Choosing The Right Dentist

Choosing a dentist isn't always easy, but it doesn't have to be a challenging or time consuming process, either. The type of professional that's right for you will depend on your unique dental needs; you may schedule an appointment with one, only to find out that what you really need is a visit to a specialist. Fortunately, most dental health professionals don't expect you to know the ins and outs of your dental health needs, and a consultation is usually enough to get you pointed on the right track. The type of dental insurance you have, or lack thereof, may also be a fairly important factor in choosing a care provider.
The best place to start when looking for a dentist is to find a family dentist or general practitioner. A qualified professional will typically list himself as either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine), depending on his qualifications. When meeting with a dentist for the first time, don't be afraid to ask him about his experience and education, and also find out whether he's an active member of any dental societies; many skilled dentists maintain a membership in a few.

Ask about the specific details of the dentist's training and the sort of clinical experience he has in performing the specific procedure you may require. For example, not all dentists are trained in cosmetic dentistry procedures that are somewhat commonplace, and may interest you, especially when offered in conjunction with more functional dental procedures. If he does not offer certain procedures---veneers and resurfacing being commonly requested procedures usually performed by a cosmetic dentist---find out what his process is for issuing a referral, and make sure his system is compatible with how your insurance company operates.

There are other concerns when choosing a dental health provider, even if you feel very comfortable with the doctor himself. The dental team is a huge part of what keeps the practice running, and during most visits, you'll have occasion to be treated by dental assistants and hygienists. If you don't feel at ease with other members of the team, or one of them strikes you as less than qualified, it's probably time for you to start exploring other alternatives. Also, ask what the procedure is in case of an emergency, as each office has slightly different rules on how emergency situations are handled. Choose one that seems reasonable and works well with your lifestyle.