Dental Practice Charleston, SC
A dental practice can help take care of all your dental healthcare needs. There are various types of dental practices, from dental offices to dental centers. It can be challenging to figure out what type of practice is right for you. If you are looking for a new dental practice, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and prioritize your needs.
Hudgens Dental is a dental center in Charleston and the surrounding area. We can help you with a wide range of general dentistry services. Call us today at (843) 588-5115 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
What Is a Dental Practice
There are several different types of dental practices, from small standalone dental offices to dental centers with multiple locations and anything in between. A dental office is a type of dental practice where one dentist offers their services. They may provide general dentistry or specialist services. It is typically best suited for patients who want a more personalized level of service and who feel most comfortable with one dentist at a time.
In contrast, a dental center hires multiple dental providers across several specialties, all under one roof. Dental centers typically appeal to patients looking for a potentially more convenient option. Since dental centers are staffed with several dentists, it is easy to coordinate care between specialists as necessary – potentially saving patients time and energy they may spend going from dentist to dentist.
“There are several different types of dental practices, from small standalone dental offices to dental centers with multiple locations and anything in between.”
Practices May Employ Multiple Providers
In the past, most dentists operated standalone practices. They often hired a hygienist or trained assistant, but they served as the only dentist on-site. Today, however, many providers have chosen to join large practices. Large practices offer scheduling advantages for both patients and providers. With several dentists on site, patients receive care when they need it. The dentists can enjoy a consistent work schedule and take vacations as they choose.
Large dental practices can also streamline workflow. One provider may treat patients with gum disease, while another provider takes care of orthodontic referrals. This setup lets each dentist make the most of their skills. Patients can receive personalized advice from the most qualified provider in the clinic, but some patients may not enjoy working with multiple providers. If you prefer to build a relationship with a single provider, you may want to choose a solo dental practice.
“Large practices offer scheduling advantages for both patients and providers.”
Choosing the Right Practice
Before selecting a new dental practice, patients should consider their needs and preferences. Many patients prefer to receive care from a certain gender. Others may want a dentist with several decades of experience. Make sure a prospective provider meets these needs.
With large practices, there is no guarantee that you will always see the same provider. Patients may be shuffled between each dentist at the practice. Some patients do not mind this arrangement, but for patients who prefer to work with a single provider, this might be a deal-breaker.
While making a choice, consider whether a family dental provider might come in handy. Patients with young children may want to choose a provider who treats pediatric concerns. Ask about orthodontic care and other specialized services, too. Not every provider is equipped to treat specialized dental concerns. But with a little research, patients may be able to arrange a "one-stop-shop" for their family dental needs. Choosing a centralized provider can save time and cut down on travel.
“Before selecting a new dental practice, patients should consider their needs and preferences.”
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Dental Services to Look For
Most people will require several different dental services throughout their lifetime. Examples of various dental services include emergency dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic services, routine care and checkups, and more. Emergency dentistry can address accidents such as bitten tongue or lip, broken jaw, cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, and objects stuck in the mouth.
Cosmetic dentistry has to do with the aesthetic concerns of the smile. Such services may include dental bonding, bridges, crowns, implants, veneers, inlays and onlays, and teeth whitening. Finally, everyone requires routine checkups and cleanings at least once or twice a year. Once patients have determined which of these dental services they need, they can narrow down their search by what each dentist offers.
“Most people will require several different dental services throughout their lifetime.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a large dental practice?
Q. What should I look for in a dental provider?
Q. Where can I go to learn more about local dental providers?
Q. What dental services should I look for?
People Also Ask
Q. Beyond regular checkups, what additional procedures might a dentist recommend?
Q. What dental treatments are possible in a smile makeover?
Q. What are some cosmetic dentistry treatment options?
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Using Online Tools to Research Providers
When choosing a new dentist, the Internet is a great resource. Search engines put information at patients' fingertips. Within minutes, patients can browse thousands of provider reviews, although not all information on the Internet is credible. Reputable sites such as the American Dental Association (ADA) contain valuable data. The ADA search tool offers information about a provider's credentials and qualifications. Your state dental board can help too by providing up-to-date information about licensure.
Popular review sites may not be equally trustworthy. Disgruntled patients may misunderstand their dentist or provide incomplete information about their experiences. Take patient reviews with a grain of salt. Always double check your findings with the provider. The office team can provide accurate information about insurance, available services, and payment policies.
“Reputable sites like the American Dental Association contain valuable data.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why do I need to make regular dental visits?
A. Regular dental visits are a necessary part of preventative dentistry in that they allow dentists to identify dental healthcare problems before they have the chance to worsen or occur.
Q. How can I tell when I am in a bad dental practice?
A. Bad dental offices tend to be generally unkempt in appearance and staffed by rude, impatient team members. They offer only a limited number of treatment options, and they are not receptive to questions. You should always feel safe and comfortable in a dentist's office – anything else should be taken as a warning sign.
Q. What are some questions I should ask a prospective dentist?
A. Your oral health is something to take seriously. As such, you should always feel welcome to address any questions and concerns with a prospective dentist. Be sure to ask each dentist where they were educated and trained, their approach to preventative dentistry, whether they offer any types of anesthesia, and any other questions that spring to mind.
Q. Can a dental practice take care of everyone in my family?
A. It depends on a case-by-case basis. While many general dentists can provide care for patients of all ages, some practices have age policies. Call us at (843) 588-5115 to see what we can do for you.
Q. Will I always see the same dentist?
A. If you choose to visit a single-provider dental office, yes, you will always see the same dentist. However, it may be more difficult to get appointments when you need them, as frequently as you need. If you choose to visit a multi-provider dental center, it may be easier for you to get more convenient appointments, but you may see several providers. You have to decide what is most important for you.
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Dental Terminology
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Dental practices come in all shapes and sizes. Before choosing a new practice, consider your preferences and priorities. Some patients may prefer a solo practice. Other patients may gravitate toward a large dental clinic. Before making your choice, confirm that the dental team has the right qualifications. Check to make sure that your new practice offers the services you need.
If you are seeking a new dental practice, let Hudgens Dental in Charleston deliver the care you need. Call us at 843-588-5115 to learn more about our services and policies.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website security
- Hudgens Dental was established in 1996.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Charleston County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island, Ravenel, Meggett, North Charleston, Daniel Island, and West Ashley
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Welcome To Hudgens Dental
We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Charleston, SC area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Kid-Friendly Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Dental Crowns, Dental Fillings, Gum Disease Treatment, Implant Crowns and Dental Implants.
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