Dentist Santa Fe

What level of education is required to be a dentist?

If you’re looking for a new oral healthcare provider, it’s only natural to want to pick the most experienced person for the job. Thankfully, all dentists in the U.S. are highly qualified professionals who must meet strict criteria to be licensed to practice.

First, they must earn a bachelor’s degree and then achieve either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Sciences (DDS) degree from one of more than 70 schools accredited by the American Dental Association. Dental school typically involves several years of classroom learning combined with hands-on training through residencies. Then, many dentists choose to pursue additional education to focus on the 12 specialties recognized by the ADA.

At Juniper Dental, Dr. Zhang graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina James B Edward College of Dental Medicine and stays on top of the latest developments in dental technology and techniques through continued education courses at the Pankey Institute and Spear Education.

How do I find the best place to get dental work done?

To find a practitioner who meets your needs, you must first identify what qualities you’re looking for in a dentist. Everyone’s situation is unique, and identifying your individual priorities can help you narrow the list of potential providers.

For example, some patients are seeking someone who is in-network with their dental insurance provider. Others know they’ll need orthodontics at some point so they need a dentist who offers those services. Once you’ve established what you’re looking for, a quick internet search usually provides a list of results near Santa Fe that you can filter based on distance to your location.

How much does a dental checkup and cleaning cost in Santa Fe?

Did you know that the ADA recommends visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning? Standard appointments allow your provider to monitor your condition so they can catch and address any areas of concern before they can progress into more serious issues. However, only an estimated 45% of American adults visited the dentist in the past year.

If it’s been a while since you’ve had a checkup and you’re not sure what they cost, you might hesitate to book your appointment. Usually, a basic checkup and cleaning near Santa Fe costs anywhere from $75 to $150, though it can depend on your circumstances. For example, you might pay more if your visit includes X-rays, fluoride treatments, or you require a deep cleaning. Those carrying dental insurance might pay less out-of-pocket because preventative care is often 100% covered.

How can I find a dentist who does dental implants?

Dental implants are the only replacement teeth that involve oral surgery, so it’s important to find a qualified practitioner to place them. Many patients prefer to work with specialists like oral surgeons, periodontists, or prosthodontists, who specialize in the complex procedures involved with rebuilding smiles.

At our office in Santa Fe, Dr. Zhang has specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment required to place and restore your dental implants in-house, so you don’t need to seek outside providers. Once he strategically places the titanium rod into your jawbone and the materials fuse, he can provide a lifelike prosthetic that looks just like your natural teeth for seamless results.

What is the best way to find a cosmetic dentist?

Improving your appearance is a personal matter, so you’ll want to find a dentist whose results you can trust. Before undergoing any elected procedures intended to boost your appearance, you should consult with a potential provider to verify that you’re a good candidate and that they can meet your personal needs.

For instance, Dr. Zhang provides several cosmetic services and he’s happy to upgrade your grin to help boost your confidence. However, his primary concern is your dental well-being. Before providing any elected treatment, he will examine your mouth and will clear up any problems like cavities or gum disease. That way, you’ll have a beautiful, healthy smile once your procedures are completed.