There are now over 181,000 dental businesses across the US. If you need to schedule an upcoming dental implant procedure, you’ll need to narrow down your options. Otherwise, you might choose a dentist who lacks the necessary expertise.

Here are a few tips you can use to choose an implant dentist in St. Louis. With these tips, you can narrow down your list of options without additional stress.

Instead, you can schedule your appointment feeling confident in your choice. Read on to start your search for an implant dentist today!

Request Referrals

Nearly 70% of adults between the ages of 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth. Meanwhile, most Americans have lost an average of 12 teeth by age 50. Chances are, you know someone who already has a dental implant in place.

Start your search for a local implant dentist by turning to friends and family members who live in St. Louis. Ask if they can recommend options for dentists. Prioritize speaking to anyone who underwent a dental implant procedure in the past. 

Prepare a list of questions you want to ask about each dentist, dental practice, and procedure. For example:

• Where is the practice located
• Is the dentist experienced and knowledgeable
• Are they easy to talk to
• Is the staff friendly and professional
• How long did it take
• Are you satisfied with the results

Talking to someone about what to expect from a dental implant procedure can help you manage your expectations. It could also ease any dental anxiety you’re experiencing about the procedure.

Meanwhile, gathering referrals can help you find a local dentist worthy of your trust. You could feel more confident in the options for dentists on your list as a result.

Online Reviews

If you can’t develop a list of referrals, start searching online instead. Visit each dental practice’s website to determine if they offer dental implants. If they do, check the website for a testimonials page.

Look for online patient reviews on Healthgrades.com, the practice’s BBB listing, and their Google Business profile. Read a handful of reviews from each site to determine if the practice has a glowing reputation.

Make a note of the complaints you find. For example, maybe patients experienced long wait times. Maybe the office wasn’t organized or the staff wasn’t friendly. 

Don’t make any snap judgments after reading one or two reviews. Reading a few from each site can help you find a quality, professional practice. You can feel more confident in your choice after reading about the experiences of other patients. 

Review Credentials

Before making a decision, make sure each implant dentist on your list has the proper credentials. Determine where they completed their education and training. Make sure they have an official diploma from an accredited institution. 

Confirm that each dentist has the proper board certifications. 

If you’re choosing a cosmetic dentist, they’ll likely belong to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Make sure each dentist on your list is licensed to practice in the state, too. If their license is out of date, remove them from your list. 

Choosing a dentist with the proper credentials and training can help you feel more comfortable with making a final decision. However, some dentists neglect to keep up with their training over time. Determine which dentists on your list have prioritized continuing their education. 

These dentists remain informed about new techniques, technologies, and procedures. New technology is safer while minimizing recovery times. A dentist who keeps up with industry advancements likely keeps their entire team informed and educated, too. 

Consider Experience Levels

As you narrow down your options, determine how long each dentist has worked in the industry. Determine how long the practice has run and operated in St. Louis, too.

A dentist with relevant experience is less likely to make mistakes. Consider how often they perform a dental implant procedure. Try to find a dentist who specializes in the procedure if you can.

Their relevant, recent experience can help put you at ease.

Meanwhile, a long-established dental practice has likely worked out operational issues over time. A new practice, however, might have staffing, scheduling, or billing concerns to work out. These issues could impact your experience as a patient. 

Explore Photos

Check each dentist’s website for before and after photos of patients who underwent the dental implant procedure. Reviewing photos will help you manage your expectations. It can also help you determine if the procedure aligns with your needs and goals.

Consider Complementary Services

Review the other dental services each practice offers. Your dentist might recommend another procedure based on your goals.

For example, you might want to whiten your teeth after your dental implant is placed, improving the overall appearance of your smile.

You can talk to the dentist during your consultation appointment to determine what services align with your oral health goals. 

Schedule a Consult

Schedule a consultation appointment with at least three dentists on your list. Draft a list of questions you want to ask each dentist ahead of time. Consider asking about the experience, the procedure, and the aftercare plan.

If the dentist struggles to answer your questions, remove them from your list of options. Remember, you want to find a knowledgeable, experienced professional. 

Look around the practice during your appointment, too. For example, if the waiting room is full, you might experience delays during future appointments. Perhaps the office is dirty or the staff isn’t friendly.

Were you comfortable when speaking with the dentist? An experienced dentist will know how to put patients at ease. If you felt uncomfortable during a consultation appointment, you likely won’t feel comfortable during the procedure, either.

Finally, ask each practice about the financing options they have available. Determine if they accept your insurance coverage, too.

Choose an Implant Dentist in St. Louis Today

Don’t rush when vetting your options for dentists. Instead, choose an implant dentist you can trust with your oral health. Use these tips to find the best dentist in St. Louis today.

Want to simplify your entire search? We can help. 

Contact our office today to schedule your dental implant procedure.