How to Find a Good Dentist That You Can Trust
Finding the right dentist can seem like an overwhelming task, but it gets a lot easier once you know where to look to find gooddoctor.
First of all, need to find out which specialty of professional you looking for. Since you are reading this, it’s probably safe to assume that you’re looking for someone who can perform an smile and implant procedure in addition to installing the abutment and crown. Trained and certified general dentist, oral surgeon and periodontist can perform dental surgery. Overall, quality dentist has good reputation in society, is honest with their patient about their dental health, discusses costs upfront and is knowledgeable and willing to answer questions that they’re asked.
How to Find One
1 use Google search
2 ask your friends, family, colleagues or co-workers for recommendations. Those who are pleased with the work of their specialist dentist will be happy to refer
3 pharmacist or family doctor can be another excellent source of recommendations (they also need to go to the dentist’s too!)
4 If you’re moving, ask your current surgeon to refer you to someone in your new area
The next step is to call and/or visit each one in order to narrow down your search, first through a new patient consultation or “meet and greet” and then an actual appointment. The more questions you ask and research you do increases the likelihood of selecting the one that best fits your needs.
Points to Consider When Choosing a Dentist
· How long has the doc been in business?
· Do they have the proper qualifications? Are they a Bachlor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Master of Dental Surgery (MDS)?
· Where did they receive their education and training?
· How much experience do they have with the procedure(s) you require?
· How do they approach implant dentistry? What types of implants and procedures do they use?
· What options are available to you in regards to the procedure and materials used?
· How often do they attend continuing education courses and conferences?
· What types of anesthesia do they offer that they are they certified to use?
· Do they offer amenities such as cooling pads, medication or music?· What insurance plans/companies do they accept?
· What methods of payment do they accept?
· Do they offer payment plans?
· What emergency care services do they provide? Are they available after hours and on weekends?
· What is their referral procedure when they cannot provide adequate treatment for a particular surgery or procedure?
· What do they typically charge for single and full-mouth dental implants? What procedures and supplies do these quoted prices include? Do they have before and after photos of their previous patients?
· How long will the procedure take? Will it look natural? Will there be multiple sessions? What if the treatment is a failure?
Questions for Yourself
· Are their location and hours of operation convenient? Do they work with your schedule?
· Are they and their admin staff willing to answer your questions?
· Are they friendly? Do they make your feel comfortable? Do you feel like you could build a good long-term relationship with them?
· Does the office and the equipment look neat, orderly and clean?
· Does their technology and equipment look relatively new? Outdated equipment can point to the use of outdated and more risky procedures.
· Do they wear gloves and other personal protection equipment while providing treatment?
· Do they ask questions to learn more about your situation and take notes on their findings?
· How well do they explain your oral health situation, the treatments you require and the procedures that will be done? Do they communicate in simple terms or confusing/technical words?
· Do they discuss both the benefits of the procedure and the possible side effects or problems?
· Did they thoroughly examine your mouth, gums and teeth?
· Was your medical history recorded and filed?
Lastly, we highly advise not selecting the one who offers the lowest prices. You typically get what you pay for and it’s not worth risking your oral health to save a few money. Excessive advertising and exaggerated promises should also be flags to proceed with caution.
When in Doubt, Get a Second Opinion
If something feels “off” with the recommendations, treatment cost or attitude of your dentist, consult another well-rated dentist in your area.
