Finding a dentist to manage your oral health requires a little research and a careful understanding of what these professionals offer. Here are several steps you can keep in mind when looking to find a dentist in your area for yourself or your family.
Consider Important Factors First
When looking to find a dentist in your area, you first want to consider several factors. Make sure they’re within your insurance network, belong to the American Dental Association (ADA), provide functional dental care, focus on the dental treatment you want, and supply you with any other help you need.
For example, do they work with your orthodontist or know an orthodontist you can use if you decide to work with them?
After all, around 50% to 75% of people would benefit from getting some kind of orthodontic treatment. If you or your family need that type of care, find a dentist in your area who has a great working relationship with an orthodontist you can trust.
If you have young children needing a dental visit, find one who has some practice with children or specializes in family or pediatric dental care.
Start Your Research
When trying to find a dentist in your area, it is essential to do your research. First, ask friends and family members about their favorite dentists and why they like them. Next, read about dentists online, checking out their webpage to discover what kind of care they provide. You can also check out your dental insurance network and find out what professionals they suggest for your oral health needs.
Before picking a handful of dentists to consider, narrow down your options by walking by their office and examining their building exterior. How does it look? Does it have an excellent sign and look well kept?
A sign is more important than you might think. One survey found that 35% of people discover businesses because of their signs and that poor signs often show a poor company.
Start Talking to Dentists
Start calling or visiting dentists in your area and ask them various questions. Are they board-certified? Can you see their licensing? Do they accept your insurance? Is there a waiting list to get treatment?
What kind of unique treatments do they provide? Are they capable of working with children and adults, or are they specialized in just one type of treatment program?
Most dentists will be pleased to talk to you about these factors because they know it might help get you into their office. However, if you find a dentist who’s evasive about such basic questions or who answers them poorly, you might want to pick another dentist instead.
Nevertheless, it is good to understand a few of the most significant signs that a dentist is not good.
Know the Signs of a Questionable Dentist
When looking to find a dentist in your area, you should also pay attention to things like a dentist’s office quality to gauge their value. For example, is their office unkempt and dirty and their office staff rude or impatient? Those are all signs that a dentist simply doesn’t care enough about their business.
Instead, look for dentists who keep their waiting rooms and treatment area spotless and who take great pains to make you comfortable. Furthermore, try to find someone who can provide the treatment you need at prices you can afford.
Unfortunately, some dentists may only offer limited treatments or may even be a bit rough with your kids. If your kids don’t like them, pass on a dentist. Instead, seek out someone who’s great with kids and who understands many unique treatment methods, and who’s willing to use them for your children.
Lastly, don’t forget to trust your gut feeling about a dentist and their quality. As a parent, you should have an intuitive understanding of when you’re comfortable with a dental health provider and when you’re not. If you get weird feelings from a dentist or don’t like their personality, move on. Don’t fear! There are many great options from which you can choose, thankfully.