose goal isto make sure treatment goes smoothly from start to finish.

The microsurgical approach minimizes trauma and enhances surgical results.

knowing we are able to provide proper diagnosis and optimal treat-ment no matter the cause.”

Communication and collaboration are key factors in the efficient,comprehensive care provided by the doctors at MTDS. Dr. Jaouniexplains, “Our referring dentists are an integral part of the team,and our close collaboration makes it possible for us to have the bestpossible outcomes in each case. I work hand in hand with the refer-ring dentist to provide the highest standard of care. Teamwork andcollaboration with our referring partners also sustains a high levelof energy and enthusiasm, so our daily performance is at its peak.”

“We know from experience that compassion, communication andprofessionalism are also critical elements in creating a good patientexperience,” notes Dr. Patel. “We speak to our patients and ourteam members with respect, which helps to create a calm, soothingatmosphere and instills confidence in our care.”

The office is entirely paperless, making communication with refer-ring offices fast and convenient. This technology supports excellentcommunication with referring doctors regarding diagnosis, treat-ment, and follow up, although MTDS doctors are always open tophone or in-person consultation with referring offices when pre-ferred. For added convenience, patients have the option of provid-ing health information online prior to their appointment.

On arrival to the Center, patients are greeted by friendly staff, andfamily members can wait comfortably in the reception area while

enjoying cold drinks or coffee. During the procedure, patients canrelax while listening to music on headphones and have the optionof nitrous oxide sedation for added comfort if needed. When indi-cated, oral sedation is provided and in rare cases, intravenous seda-tion is used to ensure optimal patient comfort.

The doctors at MTDS are available for same day appointments totreat emergencies. Dr. Patel is a member of the InternationalAcademy of Dental Traumatology and collaborates with pediatricdentists to treat children as young as 7 who are referred to theCenter for treatment of traumatic dental injuries. The MTDS team

Bringing periodontics, endodontics and implant treatment all together in a single location is a unique convenience for boththe patient and the referring dentist.

The use of cone beam CT technology is indispensable in treatment for complex dental implant cases.

The surgical microscope employs high magnification andfiber optic illumination to clearly visualize critical details.

is adept at making patients of all ages feel relaxed and comfortable,whether their treatment is emergent or routine.

Dr. Stewart provides periodontic care including perio maintenance,bone and soft tissue grafting, dental implants, and cosmetic peri-odontic surgery at Firewheel Center. He is one of only a few peri-odontists to complete the University of Texas Health ScienceCenter Dental Branch Preceptorship in Dental Implantology andthe surgical curriculum of the Misch Implant Institute, whichincluded training in advanced bone grafting techniques.

Drs. Jaouni, Patel and Alsmadi provide endodontic care at both

locations. They are continually pursuing knowledge of the latestendodontic methods and materials to ensure pleasant, efficientcare and the best possible result for every patient, and collaboratewith other dental professionals on challenging or complex cases.

Bringing periodontics, endodontics and implant treatment alltogether in a single location is a unique convenience for both thepatient and the referring dentist. If, on evaluation, the examiningdoctor determines that a root canal is not a viable remedy for thepatient, the referring dentist does not have to make a second refer-ral, and treatment with extraction and a dental implant can proceedconveniently and efficiently. The MTDS team works with referring

offices to provide any level of support for dentalimplant treatment, and offers in-office training onimplant restoration if desired. As a result of thisimportant convenience and collaboration, patients’loyalty and trust in their primary dentist is rein-forced by a positive experience.

The doctors at Modern Texas Dental Specialtiesvalue the endorsement contained in every referral.At Modern Texas Dental Specialties, the conver-gence of expertise, technology, compassion, andcommitment help to ensure that every patient’sexperience positively reinforces loyalty to youroffice and confidence that you are dedicated to thehighest quality of care.

Diagnosis and treatment are enhanced by the latest CBCT imaging tech-nology which helps ensure accurate surgical planning and optimal results.

Communication and collaboration are key factors in the efficient,comprehensive care provided by the doctors at MTDS.

Texas Endodontics 2840 Keller Springs Rd. #703 Carrollton, TX 75006 (214) 483-3660Firewheel Center for Dental Specialties4170 Lavon Dr. #164 Garland, TX 75040 (972) 496-0164www.moderntexasdentalspecialties.com

Maheeb Jaouni, DDS, MS, received his Doctor ofDental Surgery degree at the University of Californiain San Francisco (UCSF). After graduating with hon-ors, Dr. Jaouni attended the University of MarylandBaltimore College of Dental Surgery (BCDS), the firstdental school in the world, where he completed athree-year Endodontic Post Graduate program.While in his endodontic residency program, Dr. Jaouni was recognized for clinical and research

excellence with numerous awards and distinctions including the Ponti Award forClinical Excellence and the The Sherryl Anne Award in endodontic research. Hespent time evaluating the efficacy of system antibiotics on localized endodonticinfections. He successfully defended his thesis, and went on to receive his certi-fication in endodontics as well as a Master of Science (MS) degree in Oral Biology.

In addition to working in private endodontic practice in North Dallas, Dr. Jaouni’sendodontic expertise has earned him Diplomate status from the American Boardof Endodontics. He was elected to membership in Phi Kappa Phi, an honorarypostgraduate fraternity. Dr. Jaouni maintains active membership in numerous pro-fessional associations. He stays up to date with the most current concepts of thepractice of endodontics with particular emphasis on pharmacology, 3D CT imagingand endodontic microsurgery.

In his spare time, Dr. Jaouni enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling,water sports, cycling and trying out new electronic gadgets. He and his beautifulwife Yvette have a newborn son who he enjoys spending time with.

Tariq Alsmadi, BDS, DMD, is an Ivy League gradu-ate from the University of Pennsylvania where hereceived his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree withhonors in 2003.

After deciding to focus on Endodontics, Dr. Alsmadienrolled at University of Nebraska Medical Center.Soon after he graduated, he was hired as anAssistant Professor in the same program he gradu-ated from. He has a passion for teaching perfect

Endodontics (Root Canal Treatment) and helping other dentists through challeng-ing cases.

During his residency, Dr. Alsmadi became interested in regenerative dentistry andconducted research investigating the role of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2)on the dental pulp cells. His ongoing research investigates materials that can pro-mote pulp (nerve) healing and regeneration. He is always educating himself inregenerative dentistry and latest research in Root Canal Treatment to provide thelatest and the best to his patients.

Dr. Alsmadi is an active member of the American Dental Association and theAmerican Association of Endodontics. He is a board-eligible endodontist. He wasawarded the UNMC Golden U for Excellence and was awarded for excellence asan educator.

Dr. Alsmadi is an active supporter of Boy Scouts of America and enjoys servinghis community. He and his wife Desiree have three children. The Alsmadi familyenjoys spending time together with outdoor activities and traveling.

Rajiv Patel, BDS, DDS, is a Board CertifiedEndodontist, the highest honor in endodonticsawarded by the American Board of Endodontics. Heis a proud Trojan who graduated from University ofSouthern California where he obtained his DDS(2003) and Certificate in Endodontics (2007). “Raj”has practiced in the Flower Mound and Denton areasince 2007.

Raj has practiced clinical dentistry for the last 18years following his receipt of Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 1995 and under-stands the importance of multi-disciplinary aspects of dentistry.

He graduated with honors and with an induction into Omicron Kappa Epsilon, thenational dental honor society. He practiced in Apple Valley, California 2003-2005.During his practice, he served as a part-time clinical instructor at USC, School ofDentistry in the Urgent Care Center where he trained dental students in the diag-nosis, management and treatment of patients in pain.

Raj is a member of the International Academy of Dental Traumatology and collaborates with pediatric dentists to treat children presenting with traumatic dentalinjuries.

Dr. Rajiv Patel has published clinical papers on topics in endodontics and has wonseveral awards for table clinic presentations at state and national levels. He is anactive member on several online endodontic forums. Raj is a fellow and foundingmember of The International Academy of Endodontics, in addition to being anactive member of various other specialist organizations.

Raj is married and is the father of two beautiful daughters. In his spare time, Rajenjoys spending time with his family and friends, dancing with his daughters, newage music, reading, entertaining and he plans to learn some golf.

Daniel M. Stewart, DDS, is committed to providingexcellence in a wide range of periodontal care andimplant dentistry.

Dr. Stewart graduated with his dental degree fromBaylor College of Dentistry here in Dallas and continuedhis formal education, completing a comprehensive two-year residency in periodontics at the University of NorthCarolina Dental School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Committed to continuing education, Dr. Stewart always keeps current with thelatest technology and techniques. He is one of only a few periodontists to completethe University of Texas Health Science Center Dental Branch Preceptorship inDental Implantology and the surgical curriculum of the Misch Implant Institute whichincluded advanced bone grafting.

Dr. Stewart was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. He has been married tohis high school sweetheart, Jeanann, for over 30 years. They have two grown chil-dren, Rebecca and Adam, and a son-in-law, Wade. He enjoys reading and listen-ing to music of many varieties, as well as attending concerts and plays. He alsoenjoys fly fishing, although not as often as he would like. Dr. Stewart and his wifelove to travel when time permits.

reprinted from NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY | www.northtexasdentistry.com