Dental Office Los Angeles, CA
When choosing a dentist, there are many options to consider, including the type of practice you want to go to receive services. One option is a dental office, a practice owned and run by a single provider. A dental office can provide many personalized benefits for patients.
Dr. Robert B Tamaki, DDS is a dental office in Los Angeles. Call us at (310) 402-0156 to see if a dental office is the right fit for you and schedule an appointment.
Dental Offices vs. Dental Centers
Unlike dental centers, dental offices are run by only one dentist providing traditional dental services. Most people are more familiar with the dental office model than with the dental center model, where several dental practitioners across specialties operate in the same practice.
While many people like the convenience of a dental center, the one-stop-shop approach often inadvertently leads to a loss of personalized service. As a result, many patients may feel lost in the shuffle. A dental office allows a dentist to foster close and personal relationships with each patient.
“Unlike dental centers, dental offices are run by only one dentist providing traditional dental services.”
The Right Patient for a Dental Office
When determining where to receive dental care, think about what is most important in terms of atmosphere and type of service. A single-provider dental office offers a level of personalized care that cannot be found elsewhere. Patients who desire a warmer relationship with their dentist may benefit from a dental office.
Single-provider offices are more likely to get to know their patients and their specific oral health needs better. When it is time for an appointment, the dentist knows details beyond what is included in the patient chart. If quick, impersonal health care visits are a turnoff, a dental office may be the right option.
“A single-provider dental office offers a level of personalized care that cannot be found elsewhere.”
Benefits of a Dental Office
Dental offices benefit from a smaller staff focused on providing patients with a quality experience. Dentists and their patients have more freedom in how they interact and more leverage in their treatment plans. These patients often trust their dentist more and are more open to treatment recommendations.
Patients are also often given more time in a dental office. Longer appointment times provide the dentist a chance to learn more about the patient's oral health, overall health history, and fears about treatment. By taking the time to know their patients fully, a dental office can avoid falling victim to a "one size fits all" approach. Sometimes a treatment can be less aggressive or avoided altogether due to the significant advantage of knowing a patient's long-term oral health history.
A dental office can make sure a patient's preferences in communication, education, and specialized care are all taken into consideration.
“A dental office can make sure a patient’s preferences in communication, education, and specialized care are all taken into consideration.”
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Education Requirements
A dental office is owned and operated by someone who attended four years of dental school after college and is a licensed Doctor of Dental Surgery or a Doctor of Dental Medicine. This person is responsible for the diagnosis of dental disease and treatment planning for the patient. Individual states also have licensing requirements, which include two exams covering written and clinical components.
Many dentists who manage their own offices also take business courses. The American Dental Association even offers an executive program in dental practice management. Patients who receive services at a dental office can be assured that their provider has the credentials to provide comprehensive treatment.
“A dental office is owned and operated by someone who has attended four years of dental school after college and is a licensed Doctor of Dental Surgery or a Doctor of Dental Medicine.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What type of patient would benefit from a dental office?
Q. What are the benefits of a dental office?
Q. What are the education requirements to open a dental office?
Q. What is the difference between a dental office and a dental center?
People Also Ask
Q. Why is routine dental care important?
Q. Where can people learn more about dental terminology?
Q. How frequently should I get an oral cancer screening?
Q. What family members may need extra help with their oral hygiene?
The Dental Office Team
There can be several types of dental professionals working in a given dental office, including the dentist, the dental hygienist (responsible for preventative treatment such as professional cleaning), and the dental assistant (helps the dentist during specific procedures).
Other members of the office staff include the receptionist and office manager who help the practice run smoothly. These staff members assist with check-in, appointment scheduling, billing and other necessary paperwork.
“In a dental office there are typically several types of dental professionals.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How often should I go to a dental office?
A. Most people need to see the dentist once or twice a year. However, everyone's needs are different, and some may require more frequent visits than others. Here at Dr. Robert B Tamaki, DDS, we can help determine what is right for you.
Q. What should I bring to my first appointment with a dental office?
A. To expedite your treatment process, make sure to bring your completed patient information form, patient health history form, HIPAA consent form, and patient authorization form. We will also need a copy of your dental insurance card (if applicable) and a photo ID (such as a driver's license).
Q. Do I still need to go to the dental office if I feel okay?
A. Yes. There are many dental diseases that do not make themselves known to patients until they have already progressed. Only a qualified dental provider can ensure the health of your teeth and gums, saving you from any problems before they have the chance to worsen or occur. This type of preventative care can also help save you money in the long run.
Q. Do I really need to floss?
A. Yes. There is a large amount of plaque in the mouth that cannot be removed by brushing alone. An excess buildup of plaque can easily turn into tartar, which can cause permanent damage to the teeth and can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
Q. Why are dental X-rays necessary?
A. Dental X-rays allow the dentist to fully examine the surrounding tissues and identify various diseases of the teeth. With an X-ray examination, a dentist may be able to detect small areas of decay between the teeth or below fillings, abscesses or cysts, certain tumors, developmental abnormalities, periodontal disease, and infections in the bone.
Dental Terminology
Learn More About a Dental Office
A dental office offers several benefits for patients seeking a more personalized form of treatment. Call Dr. Robert B Tamaki, DDS in Los Angeles at 310-402-0156 to learn more about your oral health needs.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business, license, and website security
- Dr. Robert B Tamaki, DDS was established in 1985.
- We accept the following payment methods: Cash, CareCredit, Check, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Los Angeles County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Westchester
- CA (License #DDO-33386). View License Information and Specifics
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