Dr. Robert F. Guyette
Oral Surgeon
9741 N. 90th Pl., Scottsdale
480-657-7065, guyettesurgery.com
Dental School: University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Medical School: University of Alabama School of Medicine
Years in Practice: 23 years in Scottsdale and the West Valley
What attracted you to oral/maxillofacial surgery?
During our second year of dental school, my best friend fainted after getting a TB test, fell and landed on his face, fracturing his cheek bone and the bones around his left eye. The chairman of the oral surgery department allowed me to observe the surgical procedure to repair the fractures, and I was hooked. I began spending more time in the oral surgery department and following the residents on rounds and to the operating room. At this point, I knew my calling.
What do oral surgeons do that most people don’t realize?
The field of oral surgery is so broad that it is impossible to be an expert in all areas. The scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery includes oral surgery, dental implant and related procedures, head and neck cancer surgery and reconstruction, TMJ and facial pain, trauma and reconstructive surgery, microscopic nerve repair, surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and micro vascular surgery, among others.
What factors should people consider before getting dental implants?
If someone is missing permanent teeth or about to lose a tooth, dental implants should always be considered. In my opinion, the success of dental implants has been the single biggest improvement in dental care during my 23-year career.
Describe the atmosphere of your office and how you try to make patients feel.
I would describe our practice atmosphere as professional, caring, high-tech, competent and efficient. We are continuously looking for ways to improve our systems and provide the best care possible while respecting patients’ time and making them feel welcome. One example of this is our practice of assigning a specific team member to each patient. It is this assistant’s responsibility to be an advocate for the patient. The patient can build rapport with this staff person and can call that person with any question. This process has enhanced communication and resulted in an improved patient experience.
