Welcome To Our News Blog
Our goal is to provide helpful and informative articles related to quality dental care.
COVID-19 Dental Check-In Process
Learn some of the ways Dr. Powell, Dr. Hanigofsky, and the Hickory Dentist team are protecting you from COVID-19 and other potentially harmful viruses in this video. Then, explore more of our safety protocols by clicking on the “COVID-19 Updates” link on our Home page or scroll down to our “How We Protect Our Patients” article posted on our News page. We look forward to seeing you soon!
5 Ways to Save on the Cost of Dental Care!
As we age, we often begin to plan for an increase in dental care expenses. However, with these tips, you can enjoy big oral health savings without compromising on quality. Discover these five ways you can love your smile at any age without breaking your healthcare budget!
Hickory Dentist Welcomes Dr. Jackson Hanigofsky
Hickory dentist, Dr. E. Dean Powell, is proud to announce Dr. Jackson Hanigofsky is joining his Viewmont practice family! Dr. Hanigofsky is excited about this opportunity to return to the area of his childhood and practice alongside his long-time mentor and friend. Gain access to more information about Dr. Hanigofsky and the steps that led to this greatly anticipated announcement in this personal interview with both dentists.
Can Stress or Anxiety Affect My Oral Health?
If you are experiencing heightened levels of stress and anxiety, such tension could be making more problems than you know for your teeth. You may already know these health concerns are commonly associated with a long list of diseases throughout the body, but what about your oral health? Discover what impact your emotional state may be having on your teeth and gums.
How COVID-19 Impacts Your Dental Appointment
After limiting dental appointments to emergency visits during the early stages of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Dr. E. Dean Powell is reopening his office in Hickory, North Carolina to elective procedures such as tooth cleanings, oral cancer screenings, and new patient initial exams in order to care for his patients’ oral health and wellness needs. But, will this ongoing community virus impact your appointment process? Find out what safety precautions will be taken to prevent the spread of illness.
What to Expect With Your Initial Exam at Hickory Dentist
What is an initial exam for new dental patients and why is it necessary? If you live in the Hickory or the surrounding area, you may schedule a free meet and greet consultation with Dr. Powell to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. However, an extensive initial exam will be required before any cleanings or procedures can be performed. Here is why this is great news for you!
Reduce Your Risk of Getting Sick
Use these measures to prevent contracting viruses, such as influenza, the Coronavirus (COVID-19), & strep throat:
Things to Avoid:
- Coming into close contact (less than six feet) with those outside of your home.
- Crowded venues.
- Shaking hands
- Touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Things to Do:
- Stay six feet away from individuals not living in your home.
- Remain at home whenever possible.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before touching food and drink items.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
- Wear a properly fitted face mask with a filter while in contact with the public to protect those around you as well as yourself against the spread of illness.
- Immediately wash or dispose of your face mask after returning home. Try not to place your mask on surfaces in the home or touch your nose or mouth while removing the mask. A designated hamper or closed lid trash can may be helpful to further contain the particle spread.
Please note:
Face masks when properly secured around the nose and mouth using multiple layers of cloth and a filter can reduce the spread of airborne pathogens when worn by those who have been infected before symptoms present and those who are currently experiencing symptoms.
Please follow the CDC recommendations for face mask materials and fit while in public to prevent unknowingly passing potentially harmful illnesses, such as COVID-19, to others who may be at high-risk of developing complications.
Please stay home whenever possible and unless it is unavoidable and follow the above safety precautions while in public. Visit the CDC website to learn how to make a mask at home with a filter to help contain the virus germs.
For Up-to-Date COVID-19
(Coronavirus) Information:
Visit the CDC Website
Preparing for School
This article offers helpful suggestions and questions to ask your dentist before sending your children back to school.
ADA Supports Vaping Regulations
The American Dental Association has joined 75 organizations in an effort aimed at regulating the vaping industry. Click on the image above to learn more.
Cannabis: Oral Health Effects
In this article on the American Dental Association’s website, the following oral health concerns were shown to be linked with the use of cannabis:
- Periodontal complications
- Xerostomia
- Leukoplakia
- Increased risk of both mouth and neck cancers
What You Need to Know About Oral Cancer
Learn who is most at risk and what you can do to prevent oral cancer by clicking on the image above.
The Link Between Periodontal Disease and Other Health Conditions
Click on the image above to check out this great article that highlights the connection between periodontal disease and other health concerns in the body.