There are few things that people fear as much as the dentist. While most of us will go to almost any lengths to avoid a visit to the dentist, keeping up with dental hygiene is one of the most important ways in which we can protect our own health and longevity. If you’re looking for the best dental care near you, there are many factors that come into play.
Finding the right dentist is just the start, but it’s a major step in making sure that your oral hygiene stays on track. There are many different types of dentists and locations, so it’s important to understand what you need from them before getting started. Use this guide to find out more about your different options for finding an excellent dentist close by.
What Should You Look for in a Dentist?
The first step in finding the best dental care for you is understanding what you need from a dentist. There are many different types of dentists with different specialties, and you’ll likely want to work with one who is well-versed in your particular needs.
- General Dentists – General dentists are well-versed in all types of dental procedures, from tooth extractions to root canals. They are typically highly trained in general dentistry and are usually the best choice for patients who want one primary practitioner for all of their dental needs.
- Cosmetic Dentists – Cosmetic dentists specialize in cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental implants, and more. These are procedures that are designed to make your teeth look better, but don’t necessarily affect your oral health in any significant way.
- Pediatric Dentists – Pediatric dentists are trained specifically in the dental needs of children. They usually graduate from special training programs in pediatrics and may receive other special certifications as well.
- Orthodontists – Orthodontists specialize in the placement of braces and other corrective devices. If your teeth are misaligned, they can often help to adjust them back into place with braces or other devices.
What Kind of Dentist Should You Be Looking For?
There are many different types of dentists, and they each have their own unique areas of expertise. However, they are all trained to do the same things, and it’s important to find one who can meet all of your needs. If you have a specific condition or concern, it helps to find a dentist who specializes in that particular area. If you have young children, it’s also a good idea to find a pediatric dentist who is trained in caring for children’s teeth. In the end, it’s important to find a dentist who you feel comfortable with, and who you trust with your dental health. Your dentist will play a major role in your oral hygiene, so it makes sense to find one who you can trust.
A General Dentist
General dentists are trained in all aspects of dental care, including basic dental hygiene practices. They are well-versed in most types of dental procedures, from tooth extractions to root canals. General dentists are best for patients who want one primary practitioner for all of their dental needs.
A Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentists specialize in cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening and dental implants. These are procedures that are designed to make your teeth look better, but don’t necessarily affect your oral health in any significant way. Cosmetic dentistry services are best for patients who want to improve the appearance of their teeth but don’t need any significant dental work done.
A Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric dentists are trained specifically in the dental needs of children. They usually graduate from special training programs in pediatrics and may receive other special certifications as well. Pediatric dentists are best for patients who have young children and want to find a dentist who is trained in their specific needs and oral health.
An Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialize in the placement of braces and other corrective devices. If your teeth are misaligned, they can often help to adjust them back into place with braces or other devices. Orthodontists are best for patients who have misaligned teeth or who have been diagnosed with a condition that requires corrective devices.
A Prosthodontist
Prosthodontists specialize in the restoration and replacement of teeth. They are trained in dentures and other ways to replace missing teeth. Prosthodontists are best for patients who have lost teeth and are interested in dental implants. Prosthodontists can also design other types of dental appliances to replace missing teeth.
Summary
No matter what kind of dental work you need to be done, finding the best dental care for you starts with understanding what you need from a dentist. It’s important to find a dentist who you feel comfortable with, and who you trust with your dental health. Your dentist will play a major role in your oral hygiene, so it makes sense to find one who you can trust.