Dentists diagnose and treat conditions that affect the teeth, gums, and mouth, promoting oral health and proper function. Finding a provider who aligns with your specific oral health requirements involves a structured approach. When evaluating potential dentists, you are choosing someone responsible for your ongoing oral care. Here is more information on how to choose a dentist:
Identify Dental Needs
First, you need to understand your own dental requirements. A person’s dental needs will guide their search for a provider, so it is a logical starting point. For instance, if you have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, you might seek out a dentist with experience in orthodontics. Your needs might range from routine cleanings to more specialized procedures.
Some individuals seek cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of their smile. You may want teeth whitening, veneers, or bonding, and finding a dentist proficient in these areas is a good step. When you have a clear list of what you want from a dental professional, you will be better equipped to narrow down your options.
A detailed self-assessment helps you communicate your goals during a consultation. You may also require restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, or bridges to repair your teeth. Understanding this ahead of time streamlines the selection process and helps you find a practice that offers the services you will need.
Determine Specialties
The field of dentistry includes various specializations. A general dentist manages overall oral health, but some situations may call for a specialist. To illustrate, an endodontist focuses on issues inside the tooth, while a periodontist treats gum disease. You might need to see a specialist if your general dentist identifies a specific problem.
Choose Sedation Methods
Dental procedures sometimes involve sedation to help patients feel more comfortable. Different types of sedation are available, and you can discuss these options with a prospective dentist. Understanding what a clinic offers for patient comfort is part of the selection process.
Some offices provide multiple sedation methods, while others may offer only one or two. You may want to ask about the following options:
- Nitrous oxide
- Oral sedatives
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is another option for mild sedation. It is inhaled through a mask and helps you relax during a procedure. Before you commit to a dentist, you can ask which methods they use and what the process involves for each one.
Ask About Bone Grafting
Bone grafting might be necessary for certain advanced dental procedures, and it helps in restoring the jawbone structure.. A bone graft is a surgical procedure to rebuild or repair bones through the transplantation of bone tissue. You may need this procedure if you are getting dental implants, but do not have enough healthy, natural bone in your jaw to support them.
Asking a potential dentist about their experience with bone grafting is a reasonable step if you anticipate needing implants. The dentist can explain the procedure and what to expect. While not everyone needs a bone graft, it is a significant procedure, so you may want to find a provider who performs it regularly if it applies to your situation.
Select a Dentist Today
Making a final selection requires you to synthesize all the information you have gathered. You have evaluated your needs and researched potential specializations, sedation, and specific procedures. Now you are prepared to make an informed choice. Review your notes, and then schedule an appointment with the dentist you have chosen.
