Have you recently moved to a new area? Are you not satisfied with your current dentist? Do you want to find a truly great dentist? If this sounds like you, then chances are you are not only looking for any dentist. No, you are looking for one of the top dentists in your area. But how, exactly, does one go about finding their perfect dentist? Here are five tips you can use to help you find the best dentist.
Know What You’re Looking For
Shopping around for a dentist is like shopping around for anything. The first step is to know what you’re looking for. Before you even begin looking for a new dentist, you will need to carefully consider what kind of dentist you are looking for. Make a list of things that you value in a dentist, such as location, cost, personality, and clean office. Then, prioritize these things in terms of their importance to you. Now you have the basic parameters for finding your perfect dentist.
Compile a List of Candidates
Once you have a better idea of the type of dentist you are looking for, it’s time to make a list of possible candidates. While making this list, be sure that the dentists you add have at least some of the things you value in a dentist. Ideally, they should have all the things you value, but this may be hard to find depending on your location. The best way to start a list is to do a Google search, ask acquaintances for recommendations, or use the American Dental Association Find-a-Dentist tool.
Schedule a Meet and Greet
Before committing to a single dentist, you can schedule consultations with multiple dentists. These short consultations allow you to get a preview of the dentist, office, and support staff. They also provide you a chance to ask questions about the practice’s policies and see how other patients are treated.
Beware of the Bad
When you visit a potential dentist office, you will also want to take note of possible problem areas that could indicate a bad dentist. Some signs to watch out for include a messy office, rude support staff, defensive attitude, trying to schedule multiple procedures, or a dentist that feels more like a salesman.
Take the Plunge
If the consultation seems promising and you can see yourself being comfortable with a certain dentist, go ahead and make an appointment with them for an exam and teeth cleaning. This is the final step to determine if they are a good fit for you. During your appointment, you will be able to experience their approach to dentistry firsthand. After the dentist has evaluated your oral health, it is also important to pay attention to their treatment recommendations. If there is a long list of treatments they recommend, it is worth getting a second opinion. Be sure to ask for a copy of the proposed treatment plan on your way out. For more information on what to expect during your appointment, see “General Dentistry”.
If you are looking for a new dentist, it is important to know what you’re looking for, to make a list of candidates with these values, meet them to ask questions, evaluate possible problems, and finally schedule an appointment with the top contender. Using these five tips can improve your chances of finding the best dentist and improving your future dental experiences.
