Did you know that, according to a study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 99% of Americans believe that a great smile is the key to finding social success, with friends, family, and co-workers? That’s why general and cosmetic dental work is so important. With the knowledge of a reputable dentist, you can keep your teeth clean and healthy. If you have an accident or years of neglect have ruined your once beautiful smile, family and cosmetic dentistry professionals can give you back what you’ve lost.
Of course, you first need to know how to find dentists you can rely on. As statistics from IBIS World show, there are nearly 6,000 businesses in the United States specializing in dental cosmetics. With these tips, you can weed out the good from the bad.
Three Tips on How to Find Dentists
- Know Their Qualifications
- Do They Accept Your Insurance, or Will You Be Paying out of Pocket?
- Look to Professional Organizations for Recommendations
As Angie’s List points out, the first thing you should consider when trying to find dentists is their qualifications. Any dentist you’re considering should either have a DMD, a doctorate of dental medicine, or their DDS, a doctorate of dental surgery. If you’re looking for a specialist in cosmetic dentistry procedures, you should also consider inquiring about any extra degrees they may have. You’ll also need to ensure they have an up-to-date license in the state they practice in. Most reputable dentists will readily provide you with proof of their licensing and schooling to put your mind at ease.
While you can visit your family dentist for a regular check-up and not have to worry about the cost too much, as you start getting into modern cosmetic dental work, the costs start to add up. That’s why WebMD recommends you ask each practice you’re considering whether or not they accept your insurance, before you start using their services. This is the best way to avoid a very sudden, very large bill you’ll be expected to pay out of pocket.
Professional organizations, like the American Dental Association (ADA), are one of the best resources for anyone struggling to find dentists they can trust. Membership in the ADA is only granted to dentists who maintain a high standard of care, keep focus on the latest science in the treatment of their patients, and those who strictly adhere to rigorous medical ethics. In other words, if you see a dentist recommended on the ADA website or you notice an ADA sticker on a practice’s door, you know they’re considered to be the creme de la creme in their field.
How did you find dentists that you can rely on? Share your tips with us in the comment section below! References: www.newalbanyimplants.com
