Back Bay Dental Care

Michael Bufo,

• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
• LVI Preferred Dentist

Top 10 Critical Things You Should Know
Before You Select a General Dentist

Finding the right dentist for you is an important step in ensuring that you maintain the best dental health possible. At Back Bay Dental Care we have a team of dentists who are able to meet the needs of virtually any client. We have five dentists, Dr. Paul Mathew, Dr. Mark Pham, Dr. Michael Bufo, Dr. Emily Eleftheriou, and Dr. Jack Klausner -- all of whom have received the best training in both general dentistry as well as facial pain (or TMJ), cosmetics, dental implants, Invisalign, and sedation dentistry. We also have dental specialists on staff for your convenience and to ensure that you receive the best care possible under the same roof so that you are not bothered with multiple referrals to a different office!

1. Start with a consultation.

   Going in for a consultation is a great way to learn more about a dentist and dental practice. Consultations are generally inexpensive, and are sometimes even offered for free. Talk to the dentist before you commit to anything. Remember, it's your job to make an educated decision.

2. Communication is key.

   It's essential that you be able to talk to your dentist - and that your dentist will listen to you! There's a lot of dialogue that needs to go into an individual long-term treatment plan. If you feel bullied, pressured, or rushed, then that's probably not the right dentist for you.

3. Check the doctor's credentials.

   Unlike other dental specialties (oral surgery, orthodontics, etc.), cosmetic dentistry is not recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as a specialty. However, cosmetic dentists can receive accreditation through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). The dentist should also be licensed through the state dental board.

4. Look for smile design experience.

   Cosmetic dentistry is as much art as it is science. In general, the more smiles a dentist has designed, the better that dentist's work will be. Smile design is about more than just your teeth; the dentist should also consider your lips, gum line, mouth shape and facial structure.

5. Don't pay too much - or too little.

   Some dentists charge more by marketing themselves as high-end celebrity cosmetic dentists offering Hollywood smile makeovers. Other dentists try to make up for poor materials and shoddy work by offering low prices. Beware the extremes.

6. An honest dentist sets realistic expectations.

   Watch out for doctors who promise more than they can deliver. You want a dentist who will tell you what can and cannot be done for your smile. You need to know how long the process will take, what you'll have to do, and any complications that could occur.

7. A good lab technician is a valuable asset.

   The dentist might decide on the treatment plan, but it's the lab technician who'll actually fabricate the porcelain veneers or crowns that will be gracing your new smile. Great dentists are proud of their lab technicians and the materials they use.

8. Nothing compares to experience.

   Much like other people, dentists get better at things the more they do them. Ideally, your dentist will have lots of experience with cosmetic dentistry in general and with your procedure specifically.

9. Check out the facilities.

   Take a look around. What sort of equipment does the practice use? What is their sterilization process? Is it a comfortable atmosphere? Are the employees happy and helpful? Do they take the time to answer your questions?