Dentist – Arlington, TX

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

Caring for your teeth and gums can be an incredibly personal endeavor, and it’s only natural to want to find a dentist you feel you can trust to help you build and maintain a happy, healthy smile. If you’re struggling to find a provider, you might want to take a few moments to list your main priorities regarding oral healthcare.

For instance, do you want or need specific services that must be offered? Are you seeking someone who is in-network with your insurance policy? Do you also have children requiring dental care? Once you’ve answered these types of questions for yourself, you can narrow down your search results to find a dentist who meets your specific criteria.

What level of education is required to become a dentist? 

Dentists typically begin their educational career by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field and then must achieve either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) advanced degree from one of more than 70 institutions accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA). Then, they can choose to undergo additional training or certifications to become an expert in one of the 12 officially recognized specialty topics.

Here at our office in Arlington, Dr. Wardlaw earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and remains committed to continuing education to remain current with the latest developments in treatments and technology.

How can I find a skilled cosmetic dentist?

Cosmetic dentistry is not an official specialty topic recognized by the American Dental Association, so potentially, any provider can claim to be an expert. That means you might need to do some more research to find a dentist who actually has the experience and skills to help you achieve the desired results.

For example, many dentists undergo additional training or certifications in various aesthetic services, or participate in professional organizations, which are often listed on their website. Here at I-20 Family Dental, Dr. Wardlaw is an active member of the American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry and several other prestigious institutions so you can trust that your smile is in good hands.

What if I feel too anxious to attend dental appointments?

You’re not alone if you feel anxious about dental visits, but if you’re overly afraid, you might hesitate to schedule appointments that can help protect and preserve your dental health. Fortunately, our compassionate team understands that you might be nervous, and so we offer multiple options for sedation to help you feel calm and comfortable, regardless of the reason for your visit.

For instance, you might benefit from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) that’s administered through a gas mask placed over your nose while we work. Other patients are better candidates for oral conscious sedation in pill form, which is usually taken before you arrive for your appointment.

What do I do if I can’t afford dental care? 

Dental insurance can often be a simple and effective way to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for everything from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures and treatments. However, we understand that not everyone carries a policy, and we don’t want your current financial situation to hold you back.

If you’re concerned about affording your appointment, you can apply for a flexible payment plan through CareCredit. If you’re approved, you can divide your total invoice into more manageable installments that are paid over a designated period.