Choosing a dentist is a crucial decision that impacts your long-term oral health. It's not just about finding someone who can clean your teeth, but about finding a professional committed to providing the highest quality care. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a dentist.
Look for Advanced Credentials
Dentists who have earned their Mastership (MAGD) or Fellowship (FAGD) with the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) have demonstrated a high level of commitment to continuing education and clinical excellence. These credentials signify that the dentist has completed extensive continuing education beyond what is required for maintaining a dental license. For more information, you can visit AGD.org.
Continuing Education: Beyond the Minimum
It's essential to inquire about how often and how much your dentist participates in continuing education (CE). Some dentists only complete the bare minimum required to maintain their license, while others go above and beyond, seeking out diverse and comprehensive courses. A dentist who engages in a wide variety of CE topics is more likely to stay current with the latest advancements in dental care. Additionally, consider whether the dentist takes their entire dental team to external training courses. An outside perspective can provide unbiased and comprehensive education, which is often more effective than in-office training sessions alone.
Quality Control and Delegation of Procedures
The way a dental practice delegates procedures can be a strong indicator of its quality control standards. For example, the application of dental sealants is a detailed process that should ideally be performed by the dentist with the assistance of a hygienist or dental assistant. This is a four-handed procedure that often requires the use of air abrasion or a burr to clean out the grooves (fissures) before applying the sealant. If saliva contaminates the tooth during this process, it can trap bacteria under the sealant, potentially leading to decay and the need for a root canal. Therefore, ensuring the dentist performs this procedure with proper assistance is crucial for quality care.
Decision-Making on Restorative Materials
Another critical aspect to consider is who decides on the restorative materials used in the practice. Ideally, the dentist should make these decisions based on thorough research, clinical evidence, and reviews of the materials' quality and longevity. It's essential to avoid practices where decisions are made by salespeople pushing discounted products or unqualified staff members. A dentist committed to using the best materials will ensure better outcomes and longer-lasting restorations.
Asking the Right Questions
When evaluating a dental practice, here are some questions you might ask:
- What advanced credentials, such as MAGD or FAGD, has the dentist earned?
- How frequently does the dentist attend continuing education seminars, and do they cover a wide range of topics?
- Does the dentist take the entire team to external training courses?
- How are procedures like dental sealants handled, and who performs them?
- Who makes decisions about the restorative materials used, and what criteria do they use?
By asking these questions, you can gauge the dentist's commitment to high-quality care and continuing education, which are key indicators of a reputable and reliable dental practice.
Our Commitment to Quality Care
At our practice, we believe in providing top-notch dental care through continuous learning and stringent quality control. We encourage our patients to ask questions and make informed decisions about their oral health. Our mission is to offer ethical, quality care, ensuring that you receive the best treatment possible.
Choosing the right dentist is an important step in maintaining your oral health. By considering these factors, you can find a dentist who will provide exceptional care and help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
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For more information on advanced dental credentials and continuing education, visit AGD.org.
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