Dentist in San Francisco

Dentist in San Francisco - An interview with Dr. Nammy Patel

Q.Tell us about yourself and your practice.

A. I was born in a village of 8 homes in India where the use of organic products was the norm. While living there, I grew up exposed to the Jain religion which believes that all resources have value. My parents would re-use almost everything. A sheet would become pillowcases before being turned into rags. At first I thought my parents were cheap, but as an adult I realize that they were making a socially conscious decision that was positive for the world. As a result of my childhood experiences, my dental practice is focused on offering an environmentally friendly alternative.

Our practice has 4 key concepts that make us green:

• Patient relationship: we create a partnership with our clients. So we  co-discover, diagnose and have a  treatment plan with our clients via education.

• Materials and equipment:  We use digital imaging, which means no toxic fixers or lead waste in the water. Digital charting means there is no paper use. We use OSHA-compliant natural cloth covers and bibs & Steam-based surgical sterilization vs. machines that use chemicals.

We do restorations and use materials that don't increase hormone levels. Ours is a mercury-free office, so no silver fillings are placed. Safe protocol is set-up for mercury filling removal. We  also use non toxic disinfectants, so there are no glutaraldehyde components. Our amalgam sequestration filter separates mercury during removal, which is safely removed yearly. We also prioritize and discuss silver mercury filling replacements. Our in-house CEREC® machine allows us to replace crowns, lessening discomfort and reducing the need for additional visits.

• Office design and administration : Green Dentistry offices are U.S. Green Building Council LEED Silver Certified. (LEED =Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Which means that  Five key areas of human and environmental health including  Sustainable site development,  Water savings,  Energy efficiency,  Materials selection are taken into account.

Our offices were designed to meet LEED Silver standards — no-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, FSC-certified (Forest Stewardship Council) wood, so there's no off-gassing. The air is HEPA-filtered, eliminating the stale, medical aroma. We use distilled water for all of our cleaning.

• Natural capitalism and the green business network: We work with organizations such as the Green Chamber of Commerce, Green America, Eco Dentistry Association, and other certifying organizations that connect green businesses and organizations to create an effective green corporate network structure. Services such as Dharma Merchants, New Resources Bank, The Green Office, also allow us to support other businesses with sustainable bottom lines and attract like-minded clients in the process.

Q.What are the main services you provide?

A. We offer all aspects of general dentistry. This includes metal-free and mercury-free restoration. Mercury vapor and dental infections can have a negative impact on overall health. Due to this concern, we focus on patient education and strive to remove mercury amalgam, silver fillings in a safe way. To accomplish this, we follow removal protocols based on recommendations of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) and other prominent biological and holistic dental organizations. Safe removal includes use of an Isolite or rubber dam, the option of pure oxygen and face barriers, and copious amount of water with suction.

After the mercury is removed, we restore the tooth with safe biocompatible materials. The mercury that is removed is isolated from our patients and staff and disposed of responsibly. In addition, we have installed a special water filters that separates the mercury, so it doesn't pollute the San Francisco Bay.

We also offer:

- Cosmetic dentistry:  from smile design to simple minimally invasive procedures are used to improve smiles.

- Invisalign: metal free technique used to align teeth

- Implants: A lost tooth or teeth can be replaced with dental implants. Dental implants are artificial teeth that are attached directly into your jaw

- Zoom Whitening: Bleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or discolored by food and age, or darkened as a result of injury. There are two ways to professionally bleach teeth in one visit.

Q. I really do not like visiting the dentist: is there anything you can do to help me relax?

A. Yes! We have a warm welcoming staff, warm shoulder wraps with aromatherapy, noise cancellation headphones with the latest movies and tv shows. The office is designed using fen shui principles for added support.

Q. How do one know when it is time for a check up?

A. You should visit your dentist twice a year. A lot of bacteria can brew and do not cause any pain. Also many auto immune conditions show in the mouth first like lupus erthymatosis.

Q. How can one decide on the type of toothbrush to use, with the vast array available on the market?

A. It's very simple, it does not matter as long as it's soft bristles. My personal favorite is Preserve because they are made from recycled yogurt cups.

Q. Which toothbrush is better, regular or electric?

A. Electric because its brushes your teeth at 30000 pulsations every minute. This removes more plaque than a standard toothbrush.

Q. What are the major causes for bad breath? 

A. Not brushing or scraping your tongue will cause bad breadth. You should do this everytime you brush. Periodontal or gum disease is the biggest cause of bad breath. Bacteria brew in the gums and produce odors.  

Q. How often one should brush and floss?

A. At least twice daily. Floss first, so you can brush the debris away.

Q. How often one should have dental exam and clean?

A. Twice a year, because bacteria grows rapidly without any signs. Also, your health changes which influences bacterial growth. Stress will lower your immunity and cause bacteria to grow very rapidly. 

Get to love your dentist!