Many people fear the dentist, but there is no reason to dread these routine checks. If you want your smile to beam to the masses, then it requires getting your teeth tended too. If you are in the market for a new dentist, you may be concerned about finding the right fit for you and your family.
Here are five things that you should consider when selecting your next dental practice:
- Do They Take My Insurance?
Dental insurance is not as straightforward as health coverage. Some companies only work with specific dentists. You need to make sure that the dentist you are considering is in your preferred network. You don’t want to end up paying out of pocket for things your insurance will cover with another provider. A simple visit to their website or a phone call will give you the information you need.
- What is The Dentist’s Skills and Training?
There are all sorts of new processes popping up every day. For instance, there is no need for metal braces when you can choose Invisalign. The only problem is that all dentists are not created equal. You have basic, cosmetic, orthodontics, and other branches. You need to make sure your needs align with the capabilities of the practice.
While a general dentist can handle most things from cavities to cleaning, many don’t handle root canals. Anything that requires a person to be put to sleep rather than having a local anesthetic requires more training. Ensure that your dentist can do what you need them too.
- What is The Dentist’s Bedside Manner?
Bedside manner is a huge factor in selecting a new dentist. If you are going to take your children to this person, they need to know how to deal with kids. Look for ads that say “gentle dentistry” or that they gear their practice towards younger ones. Want to know about the dentist’s personality and how they treat their patients? Just jump on the internet and search for that doctor. Through numerous websites, you can find both positive and negative consumer experiences. While you won’t be able to please everyone, you can see a pattern of either good or bad by reading several reviews. How did people ever live without the internet?
- How Long Does It Take To Get An Appointment?
In most areas, dentists are in high demand. You don’t want to wait for weeks or months when you have a throbbing toothache. If you are not already an established patient, they may not be able to get you in as quickly. Find out who long the wait will be if you want immediate service. A practice that is often running behind and cannot deal their current patients will have problems taking on any new ones. Also look for reviews that talk about ease of appointments and wait times.
- Does The Dentist Have Emergency Hours?
Many dentists only have office hours of a typical 9 am till 5 pm. However, there is a growing trend that many offices will offer emergency services. Though these services will cost more money, they are worth it when you are suffering in pain. Find out the office hours and ensure that they have offerings that fit around your schedule.
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a chore. By finding the right practice, you can make this twice a year occurrence more pleasurable.
