How do you go about picking a new dentist? We’ve recently moved and don’t know anyone for recommendations yet.
Olivia R.- Branson, MO
Olivia,
A lot of what you look for in a dentist depends upon your current needs. Do you just want a family dentist, or do you want a dentist who also does cosmetic dentistry? If you have children and want to stay in the same clinic as a family, you want to look for someone who is comfortable treating children. If you don’t mind going to a separate dentist from your children, you can look for someone who specializes in pediatric dentistry for them and then look for another dentist for yoursef.
No matter what the circumstances, you want someone who’s done more than go to dental school. The dental industry has made huge advancements. No longer is dentistry just about cleaning your teeth and doing a few fillings. There is teeth whitening, dental implants, all-porcelain crowns, and porcelain veneers. It will be helpful if your dentist has post-graduate training in some of these procedures as well. This way you don’t have to constantly be referred out when more advanced needs pop up.
I’d start by doing a Google search in your area for dentists. If they have reviews, read them. Then, go to their website and read about the procedures they offer and what kind of training they have. If you’re looking for someone who is strong in cosmetic services, you’ll want to find someone who is accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). If you’re looking for some advanced treatments, such as dental implants, look for someone who has done additional study with a place like the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies (LVI).
Dr. Hadgis is one of those rare dentists who is both an expert in advanced dentistry as well as an artist. He is both AACD accredited and is a fellow with the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies.
I hope this helps.
This blog is brought to you by Grosse Point Woods Dentist Dr. Theodore Hadgis.