3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Dr. Scott Culpepper, D.D.S., from The Smilist

Dr. Scott Culpepper, D.D.S., from The Smilist talks about why he is so passionate about dentistry and explains why he enjoys working in the Malverne community.

Patch: What are the top three things readers can do to help protect their teeth?

Dr. Culpepper: 1. Floss. Flossing cleans 40% more than brushing alone. So when I say floss, I mean brush, floss and then use mouthwash -- at least twice a day. At least one time should be after lunch and the other time should be before bed. 2. Brush your teeth after each snack or meal. (Floss too!). 3. Take care of your gums. One out of every two Americans, aged 30 or older have periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Ask us questions about gum disease when you see us. Education is key, as is early detection and treatment.

Patch: What services does your practice offer?

Dr. Culpepper: With several specialists at the Smilist, we offer a full range of dental services. Besides standard hygiene and cleanings, we do root canals, implant placements and restorations, periodontal surgery, Orthodontics and Invisalign and full mouth rehabilitations. We’re excited that a pediatric dentist has just joined our staff as well.

Patch: What is your favorite part about working in the Malverne community?

Dr. Culpepper: The people! Malverne is full of interesting people from all walks of life who have been great to get to know. They are diverse in background, nationality, profession, age, religion, etc. And I have been especially inspired by people’s determination to get healthy and their diligence in sticking to the treatment plan till the end.

Patch: If you had to recommend three books what would they be?

Dr. Culpepper: Oh jeez, only three? I’d have to go with:

• "Salt: A World History" by Mark Kurlansky
• "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris
• "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

Patch: What is the most common issue you see with patients' teeth?

Dr. Culpepper: Gum disease. Everyone seems to be somewhere on the periodontal disease spectrum (even if it’s only in a small area,) partly because nobody flosses like I wish they would. But we’re here to help with that.

Patch: What is your own routine for taking care of your teeth?

Dr. Culpepper: I personally brush, floss, rinse 3 times a day. In the morning, after lunch and then before bed. I also get my teeth cleaned at least twice a year by our hygienists at the Smilist. They always alert me to the areas that need more attention. I’m a dentist, and even I need professional help to stay healthy!

Patch: What made you want to pursue a career in dentistry?

Dr. Culpepper: I began to take classes around the medical campus at VCU. There was something humble about the dental professionals that distinguished them from medical students. Once I got into Dental School (VCU), I had some great mentors. I loved how they shared their own experiences both good and bad. They were humans. I saw how the profession could help me grow; not just as a professional, but also as a husband and a father.

Patch: How can readers contact you?

Dr. Culpepper: Give me a call at the Smilist at 516-346-5489.

Patch: You’re not the only person in this business. How do you distinguish yourself from the others?

Dr. Culpepper: By listening, without judgement, to all of your concerns. There has to be some place where it’s okay to talk about your oral health, and whatever else.

Patch: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given and who gave it to you?

Dr. Culpepper: A mentor in dental school told me that you can’t let fear paralyze you or you will not grow as a person.

Patch: How do you find a great dentist?

Dr. Culpepper: You want to find a dentist that works with a team to deliver exceptional dentistry. When dentists, hygienists, orthodontists, periodontists work together and communicate, they can really help patients maintain their oral health.

Patch: Do you have a favorite sports team?

Dr. Culpepper: I do. Virginia Commonwealth University Basketball.

Patch: Why do you love what you do?

Dr. Culpepper: I love having the chance to make a difference in someone’s life. When you see a patient look in the mirror and smile without embarrassment for the first time, that’s a big moment. That’s what got me hooked. I also like the profession because I get to continually learn and grow. I think that’s healthy, promotes mental fitness.