A basic list of questions to pose to potential dentists when searching for dental care. These questions can help you find a dental health practitioner that is a great fit for you and your smile!
The process of acquiring quality dental care doesn’t have to involve long,
overdrawn searches, be time consuming or raise your anxiety levels. If you are in the market for a new dentist, the first step is determining the factors that are of importance to you. When meeting with potential dentists, having a set list of questions available can easily help you weed through the clutter. In this article, we will offer a few suggestions to get you started.
1 – Are you currently accepting new patients?
If the answer is no, then there’s no sense in sticking around.
2 – How long have you been practicing, and how long have you been at your current location?
You want someone who is going to be around when you need it. Choosing an oral health professional with a track record for moving every couple years is never the best option.
3 – Do you offer treatment to individuals with specific conditions, such as diabetes, HIV, special needs children, autism?
4 – Do you offer any relaxation or sedation treatments for patients who suffer from dental phobias?
5 – What is your experience level with children?
Some dentists specialize in pediatric dentistry, while others simply dabble. If you have children, you’ll want to be certain that their dental care is in the hands of someone who specializes in the field.
6 - How far in advance should I expect to have to schedule appointments?
Do you offer emergency services? In cases of emergency, it’s always good to know that you can rely on your oral health physician, day or night.
7 – What, if any charge is incurred for missed or cancelled appointments?
Most offices will charge for missed appointments. Make sure the fee is not outrageous.
8 – Technologically speaking, how well is your facility equipped?
Your physician should be up to date on the latest technology in order to provide you with the best care available.
9 – Do you keep up on continued education courses?
If your physician is still using techniques from 1972, it’s not a good thing.
10 – Ask yourself whether the location of the practice is a convenient distance from your home.
11 – Obtain information regarding regular office hours.
If the office is closed Wednesday through Monday, you may have an issue getting in for an appointment.
12 – Is financing available? If so, what are the specifics?
Many practice are beginning to offer no interest financing to patients. Find out what’s available.
13 – Do you accept my dental insurance?
Unless you’re completely sold on this particular physician, you’ll want to ensure that they are covered by your current insurance plan.
14 – Does the office help with claim filing, or is it left to the patient.
15 – Are co-pays accepted, or will you be required to pay up front?
Sort through these questions and add, remove and reorganize as you see fit. Every individual will likely have their own specific set of factors to help them obtain the level of care they desire in their dentists.
