We’d like to introduce you to Delta Dental dentist, Dr. Sandra Reyes of Sandra Reyes, DDS in Mesa, Arizona. Dr. Reyes’ office offers an array of services, from same-day emergency care to cleanings and orthodontics. Dr. Reyes is also trained in providing safe, comfortable care to individuals with special needs.
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
Yes, but as a sole provider, business owner and mother of four, I’ll admit that there are times when I’m tired in the evenings and my routine is less than perfect. As with everything, all you can do is try again the next day and keep your dental cleaning appointments.
What is your favorite flavor floss?
The flavor doesn’t matter to me as much as the type of floss. I love woven floss which thickens when relaxed and thins when stretched so it accommodates to any size space. Sadly, it’s not readily available over the counter, but you can find it online!
Electric or manual toothbrush?
Whatever works best in the patient’s hands. Having said that, most people NEED a mechanical toothbrush to be effective. Only about 5% of people know how to properly use a manual toothbrush to achieve desired results.
Which celebrity has the best smile?
Hands down, Shemar Moore. Not only do his teeth appear healthy and bright, but his facial features (lips, skin and smile) take it to another level.
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
Stop dictating treatment. If you don’t trust your dentist, find another. If you have concerns, discuss them, but stop dictating treatment. We’re obligated to treat you to the best of our abilities and you have to trust that.
What is the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
A dental professor once said, “If you take care of your patients, they will take care of you.”
What is the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
Having the opportunity to offer uninsured patients one of Delta Dental’s Individual Plans. This allows us to treat them in-network and provide treatment they otherwise would not be able to afford.
Any funny stories from the dental chair?
I was probing a 13 mm pocket and as I pulled out the dental probe, I saw something come out of the groove. I jumped back because I thought it was a cockroach coming out of the pocket! So I quickly shoved it back in and pulled away. The patient and his wife saw the scared look on my face, so I told them I thought I saw something in there that didn’t belong. With them mortified, I approached and reinserted the probe. When I pulled it back out, I realized it was a 10 mm long and 5 mm wide sunflower seed, in its entirety!
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
Toilet paper, a toothbrush and a pillow.
If you’d like to nominate a dentist to be featured in the Delta Dental AZ Blog, contact us.
