Scott E. Learn, DMD
Advanced Dental Care at Scott Learn, DMD
by Karen Fetter
Dentistry has advanced considerably through the past several
years. One dentist dedicated to keeping up with and utilizing these
advancements is Dr. Scott Learn, located in the Sharky's Plaza in
Latrobe. Not only does Dr. Learn educate himself on the new
technology, but he shares it with his patients immediately.
"I really try to educate my patients. It means a lot to me to make
sure they are happy," said Dr. Learn.
Everything from check-ups and extractions to root canals and TMJ,
Dr. Learn offers every general dentistry service to his patients. A
typical dentist office has several rooms for patients that are
filled with posters and reading material. However, Dr. Learn has
televisions with pre-recorded informational videos that help
patients understand the procedures.
Also, Dr. Learn uses an x-ray system that allows him and the patient
to view the results immediately on the same television screen. The
x-ray system also only provides 10 percent of the radiation to the
patient that a normal x-ray does. Furthermore, the results can be
sent digitally to insurance companies, making it quicker for
patients to receive reimbursement checks.
"People are inundated with information. It really helps if they can
see and visualize the new information," said Dr. Learn. "It's hard
to read everything and remember it or for our staff to review it
with them. This way they can relax and be informed at the same
time."
Another advancement that Dr. Learn is excited about is a cavity
detector. A laser is put on the grooves of the tooth and tests it
for a cavity, a procedure that can detect a problem a lot sooner
than with the naked eye.
"We can go in and clean it out while its still in an early stage and
not much of the tooth has to be removed," said Dr. Learn. Also, with
the use of lasers, children may never have to see a needle again. If
cavities are detected early enough, the laser can clean the tooth
and fillings and needles will be a thing of the past.
Dr. Learn became interested in dentistry after he experienced having
braces. Originally he thought about becoming an orthodontist, but
realized he liked all aspects of dentistry and decided general
dentistry would be better for him.
Dr. Learn attended the University of Pittsburgh Dental School and
completed a one-year internship at Montifiore Hospital. Afterwards,
he soon began his own practice with two locations in New Alexandria
and Latrobe. However, because he likes to keep a personal touch with
his patients, he felt having one location would be better.
In order to stay current and sharp with his skills in the field of
dentistry, Dr. Learn completes 150 credit hours a year. As a result,
he has completed his Mastership in Academy of General Dentistry. He
is currently working towards being board certified in dentistry. He
is also the President of the Westmoreland County Dental Society.
Furthermore, he is a membership chair for the state of Pennsylvania
for the Pennsylvania Academy of General Dentistry.
In addition to his practice, Dr. Learn also divides his time
teaching dental hygenist and dental assistant classes at the
Westmoreland County Community College. He also treats patients one
day a week at the Westmoreland County Prison.
Dr. Learn emphasizes how important it is to become educated on oral
health. He recommends visiting a dentist twice a year or more if
problems exist. With children, they can start to visit a dentist as
soon as they begin to get teeth. This will help build healthy
habits.
Dr. Learn's office is open to see new patients. He participates in
various dental plans such as Delta Dental and United Concordia. He
also offers entire treatment plans that can be financed.
Office hours are Monday - 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday - 7 a.m. to 3
p.m.; Wednesday - Noon to 8 p.m. and Friday - 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Get the most advanced care in dentistry and visit
Dr. Scott Learn, DMD!
Call 724-537-3314 to make an appointment
today.