Choosing a new dentist can be challenging, but the right resources can make this task easier. Patients should begin their search by contacting their dental insurance provider. Insurance providers have search tools to help patients determine whether a dentist is within their network. Using this tool, patients can filter their search and locate providers with different specialties.
If you need a specific type of dental care, this tool can help you narrow down your options. They can also search for local network dentists by city, ZIP code, or name. Keep in mind that information on the Internet may not be up-to-date. Providers might have stopped working with certain insurance companies or changed their policies. Before scheduling an appointment, ask the office team whether they accept a specific dental insurance plan.
Patients who need specialized services may have to perform some extra research. First, patients must understand what type of care they need. General dentists are a good place to begin. General providers perform routine exams and cleanings. They can also treat many common dental concerns, including cracked or broken teeth, cavities, and gum disease.
Patients with more complex issues that a general dentist can not treat may require a specialist’s help. Dental specialists have additional years of training that focus on a specific area of dentistry. Some more specialized treatments that require treatment from a specialized dental provider include:
General dentists can recommend the most appropriate provider, provide follow-up care, and monitor patients for treatment complications.
Most dental patients will see or hear terms in their dentist’s office or dental records that they do not understand. It is helpful to understand some of the common dental terms that patients will hear throughout their dental treatment. Many dental insurance providers offer people brochures, flyers, or other supplemental materials. These resources can help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options.
Online resources can help, too. The ADA offers a glossary of common dental terms. Another helpful resource is the MouthHealthy website, which offers detailed information about oral health topics and terms. Patients can use these resources to research common dental conditions and learn more about at-home care.
Children and adults of all ages need regular dental care. Many people wait until there is a problem or pain to seek out a dentist. However, some of the most serious dental problems cause little to no pain, such as gum disease or an infected tooth. Most providers recommend dental checkups twice a year, but some patients may need additional visits. Routine dental care is a crucial part of a person’s teeth and oral health. Our team determines customized care plans for each patient to help them maintain their oral health.
If a dental problem arises between visits, don't wait. Delaying care may allow the problem to worsen. Contact our team right away if experiencing issues, such as mouth or jaw pain, bleeding gums, loose or cracked teeth, or a knocked-out tooth. Swift treatment can save time, trouble, and discomfort.
During a dental visit, patients should notify our team about any changes in personal health and medications. Patients should also discuss any changes in their teeth or gums. During the exam, patients should also address any questions or concerns. This is also a good time for patients to learn more about at-home care. Dentistry and oral care are constantly evolving with better at-home dental hygiene products.
If any problems are present, patients should also ask about any necessary changes to their oral care routine. Patients can also ask any questions about treatment options, current oral health, how to improve oral health, and more. It is also important to discuss lifestyle, treatment preferences, and any dental concerns. Our team can then offer individualized guidance based on each patient's unique needs.
