Picking The Perfect Dentist For You
If you are searching for a new dentist, you may be overwhelmed
. However, with the right insight, the task doesn't need to be anxiety-filled. For instance, understanding the different types of dentists can be a good place to start.
Most likely, the dentist that you have been seeing since a child is considered a family dentist or a general dentist. He or she has been educated, trained and licensed to offer maintenance. That is to say this dentist can diagnose dental related issues, as well as oral conditions.
He or she can then create a plan for treatment and provide a number of those without a referral being necessary. For filling cavities, pulling of teeth, and many of the "every day" dental issues, these dentists are more than qualified to care for you. However, when he or she is unable to provide the care you need, it is likely that you will be referred to a specialist. These are the individuals who have received further education and specialized training.
As a result, they carry designations of DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) and are able to handle a wider variety of treatments. Assisting any of these individuals are dental hygienists and dental assistants. The latter does not need a formal education as he or she is simply there to assist the dentist as he or she works, but the hygienists do wear a designation of RDH (Registered Dental Hygienist) or RDHEF (Registered Dental Hygienist with Extended Functions). These individuals are the ones that handle teeth cleaning.
That being known, you are probably more able to make a wise decision regarding the professional that can offer the help you need. However, there are other factors that will help you choose between those with the appropriate designation. To narrow your prospective field, you can ask a number of questions.
When was the practice established?
It is a fairly safe bet that the longer they have been in operation, the more experience they have. If you need a specific procedure done, don't be afraid to inquire about experience and results with past procedures of that type. Some dentists are not qualified, or simply don't handle certain treatments. This is especially true of cosmetic procedures. If this is what you are in the market for, you might also ask to see before and after photos to gauge the talents of the dentist.
Member of any societies?
Another way to gauge a dental practice is the number and type of societies participated in. These tend to require the dentist to continue his or her education, which means he or she should have a better grasp on the most recent developments and technology in the industry.
Types of Emergency Care and Medications?
You might also inquire about the available emergency care in case you need such assistance in the future. It is best to know how the practice handles a dental crisis. Likewise, inquire about the medications that are used and for what reasons. This will give you a good indication of how the doctor and his practice treat the patients. If comfort is a big issue, then look for a dental practice that is willing to use anesthetics for even the smallest treatments, and perhaps those that attempt to make a welcoming surrounding- such as a variety of music options.
New Technologies?
It may be beneficial to ask about how the practice reacts to changes in technology. Do they welcome it or are they stuck in the old ways of handling dentistry? (Do they use lasers in the place of traditional dentist tools, do they employ water picks for teeth cleaning, etc.)
What is it going to cost?
Though it would be nice to base everything in life on other factors, money will likely come into play in your decision, especially when considering procedures not covered by insurance. Definitely inquire about the pricing on the treatments you seek.
How do you feel?
One of the most important factors in making your decision should be how comfortable you feel when speaking with the dentist and staff. If you are made to feel welcome now, then it is likely you will feel the same way during important procedures.
by: Roger Ubik
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