Oral health receives a lot of of attention these days with the resurgence of modern teeth whitening systems and a new consciousness regarding oral hygiene. However, the development of new technologies in dentistry necessitates the attention of committed dentists and dental work experts. Recent studies indicate that more dental health workers are just in for the money. Therefore, choosing a proper dentist is a crucial move, for the sake of your oral and financial health.
Dentist Requirements
Before qualifying as dental work practitioners, candidates need to take up a pre-dental degree and dental school courses. Dental school studies are divided in two sections. The pre-clinical studies for two years and a practicum under a licensed faculty for the latter two. Dentistry candidates must then pass the state and national dentistry board to qualify as dentists. However, if the candidates plan to specialize in a branch of dentistry such as:
- Public Health
- Endodontics
- Oral Maxillofacial Pathology
- Oral Maxillofacial Surgery
- Dentofacial Orthopedics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
A couple of years of advanced studies is required. They are also required to pass the specialty board examination to gain their board certification and license. After so much study and money spent on training, it’s no wonder some dentists are more keen to earn big money at the expense of their clients’ teeth. Here are some guidelines to help you choose a proper-minded dentist who actually cares for their clients’ oral health.
Recommendations
Being an advocate of prevention rather than expensive one-time treatments is a positive sign that dentists and dental work experts care about their patients’ health. They often suggest or recommend doing a full oral study before dispensing treatments and procedures. They require x-ray films or copies of dental records from their clients’ previous dentist. Proper dentists do thorough examinations of your overall dental health. These include examinations of the following: teeth, gums, lips, tongue, palate, cheek insides, and throat.
If a proper dentist charts, shows, and explains in detail the results of the exam to the client, it is a good sign that the dentist is serious about dental health. Good dentists make advises and reminders about regular visits. They are interested in monitoring and assessment of maintenance and dental procedures, if any. Hence, good dentistry requires time and detailed work unlike treatments which promise instant results.
Red Flags
There are also signs which raise a red flag aside from the positive signs when finding a good dentist. Flamboyant teasers and advertisements often signify mass production instead of detailed work. Also, lower than average fees are not foolproof ways to save money. Lower fees often require longer, repeated treatments which in time cost more. Dentists who often rely on sedation are also exposing their patients to undue risks. Unscientific processes employed by some dentists should be warning enough. Dentistry is based on science and not “holistic” treatments as some advertise. You will spend extra cash because of these “holistic” treatments.
With the risks these situations pose, it is imperative that you know where to find good dentists and dental work experts. Referrals from family members, friends, and impartial local health workers are good sources. There are also agencies that offer assistance in finding quality dental care. It is also important to ensure that the client’s philosophy on dental care coincides with that of the dentist. This promotes cooperation, good rapport, and ultimately, outstanding oral health.