There are many different kinds of dentists that work in a variety of settings. Whether you’re looking for an office that specializes in cosmetic dentistry or urgent care, you’ll find the right dentist for your needs in Portland. Here is our handy guide to family dentistry in Portland, Oregon.
What to Look for in a Dentist
Choosing a dentist is difficult. When you’re in need of a dentist, it’s important to find one that will work best for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a family dentist or an emergency dentist, here are some of the factors to consider when picking a Portland dentist:
- Do you want someone who works with children?
- Someone who can provide cosmetic dentistry? Someone who has experience with sedation dentistry?
- Will your dental plan covers all of your treatments?
- Does the doctor have any certifications?
- What are their hours?
There are many different types of dentists in the Portland area that work in different practices and specialize in different areas.
The Types of Dentists
- Pediatric Dentist – A pediatric dentist, also called a pediatric dental specialist, is a dentist with additional training who focuses on the oral health and welfare of children. They may specialize in orthodontics or other areas related to the development of children’s teeth and jaws, like periodontology or prosthodontics.
- Cosmetic Dentist – A cosmetic dentist provides services like porcelain veneers and tooth whitening to improve smiles as well as Invisalign braces and other types of orthodontics to correct alignments or create more desirable facial shapes. Not all dentists will be able to provide cosmetic dentistry, so make sure to ask about that before visiting any dentist’s office.
- General Dentist – A general dentist typically has a wide range of skills that can include providing preventative care by offering check-ups for caries prevention, taking x-rays, blood pressure screening, and administering vaccinations (the CDC recommends babies receive their first set at six months).
- Dental Hygienist – The term “dental hygienist” refers to someone who provides exams and cleanings for patients but doesn’t specialize in any type of treatment.
- Emergency Dentist
- Oral Surgeon – Another term you might hear is “oral surgeon” these are dental specialists who have advanced training in oral surgery procedures.
What to Expect from Your Family Dentist
There are a few key things that you should expect from your family dentist.
- They will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- They will be able to give you the care and attention that your whole family needs, not just the children.
- They will make sure that whatever treatment plan they put in place is suitable for your whole family.
Referring Your Family Dentist to Someone Else
If you’re looking for a family dentist in Portland, there are many different options available. If you are able to make an appointment with your current dentist, then it may make sense to have them refer you to their colleague who specializes in family dentistry. This way, you’ll get the care that you need from someone who is familiar with your needs and can provide the best care possible for everyone involved.
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