Desert Dental Specialty Group

PROFILE

Where integrated treatment plans result in beautiful, functional smiles

By June Allan Corrigan
Photography by Kaminsky Productions

The integrated care patients have come to expect at Desert Dental Specialty Group is achieved through effective teamwork. “We’re a seasoned group of specialists and general restorative doctors,” says Joshua W. Cartter, D.D.S., who heads up the longrunning practice. “Our collective efforts in one office give patients the advantage of a team that is well-coordinated and dedicated to creating the best outcome for every individual.”

Initially established in 1978, Desert Dental Specialty Group is the only practice in the Valley to offer three different specialties under one roof — specifically, prosthodontics, periodontics, and endodontics — not to mention direct access to a top dental laboratory in the very same building. “We understand that time is a precious commodity for everyone and our team approach makes dental care far more convenient for our patients. With the Valley’s leading laboratory literally next door, we can also consult with lab technicians on the spot and adjust crafted elements chairside.”

Experienced Excellence

Desert Dental Specialty Group provides everything from teeth whitening and simple fillings to a wide range of cosmetic procedures, dental implants, and complex full-mouth restorations. “My team and I address the most common dental issues adult individuals typically encounter as well as some of the most challenging,” says Dr. Cartter. a prosthodontist who is skilled in the restoration and replacement of teeth.

Prosthodontists receive an additional three years of specialized training at an American Dental Association (ADA) accredited graduate program once they complete four years of dental school. They specialize in treating and handling dental and facial problems that involve restoring missing tooth and jaw structures. A prosthodontist is highly trained in cosmetics, dental implants, crowns, veneers, bridges, dentures, and temperomandibular disorders (TMJ/TMD). “As prosthodontists, we are at the forefront of dental advances and technology; therefore, we have a greater responsibility in choosing the proper technique and materials for each individual patient. We combine aesthetics, form and function in order to provide long-lasting healthy smiles,” adds Dr. Cartter.

Perfecting a Natural Smile

Loss of natural teeth, regardless of the cause, can be traumatic and seriously impact a person’s self-esteem. Fortunately, there are many restoration options to improve both form and function. Implants have become a popular alternative to dentures or partials because they have the look, feel, and function of perfect natural teeth plus they are extremely durable. At Desert Dental Specialty Group their goal is to educate the patient for the best possible outcome and success of replacing missing teeth with or without dental implants.

Innovative Cone Beam CT imaging, which provides a three-dimensional view of the mouth is used by the dental professionals within the Group. “We are able to three-dimensionally assess the teeth and jaw for any type of irregularities, as well as perform pre-surgical assessments for dental implants and root canal treatment,” states Dr. Cartter. All of the surgical procedures are completed digitally utilizing CT imaging as well as CAD/CAM technology prior to dental implant placement. Working one-on-one with the adjacent dental laboratory, 3D printed guides are fabricated to aid in the precise placement in order to have a more predictable and successful outcome of the final implant prosthesis.

Well-Rounded and Well-Prepared

Desert Dental Specialty Group‘s multidisciplinary approach saves patients time, travel, and the cost of several visits to multiple offices. “Many of the dental professionals and support staff members have been here for well over 20 years,” Dr. Cartter concluded. “In addition to our practice’s use of the most advanced dental technology available, our patients only stand to benefit from the continuity and thoroughness that we provide.