Choosing a dentist in Altavista is easier when you know what features to look for. Four things to keep in mind are range of services, online reviews, clinic location and equipment, and dentist credentials. Let’s look at each of these factors in a little more detail.
First Factor: Range of Services
Dentists vary in terms of training and areas of expertise. Here are some examples of what we mean:
- A general dentist, also known as a family dentist, provides basic services. These include cleanings, exams, extractions, fillings, and root canals. Many family dentists combine these services with other forms of treatment, such as cosmetic or prosthodontic care.
- A cosmetic dentist focuses on the aesthetic aspects of dentistry care. Of course, many cosmetic dentist are also outstanding general dentists as well. In fact, some of them provide advanced restorative treatments, including oral surgery.
- A prosthodontist is concerned with treating lost or damaged teeth. Many also focus on restorative procedures for people who have suffered injuries to their jaw or face.
- An orthodontist specializes in correcting misaligned or out of place teeth. Orthodontists are most commonly known for designing and fitting braces.
Some practices have multiple dentists on staff, each of whom may focus on a different aspect of dentistry. This can be a big advantage for today’s busy households. It’s easier to have a single go-to destination for dental care, rather than dealing with multiple locations scattered all over your area.
Second Factor: Online Reviews
The Internet is a great place to find reviews for all sorts of businesses, including dental practices. When looking at reviews for dentists, it’s important to read the actual comments and not simply go by the overall ratings. People use the comment section to mention specific aspects of the clinic that they especially like, which is always valuable information to have.
It’s important to remember that reviewers can post almost anything online, including deliberate disinformation. A single negative remark should not cause you to rule out a location with multiple positive reviews in its favor.
Third Factor: Office and Equipment
All else being equal, a dental practice that offers modern, attractive surroundings and the latest equipment is likely to provide better service. Studies show that the physical environment can play a key role in the quality of the treatment experience and even the final outcome. You should also consider driving time, patient parking, and other practical features.
Fourth Factor: Dentist Qualifications
A capable dentist will have a solid record of education and experience. A good dental clinic will include staff profiles on its website. That way you can see you can see for yourself what kind of person you’re trusting with your family’s oral health needs.
Dental medicine is becoming more specialized every day. Even general dentists are branching out into specific areas of focus, such as cosmetic or restorative dentistry. Look for a dentist who invests his or her time in ongoing training and education. That way you know that you and your loved ones will receive the top-quality care you want and deserve.
Choosing a dental practice takes a little time and research. But the rewards you’ll enjoy make all the effort worthwhile. In years to come you and your family can feel good about the smart decision you make now.
About the Author
Dr. Rudy Wolf is a graduate of Richmond’s prestigious MCV/VCU Dental School. His range of expertise includes pediatric dentistry, oral conscious sedation, and wisdom teeth surgery. He is one of the many fine dentists on staff here at our practice. You can reach his office online or by calling (434) 324-8241.