* SELECTING A DENTIST *

DENTISTRY 2000 would like to assist you in the selection process by providing you with a complete list of dentists in the United States who are members of the ADA offered directly through a link to the American Dental Association. There is also a directory which will allow you to find the local county dental societies (also from the ADA).

In addition, we have several dentists who have listed their practices with Dentistry 2000 and offer a little more information about there practice philosophy as well as location of their practices and contact information.

There are several different specialties of dentistry - some which may assist you more directly with the care you are needing. While all general dentists given training in dental school to do the basics of the specialties, there are times when a specialist may be needed due to the complexity of the case.

SPECIALIST INFORMATION

The American and California Dental Associations (ADA and CDA) recognize these eight types of dental specialists:

Endodontist
Deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease and injuries of the internal soft tissue of the tooth (root canals).

Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon
Treats injuries and deformities, extracts teeth and performs surgery of the mouth, jaw and face.

Orthodontist
Prescribes and places corrective devices, such as braces, to align teeth and improve health and appearance.

Pediatric Dentist
Specializes in the dental health of children from birth to adolescence.

Periodontist
Treats diseases of the gums.

Prosthodontist
Designs and fits bridge-work and dentures.

Public Health Specialist
Coordinates and administers community-wide dental care programs, including public education on the prevention of dental disease.

Oral Pathologist
Researches the causes, development and effects of oral diseases.

THE GENERAL DENTAL HEALTH CARE TEAM

The Dentist
The licensed dentist is educated and trained to diagnose dental problems, plan treatment or prescribe medication. As long as the licensed dentist supervises, certain phases of dental treatment may be delegated to other members of the dental team.

The Dental Hygienist
The dental hygienist cleans teeth and performs other functions under the direction and supervision of a licensed dentist.
There are two categories of dental hygienist:
1. Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)
2. Registered Dental Hygienist in Extended Functions (RDHEF)

The Dental Assistant
Under the supervision of the licensed dentist, the job of the dental assistant is to help the dentist at chairside, take x-rays, and perform other support functions.
There are three categories of dental assistant:
1. Dental Assistant (DA)
2. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
3. Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF)

The Receptionist / Treatment Coordinator / Business Assistant
These people generally greet you at the office, makes your appointments, takes insurance information and serves as an information source for any questions you have about the office, such as hours, billing policies and treatment scheduling.

SELECTING A DENTIST FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

There are many factors that one should use when selecting a family dentist. While many people select one based upon convenience, referral service (such as 1-800 DENTIST), yellow pages, location, or referral from a family member or friend, one should also consider the following when selecting a dentist for a long term health care provider relationship.

• How long has the dentist been in practice?
• Will they work with my insurance company to maximize my dental benefits?
• Is the dentist a member of the ADA?
• Do they practice curent infection control procedures at their office?
• Am I offered different options for treatment?
• Is the dentist available for after-hours emergency coverage?
• Are the facilities neat and clean?
• Is the referral source one that can be trusted?
• Does the dentist do a variety of procedures "in-office" or will I be referred out for many procedures?
• What hours are they open?
• Do they treat children?
• Does the dentist involve the patient in the treatment planning phase?
• Do you need special assistance or care such as wheelchair access, nitrous oxide, pre-medication, etc.?

NOTE: While these are factors that one might wish to include when selecting a dentist, the decision is a personal one and you need to be comfortable with the dentist you choose. It is their responsibility to let you know the answers to these questions as well as explain the advantages and disadvantages of the treatment options that are presented to you. In addition, you have a right to know the cost in advance and have the procedure explained in a way that you can understand it.

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