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Dr. Lauren Parker shows a patient the CBCT of her teeth and jaws.

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The New Dentistry

Dental Design Studio Emphasizes Correlation Between Oral Health and Overall Health

At Dental Design Studio, Drs. Sara Spurlock and Jennifer Jenkins are dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of their patients. The practice emphasizes the correlation between oral health and overall health, which has transformed the way they think about dentistry and focused their approach to patient care.

“We are a comprehensive and functional oral medicine practice with a focus on rehabilitative and cosmetic dentistry,” explains Dr. Jenkins.

“We believe we are a good fit for patients of all ages who desire to be treated both individually and comprehensively. We offer solutions for existing problems and concerns, but also help our patients prevent future issues.”  

Many patients are unaware of the impact of sleep, airway health, diet, genetics, habits and proper care of their teeth at home (regular brushing, flossing, etc.) on tooth decay and gum disease. By educating patients on the root causes of common oral diseases, the practice empowers them to take an active role in their oral health and equips them with the tools to improve their health.”

“We know dentistry is not just treating and preventing oral disease but has a direct impact on improving overall health, quality and longevity of life, as well as a reduction in health care expenses,” explains Dr. Spurlock.

“We identify root causes and partner with patients to help prevent disease.”

Advancements in cutting-edge dental technology continue to enhance the quality of the care that they provide. The practice employs CBCT imaging and salivary diagnostics, which are powerful tools that enable assessing salivary gland function and enable more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

Innovations in digital scanning have improved communication with patients and labs, increasing efficiency and accuracy in restoration design. Additionally, digital milling and 3D printing allow for same-day restorative solutions, reducing chair time and minimizing disruptions to patients’ daily schedules.

“If you can see it, you can measure it, diagnose and treat it,” says Dr. Spurlock. “Technology improves our patients’ experiences as well, virtually eliminating the need for goopy impressions. The way we administer anesthesia is also greatly improved due to the technology we employ.”

In 2022, Dental Design Studio partnered with IMMY to expand the field of salivary diagnostics, offering a line of tests called Orapath that provide insight into the patients’ saliva and how it affects their oral and systemic disease. By 2024, the partnership grew to include OraProtek, a treatment targeted specifically to help prevent issues such as gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath. 

“We are dedicated to providing the best education and treatment for our patients to achieve oral health and improve their overall health. It is very rewarding to have patients tell us that their various systemic issues, such as joint pain or autoimmune issues, have become better with better oral health,” adds Dr. Jenkins.

 Dental Design Studio is the first office in Oklahoma to be certified in Guided Biofilm Therapy, an advanced air polishing system that effectively removes plaque. This innovative approach is significantly more effective than traditional polishing in cleaning teeth and reducing bacteria.

Even while utilizing the most cutting-edge technological advances, both dentists say that patient care remains at the core of their practice. The practice is supported by a team of 20 skilled professional women, each bringing unique expertise and dedication to exceptional care.

“We are so grateful to be able to spend our careers in this community, serving and giving back to the people that provide us with a sense of purpose and fulfillment,” Dr. Spurlock concludes.

“We are experts in not only making personal connections with our patients, but also in making connections with their oral and overall health. We know that when patients feel heard and valued, barriers are removed.  Our desire is to connect with patients so they can receive the individualized care they deserve.”  

Dental Design Studio

561 Merchant Dr, Norman, OK 73069

405.321.6166

NormanDentist.com

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