Continue reading through the following frequently asked questions and responses to learn more about our practice and dental care in general!
What level of education is required to become a dentist?
Are you curious what makes Dr. Patel licensed to work with patients? All dentists must meet specific criteria to become a qualified provider, and he is no exception! Typically, providers first earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Then, they must earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from one of the 70+ institutions accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA). Then, they can choose to complete advanced training to become an expert in one of the 12 officially recognized specialty topics.
At our North Dallas office, Dr. Patel initially earned a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from Manubhai Patel Dental College in India before moving to the U.S. He went on to earn an MBA in Healthcare Management from the University of Findlay, then achieved a Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University in 2013.
How can I find the best place to get dental work done?
If you’re on the market for a new oral healthcare provider, it’s only natural to want to find the best person for the job. A quick internet search using your favorite web browser will likely provide a local list of results, but you’re not alone if you’re struggling to narrow them down to just one.
It can be helpful to take a few moments to write down your main priorities regarding dental care. For example, do you need someone who accepts your insurance policy? How far from home are you willing to drive? Are there specific services you might want or need that must be offered? Answering these types of questions can help you find a dental office that checks off the right boxes.
How can I straighten my smile without traditional braces?
Many patients wanting a straighter smile prefer to avoid the hassle and frustration of traditional braces. If you’re seeking a more comfortable, discreet alternative, you might be a good candidate for Invisalign. Instead of relying on bulky metal brackets and wires, this service uses a series of removable, transparent trays customized to fit snugly over your arches and shift your teeth to their ideal positions.
The aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours to prevent potential relapses, then you’ll be directed to switch to wearing the next pair in your series after a week or two, which accounts for the ongoing movement of your smile.
Are there ways to make dental care more affordable?
Dental insurance can be a simple and effective way to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for everything from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures and restorations, and our North Dallas office proudly accepts many major PPO plans. We are also happy to work with other policies to help you maximize any potentially applicable benefits.
But if you’re uninsured and are worried about affording dental care, we’ve got your back. We also gladly accept flexible payment plans through Alpheon Credit, CareCredit, and Cherry. If your application is approved, these low- to no-interest options allow you to divide your total invoice into more manageable installments, which can be easier on your budget.
