Quality dental care can impact your overall health. So, choosing a dentist is an important decision you’ll want to make as soon as possible. Acting before you have a serious problem can save you time, money, and discomfort.
Before you start your search, check to see if your dental insurance needs you to choose from a list of participating dentists. Some insurance plans allow you to choose an out-of-network dentist (a person that does not participate with the plan), but you may pay more out of pocket.
As soon as you’re clear in your plan’s requirements, these 3 easy steps will help you find a dentist that sets you at ease and helps keep you healthy.
Get dentist recommendations
You can start by asking people you hope –friends, relatives, and coworkers–for recommendations of good dentists. Find out if they’re satisfied with their dentist’s service and quality of care. If you are moving, start by asking your current dentist for suggestions.
Another tip: Ask for referrals of recommended dentists from your family physician or contact your local or state dental society for dentist referrals in your area. You can also check online review websites, like healthgrades.com or vitals.com, and filter your search by location and ratings from patients.
Ask questions before booking a dental appointment
After you have produced a list of two or three dentists who are conveniently located, visit their sites or call their offices to ask some preliminary questions. Some things you may want to find out:
- What are the office hours?
- Does the practice accept your dental plan?
- Is the practice willing to prepare a payment plan for more expensive treatments?
- What is the protocol for patients that have emergencies during and after office hours when the dentist is away?
How are patients notified if it is time for a checkup?
Take mental notes of your first dental appointment (and ask more questions)
Throughout your first visit, initial impressions can offer valuable clues. Before you see the dentist, see carefully: Does the office appear to be clean, neat, and orderly? Is the office staff pleasant and helpful? Does your appointment start in time or did you have to wait?
Because a trusting relationship between you and your dentist is so important, try to book the time to ask these questions during your first visit:
- Can the dentist create a treatment plan for you and discuss it with you on a regular basis?
- Will the dentist supply a variety of treatment options?
- Are patients carefully screened for periodontal disease?
The goal is to learn as much as you can, but you also want to see if you’re comfortable with the dentist’s”chairside manner.” For example, do you find them easy to talk to and understand? Were they patient, or did you feel hurried during your appointment?
If you’re dissatisfied with the dentist’s answers to your questions or uncomfortable in any way, think about finding another dentist.
Do your part to take control of your dental health
As soon as you’ve started with a new dentist, it’s your choice to be proactive with your dental care. Inform your dentist about any changes you notice in your teeth and mouth area.
Make sure you mention any sores, swelling, or discoloration that you find in your tongue, lips, cheeks, throat, jawbone, or palate. Most oral cancers occur in people over age 55 (although it can occur in younger people); dental checkups are important in helping to detect cancerous lesions early.
Follow your dentist’s recommendations for brushing, flossing, and checkups. By doing your part at home, you’re contribute significantly to a healthy mouth–and a healthy relationship with your dentist.