Referral to a Specialist
Dr. Lyford will recommend referral to a specialist when he thinks the patient is better served in a specialist's office. Oral surgeons, periodontists, endodontists, and orthodontists are often recommended to complete the treatment required. With few exceptions, referral to a specialist is accomplished in a formal matter by Dr. Lyford in the form of a letter written to the specialist.
After consulting with you, Dr. Lyford will write a formal letter of referral to the specialist introducing you, relating any significant medical history, recent dental history, immediate concerns, including any relevant radiographs or other clinical records that will help in diagnosis. A copy of that letter will also be sent to you with a hand written note asking that you now contact the specialist for a consultation. This format will ensure that time is used wisely, communication is clear, and you are better served. Indeed, after your consultation with the specialist you may have questions for Dr. Lyford.
We therefore encourage you to call the office and we will do our best to answer them. This has been both our philosophy and policy over the last fourteen years and it has resulted in better care and more effective service for our patients.