Do I Need A Referral To See A Prosthodontist? What You Need To Know

If you need restorative dentistry in Mount Pleasant and you’re thinking about seeing a prosthodontist like Dr. Candice Vinson, you may not know how to get started. Do you need a referral from a general dentist, or can you simply schedule an appointment? How can you make sure you pick a highly-qualified prosthodontist? Get answers to these questions and more in this blog from Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant. 

Yes, You Need A Referral To See A Prosthodontist

Prosthodontists are dental specialists, so you can’t usually just make an appointment with a prosthodontist unless you’ve already been seen by another dentist. This is particularly true if you’re using a dental insurance policy. 

Most insurers will require you to get a referral to a prosthodontist from your primary dentist. If you don’t do this, you could end up paying out of pocket if you decide to see a prosthodontist. So the answer is “yes.” You do need a referral to see a prosthodontist. How can you get one? Find out below.

The Referral Process – What To Expect 

The referral process for seeing a prosthodontist is quite similar to getting a referral to any other type of doctor or medical professional. If you think you need a prosthodontist to help restore your smile, here’s what you’ll need to do to get a referral.

• See your general dentist for an oral exam – To begin, you’ll see your general dentist for an oral exam, and tell them about your dental issues such as broken, damaged, or missing teeth. If you don’t have a dentist in Mount Pleasant, you can work with your insurance company to find a qualified professional near you.
  
• Get a referral from your dentist, if necessary – Once your dentist examines your mouth, they will decide if you need care from a prosthodontist. If you have seriously-damaged teeth that require specialized care, such as a full mouth restoration, they will be happy to provide you with a referral.
  
• Choose a prosthodontist near you – If you have a specific dentist like Dr. Candice Vinson in mind, you can ask for a direct referral. Otherwise, you can get an “open referral,” which will let you choose a prosthodontist in your area. Make sure to work with your insurer to choose a covered dental specialist.
  

How Can I Pick A Prosthodontist? Our Tips For Vetting Your Specialist 

It’s important to look at their qualifications. Make sure that the specialist you choose has gone through an accredited prosthodontic residency program, and that they are a certified member of the American Board of Prosthodontists.

Most prosthodontists are willing to meet with you for a consultation before you begin treatment, so this is an ideal opportunity to ask more questions about their qualifications, the procedures in which they specialize, and more. 

Come To Advanced Dentistry Of Mount Pleasant To Get The Care You Need 

If you need advanced restorative dental care in Mount Pleasant, Dr. Candice Vinson is always here to help. Give us a call at (843) 936-1690 if you’ve already received a referral, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Vinson right away. We’re always accepting new patients, and we hope to see you soon.