You’ve come to the cross-roads. It’s been some years now since you lost your teeth, and you’ve been hesitant to restore them due to your uncertainty about who to choose to do the procedure and how much you should pay. You desperately want to reclaim your smile so that you can regain your self-esteem and normal function, but you have to be sure about your choice before making such a big commitment. This is where your dentist in Lafayette factors in. He wants you to have the information you need to make the right decision about your dental implants.
What You Should I Look for in an Implant Dentist
There are a few intangibles to consider when evaluating which dentist to choose for your dental implant. There are no set standards to follow. The key is to be just as discriminating as you would when buying a car or house. Some of the criteria to consider are:
- Experience – Find out how long your dentist has been practicing and performing dental implants. You should also get a rough estimate of how many dental implant procedures he’s conducted.
- Training – Another area that you should probe is his training. Where did he receive his primary education? Also, find out if he has received any additional learning to enhance his abilities to perform the procedure.
- Is Everything Done In-House – It’s great to know if the dental implants in Lafayette are done in-house because that will influence time and cost. Both are lessened when you work with a dentist who has this capability.
Is Your Dentist Attentive?
This category is separate from the above because it’s not something that you will ask your dentist about. Instead, you will make a judgement call based on his willingness to answer your questions and calm any anxiety that you may have about the procedure. If he displays empathy and concern about your concerns, then he’s an attentive dentist.
Evaluating the Cost
It is understandable for you to be price sensitive. You want to make sure that you’re making the right investment. Keep in mind, though, that the least expensive provider isn’t necessarily the best choice. Likewise, the most expensive price doesn’t automatically translate into the best care. As you evaluate the dentists on your list, make sure that the other variables discussed are considered along with the price, and calculate what the median cost is for all of the estimates.
The process of getting dental implants should be a joyous time, as you are finally able to regain the confidence and self-esteem that you’ve longed for. Take your time and find the dentist that works for you, and prepare for an exciting future.
About the Author
Dr. Terry Batliner received his bachelor degree from the University of Northern Colorado. He then went on to attend Dental School at the University of Iowa and the Royal Dental College of Denmark. He practices at Sage Dental Care and can be reached for more information through his website.