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Finding a dentist who 1) you trust to provide high-quality dental care and 2) you genuinely like can be challenging. From reading reviews left by previous patients to researching dental practices in your area, finding the right dental provider for you and your family can feel overwhelming. That’s where we’re here to help!
In this blog, we will walk you through the steps on how to find a great dentist as well as the warning signs to look out for in dental care.
Let's begin…
Steps in Searching for a Dentist
Gather Recommendations
The first step is putting together a list of possible dentists. Ask your family members, friends, or health professionals for suggestions.
Ask them questions like:
- What do you like about your dentist?
- How long have you been going to your dentist?
- How did you like the dentist hygienists?
- Did you feel comfortable at their office?
Check Out Reviews
A great way to narrow down your search is by reading online reviews written by previous patients. Look for reviews on smilliar dental treatments you’ll be receiving and watch any available patient testimonials on their dental website.
Visit the Dentist's Website
After you've gathered referrals from family and friends and cross-checked them against patient reviews, the next step is to visit the dentist's website to ensure they're a good match for your requirements. Helpful information to look for includes the dentist’s experience, credentials, and specific services they offer.
Speak With the Dentist and Their Staff
Once you’ve narrowed down your list to two or three opinions (and if you have the time), visit the dental offices in person. Look around at the cleanliness of the office and talk to the front desk about your specific needs.
What To Look for in a Good Dentist
In addition to finding a great location and dentist, consider the following before selecting a dentist's office.
Ask About Insurance
Some dental treatments, like root canals and fillings, can be pricey. Before scheduling an appointment with a dentist, be sure they accept your insurance.
Short Waiting Times
There's nothing worse than anxiously sitting in a dental office waiting room for hours. An awesome dental clinic will respect your time and your appointment slot.
Services Offered
Before scheduling an appointment, double-check their service offerings. If you plan to have other specific treatments in the future, it’s wise to select a dentist that can address all of them.
Qualifications and Work Experience
All of us have heard awful stories from relatives and friends about dental treatments gone wrong. You might have even had an unpleasant experience yourself. Choosing a dentist with the right credentials, extensive experience in the field, and ongoing education is crucial to getting the greatest possible dental care for your needs.
Dental Office Hours and Location
Choosing a dentist's practice close to your workplace or home is wise. Check to see whether they have office hours that work for you. For instance, it's good to pick a dentist that opens early in the morning or later in the evening if you're only available for appointments outside typical office hours.
Warning Signs of a Bad Dentist
When looking for a dentist for you and your family, here are a few warning signs to watch out for:
Their Practice Is Unkempt
Take a moment to glance around the dental office when you arrive. Keep an eye out for dirty or dusty surfaces. Even if the clinic is in an older building with outdated facilities, make sure that they can maintain a clean and pleasant atmosphere.
Staff Members That Are Impatient or Rude
Going to the dental clinic can be an anxiety ridden activity, so you shouldn’t have to deal with rude staff on top of it. A great dentist will surround himself with staff that are positive and help patients feel at ease.
Treatment Options Are Limited
An unreliable dentist may tell you that there is just one way to go about your treatment. However, this typically isn’t the case. Don't be afraid to voice your concerns or ask for a second opinion.
No History Taking and Comprehensive Dental Exam
It’s important that your dentist knows about your dental history and performs a thorough examination before making any suggestions. If they don’t have this information, no not accept treat. it's dangerous and an unethical practice.
Unnecessary Procedures
Be wary of dentists who suggest unnecessary treatments, ranging from whitening services to fillings. For example: It would be a major red flag if your dentist were to recommend removing old fillings that are still in place and effective. This procedure would be pointless and harmful as it would crack your teeth or injure your gums.
🦷️ Toothy Tip: If a dentist urges you or your child to undergo complicated treatments when a known basic procedure is equally effective, search for a second opinion.
Final Thoughts
Finding a good dentist can seem daunting, but if you follow the advice in this article, you’ll be able to find the best match for you and your family.
