Is there currently a gap between your teeth, impacting the appearance of your smile? You’re not alone. By age 17, 7% of Americans have lost at least one permanent tooth.
By age 50, Americans have lost 12 teeth on average. Leaving that gap in your smile could impact your oral health later on.
Learning how to pick dentists for implants could prove essential to your future health and well-being. Not sure who to pick? Here are seven tips that can help.
Narrow down your options for dentists and schedule your implant procedure with this guide today!
1. Gather Referrals
There are now over 1,082,000 professionals in the US dental industry. If you want to save valuable time with your search, turn toward your friends. Ask your family members, coworkers, and others if they can recommend a dentist.
Remember, many Americans are missing teeth. You might know someone who scheduled a dental implant procedure in the past. If you’re comfortable asking, determine if any of your friends have a dental implant.
Then, ask who they visited for the procedure and learn more about their experience.
Consider having a list of questions ready before you start gathering referrals.
For example, you can ask if the dentist was experienced and friendly. Determine if there were any complications with the procedure. Ask your friend if they’re happy with the results, too.
If you’re unable to pick dentists for implants from a list of referrals, start online instead. Once you have a list of options for dentists, you can narrow down your choices.
2. Check Credentials
Take the time to confirm that each dentist on your list has the proper credentials.
First, confirm that they’re licensed to practice dentistry in the state. If they lack the proper licensing, remove them from your list.
Then, learn more about their education and training. For example, you’ll want to make sure they graduated from an accredited institution. Consider how long ago they graduated, too.
You might feel more comfortable choosing a professional with years of dental implant experience. While experience is important, some techniques are out-of-date. Try to find dentists who continue learning over time.
These dentists remain informed about new techniques, technologies, and procedures. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your dentist offers the best services. Newer procedures can minimize your recovery and downtime.
They’re often safer, too.
Look into each dentist’s board certifications as well. Some cosmetic dentists belong to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).
Finding someone with the proper credentials and certifications can help you feel confident in your choice.
3. Prioritize Experience
Visit each dentist’s “About Us” website page or their Healthgrades.com listing as you review their credentials. Look for notes about their experience in the industry, too.
First, determine how long each professional has worked as a dentist. Consider how long they’ve owned their practice as well. Find a long-established business.
An established business is less likely to encounter operational kinks that can impact your patient experience. These teams know how to operate smoothly as a team.
Then, determine how much dental implant experience each dentist on your list has. How many dental implant procedures have they completed? How often do they schedule those procedures?
Before you pick dentists for implants, make sure you find dentists with years of hands-on, relevant experience. If they don’t perform the dental implant procedure often, remove them from your list.
There are different types of dental implants you can choose between as well. Discuss your options during your consultation appointment. Make sure the dentist offers the option that aligns with your treatment goals.
4. Read Reviews
You can also feel more confident in your choice if you find dentists other locals know and trust. Before choosing a dentist, read online patient reviews. You can find reviews on:
- Healthgrades.com
- The Better Business Bureau website
- The practice’s Google Business profile
Read a handful of reviews from each website. Try to find a dentist who already has a glowing reputation.
You might find one or two negative reviews. That’s normal. Look for any patterns between the complaints.
For example, some patients might complain about long wait times. Others might note the dentist was difficult to understand.
If you find the same complaints repeat, you’ll likely experience the same problems, too.
5. Consider Other Services
Visit each dentist’s website to determine what other procedures and services they offer. You might require more than one procedure to improve your smile.
Choosing a dentist who offers the different procedures you need at one office can simplify your experience.
6. Schedule a Consultation
Schedule a consultation appointment with two or three dentists on your list. Then, discuss the dental implant procedure.
Make sure the dentist runs you through the pros, cons, and potential risks involved. Ask them any questions you have about the procedure or their experience.
During your appointment, look around. Are the offices clean? Consider whether or not the staff is friendly, too.
Consider your comfort as well. Make sure to pick dentists for implants you’re comfortable around.
For example, was the dentist able to answer your questions in a way that was easy to understand? Were they friendly and inviting?
Make sure to outline your concerns and goals during your consultation appointment. The dentists shouldn’t push other services on you. Instead, they should help you make informed decisions about your options.
With their help, you can make smarter decisions regarding your smile and oral health.
7. Compare Pricing
After each consultation, ask the office how much their dental implant procedure pricing. Request estimates from at least three different offices. You can compare your options for dentists while prioritizing your budget.
You can also determine the average cost for the procedure in your local area. If one price seems higher than the other, question why that is.
Stunning Smiles: Pick Dentists for Implants Today
Learning how to pick dentists for implants shouldn’t feel stressful. After all, this is a chance to improve your smile and oral health! Use these seven tips to narrow down your options.
Then, schedule your procedure and start grinning ear-to-ear.
Eager to schedule your appointment? We can’t wait to help.
Contact us today to get started.