Dentist offices offer essential care for maintaining oral health as well as cosmetic services that improve tooth appearance. In addition to a dentist, office staff typically includes hygienists and dental assistants. These personnel are trained on advanced procedures and treatments. They also help patients understand their treatment options and follow patient education best practices.
Many people use the terms dental clinic and dental office interchangeably, but they are not the same. A dental office has all the tools and equipment needed to perform examinations and treatments, and it also serves as a home base for a dentist. A clinic may be housed in a dental office or in other places, such as large healthcare-related establishments. Governmental organizations sometimes host dental clinics to provide treatment on a low-cost basis for the homeless or those with financial difficulties. Dental schools also have clinics where students can practice performing examinations and providing treatment under the supervision of their instructors.
Patients who choose to visit a single-provider dental office often benefit from the personal attention they receive. Since they usually see the same provider at each appointment, they build a rapport with the staff and feel more comfortable talking about their concerns. In addition, patients who visit a single-provider dental office are less likely to encounter long wait times because the dental professional can get to know them and their needs. This type of personalized care is especially important to patients who are concerned about receiving treatments that are overly aggressive or unnecessary.