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How to Choose a Family Dentist

Gateway Commons Team - Wells Family Dental

Table of Contents

 

Key Points

  • Fewer people are regularly seeking dental care, which has resulted in poorer oral health outcomes.
  • There are lots of different types of dentists and specialists, which makes choosing a family dentist difficult.
  • There are distinct advantages to having a dedicated family dentist vs. a general dentist or specialist.
  • Understanding some basic qualities to look for in a family dentist can help in identifying one that is right for you.

According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of adults ages 18 to 64 who visited the dentist in the previous year had decreased. That was the case among almost every demographic, family income level, and in both urban and rural areas.1

There are many reasons for this. In-person office visits of all kinds halted during the COVID-19 pandemic and have been slow in returning. Access to dental insurance is another major factor. Also, fears and anxiety regarding the prospect of pain or discomfort related to a dental visit can dissuade people from going.2

For these reasons, finding a good family dentist is vital. It can help ensure consistent care that translates to a healthier smile and better oral health outcomes throughout your life.

If you are looking for a family dentist in Raleigh, NC, keep reading. This article covers the many advantages of finding a dedicated one and what qualities to look for. It can help ensure you and your family are receiving the highest level of care available.

What Is a Family Dentist?

“Family dentist” is a general term used to describe a dentist office that focuses on providing comprehensive dental care for patients of every age, from children to seniors. A major characteristic is that they understand the unique and changing needs of patients at different stages of life. For instance, a family dentist will be comfortable and confident in providing dental care to children with developing teeth and gums, as well as addressing the specific dental health concerns of older adults (and everything in between).

What Distinguishes a Family Dentist?

To understand this definition more fully, it may be helpful to distinguish a “family dentist” from a “general dentist,” as well as dental specialists. A family dentist is a general dentist, but a general dentist is not always a family dentist. For example, a general dentist office may be equipped to treat children but not focus on providing the specific needs of younger patients.

There are also dental specialists who focus on either specific groups or areas of practice. Common examples include:

  • Orthodontists
  • Periodontists
  • Endodontists
  • Oral surgeons
  • Oral pathologists
  • Pediatric dentists

Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting bite problems using braces or other treatment techniques. Periodontists focus on treating gum diseases, including periodontitis and gingivitis. Endodontists specialize in treating the inside of the tooth through root canals or other procedures.

Oral surgeons specialize in surgical procedures, like tooth extractions and dental implants. You might seek a dental surgeon out (or be referred to one) if you require these or more invasive procedures, like jaw surgery. Oral pathologists diagnose and treat diseases of the oral and maxillofacial region, such as oral cancer.

A pediatric dentist focuses on the treatment of children. You can also find geriatric dentists, who specialize in treating older adults. By comparison, a family dentist does not specialize, but has a broad understanding of the different needs of different age groups and treatment areas.

What Are the Advantages of a Family Dentist?

You may be wondering: “Isn’t it better to find a dentist who specializes in treatments, procedures, or patient groups?” This can be true, especially if you have severe dental issues or have particular treatment needs. For instance, while most family dentists can identify and even diagnose oral cancer, a specialist can provide further expertise and advice regarding treatment options.

The flip side is that, for most people, this level of astute focus is unnecessary and inconvenient. Moreover, almost every patient, throughout their lives, requires a variety of treatments. You can expect a family dentist to be able to provide preventive and restorative care, as well as meet any cosmetic concerns you might have.

On the preventive front, family dentist offices will provide:

  • Dental exams
  • Professional cleanings
  • Fluoride treatments
  • Dental sealants
  • Oral cancer screenings

Family dentists also can encourage good dental hygiene and provide recommendations on techniques for children and adults alike. They also will be able to provide specific treatments for teeth grinding, gingivitis, and gum disease. When it comes to restorative care, a family dentist can offer:

  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Root canals
  • Tooth extractions

Most family dental offices will also provide cosmetic options, including:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Dental bonding
  • Bridges
  • Veneers

A specific advantage of a family dentist is that they are experienced at providing the services above to different types of patients. They will be ready to put together tailored treatment plans for each member of the family, based on their individual needs and concerns.

This is good in the short term, but it also translates to greater continuity of care in the long run. A family dentist who has treated you and your family member for years will have a comprehensive understanding of your dental history, without having to read it from a chart. This also can help them assess different health risks and achieve better health outcomes in general.

What Qualities to Look for in a Family Dentist?

There are many different traits and characteristics to seek out when choosing a dentist. Below are the main ones to consider.

Experience and Qualifications

First, ensure that the dentist is licensed to practice in your state. You might also look for certifications from prominent national or state dental associations.

Examine the educational background of the dentists and other staff. More importantly, make sure they have experience treating a wide range of conditions and in patients of all ages.

Most family dentists will advertise this type of information prominently on their website. You can also read online reviews to get an honest perspective of the experiences other patients have had.

A Family Culture

Many physicians are fantastic at performing medical procedures but lack the “bedside manner” necessary to be a good family dentist. To do family dentistry well, doctors and staff need to be able to listen attentively to concerns. Raleigh family dentist, family dentist raleigh nc, Choosing a family dentist, Choosing a dentist Family dentist vs. general dentistThey must have excellent communication skills and be able to explain procedures and treatment options in a clear and concise way.

Dental anxiety and phobias are very real conditions that can be barriers to care.3 Fear of going to the dentist is particularly prevalent among children. A family dentist should be empathetic and have the ability to bring calm, especially for patients who have dental anxiety.

Most importantly, a family dentist should have a patient-centered approach. Look (on the dentist office website and social media) for clear signs that they embrace a family environment and a good experience for patients of all ages and situations.

Modern Technology and Techniques

Technology is always changing. A good family dentist will stay on top of innovations and developments related to both equipment and techniques for delivering the best possible health outcomes to their patients. This can be important for ensuring a comfortable experience with minimal discomfort during treatments or procedures.

You do not have to be an expert in dental equipment to get a sense of whether a particular office is up-to-date, but do not be afraid to ask. A good dentist and staff will be happy to explain (in basic terms) how each device or piece of equipment will help keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

This extends to skills and training as well.Ask about continuing education and how they keep their staff up-to-speed on the latest practices and policies related to treatment and the patient experience.

Accessibility

An individual with a flexible schedule may be able to get away with traveling across town for routine dental checkups two or three times a year. For families with busy schedules, it is likely a different story.

Take into account proximity and available hours when looking for a family dentist. You might consider one with multiple locations that are close to places where you live, work, go to school, or otherwise spend time.

In the long term, going to an office that is convenient and available when you need it can save you loads of time and hassle. It also can make patients more likely to keep appointments and schedule any needed follow-up visits.

Specifically, ask about available emergency service hours. Most family dentist practices have doctors on call or offer other alternatives to visiting an ER during a dental emergency.

Find a Family Dentist in Raleigh, NC, Today

Now that you understand the distinction between a family dentist vs. a general dentist and specialists, along with some of the unique benefits a family-focused dental practice has to offer, you can begin your search. Finding an office that can accommodate your entire family for years or even decades can go a long way toward ensuring continuity of care, along with convenience, comfort, and confidence that you are getting the best dental healthcare available.

References

  1. Cha, Amy E., Ph.D., M.P.H., and Robin A. Cohen, Ph.D., “Dental Care Utilization Among Adults Aged 18−64: United States, 2019 and 2020, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, April 2022, from: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db435.pdf.
  2. Calladine, Hannah, Charlotte C. Currie, and Chris Penlington, “A Survey of Patients’ Concerns About Visiting the Dentist and How Dentists Can Help,” Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, January 2022, from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9306701/.
  3. Winkler, Christian H., et al., “Impact of Dental Anxiety on Dental Care Routine and Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life in a German Adult Population—a Cross-Sectional Study,” Journal of Clinical Medicine, August 2023, from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10455740/.
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