Meet Dr. Donald Alexander
Ask Dr. Donald Alexander, DDS, what dental technology patients should look for in a dental practice, and you just might not get the answer you would expect.
“I think that’s kind of the wrong question to ask,” said Dr. Alexander of Alexander Dentistry in Jacksonville. “Patients should go to a place where they’re most comfortable.”
Now, this is a really surprising answer from a dentist who describes digital dentistry as “his wheelhouse.” For Dr. Alexander, the equipment matters much, much less than the judgment and skills behind it.
The Tech at Alexander Dentistry
At Alexander Dentistry, the tech process starts with a three-dimensional imaging system, which Dr. Alexander says the practice uses “highly to our advantage in diagnosis.”
“When I see a two-dimensional X-ray, it gives me one perspective,” he explained. “But when I’m able to use a three-dimensional imaging system, I have a whole lot fewer false positives. I’m able to make a much better evaluation because it gives me more useful information.”
That clearer view helps him decide whether to treat a problem himself or refer it to a specialist. It also lets him spot potential difficulties before treatment even begins.
Goodbye to the Sticky Goop… Mostly
Anyone who has ever had a dental impression taken might distinctly remember a tray of thick, putty-like material that was pressed against their teeth. The substance is terribly sticky and can be somewhat problematic to deal with for both the staff and the patient. Thankfully, at Alexander Dentistry, digital 3D scanning has largely replaced the goop.
“We scan everything now,” Dr. Alexander said. “The patient’s perception is it’s easier, more comfortable, and less time consuming to get scanned than to have all that sticky goop put in their mouth.”
And from my personal experience, I would certainly have to agree. I hope to never see the goop again.
Still, he isn’t throwing out his impression material. “There’s no reason to throw away old techniques,” he said. “You just need to know when to still use what technique.”
3D Scanning Provides a More Complete Picture
Once a scan is on the screen in 3D, he can plan treatment with greater detail. He can place teeth and see “how everything looks virtually and how it’s going to relate to the area.” If an outside lab had to do that planning step, it would certainly cost more money, and most patients would rather not pay extra for it.
Restorations Designed and Made in the Office
Unlike most dentists, Dr. Alexander personally designs and fabricates a significant portion of the practice’s restorations. Doing that work in the office speeds up turnaround time. And for larger cases, it also allows a trial run before the final restoration is made.
“We’re able to fabricate it, print it, or mill it all out of one material. We can put it in, try it, and see it live. Then, we have a better understanding on how to adapt it to get a better result for the patient,” he said.
Planning Implants Before Anyone Picks up a Drill
The same planning tools help shape how Dr. Alexander approaches dental implants. Currently, he focuses on placing guided implants.
When a case falls outside of what he does, such as an implant near the sinus or an implant that would need additional augmentation, the virtual plan still helps the patient. He can refer them to a recommended and trusted specialist while explaining ahead of time to the patient what the surgeon is going to do. “So it’s less of a surprise,” he said.
Technology with a Purpose
Now, let’s circle back to our original question: what dental technology should patients look for in a dental practice? Dr. Alexander believes the responsibility for staying current with both skills and tech firmly belongs to the dentist, and not the patient.
“I think the onus is on the practitioner to be current,” he said. Patients, in his view, are savvy enough to tell whether an office is up to date the moment they walk in.
What truly concerns him more is the opposite problem.
“There can be a trap where people are too technology driven,” he said. “Which is interesting coming from me, who’s extremely technology driven, but I’ve always tried not to be on the front wave.”
His own practice is an example. Early on, the office offered a particular kind of same-day restoration. When that equipment needed upgrading, he took a broader look at his options, and that pushed the practice toward a more efficient workflow.
He also cautions that technology in general can steer treatment planning decisions. He would much prefer to keep every option available rather than having his hand forced.
“If you keep all the tools in the belt, you’re able to afford the patient the best alternative, have a conversation with them, and ask them what path they want to go down.”
“We should be selective in what technology we use and how we use it,” he said, “and that’s what we try to do.”
“Dr. Alexander was awesome. My mom, who has dementia, had an infected tooth that needed to be removed. He made arrangements the next day and treated her with utmost respect as did his entire staff.” – Caroline C.
My Take
While interviewing Dr. Alexander, I found him to be very passionate about dental technology, yet also very seasoned. It’s refreshing to hear a dental professional explain why expensive tech might not be the right solution in every case. After all, skills and experience treating patients still matter.
Keeping multiple tools in the belt tells me Dr. Alexander keeps patient care front and center in his decision making. He’s not just focused on using a certain piece of tech because he purchased it.
Why Consider Alexander Dentistry?
For more than 20 years, Dr. Alexander has provided general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry in Jacksonville, along with dental implants.
Current Offers
The practice website currently lists a complimentary cosmetic consultation (a $129 value). The free consult includes an oral exam and cosmetic smile evaluation. In addition, consults are available for patients with missing teeth to discuss implants, dentures, and bridge options. Please call the office to confirm details and availability.
More Patient Testimonials
Karen R. – “Dr. Alexander and his staff are the best. I have never had fun at a dental appointment before.”
Timothy K. – “The office staff is AWESOME! Debbie and Jackie are friendly, thorough and professional.”
Melinda W. – “I love my new fillings! When Doc told me last year that I would like losing the old silver fillings and replacing them with the new I did not believe him…HE WAS RIGHT. I love looking in my mouth and seeing only teeth and not dark discolored fillings. Thank you Doctor Alexander for making my smile prettier to me!”
Contact Information
Website: https://www.alexanderdentistry.com
Appointment request: https://www.alexanderdentistry.com/request-appointment/
New patients: 904-901-4302
Current patients: 904-733-4200
Address: 6802 St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32217
Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM
