With so many practices to choose from, finding a good family dentist can be a difficult process. Ultimately, you want to find someone who can get to know about your health, and that you can go back to time and time again for any issues that come up. My husband would often tell me about all of the experiences he had at various dental clinics he had visited, from good ones, great ones, and ones that he would never again visit. I’ve had the opportunity to work at various clinics myself, and below is a list of TOP FIVE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF WHEN CHOOSING A DENTIST
- A dentist that cares about your overall health, not just your mouth. This type of dentist is also known as a holistic dentist, which is an approach that recognizes that dental health is connected to other health issues. This way, you know your dentist is looking out for your overall health.
- A dentist that helps you explain what is going on and how to treat it. My husband had been afraid to go to the dentist for years until he told me that his last dentist wouldn’t tell him what was going on. Finding a dentist that walks you through will not only show they are confident in their assessment and compassionate to guide you through the process, but will also help you feel confident that your well-being is in good hands.
- A dentist that understands you. Let's face it, nobody likes going to the dentist. Dental anxiety can be a debilitating barrier to ensuring you get the best possible care you need. Before even getting on the dentists chair, meet with the office staff, and have a conversation to get to know how they can help you feel more comfortable during the process. Whether it's discussing pain management, or even playing some tunes during the procedure to take your mind off things, be sure to look for a dentist that understands what you need to get through the process.
- Someone who is available in case if something doesn't feel right. Dentists have lots of experience with how things should look and feel after a certain procedure, but this may be your first time having a procedure done. If something doesn't feel right, it's important to be able to ask your dentist! Make sure your dentist is available with an on-call service or personal phone number in case these concerns arise so you have piece of mind.
- And of course, make sure they are accredited! This will give you peace of mind knowing that you are receiving high quality dental work by a provider that has met the standards of the dental community.