We hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety.

Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice and you may have seen this during your visits to our office. Our infection control processes are made so that when you receive care, its both safe and comfortable. We want to tell you about the infection control procedures we follow in our practice to keep patients and staff safe.

Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We follow the activities of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued.

Almost 65 million members of the adult population have some form of gum disease, and many of them may not even know. This is overwhelmingly concerning because diagnosis and treatment of gum disease as early as possible are critical to saving your smile and preserving your health. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss when left untreated. However, when caught in its earliest stages, referred to as gingivitis, the effects are reversible. Dr. Richard Weigand in Spokane, WAencourages everyone to be aware of gingivitis symptoms.

Periodontal disease is triggered by overpopulation of certain strains of oral bacteria. These pathogens create a sticky biofilm of plaque that protects them from saliva and traps food debris. As they feast on

sugar and starch, they produce acidic excretions that cause gum problems. If the biofilm is not removed with frequent brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar at the gumline, causing further irritation.

Without treatment, gums loosen, forming periodontal pockets. Bacteria in pockets move deeper into oral structures, attacking ligaments and bone. Teeth get loose and fall out or require extraction. Meanwhile, bacteria infiltrate the body through diseased gum tissue.

As gum disease progresses into its more advanced stages, called periodontitis and advanced periodontitis, non-reversible damage takes place. These effects may include the loss of teeth and dangerous systemic illnesses that scientists believe may stem from bacteria entering the blood stream.

Dr. Richard D. Weigand is a Fellow of the World Clinical Laser Institute (WCLI) and has advanced laser training at the Biolase headquarters. He is dedicated to helping his patients recognize gum disease as early as possible and providing contemporary treatment that gets it under control so that oral health can be maintained.

Call (509) 485-8620 to become a new patient at Richard D Weigand DDS in Spokane, WA. We provide excellent oral hygiene and guidance on at-home care that helps you avoid gum disease or manage an existing condition effectively.

He is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry and World Clinical Laser Institute and a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Spokane District Dental Society, and Washington State Dental Association. He is certified with the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies, Pacific Aesthetic Continuum (Live), World Clinical Laser Institute, and the Spear Center in Scottsdale, AZ. He is also co-founder of the Spokane Practice Management Club.

Dr. Weigand is a wonderful dentist and I recommend him to all of my friends and family! The office is beautiful, the team is so friendly and welcoming and I know that I'm in good hands. Dr. Weigand has a lot of experience, training and has also invested in a lot of technology to give better patient care than most dentists that I know. I'm very pleased with my service.

On a long journey of 30 yr. old, failed root canals and major restorative work. Dr. Weigand and every one of his staff, have made this journey, as pleasant as possible! The utmost technologically advanced, professional and compassionate experience!! Admired by their peers and our community! I have found my dentist for life!!

Amazing staff, excellent follow through for communication, scheduling, rescheduling, and LOVE the office - it is comfortable and no dentist smell! P.S. They even offer you a blanket while you are in the chair!

Dr. Richard D. Weigand has been in practice for over 30 years, and from your very first visit to our office you can tell how he has achieved such a successful reputation. Our office is warm, comfortable and inviting for our patients, reflecting how we want the patient to feel as we build a relationship with them on their path to dental health.

Skill, scholarship and genuine concern for his patients have earned Dr. Rick Weigand recognition throughout the Spokane, Washington community as a leader in his profession. He has been voted Best Dentist and Best Cosmetic Dentist by the Best of the City, recognized as a top Cosmetic Dentist by his professional peers for several years, and received the peoples choice award in the Spokane Coeur dAlene Living magazine since 2006. He is a member of the Spokane District Dental Society (SDDS) and Washington State Dental Association (WSDA). In addition, he helps sponsor and volunteers with Blessings Under the Bridge, a non-profit organization that helps feed the underprivileged in our community. For many years Dr Weigand has been the team dentist for the Gonzaga Mens Basketball Team.

As an established leader in dentistry, Dr. Weigand has had the honor of publishing professional articles in dental journals and consumer magazines. He has also been interviewed on television for his expertise regarding the latest trends, newest technology and laser treatment for teeth and gums. To each publication or interview, he brings knowledge and skill acquired from years of dedication to dentistry. Dr. Weigand has also earned highly coveted Fellowships in the World Clinical Laser Institute (WCLI) and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).