The dental network: the interrelationships of specialists and general dentists.

There is an unsubstantiated belief that patients are referred only to dental specialists and not from specialist to general dentist. For the most part, a high percentage of new patients to oral surgeons, periodontists and endodontists are generated from general practices. These specialists, in turn, could be a source of new patients to the general practitioner. Often the specialists have information about which dentists may be selling their practices or looking for an associate. This would be valuable if a dentist wanted to expand or merge a practice, or for a dentist just beginning to practice. A specialist can influence the patient to accept a restorative treatment plan, or perhaps recommend treatment that the patient requires. The GP should make an effort to attend study clubs, dental society meetings, and to meet the local specialists. It is just as important for the GP to be known by specialists as it is for specialists to be known by the GP.