The Costs of Hospital Care due to Periapical Abscess

 

I'll keep this short because the info you really want is in the link.  Usually a periapical abscess is easy to diagnose in a dental office.  However, if a patient can't be seen by a dentist they often end up in the emergency room and then often in a hospital room.

As all of us know, hospital care is expensive, especially when compared to the costs in a dental office. 

Today's post is from a study titled "Hospital charges and length of stay due to periapical abscess, United States 2020-2022" from the Journal of the American Dental Association.  It contains some pretty interesting info.  Over the time of the study an average of 300 patients died in a hospital from periapical abscesses.  While that's a small number in the grand scheme of how many people live in the US, that's 300 people lost to their families and our world.  In my opinion that's tragic.

Then there is the cost associated with hospital stays.  The mean charges were $35,042 for the primary diagnosis and $86,600 for a secondary diagnosis.

There is some sad and fascinating data in this article.  I believe it is available for anyone to read, not just ADA members.  Here is the link.   I'd love for some of you to give it a read and let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Podcast Episode #48 with my Great Friend Dr. Paul Feuerstein

 

I've known Paul since the days of dial-up Internet. We talk pretty often, but I've been wanting to get him on the podcast for quite a while. We finally got our schedules to line up and at long last, Episode 48 was recorded and is now available! A summary is below.

In the ever-evolving world of dentistry, one question keeps coming up: How has the field transformed from its traditional roots to embrace technology? In this episode, we explore the captivating journey of dentistry, highlighting key insights from Dr. Paul Feuerstein, who shares his personal experiences and the significant changes he's witnessed over decades in the field.

About Dr. Paul Feuerstein

Dr. Paul Feuerstein is one of my best friends and is Editor in Chief of Dentistry Today magazine.  He’s a highly respected figure in the dental community, known for his expertise in dental technology and its everyday impact on practices. With over 40 years of experience, he has been at the forefront of evaluating and integrating technology into dental practices. His journey is not only inspiring but also gives us a unique perspective on the evolution of dentistry.  He has been at the forefront of dental technology for decades. It began with installing one of the first computers in his office in 1978.

The Journey Begins: Early Influences

Dr. Feuerstein's journey began in New York City, where he was identified as a gifted student during the late 50s and early 60s Sputnik era. Schools were testing students to find the brightest minds to help in the race for space exploration. This early identification led him to advanced studies in math and science, setting the stage for his eventual career in dentistry.  However, it also resulted in putting him two grades ahead in school, making him significantly younger than the other students in his classes.

The Role of Technology in Dentistry

As Dr. Feuerstein transitioned from student to professional musician, and then dentistry, he witnessed significant technological advancements. From the introduction of computers into dental offices in the 1970s to the rise of digital radiography, digital imaging, CAD/CAM,  3D printing, and everything in between.  He has seen how technology has reshaped how dental professionals work.

Overcoming Challenges: A Personal Perspective

Dr. Feuerstein faced challenges during his educational journey, including age-related social hurdles in high school and a unique path through dental school. His ability to adapt and thrive has been a cornerstone of his success. He recalls his rebellious spirit during dental school, where he questioned strict regulations and advocated for a focus on clinical skills and patients over appearance.

The Future of Dentistry: Insights from a Pioneer

With the ongoing advancements in dental technology, Dr. Feuerstein emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. As new tools and techniques emerge, dental professionals must stay informed and be willing to embrace change.

His message is that dentists must stay  updated on the latest dental technologies and consider integrating them into practice to enhance patient care, operational efficiency, and profitablilty

Conclusion

Dr. Paul’s journey in the profession is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability. From Dr. Feuerstein's early experiences, to the modern digital landscape, it is clear that the future of dentistry lies in embracing technology and fostering a culture of continuous knowledge and improvement. For dental professionals, the key takeaway is to remain curious and open to change, ensuring that doctors provide the best care possible for their patients.

He helps answer questions like:

• What are the biggest technological advancements in dentistry today?

• How can dentists keep up with the latest technology?

• Why is technology important in dental practices?

**Want to go deeper? Listen to the complete episode