Metro Dental: The tooth and nothing but

MANILA, Philippines - You wouldn’t think twice about going to a spa or a beauty salon for a facial or a haircut, so why would you hesitate to make an appointment at a dental clinic? What can be more disappointing than to see a beautiful face break into a smile only to reveal unattractive teeth? When was the last time you visited your dentist?

Hardly anyone enjoys going to the dentist. Many associate a visit to the dentist with an unpleasant, often painful or even traumatic experience in their childhood. “But we hope to change that,” pledges Dr. Steve Mark Gan, president and CEO of Metro Dental, at the grand opening of Metro Dental’s newest branch at Greenbelt 5 in Makati.

Can you imagine actually looking forward to seeing your dentist? After we were given a tour of the new Metro Dental clinic at Greenbelt 5, with its state-of-the-art equipment and digital technology, we’re convinced it is possible.

“We have five treatment rooms and one operating room for surgery and extractions,” describes Dr. Rowena Sanz.

A digital panoramic system is used to take dental X-rays for diagnosis. “It is done in eight seconds. Instead of a film, which you used to get in the past, you are now given a CD copy of your X-ray.”

Dr. Steve Mark Gan, president/CEO of Metro Dental: “Many associate a visit to the dentist with an unpleasant, often painful or even traumatic experience in their childhood. We hope to change that.”

In restorative dentistry, laser is used for fillings (pasta). Gone are the days when that anticipated high-pitched buzzing sound intensified your psychological discomfort and fear of sitting on the dental chair and placing yourself at the mercy of your dentist’s menacing drill.

“We can do the root canal procedure in one meeting, unlike before when it required several return visits to your dentist,” Sanz notes.

They also have a micro lens camera and intra-oral camera, which can be used in conjunction with a computer or a TV monitor. “We are able to zoom in on the cavity, making it easier to explain to the patient,” Sanz explains.

There are also machines for cleaning and for removing stains such as those from smoking or coffee. The pressurized polishing machines use air, water, and powder. “No metal touches the enamel,” Sanz notes.

Raymond Lo, a Malaysian based in Singapore, explained the use of laser light in bleaching or teeth whitening. With the Elexxion laser power bleaching treatment, stains on the teeth are removed, but not the enamel. “The result is a fast-acting treatment, no surface alteration, no hypersensitive reactions, and exceptional economical efficiency,” he says.

There is a heart rate monitor for blood pressure in the operating room, which is used during every procedure such as implants or bone grafting. Everything is very sterile. “We use top-of-the-line autoclave equipment in the sterilization room,” says Sanz.

The tooth of the matter: The new Metro Dental clinic at Greenbelt 5, Makati boasts state-of-the-art equipment and digital technology.

The overall atmosphere in all the rooms is one of calm; in fact, almost of relaxation, just like in a spa.

Aside from Greenbelt 5, Metro Dental clinics can also be found at Eastwood Mall, SM Megamall, Robinsons Place Manila, and Robinsons Galleria, with branches at SM Marilao, SM North EDSA, and TriNoma also set to open soon. With its synergistic partnership with the Equicom group of companies, a diversified conglomerate in information technology, healthcare, and financial services, chaired by respected banker and businessman Antonio Go, Metro Dental is expected to be in 37 locations nationwide before yearend.

The mall is no longer just for shopping; it has become a lifestyle destination. Bringing Metro Dental to the malls makes dental care and services more accessible to a broader cross section of the urban population. With the latest in modern technology as well as competent and caring professionals, it should not hurt to go to the dentist anymore. At Metro Dental, it can actually be a pleasant experience.

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Metro Dental is located at fourth floor, Greenbelt 5, Makati. Call 861-4935, 861-5675. Log on to www.metrodental.com.ph for more details.