21st-century technologies have revolutionized dental practice. However, the outcome of dental care procedures still relies on your dentist's dental expertise. Remember, dental health plays a critical role in overall health. Therefore, there is a lot at stake. To protect your health and wellbeing, learn how to choose the right dentist for you.
How often should you see a dentist?
According to American Dental Association, 42% of adults don't go to the dentist as often as they should. And 15% visit a dentist when they experience pain. So, how often should you see a dentist? Children and adults should go to the dentist every six months for dental checkups and cleanings. If you're pregnant, diabetic, a smoker, or a cancer patient, you'll need to see the dentist more frequently.
During a dental checkup, your Toronto dentist will examine your teeth and gums. They'll do teeth cleaning and check for tooth decay, oral cancers, TMJ problems, cracks, and chips. Note that dental exam procedures vary depending on the patient's medical history and health. For example, dentists should perform oral cancer screening for every patient. In addition, your dentist can check the condition of your existing dental work, like porcelain veneers and dental implants. Experienced dentists perform dental exams and checkups within an hour or less. They can detect dental issues early enough to protect your teeth, smile, and overall health.
What should I look for when looking for a dentist?
Dental care is not a one-time event. It is a lifelong journey with pitfalls and blind spots. It would be best to have a reliable and experienced partner who will stick by your side in health and sickness. Can anyone put their fingers in your mouth? No, apart from your inquisitive 3-year child and your dentist. The first rule, you should trust and feel comfortable around your dentist. To find the best dentist to meet all your dental care needs, consider these points:
All dental procedures should be handled by a certified dentist. Ask about their training and degrees. Qualified dentists are willing to share their insights with future dentists. For example, Dr. Johnson also has an Oral Surgery Master's Degree.
Dental emergencies require immediate care. It would help if you didn't have to wait for several hours or travel hundreds of kilometres with a severe toothache or broken teeth. The best dentist for you should be easily accessible at all times. Is their dental center close to your home? For example, if you live in Toronto, you can find a dentist in downtown Toronto. Check whether the dentist's office hours are convenient for your schedule.
Dental practice consists primarily of oral surgery, orthodontics, endodontics, general and cosmetic dentistry. Most dental issues like cracks, chips, and discoloration fall under cosmetic dentistry. For example, your Toronto cosmetic dentist can use porcelain veneers or teeth whitening to address stained teeth. They can also perform general dental care like teeth cleaning, wisdom tooth extraction, and root canals. If you choose a general dentist without any additional training or experience in specific treatments, they'll refer you to another clinic for specific dental procedures.
The best dental clinic should offer a wide range of dental services, from smile makeovers, oral surgery to general dentistry. For example, the clinic's oral surgeon can perform bone grafting if you're suffering from bone loss. If you are suffering from dental anxiety, sedation is essential in intrusive dental care procedures. Is the dentist certified to administer mild or moderate sedation? Which type of dental technology do they use? Dental emergencies occur at any time. How does the dentist handle emergencies outside of office hours? The best clinic will take care of your teeth, gums, and all dental health needs with consistency.
The last thing you need is to end up on a chair of an unqualified dentist. Remember, you're looking for a long-term partner. Some clinics only look good on paper or online. Take some time to visit the dental center.
Is the office clean and organized?
How extensive are their initial examinations?
Do they have all up-to-date dental equipment in their clinics?
Are they willing to answer your questions?
Do the dentist and staff observe best practices on sterilization and disinfection protocols?
An in-person visit to the dental office can tell you a lot about the dentist. Certified clinics don't have anything to hide. Insist on proof of training, dental expertise, and experience. You're welcome to explore our Toronto Smile Design - Yorkville Dental in downtown Toronto.
