It’s no secret that finding a dentist can be tricky. You want someone who is qualified and professional, but also someone you can trust and feel comfortable with. How do you go about finding the right dentist for you? Here are a few tips to help guide your search.
1. Ask Friends and Family for Referrals
Your friends and family are often the best resources for finding a great dentist. They have gone to dentists themselves, so they will be able to give you their own personal opinions on them. You can also ask about specific qualifications they find important, whether it is certificates or specialties, this will help you narrow down your search.
If you want to expand your search, several websites that offer a comprehensive list of dentists in your area, including professional background information and even patient reviews. You can search by location, specialty, or the types of services offered. This way, you can find a dentist who is a good fit for your needs.
2. Ask About the Latest Technology
Finally, before deciding on a dentist, take a quick look around and ask how up-to-date their equipment is. The latest technology can be efficient and help them to provide better services for you. Some of the most common features that should be present in every dentist office are:
- Digital X-Rays – Rather than using traditional film, these machines use digital sensors. They are more accurate than older models and take less time to process the images.
- Intraoral Cameras – Intraoral cameras are cameras placed in your mouth to give your dentist a view of your teeth and gums.
- Ultrasonic Scalers – These use vibrations to help remove the plaque and tartar stuck between your teeth. It can also be used to smooth out rough edges on teeth after they have been filed.
3. Make an Appointment
Once you’ve done your research, give the offices a call and see if they offer any current promotions or discounts. Make an appointment to visit several different dentists, so you can get a first-hand feel for what it would be like if you become their patient. Don’t forget to ask about their hours, prices, insurance policies, and more.
However, before setting up an appointment to meet with a dentist, take time to check what times they have available. If you can’t find a time that works for your schedule, it’s probably best to look elsewhere. When making the appointment, be sure to ask if there is any paperwork or forms you need to fill out.
4. Get to Know the Dentist
When you meet with a potential dentist, it’s important that you feel comfortable around them. Asking questions is an excellent way to get a feel for their personality and abilities. Some good questions to ask are:
- Do you have experience working with children?
- How do you approach sensitive areas?
- How long have you been practicing?
When it comes to qualifications, the type of dental license they hold matters. A license is a mandatory requirement for all dentists and ensures that they are properly trained and qualified to serve their patients. This will be displayed in their office or online and can usually be searched easily.
Other qualifications to consider are certification in pediatric dentistry, pediatric care, or caring for patients with developmental disabilities.
5. Ask About Their Fees and Insurance Policies
Dentists tend to fall into two categories when it comes to fees: those who charge by the hour and those who charge a flat rate. Those who charge by the hour usually have higher fees since they know that you will be in there for more than just a routine appointment.
If you are covered by dental insurance, check with your dentist on what is and isn’t covered. Some practices even allow you to set up monthly payments through their office so that you don’t have to pay large sums upfront. If you choose this option, be sure to ask them about interest rates and late fees if you are unable to make your payments on time.
If you want to avoid getting surprised by extra costs later on, make sure that they offer multiple options for payment. Some practices only accept cash while others only accept credit. Some accept cash, checks, or credit cards. Others offer a mix of all three plus financing options for those who cannot afford the steep upfront prices. Not only does this give you more payment options, but it can also save you on interest costs.
Just like finding the right hairstylist or doctor, it can be difficult to find a dentist you feel comfortable with. But once you do, your search will be over and your teeth issues solved! Keep these tips in mind when looking for the perfect dentist for yourself.
