Bryan G. Foote, a dentist in Columbia, Missouri, has had a successful career in dentistry since graduating from dental school in 1998.
“After graduating from dental school in 1998, I completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, which allowed me to commit to advanced education and provide the best care for my patients,” Dr. Foote reflected. “Following this program, I began a private practice in Columbia and continue to pursue ongoing education.”
Dr. Foote’s pursuit of excellence in dentistry led him to complete the educational curriculum at the Kois Center in Seattle, which has profoundly impacted his career. “Completing the educational curriculum at the Kois Center in Seattle and staying involved with that organization has been transformative to my career.” He counts that time as an investment that allows him to return the dividend of the bounty of his knowledge back to his patients in the form of expert and efficient care.
His passion for dentistry comes from his interest in healthcare and the opportunity it provides to solve problems and help patients with his knowledge and skills:”…dentistry allows me to constantly apply my brain and hands to solve problems and help patients. It truly is an art and a science,” Dr. Foote explained.
Dr. Foote’s commitment to staying updated in dentistry is evident in his dedication to personal and professional development. “I desire to stay updated on all aspects of dentistry to provide the best care I can to my patients. This involves staying continuously educated on the latest procedures, materials, and technology,” he emphasized.
He also recognizes the importance of utilizing technology and the plethora of emerging digital diagnostic strategies, procedures, and equipment. “The integration and streamlining of digital diagnosis, planning, and treatment has been a significant advancement in what we do,” Dr. Foote noted. “This can allow for more thorough, precise, and efficient patient treatment while also making it a more pleasant experience.”
Dr. Foote advises caution when it comes to at-home “cosmetic” procedures. “The most common at-home ‘cosmetic’ procedure deals with bleaching teeth. While this can be effective, it has the potential to be more time-consuming and less effective than when done by or under the supervision of a dentist,” he warned. “There are also some DIY orthodontic options, but people can run into significant problems with this, and I do not recommend it.”
In orthodontics, Dr. Foote acknowledges the value of expertise and the importance of weighing proven methods against new ones. “With orthodontics, traditional braces and aligner treatments such as Invisalign have their places. Although I utilize Invisalign for certain cases, I still rely heavily on the training that orthodontists have in their field and defer to their expertise in many situations,” he explained.
Dr. Foote also stresses the importance of a home environment that places an emphasis on an oral hygiene regimen that children can continue as they grow. “Parents need to start educating themselves early regarding proper home care for their children. If they know the proper protocol and impart this knowledge to their children, they are on the right track,” he advised. “Establishing care with a dentist at an early age is also an important part of oral and overall health. It can be a daily battle at home with children but one worth fighting!”
Dr. Foote treats various dental problems in his practice, including periodontal disease, caries (decay), occlusal (bite) problems, and cracked teeth. He attributes these issues to factors such as diet, clenching due to stress, and inadequately designed fillings in teeth.
“If most people would start early and stick to the basics of flossing daily, brushing twice a day, and adhering to a low-sugar and low-acid diet, a significant amount of dental problems could be avoided,” Dr. Foote emphasized. “For those at higher risk for certain problems, we have additional ways of helping these people stay healthy and prevent problems.”
Finally, Dr. Foote finds great satisfaction in helping patients who may feel intimidated by or fearful of their dental problems. “I often see people who come in feeling overwhelmed and nervous and who have procrastinated in addressing their dental problems,” he shared. “Establishing a trusting relationship, unraveling and explaining their problems, and working systematically through treatment to reach a stable, comfortable, esthetically pleasing, and maintainable result is extremely satisfying.”
In conclusion, Dr. Bryan G. Foote’s dedication to advancing his skills through education and his commitment to providing exceptional patient care exemplifies his passion for dentistry. His emphasis on early education for parents, preventive care, and the integration of advanced technology underscores his unwavering dedication to improving oral health.