Cosmetic Dentist in Houston Says Continued Education Improves Quality of Results

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - Jun 21, 2012) - According to a recent study from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), 99.7% of all Americans believe a smile is an important social asset. With the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting that there are over 155,000 dentists currently practicing in America, Dr. Jeffrey Schultz, a cosmetic dentist in Houston, says choosing the right practice for a dental procedure requires diligent research and a careful eye. A Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), Dr. Schultz says patients need to be aware of the vital role continued education plays in a dentist's ability to attain the highest quality results, and he encourages them to look into several aspects of a practice's credentials before undergoing treatments such as Invisalign®, teeth whitening, or other procedures.

At his Houston cosmetic dentistry practice, Dr. Schultz says he often encounters patients who are misinformed about or unaware of the distinctions between various dental organizations, a knowledge of which he says can provide great benefits to those who are looking for the best treatment available. He says regardless of whether patients are looking for routine cleanings or porcelain veneers in Houston, taking the time to properly educate oneself can ensure patients receive the procedure that best fits their needs from a dentist who is qualified and experienced enough to perform it. Having attained Fellowship status with the AGD, Dr. Schultz says one of the most important indicators of a dentist's ability is his or her commitment to continued education.

Founded 60 years ago, the AGD has over 35,000 member dentists across the United States and Canada. However, Dr. Schultz says being a Fellow of the AGD is reserved for those who have gone above and beyond in their dedication to mastering dental techniques. Achieved by completing over 500 hours of continuing dental education, a rigorous and comprehensive exam, and at least three years of membership in the AGD, Fellowship status signifies a pursuit of the latest in dental advancements and patient care. Dr. Schultz says this distinction also reinforces his belief that the foundation of cosmetic dentistry is built upon fundamental principles and a good understanding of general dentistry techniques.

"I made a conscious decision to get my Fellowship with the AGD because the AGD requires continuing education. It also requires that the continuing education courses be in all areas, including cosmetics, but is not limited to that. While I consider myself an excellent cosmetic dentist, I'm a general dentist first and foremost so I prefer to be educated in all disciplines. I think every dentist has to be a good general dentist before he can consider himself a cosmetic dentist," he says.

For any patient considering a cosmetic or general procedure, Dr. Schultz recommends conducting extensive research into their dentist's continued education, as it can be a vital gauge of their commitment to patient care. He says by selecting a dentist who has proven their hard work through going the extra mile, patients will increase the chances of receiving quality treatment and a satisfactory result:

"Getting my fellowship has definitely made me a better dentist, not just because I had to take many hours of continuing education and pass a rigorous exam, but because I am a part of a group with emphasis on high educational and moral standards."

About Jeffrey L. Schultz, DDS

Dr. Jeffrey Schultz earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Houston and his dental degree from the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston. In addition to being a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, he is a graduate of the Hornbrook Group, a leader in advanced training in Aesthetic Dentistry. Dr. Schultz has been selected by H-Texas Magazine as one of the Top Dentists, and is the official cosmetic dentist of the Page Parkes Modeling Agency. He is also a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and several other professional organizations.

Located at 6565 West Loop South, Suite 860 in Houston, TX, the Schultz Center for Cosmetic Dentistry can be reached at (713) 489-1350. It can also be contacted online via the website schultzsmiles.com or the Schultz Center for Cosmetic Dentistry Facebook page.