Dental Practice Alpharetta, GA
If you are struggling with a dental concern, a dental professional can help. General dentists offer routine and emergency care for a diverse group of patients of various age groups. Choosing a new provider can be confusing. Dental practices vary in size, and each practice offers different services. It is important to note the services and treatments that a dental professional provides in order to receive appropriate treatment.
Dental practices like Windward Parkway Dentistry, serving Alpharetta and the surrounding area, can help. Our team offers a range of general dentistry services. We take pride in helping patients resolve even the most stubborn dental concerns. Call us at (770) 814-6224 to schedule an appointment.
What Is a Dental Practice
There are several different types of dental practices, from small standalone dental offices to dental centers with multiple locations and anything in between. A dental office is a type of dental practice where one dentist offers their services. They may provide general dentistry or specialist services. It is typically best suited for patients who want a more personalized level of service and who feel most comfortable with one dentist at a time.
In contrast, a dental center hires multiple dental providers across several specialties, all under one roof. Dental centers typically appeal to patients looking for a potentially more convenient option. Since dental centers are staffed with several dentists, it is easy to coordinate care between specialists as necessary – potentially saving patients time and energy they may spend going from dentist to dentist.
“There are several different types of dental practices, from small standalone dental offices to dental centers with multiple locations and anything in between.”
Practices May Employ Multiple Providers
In the past, most dentists operated standalone practices. They often hired a hygienist or trained assistant, but they served as the only dentist on-site. Today, however, many providers have chosen to join large practices. Large practices offer scheduling advantages for both patients and providers. With several dentists on site, patients receive care when they need it. The dentists can enjoy a consistent work schedule and take vacations as they choose.
Large dental practices can also streamline workflow. One provider may treat patients with gum disease, while another provider takes care of orthodontic referrals. This setup lets each dentist make the most of their skills. Patients can receive personalized advice from the most qualified provider in the clinic, but some patients may not enjoy working with multiple providers. If you prefer to build a relationship with a single provider, you may want to choose a solo dental practice.
“Large practices offer scheduling advantages for both patients and providers.”
Choosing the Right Practice
Before selecting a new dental practice, patients should consider their needs and preferences. Many patients prefer to receive care from a certain gender. Others may want a dentist with several decades of experience. Make sure a prospective provider meets these needs.
With large practices, there is no guarantee that you will always see the same provider. Patients may be shuffled between each dentist at the practice. Some patients do not mind this arrangement, but for patients who prefer to work with a single provider, this might be a deal-breaker.
While making a choice, consider whether a family dental provider might come in handy. Patients with young children may want to choose a provider who treats pediatric concerns. Ask about orthodontic care and other specialized services, too. Not every provider is equipped to treat specialized dental concerns. But with a little research, patients may be able to arrange a "one-stop-shop" for their family dental needs. Choosing a centralized provider can save time and cut down on travel.
“Before selecting a new dental practice, patients should consider their needs and preferences.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Practice in Alpharetta, GA
Services to Look for at a Dental Practice
When choosing a new dental practice, consider what services the office provides. Some dentists may not offer specialized services. Patients who want these services will need to look elsewhere.
- Routine cleanings
- Dental exams
- X-rays
- Fillings
- Periodontal checkups
- Oral cancer screenings
Most providers also offer bridges, dentures, crowns, and extractions. Some practices offer other specialty services on-site, but do not assume that each general dental practice offers specialized care. If a patient needs a specialized service, many general dentists refer the patient to another provider.
Before signing up with a new dentist, request a detailed list of services they provide. If your preferred dentist doesn't provide the service you want, ask about the referral process. A qualified provider should be equipped to make an immediate referral.
“If a patient needs a specialized service, many general dentists refer the patient to another provider.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a large dental practice?
Q. What should I look for in a dental provider?
Q. What services does a general dentist provide?
Q. How can I integrate the internet into my search for a dental practice?
People Also Ask
Q. Beyond regular checkups, what additional procedures might a dentist recommend?
Q. What dental treatments are possible in a smile makeover?
Q. How can a dentist replace missing teeth?
Using the Internet in Your Search
In this day and age, it is easier than ever to integrate the internet into one's search for the right dentist. Review sites like Google Business, Healthgrades, OpenCare, Yelp, and Zocdoc are particularly invaluable. However, it is important to know how to use these websites properly – especially since it is not uncommon for false reviews to run amok or negative reviews to be hidden.
At the same time, even authentic reviews may tend to skew more towards the negative than the positive – the reason being that people are more likely to write about negative experiences than positive (or even neutral) ones. As such, to get the best, most complete idea of a dental practice, it is a good idea to sort reviews by most recent and look at a variety of different review sites.
“In this day and age, it is easier than ever to integrate the internet into one’s search for the right dentist.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why do I need to make regular dental visits?
A. Regular dental visits are a necessary part of preventative dentistry in that they allow dentists to identify dental healthcare problems before they have the chance to worsen or occur.
Q. How can I tell when I am in a bad dental practice?
A. Bad dental offices tend to be generally unkempt in appearance and staffed by rude, impatient team members. They offer only a limited number of treatment options, and they are not receptive to questions. You should always feel safe and comfortable in a dentist's office – anything else should be taken as a warning sign.
Q. What are some questions I should ask a prospective dentist?
A. Your oral health is something to take seriously. As such, you should always feel welcome to address any questions and concerns with a prospective dentist. Be sure to ask each dentist where they were educated and trained, their approach to preventative dentistry, whether they offer any types of anesthesia, and any other questions that spring to mind.
Q. Can a dental practice take care of everyone in my family?
A. It depends on a case-by-case basis. While many general dentists can provide care for patients of all ages, some practices have age policies. Call us at (770) 814-6224 to see what we can do for you.
Q. Will I always see the same dentist?
A. If you choose to visit a single-provider dental office, yes, you will always see the same dentist. However, it may be more difficult to get appointments when you need them, as frequently as you need. If you choose to visit a multi-provider dental center, it may be easier for you to get more convenient appointments, but you may see several providers. You have to decide what is most important for you.
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Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
Dental practices come in all shapes and sizes. Before choosing a new practice, consider your preferences and priorities. Some patients may prefer a solo practice. Other patients may gravitate toward a large dental clinic. Before making your choice, confirm that the dental team has the right qualifications. Check to make sure that your new practice offers the services you need.
If you are seeking a new dental practice, let Windward Parkway Dentistry in Alpharetta deliver the care you need. Call us at 770-814-6224 to learn more about our services and policies.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
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- We serve patients from the following counties: Fulton County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Alpharetta, Bethany Crossing, Herring Township, and Milton
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