Finding the right dentist can seem like a daunting task, with so many professionals in your area to choose from and so many different criteria to consider. To make it easier, here are some quick tips on how to choose the best dentist for you and your family’s needs. With these pointers in mind, you’ll be on your way to that fresh, new smile in no time!
What to look for in a dentist
Choosing your dentist is an important decision—after all, he or she will play a huge role in your oral health. The American Dental Association recommends you choose someone who provides high-quality care and offers preventative services. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you begin searching for your new dentist: How far are you willing to travel? Does it matter if they’re open on weekends? What days of the week do they accept new patients? If they’re accepting new patients, how long do appointments typically take? Are their prices competitive? Where is their office located (and can they accommodate online check-ins)? Do they belong to any professional organizations such as SDMA, AAO or WCEA?
Experience
Going to a dentist’s office might seem like an obvious choice but it’s not always that simple. Does your dentist have many years of experience? Is he/she open late in case you work during business hours? These are important questions to ask yourself when choosing a dentist, because bad experiences with dentists can lead some people to avoid visiting them altogether. If you’re looking for a new dentist and need some advice on what makes an ideal dental practice, check out our post on how to choose one. It’s also helpful if you know where your dentist office is located; many people find it convenient when their dental office is near or around their place of residence.
Reviews
There are many options when it comes to choosing a dentist. And while it’s important that you choose one who is skilled, caring and listens to your needs, there are other factors that should be taken into consideration before making an appointment. If you want your visit with a dentist to be pleasant and efficient, then these tips will help you choose what is right for you
Location
First, you should find a dentist near you that is convenient and has flexible hours. You may not realize it, but finding a dentist can be difficult if you don’t know what to look for. If there are too many choices available in your area, consider narrowing your search down to just dentists in your neighborhood or town. Also consider any additional requirements (like insurance, etc.). And if possible, schedule some consultations with different dentists so that you can make an informed decision!
Cleanliness and Technology
Make sure you understand what kinds of tools and technology your dentist has at his or her disposal. Are there any extra costs associated with specialized tools and technology? This might be particularly important if you have a phobia about things like dental drills, x-rays, or cleaning procedures. A modern dental office should also be clean and comfortable – make sure that’s true of yours by checking out any waiting rooms (and bathrooms!) before your appointment. If it’s not up to par, you might want to look elsewhere.
Hours
You may not have much of a choice here—some dentists keep late hours for emergency work and others work regular business hours. However, if you can choose from multiple dentists in your area, keep in mind that some offices are better suited for lunch breaks or early morning appointments. Keep your schedule in mind as you search. Some dentists may be willing to accommodate you while others won’t and that’s OK too! Just make sure you set up an appointment at least 24 hours ahead of time to ensure they have enough time to schedule around your needs.
Insurance and Cost
You will want to check your dental insurance coverage prior to scheduling any procedures. In many cases, you might need to get pre-approval for services before you begin work with a dentist or other provider. That said, do not be afraid to negotiate service fees as well. As long as your condition is stable and your care is ongoing, most dentists will agree to modify pricing based on what you can afford. This can help you save money in ways that are actually meaningful over time. If you have children in your household, ask about family plans! Finding out what types of financial options are available at local dentist offices near me can put stress on families planning their own budget wisely—and planning ahead is key when it comes down to fees versus finances.
