Online Chat with Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS
July 21, 2011
Online Chat with Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS
Moderator: Today our guest is Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS. She is here to answer your questions about dental care, dentistry and other subjects. We have 30 minutes of time to chat today so be sure to get your questions in early. It looks like we are ready to go so we will go ahead and get started with the first question.
moderator: Can you introduce yourself and your practice to our readers?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: My name is Kerri Thompson. I am married to Bobby Thompson and we have 2 daughters: Reagan 4 1/2 and Norah 18 months I am a general dentist and I practice with Dr. Ron Barden at Barden & Thompson, LLC. We are located at 2518 W. 15th Avenue in the Village Professional Center. I see patients of all ages.
moderator: How long have your been practicing as a dentist and how long have you been in Emporia?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: I graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry in May 2005. I have been practicing dentistry in my hometown of Emporia since September 2005.
moderator: What should a person look for in choosing a dentist?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: Word of mouth is probably the best source of a referral. That being said, people have different ideas of what qualities are important to them. I believe that it is important to most people to find somebody who is patient and gentle, up-to-date on his or her skills, and with a caring & accomodating staff.
moderator: What are some of the most important things to do to take care of your teeth?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: One of the most important things you can do is to floss daily. Obviously, brushing at least twice a day is important but the toothbrush bristles are unable to get between your teeth to clean. In addition, diet should consist of low-sugar foods/beverages. Lastly, see your dentist for regular check-ups.
moderator: What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: Both a dentist and an orthodontist have completed 4 years of dental school. An orthodontist is a recognized specialty in which the doctor has successfully completed 2-3 years of a graduate program beyond dental school.
moderator: What do you think 4 out of 5 Dentist recommend?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: To floss!
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: To floss!
Moderator: I'm sorry that is incorrect. In 1971 4 out of 5 Dentist recommended Trident. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf_Jk1zLisg
moderator: What do you feel are some of the best products on the market to help with dental care at home?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: A toothpaste containing fluoride, and dental floss. If you have a dry mouth, Biotene is a great product to use. Sensodyne Pronamel works well for those with sensitive teeth.
moderator: What kind of programs are there to help with dental care and check ups for children?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: Medicaid and Healthwave for those who qualify. Also, the Jones Foundation does a great job of assisting those in need.
moderator: How often do you see a dentist?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: Twice a year for a cleaning and an exam. You should have your x-rays updated once a year.
moderator: Any other thoughts you would like to share?
Dr. Kerri Thompson, DDS: Many individuals are apprehensive or fearful of the dentist. Often times, this fear is based on bad experiences had as a child. Technology and techniques have improved dramatically. Preventative care is key (cleaning, exam, x-rays). Some of those dreaded procedures could easily be avoided by receiving routine care. If you are fortunate enough to have dental insurance, you might as well use it.
Moderator: Well that is all the time that we have today, on behalf of the Emporia Gazette and its readers I would like to thank Dr. Thompson for stopping by to take part in our chat today. To our readers be sure to stay cool and check back next week for another Online Chat with the Emporia Gazette.