8 Steps to Finding a Trustworthy Dentist

Obtaining the care of a trusted dentist is crucial in achieving and maintaining the smile you’ve always wanted. If you’re new to an area or simply in need of a new dental practitioner, the following tips will help you find the quality care you deserve. 

Locating A Dentist

Step 1 – Get in touch with trusted family members, co-workers and friends in your area in hopes of obtaining recommendations. Ask questions in regard to the practice location, the areas that the practice specializes in any available information regarding insurance. Word of mouth is a wonderful way to find a wide assortment of services, and this one is far from exception. 

Step 2 – Call up your general physician in hopes of obtaining additional recommendations. Most physicians will have a broad knowledge of other health care professionals in the area and can provide you with information to help point you in the right direction. 

Step 3 – Contact your local dental society for a referral. Here, you can find out information pertaining to quality physicians in your area as well as their complaint histories. 

Step 4 – Call up your insurance provider and ask for oral physicians in your area who are covered under your insurance plan. Keep in mind that if you are looking to have cosmetic work done, that it will likely not be covered under your plan. Knowing which physicians are covered will help you weed through the practices, and help you save money on appointments and procedures. 

Step 5 – Get in touch with your local dental school and ask for additional recommendations. 

Step 6 – Hop online and research your potential candidates. These days, there are a variety of user-submitted review and ratings sites available to help individuals like yourself obtain quality care. Check up on the physicians that have been recommended while keeping an eye out for additional prospects that may be more suitable. 

Step 7 – Once you have a solid list of candidates, weed them down to your top 3. Give each of these individuals a call and ask to schedule a free consultation. Many practices offer these consultations as a way to sell prospective patients on their services. Use this opportunity as a way to get to know your physician on a personal level. Bring along a list of questions and take notes on the answers provided. You ideal dentist should be someone who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. 

Step 8 – After you’ve met with each practice, you should have a fairly good idea of which option is right for you. Call up your choice and schedule a routine checkup. If you find yourself dissatisfied with the service and care provided during this initial appointment, don’t be afraid to take a couple steps back and look into options you may have dismissed prior. Obtaining quality dental care is key in achieving optimal dental health. Though it may take a bit of time and effort, it is a cost well warranted.