Whether you are in the process of switching dentists, or you are looking for one on a brand new insurance plan, it is extremely important that you choose the right one. Choosing one that is less than perfect for you can lead to expensive dental repairs, and unnecessary pain.
Getting referrals from friends or family members is a good way to start looking for a dentist. If you have no personal referrals, you can also get names from a dental referral service.
Be aware, however, that such services are nothing more than fee-for-service agencies. The dentist pays a monthly fee to the agency, who in turn provides interested callers with general information about the dentist and his or her practice.
Such information includes the dentist's educational background and years in practice, as well as the office location. Local dental societies and hospitals also provide referrals, but like the agencies, they offer only general information about the particular person.
When calling different offices, be sure to have a list of questions on hand, such as treatment costs, insurance procedures, emergency-care availability, office hours, staff size, and available diagnostic techniques and safety devices (e.g. sterilization techniques, protection devices for x-ray radiation). When you first call an office, you will likely speak to a receptionist, who should be equipped to answer any general questions.
Specific questions about your particular dental needs, however, cannot be answered until you are seen by the practitioner. Most offices will let you set up an appointment for a short "interview" with the professional before actually committing to treatment.
During this interview, you will be able to evaluate the office and see if you feel comfortable with them. Unlike a "consultation"-for which there is usually a fee-an interview does not give you the opportunity to ask questions about your specific needs.
A general practitioner provides treatments that include filling cavities, cleaning teeth, extracting teeth, and replacing lost teeth. The general practitioner may employ a dental hygienist to clean teeth.
A dental hygienist must complete a two-year program of study to be certified as such. Dentists who specialize in pediatric (children's) dentistry are called pedodontists.
Some children may require special attention that only a pedodontist is trained to offer. Endodontists diagnose and treat diseased tooth pulp and perform root canal work.
The replacement of missing or damaged teeth is performed by prosthodontists. A prosthodontist may specialize in either removable (dentures) or fixed (bridges) prosthetics.
Prosthodontists may also perform procedures to improve the balance between the teeth, called occlusal equilibration. Oral pathologists use laboratory procedures to diagnose diseases of the mouth.
The oral pathologist also specializes in forensic dentistry and identifies dead people by comparing their teeth with dental records. Periodontists treat diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth, including bone and gum tissue.
Oral surgeons remove cysts, tumors, and wisdom teeth that may be too difficult for the general practitioner to remove. They also correct fractures or other jaw problems that require surgery.
Cosmetic problems of the jaw and face are corrected by maxillofacial surgeons using methods similar to those of plastic surgery. Improperly positioned teeth are corrected by orthodontists.
Orthodontists use braces or other mechanical devices to move teeth into a better position. Choose a dentist who is willing to take the time to answer your questions.
The purpose and goal of every practitioner should be to help you understand the cause of your problem so that you can prevent its recurrence, and to help you choose among treatment options. However, in our fast-paced society, where time means money, a great many practitioners are unlikely to spend time with you.
Choose a practitioner who can balance time and money properly. It is also very important for a practitioner to have a caring attitude about rendering treatment.
Some people associate treatment with pain and fear. Their ability to make you feel relaxed and confident in his or her treatment is certainly an important consideration.
Also, consider the attitude of the office staff. Observe how well those who work in the office get along.
Is everyone willing to help you, or are staff members busy performing too many tasks? A staff that sees fewer patients per hour has more time to devote to each patient than does the staff in an overly busy office.
With these tips, and by asking these questions, you can be sure that you will get the professional that you need. Talk to your family and friends about a referral, and begin your process today.
Author Resource:-
Ronald Pedactor is a former dental assistant and has authored hundreds of articles relating to oral health and Knoxville cosmetic dentist. He has been a guest dental lecturer for over 15 years.
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