Studies show that 36% of Americans, more than one-third, don’t go to the dentist at least once a year. This percentage increases when it comes to lower-income households.
One common barrier that keeps people from visiting the dentist is not having a reliable dentist to work with. However, choosing a dentist you can trust does not have to be difficult!
Do you want to learn more about what you should consider when finding a dentist? Keep reading these nine practical tips for choosing the best dentist options for your oral care!
1. Ask for Recommendations
One of the easiest ways that you can find a trustworthy dentist to work with is by asking for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations from local friends, family members, or coworkers can help you find the services that you need.
It also makes it easier to ask them about their experience working with a dentist to make sure they would be a good fit.
2. Learn About Credentials
It is also essential that you learn more about your dentist’s credentials before you schedule an appointment with them. To make sure you find a dentist with the right training, experience, and skills, you should find one that is board-certified.
You can also learn more about their credentials by asking your dentist about their medical education and additional certifications that they have received.
3. Check Online Reviews
Reading online reviews is another simple way to weed out the high-quality dentists from the lower quality dentists in your area. You can read patient reviews, both good and bad, to learn more about the quality of the services and the customer service.
If a dentist has amazing reviews, you can feel confident that you will enjoy your experience with them.
4. Location Is Key
Location is key when it comes to choosing a dentist. It is much more convenient to find a dentist near your home or workplace rather than having to commute to a dental office.
This is especially important if you have to schedule several appointments for yourself or for your family members. Having a local dentist will make it easier to get to your appointments on time and will save you a lot of time.
Plus, it is important to find a nearby dentist in the event that you need an emergency dental service.
5. Ask About Available Treatments
When you are choosing a dentist, it is important to understand that not every dental office will offer the same services and treatments. If you have a specific treatment that you want from a dentist, you need to learn more about the treatments available in a specific office.
For example, some dentists only offer general dentistry services. This includes things like dental cleanings, fillings, and more.
Other offices offer services including cosmetic dentistry. This will include treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, and even Invisalign.
6. Get To Know the Staff
Before choosing a dentist to work with, you should get to know them and their staff. This is important, as you may be spending a lot of time in the office over the course of a few years.
You must prioritize finding a dental office with staff that is courteous and welcoming. This will ensure that you feel comfortable and that you and your family members are at ease during your treatments.
It will also help you determine whether or not you can trust your dentist and learn more about the ways that they treat prospective patients.
7. Find a Dentist With Emergency Services
You should also research emergency care services offered by dentists in your area. Dental emergencies are not uncommon and can be serious for you or your family members.
You should find a dentist that is flexible when it comes to emergency care. Will they be able to work with you outside of their office hours or on the weekend? Or will they make you wait for services until their office opens?
A dentist with emergency services will save you a lot of pain in the event of an emergency.
8. Consider Costs and Insurance Coverage
Cost is another important factor to consider when you are working with a dentist. You need to find a dentist that fits your budget, so you can ask your dentist more about the costs of their treatment and services.
You should also find a dental office that accepts your insurance plan. This will lower your out-of-pocket costs during your dental visits and will ensure that you save as much money as possible.
Even if you don’t have dental insurance, it is important to find a dentist that fits your financial needs.
9. Get a Free Consultation
Finally, you should schedule a free consultation with your potential dentist. Many dental offices offer these consultations and it allows you to meet with your dentist in person.
This way, you can ensure that you feel comfortable with your dentist. It will also allow you to ask them questions you have about their services, the treatment you need, and more.
Need Help Choosing a Dentist?
Choosing a reliable dentist is an essential part of improving your oral hygiene and getting regular dental care. Following each of these nine tips will make it easier to find a dentist that you can trust.
Do you need help choosing a dentist in Union, KY? Toothologie can help! We provide services from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry and more and can provide you with the best possible care.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book an appointment with our oral health experts!
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