5 Factors When Choosing a New Dentist

5 Things to Look For When Choosing a New Dentist

Don’t just pick any dentist. Do your research by taking these 5 steps before choosing which provider is right for you.

When finding the right dentist, make sure you consider these five things

Doing your research when selecting a dentist who meets your needs is as important as selecting that perfect house that fits your lifestyle.

1. Find a dentist with a good reputation

The first important consideration when looking for the perfect dentist is to check his or her reputation. There are several ways to research dentists and their practice history. One of the first things to do is to search online reviews to see what positive or negative experiences patients have had at their dentist. Websites, such as Angie’s List, offer reviews from patients on dentists.

2. Check your state dental board

Dentists are held accountable by their state dental board. Each state has a board of dentistry website that tracks the history of claims against a particular dentist. Make sure that the dentist you are about to see does not have any suspicious claims brought against them.

3. Interview your dentist

You need to interview your dentist or the dental practice, which is a simple as picking up the phone and asking the right questions. Find out where the dentist graduated, how long they have been practicing and what type of dentistry they do, how many staff members work there and how long have they been with that dentist.

4. Ask friends and family about their dentist

Ask your friends and neighbors where they go for dental work. There is no better way to find a great dentist than to find out who your friends and neighbors trust. Most people will not recommend bad service to you or advise you to see a dentist they are not pleased with.

5. Make sure your dentist meets your needs

Everyone has a certain criteria when they look for the right dental office. Some patients want a larger practice that sees a high volume of patients. Their time is valuable and they want to get in and get out. Others may seek a family-oriented practice that treats each patient as a part of their family. They want a doctor who will spend the time explaining things to them and not rush the appointment. Make the decision that is right for you.

It is not an easy decision to choose a dentist that is right for you and your family. So take the time to research and make the right choice.