How to Choose a Prosthodontist
Choosing the right specialist is an important decision and a prosthodontist is no different. Prosthodontists specialise in restorative dentistry including crowns, bridges, veneers, and implants. The appearance and function of a prosthodontist’s work will have an impact on the rest of a patient’s life. So, it’s important to choose the right prosthodontist to achieve the best long-term outcome.
Referral From Your Dentist
When it’s time to see a specialist, your general dentist may refer you to a specialist based on their previous dealings, location to the patient and the frequency that they see similar cases. Sometimes the referred specialist is perfect match for the patient and other times, a patient may prefer to use someone else so they will request another referral.
Ask for Recommendations
If you know friends or family members who have had prosthodontic dental work done, ask which practice they used. When a prosthodontist is recommended, it comes with peace of mind that you should have a similar positive experience.
Just talking to other people who have used the services of a prosthodontist can be helpful. Even if their specialist isn’t suitable, you may find out some valuable information or know what to ask when it comes time for your appointment.
Online Search
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) website allows you to search by postcode for a prosthodontist who is located near your home or work. If English is your second language, you may want to search for a prosthodontist who is fluent in your preferred language so there’s no problems with communication.
By looking on the AHPRA website, you can check that you only make an appointment with a specialist prosthodontist rather than a general dentist. Online reviews are also helpful in ensuring you see a specialist who is well-regarded.
Check with Your Health Insurance Fund
Complex dental treatment can be costly so it makes sense to contact your health insurer early to check your level of cover and confirm that you can use any prosthodontist you choose. While not common, a health insurance provider may have a list of preferred specialists that allow their members to make the highest possible claim.
Seeing Multiple Prosthodontists
For most patients, it’s impossible to choose a specialist based on an online search, they want to meet them face to face. If you finish your first appointment unsure if the specialist is right for you, a second opinion will allow you to choose between two specialists.
Budget
A second opinion also has the added benefit of comparing quotes between two specialists. Prosthodontic technology means there are often multiple treatment options available. One prosthodontist may recommend one method and another specialist a different method. You may even have multiple options with each specialist. Even if both specialists give you the same treatment plan recommendation, the prices may vary considerably. If you’re on a budget, you might want to weigh up the pros and cons of the different methods and decide which best suits your hip pocket.
Experience & Treatment Preference
When you have your appointment with a prosthodontist, don’t be afraid to ask how often they complete your type of treatment. For example, a prosthodontist may specialise in dentures or crowns and avoid doing implants. Ask to see before and after photos of the work the prosthodontist usually does.
If you would like a first or second opinion of an experienced prosthodontist, call Western Prosthodontic Centre on 9321 1632 or contact us online if you’re looking for an experienced prosthodontist.