5 Tips for Choosing a New Dentist

Finding a new dentist is an important step in your dental health care routine. Considering that you’ll be visiting them twice a year, it’s important to find a dental practice that meets your needs. Having a specific place dental office to visit for routine check-ups or in the case of a dental emergency will keep you feeling confident in your oral health. With that in mind, follow these 5 tips when looking for a new dentist:

1. Know Your Dental Health Benefits – It’s important to begin your search with knowing which dentists are within your dental health plan. Refining your choices to those that are within your plan can make a difference in your copayment levels. While it can seem limiting at first, the financial benefits of staying within your dental health plan only grow over time, especially when you’re visiting your dental office on a regular basis.
2. Determine Accessibility – Where is their office located? Would you prefer a location that’s closer to work or closer to home? What are their office hours and how flexible are they when it comes to scheduling appointments? Finding a dental office that works with your current scheduling needs will ensure that regular check-ups and cleanings are easy to incorporate into your current routine.
3. Ask Others for Recommendations – Your friends, family, and neighbors are a valuable resource when it comes to finding a new dentist. They’ll be able to offer recommendations on trusted dental practices and provide insight on their experiences. Once you’ve found a few good candidates, visit their website to find additional information and patient reviews.
4. Schedule a Consultation – Don’t be shy about calling or visiting before making your first official appointment. Scheduling a consultation time with a dentist allows you to ask questions about their practice and for them to learn more about your dental history. It’s important for your potential dentist to understand any of your concerns and be able to answer all of your questions. A consultation is also a great opportunity to find out which dental procedures are performed in the office and how far in advance cleanings and regular check-ups need to be scheduled.
5. Post Appointment Decisions– Everyone has unique criteria that they look for when finding a new dentist. You want to choose someone that can be a part of your healthcare team. Find a dentist that can serve as a trusted advisor to make dental care decisions with. It’s not always easy to choose a dentist for you and your family but taking the time to research will ensure that you make the right choice.